Pousada Vila Real de Santo António stands on Praça Marquês de Pombal, the main square in the historic centre, with the Guadiana River and the Spanish town of Ayamonte close by. Long Algarve beaches, the Sapal de Castro Marim Nature Reserve and the salt pans are also within reach. The pousada occupies two historic buildings facing each other across the square: Edifício da Alfândega and Edifício da Igreja. From the rooftop plunge pool at Alfândega, views take in the river, the lighthouse and neighbouring Spain; there are further pools in its courtyard and at Igreja. The restaurant’s open kitchen puts regional ingredients and a pink oven in view as dishes are prepared. Two bars in Edifício da Alfândega serve tapas and snacks alongside cocktails, Algarve wines and beers.