Casa Rural Vilaboa

Carlos was waiting outside with a flashlight during a power cut that hit a nearby village, which lasted roughly from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. We’d been out most of the day, and when we got back late, he lit the way to our room. He said he’d stay up until every guest had made it safely to their room. That kind of care really stayed with me. We spent 11 nights at Casa Rural Vilaboa and felt welcome from the minute we arrived. The owners, Carlos and his wife, are incredibly warm and kind. One very hot afternoon, my father came by to visit and they offered him a cold bottle of water on the house. Little gestures like that say a lot about them. We brought our two chihuahuas, and there was plenty of space for them to run around. The place is genuinely dog-friendly. Our room was spacious and comfortable, with a fan that made the hot summer nights much easier. We had it on almost all night. The bathroom was great too, though a shower curtain around the bathtub would help keep water in. Dinner was fantastic, from the flavors to the presentation. The restaurant waiter deserves a mention, too: very friendly and attentive, clearly passionate about his work, and he knew the menu inside out. He made the meal memorable. If you’re nearby, give this place a try, and make sure you have dinner. We had an amazing stay.