The new Melia Palacio da Lousa Boutique Hotel (open April 15, 2005) is located in the idyllic district of Lousa, 23 Km from Coimbra, 160 km from Porto and 230 km from Lisbon. The building itself is the ancient palace of the Viscondessa do Espinal, dating from the 17th and 18th century. Its location close to historically and culturally interesting sites as well as its modern interior make it the perfect choice for a holiday in an exceptional environment. Guests can dine in the restaurant A Viscondesa which specializes in regional cuisine, or enjoy a drink at the bar or by the outdoor swimming pool. The new wing standard rooms are located in the newly built wing of the building and linked to the palace with direct access to the corridors of the old house on two of the floors. All the rooms have a view of the mountains, the palace, gardens and swimming pool, and are perfectly integrated into the hotel's architectural style. They provide a bedroom and a lounge area with sofa, table and chairs and another TV. The rooms have a modern and contemporary decoration with a mixture of tones and colours but completely harmonious with the rest of the decoration in the hotel.