Vacation Rental Description
Monte da Lagoa Seca is situated in an ecological reserve between the town of Ourique and the village of Santana da Serra. Despite its rural location it is easily accessible both from the Algarve and from Lisbon, being less than 10 minutes' drive from the IC1 highway. Travelling time from Faro Airport is 70 minutes and from Lisbon, 2 hours. The town of Ourique is a 15 minute drive and there you will find banks, a post office, chemist, supermarket, shops and restaurants.
This impressive and unusual rural house, set in two and a half hectares of cork oak woodland was built in 2006 on the site of an existing ruin and incorporates some of the original stonework, including the remains of the bread oven. The unique design utilises traditional regional materials and features, with contemporary elements, to create a house which sits sympathetically in its environment.
The house is built in an L shape, with the guest accommodation comprising three bedrooms; two double and one twin, all en-suite, and all with direct access from outside.
The rooms have been simply, but comfortably furnished in contemporary, rustic style. All have terracotta floor tiles and internal wooden shutters. Ample storage is provided by the built-in wardrobes. The en-suite bathrooms, all tiled in white, have a shower, wash basin and w.c. and hot water is provided by a solar water-heating system. The rooms, being north facing, remain comfortably cool, even during the height of the Alentejo summer. We offer two double rooms and one twin-bedded room
A patio with swimming pool and covered eating area offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside, stretching as far as the Monchique mountains. Alternatively, you may wish to take a leisurely stroll down through the cork woods and find a quiet spot to read, or simply reflect. You will soon find yourself feeling thoroughly relaxed, as the stresses and strains of your daily life are quickly forgotten.
Facilities
Guest lounge with refrigerator, kettle, crockery and cutlery for the preparation of snacks and drinks. Games and books also available. Pool and patio with sunloungers and covered eating area. The property is set in quiet cork oak woodland with outstanding views. Evening meals can be provided on request.
Activities
Cinema
Fishing
Horse Riding
Mountain Biking
Restaurant
The Algarve coast, with its wide choice of beaches, shops and excellent restaurants is only 40 minutes away, while approximately 1 hour's drive will find you on the West Coast with its rugged scenery and many quiet beaches. A drive of 90 minutes will take you to the World Heritage City of Evora, well worth a visit. Closer to hand are the historic towns of Beja, the capital of the Lower Alentejo; Mertola, with its Moorish influences; and the lovely mountain town of Monchique, famous for its handicrafts and the healing waters of the nearby spa. The area lends itself to a wide range of outdoor activities. It is renowned as an excellent region for bird watching. Horse riding may be arranged, on request. For artists, there are many inspiring vistas. Why not visit one of the region's vineyards or sample the local cuisine in the local restaurants. Alternative therapies, including massage and kinesiology , may be arranged.