Quinta da Fontoura

João and Alberto made us feel very welcome. I stayed here before and found the rooms comfortable and beautiful, with fantastic value for the price. The Quinta is even more beautiful in person than the photos suggest. I got married there, and the day felt magical. Watching the sunset over the hills shimmer across the pool was spectacular.

We enjoyed staying at the venue, and our guests liked their rooms too. The staff helped us find extra cots for the many little ones staying with us, which we really appreciated. Our wedding was amazing: the venue was beautiful, the food was wonderful, and everyone agreed the day was perfect. The staff did an excellent job keeping everything running smoothly.

The gardens are lovely, and the short walks do you good. There's an old-style Portuguese charm to the place, and despite the hassles, my visit to Portugal is something I'll remember fondly all my life. Getting there on very narrow roads was hair-raising, especially coming from the USA. I often worried my elbows and the car's side mirrors would survive! At night, the big metal doors at the entrance and parking area take some skill to unlock if you arrive late. WiFi only worked in one bedroom and downstairs in the open quad. Meals can be provided for €20 per person, per meal, but you have to book the day before. You need to shower before using the pool, and the natural part of it is off limits. The washer, dryer and kitchen aren't available for guests to use, though they'll do some laundry for you.

The place was transformed beautifully for our daughter's wedding. The forest ceremony was a lovely new twist for an Irish wedding, and the 80 guests had a brilliant time. Great food, plenty of drink and a mighty craic. 10/10.