Quinta Calcaterra

The price felt far too high for what was offered. It seems this accommodation may have started out well years ago, but now it feels badly neglected and short-staffed for what it is trying to provide, with very poor quality as a result. My room was poorly cleaned, the pillows were very uncomfortable, and there was no air conditioning. The room also lacked basics like napkins and detergent. Although Wi-Fi was advertised, it never worked during my stay, and mobile data was difficult to use because reception was so weak. There were open rubbish bins beside the house, right by the window of my room, with the rubbish loose rather than in bags. The pool was dirty, with several insects living in it. Breakfast bread was old, not from that day, and hard and dry, and some yogurts were past their expiry date. When my dog had trouble with their several dogs, the staff acted as though it was my problem and my dog's fault. Their dogs are huge and roam freely, with nobody watching them or nearby to step in if needed. They hit the dogs and cats, and the cats were very thin. At least one dog had ticks. I saw several when I petted it.

We’ll have to come back. The breakfast is dangerously tempting if you’re dieting, especially the spectacular homemade orange, medronho and pumpkin jams made by the friendly Patrícia. There’s orange juice too, plus a few delicious surprises from the grandmother. This rural place is so well cared for. I was impressed by the decor: the rooms are spacious, each one different and very pretty. The floors and ceilings are wood-panelled, and all the furniture is in great taste.

Everyone was so friendly, and the place itself is spectacular. We were made to feel very welcome and will definitely be back.