Évora Design Retreat
5 BR | 6 BA | SLEEPS 10
Designed by the well-known Portuguese architect João Favila Menezes, this holiday home in Portugal has become an important reference point for contemporary architecture in the region and, as such respects the fundamental principles of traditional Alentejano architecture in its thoughtful construction.
We like the strong contrast of the bleached exterior and the vibrant colors of the decor inside. The simplicity of the architecture and the completely native and wild land that surrounds this property makes this an amazing escape.
Built on a single floor with windows and patio areas that invite guests to take full advantage of the living space, this holiday home in Portugal encourages visitors to explore different ways of engaging with the property and the surrounding countryside, but with all of the benefits and comforts of cosmopolitan living. From the rooftop terrace, one can see the historic villa of Monsaraz, while taking in the visceral pleasure of living in a world such as this one.
The house can easily accommodate up to 10 people in four comfortable bedrooms and sleeping areas. One bedroom suite features a full-sized bed and bath, while two separate bedroom suites include either two twin beds or one full-sized bed and bath. There is also one shared sleeping area with six bunk beds along with communal bath, and there are three extra beds available upon request. In addition to the main house, there is a studio on the property that sleeps a further two guests; please inquire for rates.
The space also includes an indoor dining area, an open-plan living room with fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen. Central air conditioning is available throughout the house.
The house is surrounded by Mediterranean gardens, with three outdoor sitting areas: a cemented patio area near the house with retractable shade-structure ideal for open-air meals, a deck area around the swimming pool next to some of the most beautiful oak trees on the property, and a roof-top terrace perfect for watching the sunset & the stars. Likewise, there are numerous shaded areas under which to rest and take cover from the sun. For those wanting to wander farther afield, there is a beach 20 minutes from the house.
Read more about the owners of this property in our Stories section here.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
There are four adult-sized bicycles for exploring and a telescope for star gazing (Alqueva has some of the best atmospheric conditions for star gazing most of the year, and it was the first site in the world to receive the Star Light Tourism Destination Certification, awarded by the Star Light Foundation). Daily breakfast is included, and there is a Nespresso machine, so bring your capsules. Guests may request additional services: meal preparation, airport pick up and car rental services.
AROUND
Set off for the countryside around Évora and discover areas inhabited since Mesolithic times, where you will find a range of structures including cave systems, stone-circles, Shell-middens, and dolmens. Should you not have much time, we highly recommend Montemor-o-Novo, Évora, and Monsaraz where you will find the most impressive concentration of these prehistoric structures. Near Monsaraz, you have Olival da Pega, Xerez, Outeiro, Belhõa, Barrocal, and Monte da Ribeira. In the area near Évora, we recommend dropping by the town of Pavia where you can see the dolmen-turned-Catholic chapel of São Denis, an example of the Christianization of a monument once considered pagan.
This region of the Alentejo functions according to its own rhythm. Its Continental climate creates a marked variation in temperatures during the various seasons of the year. Within Portugal, it one of the regions with the highest number of sunny days accompanied by blue skies. An abundance of warmth and heat will welcome you during the spring and summer, with clear and warm, yet chilly temperatures in the winter.
LOCATION
Evora, Alentejo, Portugal. Nearest airport: Lisbon Portela (200km).
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round
