Over the centuries, Chaves (meaning 'keys') has been fought over by the Romans, the French during the Peninsular War, and repeated Spanish invaders.

Thermal springs and nearby gold deposits encouraged the Romans to establish an important stronghold here in AD 78.

Located about 12 kilometres from Spain, Chaves today is a lively market town famous for its spa, historic centre and tasty presuntos (smoked hams). It is also known as the regional capital for northern Tras-os-Montes.

The fort was extensively and carefully renovated for over 10 years after being left without any use for a long period. Is has been converted into a delightful hotel offering comfort and luxury in superb surroundings.

The hotel is surrounded by almost 15.000 sq. metres of gardens and terraces. The Convent has a private church and a beautiful chapel.

The hotel has a total of 53 bedrooms and 5 suites. All rooms have private bathroom, cable television, direct dial telephone, air conditioning and heating, mini bar, safe and hairdryer.

The Cozinha do Convento restaurant has a range of regional and national dishes.

Facilities include restaurant, tavern, bar, elevator, air conditioning, rooms for disabled persons, outdoor swimming pool and private parking.

Hotel Forte de Sao Francisco also has an auditorium with audio-visual equipment for up to 200 persons and various conference rooms.

The swimming pool is set in the garden and offers delightful views over the town and valleys. A pool bar belonging to Vip Look open for drinks and snacks during the summer months.

Outdoor activities include a tennis court, football area and table tennis and indoors include billiard room, board games, sauna and jacuzzi (part of Vip Look).

A few minutes on foot from the city centre is one of the hotest springs in Europe. Water here bubbles up at a temperature of 73ºC (163º F).

The spa's facilities attract both tourists and people seeking the treatment of rheumatism, kidney dysfunction, hypertension and more recently offer various personal care treatments.

Porto airport is approximately 1h 45 minutes away with almost the whole journey being by motorway.

The old pilgrimage centre of Santiago de Compostela in Spain is 202 kilometres away from the Hotel.