Bumping along the unpaved road to get here, you'd be forgiven for wondering if you were in the right place. But push on across the river and up the hill and you'll be rewarded by leafy green grounds and a charming welcome from Swiss-Portuguese owner Marta and her family. She'll show you around, then leave you to swim in the azure pool, or read a book on your private terrace and gaze across the valley to Aljezur.
With only 4 rooms, this sweet guesthouse never feels busy or crowded. There will always be drinks in the honesty bar, a supply of fruit, cakes and biscuits on the sweets table, a quiet corner to watch the sun set, and a lounger by the pool with your name on it. A huge added extra is a wonderful Mediterranean restaurant down the road (Gulli), owned by one of Marta's friends, Luigi. Come morning, a stunning breakfast spread surpasses all expectations in a chic, French-style dining room. It's all very easy.
Highs
- Plenty of space - bedrooms are roomy, and there are lots of airy communal areas for very few guests
- Excellent value
- Marta and her family (husband, twin girls and Alfie the beagle) are warm and friendly hosts who also speak excellent English
- A quiet, unspoilt Algarve location and just 5km from the stunning beaches of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park
- Beautiful, peaceful grounds with hiking trails and wonderful views
Lows
- No restaurants within walking distance; the setting is rural
- No twin rooms; this is a romantic retreat
- The road to get here is easy to miss, very bumpy and occasionally steep - be sure to bring your detailed directions (sent when you book)
- It's not great for children (lots of steps and tiered terraces), and babies aren't accepted
Best time to go
Although summer is the obvious draw, spring and early autumn are also great times to visit, because temperatures are a little less searing and the guesthouse gardens are in full bloom. Beaches are quieter, too.
Our top tips
The sea cliffs of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park are a stopping-off point for migrating birds and an ideal nesting ground, so bring binoculars if that's your thing.
Location
Herdade Quinta Natura is off the main road to Aljezur on Portugal’s south coast, just over an hour's drive from Faro and 20 minutes from Lagos.
By Air:
Faro Airport is the closest (103km); click on the links below for a list of airlines. Hire a car from the airport; see our rental recommendations. You can park for free at the guesthouse.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Portugal and getting around
Airports:
- Faro 103.0 km FAR
Other:
- Beach 5.0 km
- Shops 1.0 km
- Restaurant 0.5 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 7 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape