The entrance to the Valeriana Guesthouse is easily missed, as it is hidden in one of the many stone passageways typical of Evora's old town. A code provides access to the historic building (the reception is only staffed during the day), which has been lovingly renovated by the current owners, a family of pharmacists. The 7 rooms have all been given a pharmaceutical name - the double room ‘Linhaça em Grão’ (Lineseed in English) reveals pharmacist humour - and really good taste. The whole boutique hotel has been decorated with attention to detail: dark blue velvet, polished wooden elements and cosy lighting underline the charm of the historic structures of the building, large windows and high ceilings provide the necessary light. The light-flooded rooms are beautifully appointed with cosy beds and modern bathrooms - everything you need for a city break. For those who like to sleep with the windows open, we recommend a room that doesn't face the street - at weekends, the streets are filled with local students until late at night.

The city of Évora itself deserves its own chapter, there is so much to discover. But this much is said: with the Valeriana Guesthouse you have the perfect starting point to explore the historic city, with its hundreds of small restaurants, shops and alleyways. The hotel's rooftop terrace offers a fantastic view over the white city, an ideal place for a sundowner (help yourself at the honesty bar) before diving into the city's nightlife.

The Guesthouse offers a simple, delicious breakfast which can be taken in the lounge with the other guests. If you would like to have breakfast outside, you can walk to Praça do Giraldo, just a few metres away, and sit down in one of the many Portuguese cafés. The Valeriana Guesthouse is a real discovery for boutique hotel lovers and city travellers with taste - a true secret place.