Vila Gale Collection Tomar Hotel

The pools don’t open until 9 am, which was the main downside for me. An earlier opening would make it possible to swim before breakfast and improve the stay. Otherwise, I had a pleasant time at Vila Galé Collection in Tomar. The building and its setting have plenty of charm, breakfast had a good range of fresh choices, and the staff were kind and helpful.

The location is great, close to the historic center, river, and a park. The facilities were quite nice, and I enjoyed the outdoor pool, though there aren’t many loungers, so it could get busy when the hotel was full and the weather was good. I didn’t check the indoor spa. The rooms were ordinary, but the AC worked. A nearby bar played loud music until 1 am. That wasn’t the hotel’s fault, and the rooms themselves weren’t noisy, but I could still hear the bass. Breakfast was okay, though I expected more kinds of cheese and cured meats, given the variety Portugal has. The selection was just basic. I found the price a little high for what’s offered, though only borderline so. The price-to-quality ratio could be better, but it wasn’t bad.

There are lots of restaurants within an easy walk, and it’s a great spot on the edge of the old city, with river views. The hotel is close to the town center and gardens, yet it stays very quiet, even in rooms facing the river. The setting was relaxed, the building beautiful, clean, and spacious, and the staff friendly and helpful. The indoor pool felt magical, and I also enjoyed a massage and the bar. Breakfast was good, and the food was good value. The outlook over the river was lovely. It took about a 15-minute walk from the train and bus station, which was enjoyable.

August seems to be the month when things get lively, though it’s a hot month to visit. The place sits just outside what you might call this rather small town. We took a wine-tasting tour and were shown around the property, including the vineyard, crushing rooms, curing room, and both the modern and wooden vat sections. The Ports and wines were gorgeous, and we couldn’t leave without buying a few. It was well organized and well worth a visit.