To say Villa Epicurea occupies a privileged position on the Lisbon coast is an understatement. The eco-lodge’s elevated position gives you 180-degree views of the evergreen Serra da Arrabida forest, not to mention the pristine stretch of Atlantic coast below. It’s pretty jaw-dropping – and we’ve seen some amazing views. Come sunset, you’ll want to hit the rooftop terrace: grab a locally distilled IPA from the honesty bar, and get comfortable in one of the stylish loungers dotted around. It’s a small set-up – maximum 17 guests in three suites and two eco-villas (all with sea views) – so you’ll never fight for space. And if you prefer more privacy, you’ll be happy to know each room has its own private terrace.
Inspired by Epicurean philosophy, this wellness space is all about the simple pleasures in life: enjoying beautiful surroundings, inventive (and so delicious) plant-basedfood, sunshine and relaxation. The lodge itself has been designed with sustainability in mind. Most materials – cork, stone, wood, glass – are locally sourced. Every room is full of delightfully eclectic soft furnishings and interesting accents. Snuggle into the low sofas by the log burner and it’s hygge heaven. There’s a geodome for yoga, a natural swimming pool, and a wide choice of nature hikes and spectacular beaches, including two within 40 minutes' walk.
Highs
- It feels like you’ve been transported to a remote nature reserve, yet you’re still close to restaurants and beaches, as well as Lisbon
- Did we mention the views? They don’t just look good, they smell good: lungfuls of pine forest-fresh air, coming your way
- No traffic, no noise (apart from birdsong and the breeze in the trees), and no pollution – even the biopool is refreshingly chemical-free
- Lots of earthy, eco-friendly materials and eclectic natural design give the place a stylish but grounded feel
- The whole space invites you to slooooooow down. If you haven’t got a meditation practice already, it’s a good place to start one
Lows
- You need a car: the driveway is up a steep hill, and if you have heavy bags you’ll want to drive to the top and drop them off before parking back down at the bottom of the hill
- The vegetarian menu might be limiting for meat-eaters and pescatarians; but you can pre-order other dishes
- The bathrooms in the eco-villas are on the small side; two people will struggle to use it at the same time
- There’s WiFi in the main reception and dining area, but not in all of the rooms
- The pool is unheated so chilly in colder months
Best time to go
This area attracts a lot of visitors in the summer, so if you want beach weather without the traffic, the best months to visit are May/June and September/October. Note that birdwatching, hiking, cooking classes, long walks by the beach, less people, and watersports are all available in the winter months too.
Our top tips
If you have time, visit at least one surf spot on the west coast, and one of the calmer, secluded beaches on the Arrabida coast – the turquoise water will make you think you’re in the Caribbean. You can walk for hours in the forest of Serra da Arrabida national park, and if you’re up for a climb, you can enjoy views over the entire Setúbal coast. Should you feel like taking a break from all this incredible nature on your doorstep, it’s worth visiting Setúbal – an artsy, low-key ‘mini Lisbon’ with some great bars and restaurants.
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