Regional tradition and minimalist zeitgeist in the hinterland: in the Sotavento — the less explored part of the Algarve — a rural cultural landscape stretches out, characterised by rolling hills, olive trees and centuries-old oaks. The silhouettes of small white houses appear here and there, but apart from that, contemplative peace and space prevail. The Monte Abastura holiday home is located on a three-hectare plot in the middle of the Reserva Natural do Sapal, just 15 minutes from the Ria Formosa lagoon and fine sandy beaches.
The former sheepfold from the late 19th century with 360° views of the surrounding countryside has been completely renovated, keeping the essence of its traditional architecture and integration into the rural environment. One of the biggest challenges was to preserve the thick stone walls. The traditionally reed-covered, high roof provides pleasant ventilation, especially in summer. The water supply is self-sufficient thanks to a 120-metre deep borehole on the property. The current pool is a reminiscence of the region’s former above-ground water reservoirs and is heated by an ecological heat pump.
All the materials used in the interior design create a pleasantly bright, light atmosphere with warm, dark contrasts. Every detail strikes the right balance between tradition and zeitgeist. In addition to two double bedrooms and two bathrooms, which also reflect the colour concept and the natural tones of the surroundings, there is an open-plan kitchen with dining table and an inviting living room under the high sloping ceilings.
The spacious outdoor areas offer a variety of settings to enjoy the secluded location and beautiful views — whether on the south-facing terrace tiled with typical terracotta, under the pergola by the pool or in the shade of the ancient carob tree. Accompanied by the chirping of birds and the gentle sound of the wind.
What to do
The holiday home is far away from the hustle and bustle and yet only a few minutes from the coast and the nice little towns: the natural paradise of Ria Formosa with its salt pans and numerous beaches for nice walks or for boat trips to the islands of the lagoon can be reached in 15 minutes by car, hiking in the Reserva Natural do Sapal nature reserves in Castro Marim or in the Serra Algarvia, bird watching, Horse riding, culinary excursions to small, fine restaurants, lively markets or bakeries serving excellent "pastéis de nata", a visit to the charming village of Castro Marim (7 km), Faro (45 km) or one of the other villages and towns in the region.
Why we like this house
Atmospheric minimalism - a house far away from the noise of the world that combines originality, comfort and elegance in a light-footed way.
This house is great for
Couples, families and friends who want to enjoy the beauty of the Algarve from a secluded location.
Owner
French architect Sophie Lallias specialises in the renovation of old buildings. With her holiday home Monte Abastura, where she partly lives with her family, she wants to share her passion for authentic landscapes, traditional architecture, old craftsmanship and the careful treatment of our nature with like-minded people.
Details
| Region |
PT – Portugal, Algarve, Castro Marim Algarve |
| Name | Monte Abastura |
| Scenery | Surrounded by the hills of the "Reserva Natural do Sapal", 15 minutes from the sea. |
| Number of guests | Max. 4 plus a baby in 2 double rooms |
| Completed | late 19th century, 2021 |
| Design | Sophie Lallias, Vichy (FR) |
| Architecture | Old & new |
| Accomodation | Holiday home |
| Criteria | 1-4 (house/apartment), Beach, Family, Garden, Hiking, Pool, Sea, Wine |
Availability calendar
The calendar shows the current availability of the accommodation. On days with white background the accommodation is still available. On days with dark gray background the accommodation is not available.
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