Vacation Rentals by Owner

Lovely hill top inn, reminiscent of the south of France

Guest: Peter and Cynthia (Berkeley, CA, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/27/11 Review Submitted: 08/14/11

We arrived to Casa Alta the last week of June, when the hydrangeas were in full bloom and the garden was breathtaking. I agree with other postings about the beauty of the place, the warmth and hospitality of Fr John and his assistant, Valentina, and the fresh and delicious meals. I want to add a few more observations. Although this is a “mom and pop” operation, the service and attention to details were exquisite: for example, wine and orange juice brought to the garden while we swam, a choice of indoor or outdoor dining. We spent a relaxing day walking the castle town of Ourem – views of the surrounding valleys and hills from the castle ruins, brightly white-washed houses, flowers blooming (even in three inch patches of soil next to the road) and tourist-free (the biggest group we saw was a van -load of elderly locals brought up to church). When we returned from the heat of the market in Ourem or sightseeing in Tomar, there always was a cooling breeze in the garden and in our room (Braganca suite) whose windows on opposite sides of the house provided cross-ventilation. My husband was reminded of the Cote d’Azur, without the expensive, touristy trappings and crowds. We looked forward to dinner each night both for the delicious food and local wines and for the lively conversation with Fr John. Next time we travel to Portugal, we definitely will be returning to Casa Alta!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

heaven is a place on earth

Guest: anna b (manila)
Date of Stay: 12/26/10 Review Submitted: 01/05/11

Casa Alta is a real gem, how do I even begin to describe it. We were picked up from the bus station by our most gracious host, Fr. Mariani himself. After a 15 minute scenic drive we arrived at the lodge high up on the hill just below historic Ourem Castle. The moment I stepped into the house i felt transported into another time where everything was more genteel & gracious. Aaaaah, the gardens with a view to the castle above and the village in the valley below. The Duchess of Braganza room was exquisite with windows on both side, soft fragrant sheets, own fireplace, live orchids on the bedside tables, interesting books. Truly, love is in the details. Dinner was an event in itself prepared to perfection by Valentina. She does serve big though, so be warned! Spent 4 glorious days in Casa Alta wandering in the quaint village nearby, going up the castle, visiting Fatima, daytrip to Alcobaca & Batalha, and taking lots of pictures from every angle you can imagine. I left with a prayer in my heart that i can go back to casa alta with all my loved ones. And please God, in Spring so i can enjoy the garden in full bloom!:-))

Owner response:Anna and her companion were delightful guests. I can't wait for the whole family to come! We are truly blessed by having the most interesting people from all over the world to visit us. We aspire to return this blessing with personal attention and service beyond what is expected. It is part of the personal satisfaction I have in operating Casa Alta Royal Lodge.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Unique retreat, spectacular views, old world charm

Guest: Patrick (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 11/18/10 Review Submitted: 11/27/10

Casa Alta is a restored former royal spiritual retreat house built in the 13th Century by the Queen Saint Isabel of Portugal. The proprietor is an American priest of the Order of Malta, Fr. John Mariani. Your first step inside is back into another century. Set like a white pearl on the edge of the narrow ring road leading to the Castle of Ourem, atop the most prominent mountain near Fatima, this bread and breakfast is exquisitely appointed with glowing fireplaces, works of art, religious artifacts, and period furniture, providing an intimate, peaceful experience. The four bedrooms upstairs are all gracefully decorated and exude a warm and comfortable stillness intended to restore tranquility for visiting Portuguese nobility. Fr. Marini’s renovations have brought Casa Alta into the 21st century with modern bathrooms, and wireless internet access. A natural stone slab patio garden extends the experience outside, with alcoves, shrines, fountains, flowers and shrubs arrayed around a refreshing dipping pool. A table built into the stonewall fortifications that support the garden atop the mountain creates one of the most breathtaking and peaceful picnic scenes in Portugal. Cocktails and meals, included in the price, are served in the Great Room overlooking the valley below with vineyards, forests, with the sacred shrine of Fatima looming in the distance. There are great scenic walks around the remains of the Castle of Ourem and into the narrow cobblestone roads of the village hanging just below. A private guided walking tour of the shrine and grounds in Fatima where, in 1917, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to three poor shepherd children, can be arranged with the leading English speaking author on the subject, Mr. Leo Madigan. A great bargain for a completely unique get-away back to another time when the world didn’t move so fast. I highly recommend the Casa Alta to pilgrims, the curious, or just weary travelers to Portugal.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Royal Spiritual Retreat House now restful B&B atop mountain near Fatima, Portugal

Guest: Patrick (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 11/18/10 Review Submitted: 11/25/10

Just outside of Fatima, Portugal. Casa Alta is a restored former royal spiritual retreat house built in the 13th Century by the Queen Saint Isabel of Portugal. The proprietor is an American priest of the Order of Malta, Fr. John Mariani. Your first step inside is back into another century. Set like a white pearl on the edge of the narrow ring road leading to the Castle of Ourem, atop the most prominent mountain near Fatima, this bread and breakfast is exquisitely appointed with glowing fireplaces, works of art, religious artifacts, and period furniture, providing an intimate, peaceful experience. Modern bathrooms, central heat, and wireless internet access. Outside is a natural stone slab patio garden into outdoor living space, with alcoves, shrines, fountains, flowers and shrubs arrayed around a refreshing dipping pool. A table built into the stonewall fortifications that support the garden atop the mountain creates one of the most breathtaking and peaceful picnic scenes in Europe. Cocktails and meals are served in the Great Room overlooking vineyards and forests, with the sacred shrine of Fatima looming in the distance. There are great scenic walks around the remains of the Castle of Ourem and into the narrow cobblestone roads of the village hanging just below. A private guided walking tour of the shrine and grounds in Fatima where, in 1917, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to three poor shepherd children, can be arranged with the leading English speaking author on the subject, Mr. Leo Madigan. I highly recommend the Casa Alta to pilgrims, the curious, or just weary travelers to Portugal.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Wonderful Experience

Guest: George (Maryland, USA)
Date of Stay: 11/08/10 Review Submitted: 11/30/10

Dear Fr. Mariani, We want to thank you for the wonderful experience of being guests at "Casa Alta" in November 2010. The accommodations' were magnificent and the meals were superb, achieving the pinnacle of culinary excellence. You and your staff were extremely gracious and hospitable. We are grateful for the spiritual guidance and our minni retreat in Fatima and Ourem. The exposure to such scared places as the Church of the Holy Miracle in Santarem as well as many other churches, monasteries, castles and historic sights were all very inspiring and beautiful. We sincerely hope and pray that you and those of Casa Alta will continue with your work and spiritual hospitality well into the future. Most Sincerely, Dr. & Mrs. George Miller

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

lives up to the toughest expectations

Guest: John M. (thredbo,australia)
Date of Stay: 10/20/10 Review Submitted: 12/05/10

we recently spent 3 weeks in Portugal and Madiera and stayed in a wide range of accommodation,some we chose and some organised for us by others. while Casa Alta Lodge was not the most luxurious ,neither was it the most expensive.what it was was the most unique and the most enjoyable. Father John and his delightful housekeeper/cook Valentina are wonderful hosts and go out of their way to please.we had several evening meals and the cooking was superb,exceeded only by the good company.Father even held mass for us.while it may seem unusual to stay in an establishment run by a priest ,Father John is very worldly and is happy to engage in debate and conversation on a wide range of subjects. at Casa Alta Lodge you get excellent accommodation with hospitality and mental and spiritual stimulation if you seek it,

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.

We'll be back!

Guest: Christine & Wilfred (Youngstown, NY)
Date of Stay: 10/12/10 Review Submitted: 11/29/10

The Casa Alta Royal Lodge had been recommended to us by a relative. What we found far exceeded our expectations. We were met at Lisbon airport six hours late due to a flight cancelation. We arrived at the Royal Lodge at two o’clock in the morning and were most graciously received by our host in spite of the hour. From the moment that we stepped into this charming house, situated against the background of a flood lit Ourem Castle (circa.1200), it was as if we had stepped into a bygone era. The décor was exquisite, each room distinct with commanding views of the castle and the valley below. The accommodation was most comfortable and we stayed four nights. We gave a dinner party for some friends from Fatima. The meal was superb and included an excellent inexpensive local wine. It was beautifully served in the lovely intimate dining room. We would also like to mention the secluded garden with swimming pool and spectacular views. We recommend this gem of a place to anyone seeking something different from the stereotyped hotel fare. A visit to Fatima is easily achieved by taxi taking about 15 minutes. Also available is a dependable, privately owned, car service to the airport or for touring. We would also suggest a walk around Ourem Castle.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect stay on excellent location

Guest: Carlos (The Hague Netherlands)
Date of Stay: 10/02/10 Review Submitted: 10/06/10

We felt very welcome in this beautifully restored old lodge on a superb and quiet location.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A castle in the clouds

Guest: Colonel (Galveston, Texas)
Date of Stay: 09/29/10 Review Submitted: 10/11/10

Casa Alta is an exceptional experience for anyone, even the experienced traveler. The Casa is a true castle in the clouds that most people can only dream about. Father Mariani has created a place where one can relax, wander around the garden or castle grounds or simply sit by the pool and enjoy a glass of wine. The Casa is centrally located to many exciting tourist attractions nearby and after a day of sight-seeing nothing can be more pleasant than to retire to the sanctuary of Casa Alta and a world class dinner prepared by Valentina. No words can adequately describe the beauty of Casa Alta, one must simply go and enjoy.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Charming retreat, centrally located in Portugal

Guest: van G R (Washington DC)
Date of Stay: 08/11/10 Review Submitted: 09/07/10

The Casa Alta Royal Lodge is a true gem, and one of the best places at which we stayed in Portugal. The old city of Ourem is not well known, but very charming and historically significant, and an excellent location for venturing to Tomar, Fatima, Batalha, Coimbra, Alcobaca, Leiria, etc. The Casa Alta occupies an ideal location on the mount, next to the castle, with spectacular views to the west--well worth the drive up. The Casa Alta is very tastefully decorated and comfortable. Having stayed here for three nights, we would strongly recommend staying for at least this long. The dinner served at the Casa Alta was also one of the best of our trip--and we tried to dine at the most highly regarded and rated restaurants in Lisboa and Porto--and certainly the best in the area. The Casa Alta would also be an ideal place to stay to relax and take in the countryside, with its charming garden and pool. Fr. Mariani is a wonderful host, full of insights, stories, expertise, and good cheer.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Magnificent experience with fabulous views and entertaining host.

Guest: Dr Jan (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
Date of Stay: 07/15/10 Review Submitted: 10/09/10

Casa Alta is a white Lodge which sits on the hill just below the ruined Castle of Ourem. After driving up the steepest switchback hill and getting momentarily lost in the tightest fit of a lane wherein cars should never venture, we pulled in around a white chapel and outside the green door to unload our cases and be welcomed by Father John and his maid/cook, Valentina. Our room was all white and filled with lovely things and the view from the window was breathtaking. We put on our bathing suits and went out the French doors to the patio where the pool was and were able to capture more of that beautiful view. After a swim, John collapsed on the day-bed in the sun like a big porpoise and Father John waited on us with a carafe of white wine and beer. At 8pm it was time for dinner and we were served by Alex, a young man dressed in black pants and white jacket. Valentina had prepared an exquisite meal of walnut and blue cheese salad, chicken fricasee and the most amazing pancake stack of kiwi-fruit glace. Father John had transformed from the day Tshirt –black with the word SECURITY across the middle to his ecclesiastical robes and cross. I have never eaten dinner with a priest before and it was a real success. He regaled us with many rich stories of his life and the time went much too fast. Next morning Valentina was back in the kitchen to make us eggs and toast and really good coffee.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway.

Casa Alta Royal Lodge

Guest: Temp (Lyme, CT, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/30/10 Review Submitted: 05/22/10

My wife and I and two friends recently returned from Portugal where we rented Casa Alta for two weeks. It was a delightful experience. There are three bedrooms, two of which have king sized beds. The house has a very intimate feel. All rooms, including the living and dining area, are quite tastefully appointed. Father Mariani is a charming host, equally at home in the religious and secular worlds, with a very impish personal demeanor. His Ukrainian born housekeeper, Valentina, is in charge of all household tasks – cooking, cleaning, washing, ironing, as well as caring for the extensive and beautifully maintained outdoor area. The Casa is situated high upon the promontory that was the original site of medieval Ourem and it and its partially destroyed castle can be seen for miles around. Father Mariani is very flexible and will accommodate any dining options that guests may wish to choose. In our case we sometimes prepared our own dinners, while in others Valentina cooked for us either using Casa provided ingredients or ingredients that we supplied. The old town also contains a pousada which provides a dining alternative for either lunch or dinner. Ourem is centrally located, making day trips to Obidos, Coimbra, Tomar, Alcobaca, Batalha, and Bucaco among many others quite simple to do. Lisbon is a bit of a push, roughly an hour and a half away. Our stay at Casa Alta was a unique and rewarding experience for us all.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Magical Experience

Guest: Robert Roy Garcia
Date of Stay: 11/28/09 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

I've had the opportunity and great pleasure of visiting Casa Alta a couple of time over the last few years when I make exploratory trips within Portugal. It's location convenient to Lisbon is a major plus as well as being close to so many world-class historical sites. One being the Castle of Ourem....perhaps the most majestic ruin in Portugal. Incredibly, Casa Alta actually sits on part of these ruins. Once you enter through the green painted doors to the house, you enter into another world, another time. The amazing personal service of the staff makes me feel instantly "at home". A blazing fire in the grate of the fireplace in my room is always a comfort, winter or summer since the weather is very temperate. The complimentary breakfast is in the classic English manner with imported marmalades, trimmed toast and eggs of every variety. Truly a magical experience.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/21/09 Review Submitted: 07/21/09

Casa Alta was the highlight of my trip to Portugal. Gracious hospitality, fabulous food, elegant surroundings with a breathtaking view.

Owner response:Casa Alta has won the 2010 Best Rural B&B Inn out of 8500 entries internationally!

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An aerie haven

Guest: Angela Delaplaine
Date of Stay: 05/12/09 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

I have just returned from a vacation in Portugal with friends and we all agree that our stay at Casa Alta was a magical part of our trip. Alta is a painstakingly restored and elegantly appointed inn. Father John Mariani has furnished the rooms with his vast collection of antiques and an impressive array of fine linens. The rooms are are very cozy, and charming and while not enormous, there is plenty of room. Outside, several separate patio areas afford a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. You are at the TOP of the highest hill in the area so you can see everything from this vantage point. The patios are beautifully landscaped and they frame the pool area which has its own set of two four poster beds which provide an ideal spot to luxuriate in the sun or take a siesta. The service at Casa Alta is splendid. Igor, the valet, did a wonderful job of seeing to all our needs and Valentina, the cook and femme de menage is a jewel. In our short visit we were able to sample a breakfast, lunch and dinner. The meals were absolutely fabulous. Lunch was served on the terrace with gleaming china and silver. The composed salad we ate was made with fresh herbs from the garden and was bright and flavorful. Dinner, served in the dining room, after cocktails in front of the fire looking out on the twinkling lights of Ourem, was a masterpiece. Consomme with house made meat-stuffed pillows of pasta began the meal. Succulent pork roast with buttery velvet mashed potatoes was followed by crepes with ice cream and drizzles of cassis. Very good local wine was served throughout. At breakfast, if you wish to have eggs, they are cooked according to your liking. Rolls and toast are accompanied by butter and assorted jams. The culinary experience here is second to none. All in all, my experience at Casa Alta was wonderful. It is an aerie haven for travelers in Portugal.

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Paradise!

Guest: Leena Helsinki
Date of Stay: 02/17/09 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

In February 2009 we spent our vacation in Ourem in Casa Alta. We were absolutely delighted. The house with its antique furnishings was really enchanting. We felt very comfortable and enjoyed having drinks in front of the fire place before dinner. From the beautiful garden we had a spectacular view to the valley. Although it was February, one could easily imagine how marvellous it must be when the flowers, trees and bushes are in full blossom. Casa Alta is a place which we will recommend to our friends. We would like them to be able to share our experience and enjoy the beauty of Casa Alta and Ourem. We hope to return to this paradise and to stay longer next time.

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The most charming place ever!

Guest: Richard A Mullins
Date of Stay: 06/21/08 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

There is simply no better place to say in the Fatima area. Located up at Ourem Castle, this is really the most charming place ever. There are twenty-mile views, a pool, gourmet meals, linen sheets, and really luxurious rooms with newly redone bathrooms. They let me take my breakfast in my room and sent up a tray each day. Most charming are the woodburning fireplaces in each room and the small baroque chapel. I am going back again this year just to relax.

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A hidden gem that shouldn't be missed!

Guest: Paul and Terry Watts
Date of Stay: 12/26/07 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

We spent the week following Christmas at Casa Alta this past December and came home thinking, "What a wonderful place to end the old year and welcome the new. " This historic lodge shares a mountaintop perch with Ourem Castle, adding spectacular views to its list of assets. From the ground floor --with sitting room, fireplace and cozy dining area -- to the upper floor bedrooms, Casa Alta is beautifully decorated. Its staff is friendly and efficient, the meals (on request) are delectable and Father Guilbert is a warm and knowledgeable host. We took advantage of his suggestions for several day trips and looked forward to sharing a glass of wine and conversation with him when we returned each evening. This is a hidden gem that shouldn't be missed!

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Truly a castle in the sky.

Guest: John Thoma
Date of Stay: 03/04/06 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

Wake up in the morning, look out the window and see the world at your feet before a delicious breakfast and on to the wonderous sights of Ourem and Fatima. Truly a castle in the sky.

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A true haven from the everyday world!

Guest: Kildare and Linda Dobbs
Date of Stay: 12/10/04 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

We found Casa Alta to be a true haven from the everyday world! The initial view of Casa Alta did not disappoint. That cozy stone lodge with its fire crackling in the hearth and its terraced garden perched above the surrounding valleys, served to set the scene for a truly unique vacation. The home cooked meals, served by a staff attendant to one's every needs were a joy. From the full breakfast, which prepared us so well for our days of sight-seeing, to the multi course dinners, complete with complimentary cocktails and wine, which greeted us on our return, made for perfect days. Perhaps most telling was the aesthetic climate of the hotel. The interior was replete with tasteful art and ornament and it was a joy to snuggle into our embroidered sheets each night in our 'signature' bedroom knowing that nothing would disturb our rest in this charming, medieaval house we felt so fortunate to have discovered.

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