Quinta da Rica-Fé

We planned a one-night stay because there was a pool and autumn had been extremely hot. We ended up spending three wonderful days and will come back. The pool is a small three-minute walk from the main house. It's cold, clean, and quiet, just right for cooling off and relaxing. The breakfast room is next to the kitchen, where guests can use the microwave, make coffee, or put together a light meal with bread and cheese. Breakfast itself is splendid: local produce, fresh cake, bread, homemade jams, local cheeses, and fruit from the garden, including pears, grapes, and delicious figs. The place looks a little anonymous from the end of the long driveway, like the last-century mansion it is. But it doesn't feel cold or unfriendly. The house has been in the family for seven generations, and Pedro lives next door with his wife Filomena. His brother owns the other small house on the grounds. You can tell this was made for people to live in, though the hall and living room also show that it now hosts guests rather than a family gathering in the evenings. There are five rooms in different sizes, each with its own colors but the same authentic style. We chose the orange and off-white room. It was large, with a modern, well-functioning bathroom and carefully chosen touches that didn't feel accidental or like something from Ikea. Pedro and his wife helped make the welcome feel warm, and their hospitality and interest in guests were clear. The surroundings have historical value, and Pedro knows a lot about them. He also seems curious in a good way, and his books offer inspiration beyond the usual tourist guides. We first came for the pool, but it was the people, atmosphere, breakfast, and surroundings that made us want to return. This calm, beautiful place is worth seeing for yourself.