Casa do Retiro

A fantastic retreat for anyone who really enjoys peace and quiet. That’s exactly what this place offers.

This is a lovely place to unwind, well away from everyday stress. There’s a relaxing garden, room for children to play, and the surrounding area is beautiful. Mr. Domingos makes excellent wine and Abafado in his cellar, which is a must-see. The houses are beautiful, the kitchens fully equipped, and breakfast is included with excellent wood-fired bread. Sr. Domingos and D. Olinda are wonderful hosts, ready to help with anything, and even let guests use their vegetable garden and orchard. Nearby places include the river beaches at Mosteiro, Poço de Corga, and the Cabril dam, as well as the towns of Castanheira de Pêra, with the wave pool at Praia das Rocas, and Figueiró dos Vinhos, where you’ll find a supermarket, petrol stations, and Take Away options such as Churraqueira/Pizzaria Vitória.

A perfect escape from the city. The owners are super friendly and happy to help with anything.

There’s a wonderful sense of calm here, and you can see the care Domingo and his wife have put into the houses. It’s a rural stay, so expect no Wi-Fi or hotel luxuries, just peace, happiness, and good company. We loved sleeping with the window open and looking at the stars, and the surroundings should be a treat for kids and dogs alike. The fruit trees and vegetable garden are lush, and there’s good wine and company too. Despite the news, not everything in this fire zone has burned; this village and many other corners of the area were spared. By car, it’s easy to explore central Portugal, with the IC8 just five minutes away and Coimbra, Figueira da Foz, and Pombal close by.