HotelChatter

But despite York House's celebrity guest list there's nothing showy-offy about the place. At first it looks like the gate to someone's house - you have to ring the bell to get in then climb up a windy ivy-shaded maroon staircase.

There's a little shady courtyard with tables and a hammock in one corner, birds tweeting in the air, and no sign of any reception. You have to try out all the directions before finding a the staff.

The 32 rooms are all super chic and modern, despite the centuries-old history of the convent. And you'll get all the services and whistles you like, including Wi-Fi everywhere and bath robes and all the rest. It's quiet as a mouse.

But the best bit about the hotel is the restaurant. The Portuguese menu is absolutely superb - if you don't fancy suckling pig's trotters in coriander sauce accompanied by spiced carrot flan, they'll do you a steak as well. You can have dinner by candlelight on that shady terrace we mentioned. Then lie back in the hammock gazing at the stars until it's gone down. What more could you want from life?

Serene, stylish and simply wonderful, you can also get special deals out of season -- prices range from as low as €60 to €250 ($92-$388) for a standard double per night, plus €15 (€23) for a good buffet breakfast. Bargain of the last four centuries.