The Pousada Convento do Desagravo was built on the order of the Bishop and Count, Dom Francisco de Lemos de Faria Pereira, during the last quarter of the eighteenth century. It occupies a superb location, close to the mountains of the "Serra da Estrela" and the "Serra do Açor" which create a romantic and peaceful atmosphere.
The old Desagravo´s Convent where the pousada is housed is in Vila Pouca da Beira, which is a small village with less than 400 habitants. The region is notable for its full flavoured cheese which is still made by hand.
Serra da Estrela Natural Park contains the largest mountain range and the highest peak in continental Portugal at just under 2000 metres, and is just a short drive away from the village. In winter there is skiing on the upper slopes and it the only area where a rare species of mountain lizard is found.
The small and remote village of Belmonte which is overlooked by a restored 13th century castle is 65 kilometres away. This castle was the family residence and birthplace of Pedro Álvares Cabral, who first discovered Brazil. Other interesting places to visit nearby include the historic villages of Piodão and Linhares da Beira, Serra da Estrela, Avô, Aldeia das Dez, the Alva valley, Serra do Açor (Colcurinho), the Roman road in Lourosa and Bread Museum (Seia)
The Pousada de Vila Pouca de Beira has 24 rooms comprising 21 double rooms and 3 suites which are all air conditioned and come equipped with cable television, a mini bar, bathroom with hair dryer and bathrobes and a direct dial telephone. Leisure amenities at the pousada include a tennis court, swimming pool and children's play area. Further activities in the surrounding area include fishing on the River Alva, golf, skiing, boat trips, canoeing, country walks, mountaineering, hunting, shooting and fishing.
