Architecture tour around the Beiras #3 H2otel & Spa

Travelling along the south-western slopes of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, we reached the H2otel & Spa, a luxurious hotel tucked between the rocky outcrops of the Alforfa Glacial Valley, designed by the office Jorge Palma Arquitects.

Seen from the front it is an imposing building with a complex shape making references to traditional mountain architecture. It is framed on visible metal volumes with steep roofs, clad in glass and dark cherry wood panels.

The construction follows the terrain contour lines length wise, to accommodate both the thermal spa and hotel areas. It sits on platforms positioned at various levels.

The back faces the foothills of the mountain and rests on massive supporting schist walls, creating generous terraces. We sat there overlooking the surrounding beautiful landscape, the cows lying on the green fields and listening to the water springs...

General Project: Jorge Palma Arquitectos (architect Jorge Palma).

Date: 2008

Location: Unhais da Serra, Covilhã

Photos and post credits: Lisboa Architecture Walks & Trips

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