Pousada Xerife

Great.

Nice.

The inn is in a great location, and Fabrício and Dilma, who I believe own it, were kind and attentive. But during my seven-day stay I saw them only twice. They suggest tours, then seem to disappear once you book. The rooms were awful: no ventilation, bathrooms without windows or exhaust fans, and the air conditioning, TV, and minibar all had problems. Breakfast was served with very poor hygiene. The employee who prepares and serves it was lovely and tried to please guests, but clearly needs guidance on cleaning kitchen items and storing food. This isn't about the inn being simple. It urgently needs renovation and better maintenance, since the breakfast conditions and disrepair put guests' health at risk.

The location is its strongest point, close to shops and restaurants, but the stay was a major disappointment. The place felt neglected, especially at night, and the facilities and cleanliness were poor. My room smelled strongly of bleach, was cramped and dim, and had loose outlets, a filthy air conditioner, stained sheets, and no proper bathroom lock. The shower faucet had electrical tape on it and gave shocks. There was a gap in the bedroom door, and the bathroom door was broken. Breakfast was in a shabby area, with wet dishes and stained or dirty cutlery. I had to wipe down the exposed tables. On the first day the stuffed bread was sour and the ham was already slimy. Things improved a little after I complained, but on the last morning snails were crawling around in the juice jugs. The TV had only about two channels and stopped working on day three; the minibar froze the water, then quit altogether. I saw the owner or manager when we arrived and he carried our bags, and perhaps again when he arranged our tour, but after that he was absent. The breakfast and cleaning staff were the ones who received complaints and requests, and they tried to help as best they could. This isn't just about simplicity or the price. Guests should be able to expect a cared-for, pleasant place to stay. It's a shame because the inn is so well situated, near the entrance uphill and close to local businesses. It urgently needs a full renovation so guests are treated with dignity and respect.