Villa Esteval Dos Mouros

A beautifully restored 19th-century house in a tranquil village setting. This restored 19th-century village building is full of original features. There’s the fireplace, the thick stone walls and the old oven with its massive chimney – all adding real character to the place. And although it adjoins a neighbouring house, it’s not overlooked so it feels very private.

Inside, it’s smart, grand and very comfortable. Tiled floors are scattered with rugs. And big sofas with lots of cushions and pale throws make the living room a really relaxing spot. The dining room, meanwhile, with its elegant dark wood furniture, is accessed through a stone archway.

It’s just as stylish in the bedrooms, too. There’s a twin and an en suite double on the ground floor, and a single bedroom in the loft, reached by a neat spiral staircase with its own small sitting area.

Outside, shallow steps lead into the pool which is surrounded by a tiled terrace. A generous supply of sun loungers, a pool shower and a big barbecue add a touch of style to outdoor living.

In terms of location, it’s surrounded by countryside and the impressive Serra do Caldeirao. In fact, there’s just a typical Portuguese coffee house to provide the locals with a gathering place. The area’s great for walking though, and a number of trails provide an opportunity for a cooling dip in the river.