Hello chaps

Looking forward to few weeks at Pestana.

I was thinking it might be nice to spend a couple of nights away thou, somewhere no more than an hour away from Carvoeiro and a bit special

Is there any hotels around that are very special/spectacular ?

You may want to try out a Pousada, the equivalent of the Spanish Paradores. As far as I know there a several within an hour or two driving distance. I.e. Sagres and Estoi. The one in Evora looks georgeous. We haven't stayed in a Pousada as yet, but have enjoyed several Spanish Paradores.

http://www.pousadas.pt/historicalhotels/EN

here is the link to the Spanish Paradores website:

http://www.parador.es/en/portal.do

Try Manor Houses of Portugal http://www.manorhouses.com
We have stayed in some wonderful places booked through them. The owners are often very interesting people too.

Thank for the ideas and links. I will have a look now !