Modern dining area with a large table, cushioned bench seating, chairs, and a floor lamp. Glass doors on the right open to a garden with outdoor seating. Walls display framed artwork.

Honest Hotel Review: Casa do Juncal in Guimarães

ByAnh Evardo Updated on

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Planning a visit to Guimarães and wondering where to stay? Choosing the right hotel can make or break your trip, especially if you’re traveling with family. 

In this review, we’ll take an honest look at Casa do Juncal, a boutique hotel we chose based on its glowing reviews and spacious accommodations. We’ll cover everything from location to service, helping you decide if Casa do Juncal in Guimarães is the right fit for your next trip. 

Facade of Casa do Juncal in Guimarães, featuring a large wooden door with decorative stone arch and wrought iron balcony above, located in a pedestrian street area.

Location and Accessibility

Casa do Juncal’s location in Guimarães is a major highlight, placing you right in the heart of this historic city. The hotel is nestled within the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This means you’re just a short stroll from what makes Guimarães worth visiting, like the medieval Guimarães Castle and the lively Largo da Oliveira square. If you’re planning a trip to the stunning Penha Park, it’s also within walking distance. Even our 2 small children were able to walk the 15 minutes to the Penha Cable Car. 

Travelers coming from Porto or nearby cities will find Casa do Juncal in Guimarães easy to reach, with the train station just a 10-minute walk away. If you’re driving, the hotel offers convenient parking options nearby. For those who prefer to walk, Guimarães’ compact layout means you can comfortably explore most of the city’s attractions on foot. And there are plenty of charming cafes and shops along the way!

A glass cake stand holds a partially eaten chocolate cake. Next to it, there's a framed note in Portuguese and English welcoming guests to Casa do Juncal and informing them the cake was prepared by the host.

Check-in Experience

Arriving at Casa do Juncal was a breeze, setting a positive tone for the rest of our stay. A few days before check-in, we received an access code for the front door and room, making our arrival seamless and stress-free. Despite arriving before the official check-in time, the friendly staff promptly offered to store our luggage. This allowed us to start exploring Guimarães right away without having to lug our baggage around.

The check-in process was quick and efficient, with the staff going out of their way to make us feel welcome. We were greeted with a delightful slice of locally made cake, a small but thoughtful touch that added to the warm hospitality. The staff also provided a detailed map of the city and took the time to walk us through their top recommendations for sights and dining spots.

Room Quality and Amenities

A hotel room with wooden flooring, a bed with white sheets, a floor lamp, a desk with two pendant lights, and an angled ceiling with exposed beams. A framed picture and various items are on the desk.

Overview of the Room Layout and Decor

We stayed in the Superior Suite K at Casa do Juncal and it offered a spacious and stylish retreat. The room is thoughtfully designed, comfortably accommodating a family of four with almost 350 square feet of space. The modern decor is a blend of contemporary aesthetics and cozy, welcoming touches. With plenty of natural light streaming through the windows and the high ceilings, the room feels bright and airy.

⭐ Highly recommend! We stayed at Casa do Juncal, and it was a fantastic experience—spacious, comfortable, and in a perfect location. Head here to check availability and rates now.

One of the standout features for families is the hotel’s ability to turn the couch into a second bed for the kids, complete with pillows and a comforter. This setup provided our children with a comfortable place to sleep, ensuring everyone had their own space to rest. The suite’s design not only caters to comfort but also makes efficient use of space, making it an ideal choice for families traveling together.

There are only 6 rooms available at Casa do Juncal, and each one is designed a little differently. I loved this idea as it made me feel as if we were staying at a mix between a hotel and AirBnB. 

A modern bedroom with a bed, television, floor lamp, wall art, and two bedside lamps. Walls are painted tan and the floor is wooden.

In-room Amenities

Casa do Juncal goes above and beyond to ensure guests’ comfort. Our suite was equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable, and Wi-Fi. This plus carefully selected design furniture contributed to a luxurious stay. There was also a desk where I could blog and write down my thoughts for our daily adventures. 

The king-size bed was very comfortable! It was dressed with 100% cotton sheets, satin quilts, and pillows filled with Hungarian white goose down. This, along with a high-quality mattress, ensured a restful night’s sleep.

The bathroom was very clean and modern. There were fine toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers, adding a touch of indulgence to our daily routine. Tea and coffee were also provided. 

For those looking to enhance their relaxation, Casa do Juncal offers the option to book a massage directly in your room. If you prefer a more active start to your day, you can also arrange for a private yoga session. This is a great option to enhance your Guimarães stay!

A modern lobby area with a black armchair, floor lamp, small round table, and framed artwork on the wall. A contemporary chandelier hangs from the ceiling. Glass doors are partially visible on the left.

Noise Level and Privacy

Our top-level suite provided a serene environment with minimal noise from other guests, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The tranquility of the space was a welcome respite after a busy day. 

We were slightly concerned about our kids making noise as they played in the room, given the hotel’s peaceful ambiance. Despite this, the suite maintained a good level of privacy, ensuring a quiet and undisturbed stay. This made it an excellent choice for travelers looking to unwind in comfort.

A dining table set with cups, plates, and green glasses in a room with a large window overlooking a green garden, with chairs arranged around the table and a sofa in the background.

Service and Hospitality

The service at Casa do Juncal truly stood out during our stay. Every interaction with the staff was positive. And they were so friendly and willing to help! From the moment we arrived, it was clear that the team at Casa do Juncal was committed to making our stay as comfortable as possible.

When it came to handling requests, the staff went above and beyond. We had some leftovers that needed refrigeration, and they were more than happy to accommodate our request. This level of attentiveness and flexibility added to our overall sense of being well cared for.

One moment that really highlighted their exceptional service occurred right after we checked in. Our kids were on the verge of a hunger meltdown after our travels from Porto on the train. Without hesitation, the receptionist whipped up ham and cheese sandwiches to tide them over. This thoughtful gesture made a big difference in our first impression and set the tone for the rest of our stay. The staff at Casa do Juncal truly made us feel at home with their warm hospitality.

A buffet table with cut fruit, sliced cheese, cold cuts, cherry tomatoes, butter, bottled juice, a glass bottle, a jar, and condiments.

Breakfast and Dining Experience

Breakfast at Casa do Juncal was not just a meal, but a thoughtfully curated experience. Upon check-in, we were given a breakfast request sheet to select our preferred items. The choices ranged from eggs cooked any way, crispy bacon, to fluffy pancakes. This personalized service allowed us to enjoy exactly what we wanted each morning.

We were also able to choose our preferred breakfast time, with options at either 8:00 AM or 9:30 AM. This allowed our breakfast to be made fresh at our chosen time. Each morning, we arrived to find our table beautifully set up just for our family, adding a special touch to our dining experience.

The food itself was fresh and of the highest quality, with a variety that catered to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or something lighter, Casa do Juncal ensures that you’re well taken care of. The hotel is very accommodating for those with dietary restrictions.

The breakfast was definitely one of the highlights of our stay, setting a positive tone for th day ahead!

A garden with green grass, trees, and bushes featuring several white metal chairs and tables arranged around the space, including seating on a wooden patio deck.

Common Areas and Hotel Amenities

Casa do Juncal may have compact common areas, but they are thoughtfully designed and beautifully maintained. There is a serene garden in the back, a hidden gem where you can unwind amidst lovely fountains and shade-providing trees. This peaceful space is perfect for a quiet morning coffee or an afternoon break after exploring the city.

One unique touch that we particularly appreciated was the honesty bar. Stocked with water, coffee, and a selection of alcoholic beverages, this self-serve bar allowed us to enjoy a drink at our leisure. We simply noted down what we consumed to settle up at checkout!

All the amenities were well-maintained and easily accessible. Whether enjoying the garden or grabbing a drink from the honesty bar, Casa do Juncal’s common areas and amenities provided a pleasant and relaxing experience.

A breakfast spread featuring various jars of jam, honey, Nutella, and other spreads, alongside a basket of assorted breads and pastries.

Overall Value for Money

When considering the price point of Casa do Juncal, it’s important to weigh the experience against other options in Guimarães. We paid around $380 USD for a two-night stay, which could be on the higher side due to our last-minute booking. However, the value we received made it worth the cost.

The spaciousness of the Superior Suite K was a significant factor in our satisfaction. With the summer heat in full swing, having an air-conditioned room where we could relax and take breaks was essential. The room provided ample space for our family to spread out, which added to our comfort and enjoyment during the stay.

Importantly, there were no hidden fees or extra charges, which made the booking process straightforward and transparent.

Casa do Juncal in Guimarães is well-suited for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re a family in need of extra space, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a solo traveler looking for comfort, the hotel’s unique rooms cater to various needs. The combination of thoughtful amenities, attentive service, and a prime location makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay in Guimarães.

A modern dining room with large windows, a wooden floor, tables and chairs, and a view of a garden outside.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Prime Location: Casa do Juncal’s central location in Guimarães puts you within easy walking distance of key attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.
  • Exceptional Service: The staff at Casa do Juncal go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay, offering personalized service and thoughtful touches that make you feel truly welcome.
  • Delicious Breakfast: The included breakfast is a highlight, with a variety of fresh and high-quality options tailored to your preferences, served in a cozy and intimate setting.
  • Air-Conditioned Comfort: Especially during the summer heat, the air-conditioned rooms provide a cool, refreshing retreat after a day of sightseeing.
  • Thoughtful Amenities: From the honesty bar to the beautiful garden, the hotel’s amenities are well-maintained and add to the overall experience.

Cons

  • Noise Concerns: Due to the close proximity of the rooms, I was initially worried about our kids making too much noise. However, we didn’t receive any complaints, which suggests that the hotel’s soundproofing is fairly effective. Still, the concern about noise might be something to consider, especially for families with energetic children.
A child sits on a windowsill, looking out through an open window at neighboring buildings. The photo is in black and white.

Final Verdict: How was Casa do Juncal in Guimarães?

I would definitely recommend Casa do Juncal to anyone visiting Guimarães, especially those looking for a comfortable and well-located hotel with personalized service. It’s a place I would consider staying again, though I might opt for a different season if I were looking for more amenities like a pool during the summer.

Our stay at Casa do Juncal was a truly enjoyable experience, combining comfort, exceptional service, and a prime location in the heart of Guimarães. The hotel’s attention to detail and thoughtful amenities made our visit memorable, and the spacious, air-conditioned suite provided the perfect retreat after exploring the city.

Planning your trip to Guimarães? Be sure to check out my post on the best things to do in Guimarães for tips on how to make the most of your visit!

Anh Evardo is the founder of Pass to Portugal, a blog dedicated to sharing her passion for exploring this beautiful country. After relocating from the DC metro area to Portugal with her family, she has immersed herself in the local culture and all things Portuguese. Her mission is to provide tourists with practical travel tips and insights for an enjoyable and sustainable trip to Portugal. Through personal stories and valuable advice, Anh helps others create unforgettable Portuguese adventures.

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