Founded sometime in the XII century, the Monastery of Santa Maria Do Bouro is nowadays a beautiful Pousada, restored by the architect Eduardo Souto Moura. It was later used by the Cistercian order, an offshoot of the Benedictine Monks. Despite the upheaval and the abandon caused by the destitution of the religious orders in 1834, the monastery boasts several period items of decoration and furnishing. Modern architectural interventions such as steel girders and large glass windows with slender metal frames support the historical character of the property. Today, the 32 rooms are reminiscent of a modern take on cloistered life in contemplative comfort. This Pousada*s excellent location between the Peneda Gere*s National Park and the city of Braga offers its guests, the possibility of sampling innumerable pleasures. This hotel is in contact with nature, water sports, trips to Braga, or the guest can visit the Sanctuaries of Bom Jesus and Sameiro. Last but not least, the hotel offers an extraordinarily rich local cuisine. Description provided by the hotel.