The Buçaco Palace

Considered one of the most beautiful hotels in the world, the Buçaco Palace stands imposingly in the heart of the Buçaco Forest, transporting us to a fairytale world filled with sumptuous fantasy. Designed by set designer Luigi Manini, this stunning building is a recreation of Manueline architecture, inspired by works such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, reproducing their richly detailed decoration. Major names in Portuguese art, such as Norte Júnior, Carlos Reis, and Jorge Colaço, are linked to the structure and ornamentation of the building, making it one of the country's most iconic hotels, an extraordinary architectural ensemble in close connection with the lush forest. Come and discover it!

Welcome to the Palace

Managed by the third generation of descendants of Alexandre de Almeida, the first great Portuguese hotel industrialist, “Palace do Bussaco” offers a unique and refined atmosphere, characterized by comfortable accommodations, excellent Portuguese cuisine and the sublime taste of world-renowned Buçaco wines.

Fit for princes and princesses, the hotel has 64 rooms, including the D. Manuel and D. Luís suites, the sumptuous Rainha D. Amélia suite and the Royal D. Carlos suite, all furnished with exquisite pieces, in a diversity that encompasses the most classic styles and Art Nouveau lines.

Also the restaurant It is worth a visit, not only for the outstanding quality of its cuisine but also for the decor of the space, which combines the magnificent frescoes by João Vaz illustrating maritime passages from The Lusiads with a beautiful neo-Moorish ceiling and a remarkable floor made of exotic woods.

The Buçaco Forest

At the end of the Serra do Buçaco, where the mountain reaches 547 meters in altitude, is the Buçaco ForestWith six walking trails, set off to discover its stunning botany.

At the edge of the Buçaco Mountains, where the mountain reaches an altitude of 547 meters, lies the Buçaco Forest, surrounded by a high wall with eleven entrance gates. Make them the starting point for a nature walk through the region and be captivated by the serene, almost magical exuberance of Buçaco's intense greenery.

After exploring the mountain trails, relax at the Palace Hotel do Bussaco, one of Portugal's most beautiful Neo-Manueline buildings, or visit the Convent of Santa Cruz, where General Wellington spent the night during the Battle of Buçaco. Immerse yourself in the charm of this place's flora and history.

The flora of the Buçaco Forest

The Buçaco Forest It falls far short of the great forests of Europe in size. However, the variety of its plant species far surpasses them. Within the walls built by the Discalced Carmelites, there are around 400 species native to the Portuguese Atlantic coast and approximately 300 from other climates. The most representative element of this symbiosis is the Buçaco cedar, an imposing cypress native to Mexico that was reportedly the first exotic species planted in the forest by the monks in 1656. The Cedar of Saint Joseph, planted 350 years ago by the monks near the gate of the same name, is the local symbol of this imposing tree species.

A walk through the woods

If there's a cool, peaceful place to stroll, it's Buçaco Forest. With six clearly marked nature trails, the forest invites you to explore its stunning botany. Head to the Fern Valley and delight in its lakes, cool off in the numerous fountains scattered throughout the enclosure, and admire the natural corners created by the lush vegetation. You can also explore the forest through historical trails: admire the imposing gates in the enclosure or the chapels built by the Discalced Carmelites, which rise in perfect harmony with the trees. Walk along the Passos da Paixão de Cristo (Passion of Christ), climb to the Cruz Alta Viewpoint, and finally, head to Almas de Encarnadouro to visit the Military Museum.

The Battle of Buçaco

During the Third French Invasion, Buçaco proved to be a decisive location for the unfolding of events. On September 27, 1810, Anglo-Portuguese troops led by General Wellesley and Massena's French troops clashed in the Battle of Buçaco. Taking advantage of the terrain's defensive properties and with 50,000 men, Wellesley halted the Napoleonic offensive toward Lisbon, dealing a severe blow to the Napoleonic forces and boosting the morale and perseverance of the Portuguese and English forces. This confrontation would become pivotal in the unfolding of the military events that followed, which ultimately led to the final expulsion of the French troops. The lands of Buçaco still evoke the aura of glory and bravery of Portugal, which resisted the invaders.

The Palace and the Serra do Buçaco National Forest can be reached in about 45 minutes by car from Quinta da Palmeira – Country House Retreat & Spa.