Monte West Coast

The lightness of being: Only a few minutes away from the spectacular Costa Vicentina, a hilly valley opens up, densely overgrown with cork oaks, olive groves and strawberry trees, through whose dense green meanders the little river Seixe. Here hides the Monte West Coast – a richly detailed interplay of wild nature, simple but distinct architecture and great hospitality.

60 hectares comprise the estate, which stretches on both sides of the meandering river that forms the natural border between the Alentejo and the Algarve. Formerly run by a farm with a water mill, the valley is now designated as a nature reserve, whose historic and partly dilapidated buildings have been transformed into 14 individually interpreted holiday homes by the owners in collaboration with Portuguese architect Pedro Oliveira.

Some houses are made of natural stone and nestle right into the hillside, others are whitewashed like the houses in the region and blend into the landscape. Some are situated directly on the river, like the old mill Casa Principal, while others enjoy seclusion on one of the hills, at the edge of the forest or beyond all paths. Always with a spacious outdoor terrace, unique views of nature and special architectural features resulting from the original function of the buildings or their setting.

Whether with a monumental monopitch roof under which the open-air living and dining area is located, with an unusual bedroom in an old, rebuilt tower or an unconventional bathroom under a brick dome – no two houses here are alike. And yet they all share the same design approach of clear, reduced forms, modern elements such as the colourful Alentejo tiles and an eclectic interior mix of vintage furniture, design classics and art. Huge panoramic windows and skylights open the rooms to the outside and connect with nature even in bed or in the shower.

Thus, each accommodation finds its distinctive character and accommodates from two to eight people, depending on its size. All buildings have been restored using traditional, regional techniques. The 60 cm thick walls ensure cool sunny days, while the houses can be heated in winter. In addition to numerous favourite spots, surprises and discoveries spread throughout the grounds, a large saltwater pool perched on a hill is a highlight, providing refreshment with fantastic views. Along with the fresh bread that arrives at the door every morning.

What to do

Bathing and swimming in the pool or sea (either directly at Praia de Odeceixe or at one of the many other picturesque beaches), surfing (including various surf schools), walks on the extensive grounds, architectural tours, hiking and biking in the mountains and along the coast (the beautiful Fishermen's Trail of Rota Vicentina) , Stand-up paddling or canoeing on the Seixe (from the door directly to the sea), yoga classes (twice a week), massages, tree house for children, horse riding, a walk to the village of Odeceixe with its historic windmill or a trip to Aljezur or Sagres (the most south-westerly point of mainland Europe), lots of culinary specialities and various wineries;

Why we like this house

A fabulous place! Each house is a lovingly designed one-of-a-kind that casts its own unique gaze on the poetic landscape.

This house is great for

Whether alone, as a couple, with friends or the whole (extended) family - here, the most varied needs find space and time.

Sustainability

Preservation of the natural environment, sustainable rehabilitation of existing ruins and houses, photovoltaics, ecological management of gardens and fields.

Owner

Catarina, half Swedish, half Portuguese, and her husband Ricardo live with their children Manel, Francisco, Sofia and Marta in Lisbon, where they have already developed and designed numerous bars, restaurants, clubs and private homes. While looking for a holiday home for their family, the couple came across the huge valley with its multi-faceted ruins. Together with their friend, the architect Pedro Oliveira, the idea for Monte West Coast was born. Another holiday home of the family is in Caraíva, Brazil.

Details

Availability calendar

The calendar shows the current availability of the accommodation. On days with a white background, the accommodation is still fully available. If an accommodation has more than one rentable unit, days with free capacities are shown with a light grey background. On days with a dark grey background, the accommodation is not available.

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