Accommodation
You stay mostly in 16th and 17th-century traditional mansions where you are welcomed and treated as part of the family, with home-cooked, simple meals often taken together around one table. Neither hotels nor guesthouses, the mansions are homes, some of which have been in the same family for generations, and they have opened their doors to visitors in order to preserve their splendour. Frequently occupying privileged positions in the landscape, they offer a unique opportunity to experience life in an authentic Portuguese mansion.
In some places, we work with more than one hotel, as shown below. All are hand-picked by us and, unless there is a price implication (in which case we will contact you to discuss your options), we will tell you which one we have booked for you on your booking confirmation.
In some places, we work with more than one hotel, as shown below. All are hand-picked by us and, unless there is a price implication (in which case we will contact you to discuss your options), we will tell you which one we have booked for you on your booking confirmation.
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Nights 1-2Quinta de MaltaDurrães
- manor house
The stately Quinta de Malta, dating back to the early 16th century, sits in extensive grounds above the village, offering views of the valley and the 19th-century Ponte Seca viaduct. Its facilities include gardens, a tennis court, outdoor swimming pool, sauna, and small gym. Rooms are spacious and light, adorned with period antique furniture. Dinner in the elegant dining room showcases home-cooked Portuguese cuisine, complemented by views over the gardens and valley.Meal arrangements: dinner & breakfast -
Night 3Paço do VitorinoVitorino das DonasJust a stone's throw away from the River Lima, this 16th-century manor house has been converted into an elegant hotel that is full of character. Equipped with air conditioning and tea and coffee-making facilities, the rooms are decorated in a traditional Portuguese style and there are comfortable lounges in which to relax. A sense of serenity prevails throughout the interior and the extensive Baroque-style gardens, which incorporate an outdoor swimming pool.Meal arrangements: dinner & breakfast
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Nights 4-5Mercearia da VilaPonte de Lima
- guesthouse
Formerly the village grocery store, this charming boutique bed and breakfast has named its handful of rooms after the most common items sold in the shop, including Sabão Amarelo (Yellow Soap), Açucar (Sugar), and Chocolate. Each room’s décor is inspired by the product, and some have their own balcony, while others have views over parts of the town or river. Guests also have access to a shared lounge and kitchen area.Meal arrangements: breakfast only -
Extra nights recommendedThis is such a special place that you won't want to leave!Nights 6-7Paço de CalheirosCalheiros
- manor house
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Considered one of the most beautiful examples of a 17th-century manor house in Portugal, Paço de Calheiros is the seat of Francisco, Count of Calheiros. Set in 13 acres of vineyards and orchards, it boasts landscaped gardens, a tennis court, chestnut woods with red deer, and a large swimming pool. Bedrooms are furnished with 16th-century Portuguese antiques and dinner comprises Portuguese dishes using ingredients from the garden, and fresh vinho verde from the estate.Meal arrangements: dinner & breakfast
