Just north of the UNESCO town of Evora in Portugal’s rural Alentejo, this cluster of ancient watermills lies in a remote and largely undiscovered region of peaceful countryside. Featured in Wallpaper, Archilovers, Architizer and Archdaily among others, the property was discovered by a Lisbon based couple and restored in partnership with Portuguese architect Luís Pereira Miguel. An impulsive passion project, the property was designed as an homage to how people once lived and retains all of it’s original features.
Consisting of three original structures, there is a three-bedroom house with an en-suite master bedroom and two additional bedrooms with a shared bath, and a smaller house that includes one suite. The largest house has a terrace that connects to the swimming pool and offers a large living room and dining area, along with a fully equipped kitchen where breakfast is served daily.
Designed for hosting families, or groups, the property can accommodate up to eight guests. Carefully restoring the ancient structures to retain their authenticity, the ancient stone, timbered ceilings and whitewashed limestone appear much as they were when originally built, with subtle modern updates and amenities. Furnished with traditional handcrafted decor and a minimal aesthetic, the effect is simple, serene and charming.
Surrounded by centennial olive trees, megalithic rock formations and a babbling stream, the property was intentionally kept slightly wild and natural and includes a beach-like swimming pool for cooling off in summer. When night falls, the visibility conditions are like no other place in the south of Europe for star gazing.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Breakfast served daily. Daily housekeeping and laundry facilities and bath amenities. Wifi (2G), stereo and player in the living room area. Bicycles for guest use. Security system and private parking. Private chef upon request (20€/person for additional meals).
AROUND
This rural section of the Alentejo region is rich in history and culture and home to tranquil landscapes and many unique towns and castles of historical interest. The nearby village of Arraiolos with its narrow, neatly lined streets, whitewashed architecture and artisan shops is a charming example of authentic rural life while the walled town of Estremoz just a half hour east has long been the site of the Rossio Marquês de Pombalone, one of Portugal’s finest markets. The tiny walled village of Monsaraz is a sleepy hilltop town with commanding views of the nearby Alqueva Lake and a short drive south are the fascinating and not-to-be-missed UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Evora and Elvas. The entire region is an important frontier district with remnants of both Moorish and late 16th century battlements and fortifications including the fascinating megalithic complex of Almendres Cromlech. Lisbon is just an hour drive to the west as are the beautiful Atlantic Coast and Comporta Beach.
LOCATION
Evora, Portugal. Nearest Airport: Lisbon Portela Airport (120km)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round. The lush green riverside environment/landscape and mild weather last from Autumn through Spring, turning gold and warm in Summer.
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