Monte das Marés
Light, tranquility and botanical delights
250 m above sea level, surrounded by a huge garden with ancient olive, almond and carob trees, the Monte das Marés guesthouse looks out over dense green hills to the Atlantic. A sun-warmed place for slowing down and where less is more. Structurally as well, because the so-called Monte – a traditional Portuguese farmhouse – dates back to 1904. Inspired by the simplicity of regional architecture and to preserve its original charm, it was renovated to be as minimalist and restrained as possible, using the natural materials of the region, from the whitewashed thick stone walls that stand out clearly against the surrounding green landscape, to the traditional terracotta tiles and local stone used for the kitchen worktops and bathrooms.
The Maré Baixa guesthouse is located right next to the Maré Alta, the hosts’ house, and faces southwest. The entrance leads into the open-plan living room with the original high ceiling, the focal point of which is the lounge and dining area with kitchen, under floor heating and fireplace. With two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, the house is particularly suitable for a family holiday or two couples who are close friends. All interior walls are natural stone build and skillfully balance old and new. Because as well as an interesting mix of contemporary furniture, folkloristic elements and handmade artifacts in a contrasting play of colors, you will find all the modern amenities you need for a relaxing break.
The third and most spacious lounge area is right on the doorstep: the 2.5-hectare garden in the middle of the nature reserve. Here you can enjoy the pleasantly warm Algarve climate all day long and simply let yourself unwind, either in a deck chair, in a hammock or on the panoramic roof terrace, which invites you to sunbathe or dine with a view of the sunset.
The south-eastern side of the Algarve is known for its unspoiled natural beauty. You can find many pristine beaches for swimming on the offshore islands of Farol, Faro, Culatra, Tavira and Armona along the coast only 15 minutes away by water taxi or ferry. The fashionable seaside resorts of Vale de Lobo and Quinta de Lago near Loulé can be reached by car in just 20 minutes. You can enjoy walking in the lush and varied countryside, take day trips to the surrounding area, visit the picturesque towns of Loulé, Estoi, Faro, Olhão or Tavira, where throughout the year there are numerous cultural events, from open-air concerts to handicraft markets and contemporary art exhibitions.
A sun-warmed place for slowing down and where less is more. Just 5 car minutes aways from where I grew up! Monta das Marés is an epitome of a rural retreat that makes you forget not only time, but also the times.
This house is great for couples, a family with children, two couples or four friends looking for a quiet break by the sea.
Nele is a textile designer, can you tell?
Bookings: info@montedasmares.com
More: www.montedasmares.com
Pictures: © Monte das Marés and Taste of Portugal