When Jean-Jacques bought this lovely old place, in among the carobs and the olives, his architect said, "change nothing." You'll forgive the new floors and windows – perfect replicas of the originals – and the old walls rendered with a deliberate rusticity. The 100-year-old farmhouse – built by an émigré who made his fortune in Brazil – lies a cobblestone's throw away from its outbuildings, one a fine white stable that once housed sheep and mules. Your host's relaxed personality is reflected in the informality and he's generous too: bikes on the house and bubbly in the fridge. Interiors are charming and uncluttered: solid country pieces, brown leather sofas, pretty vintage cast-iron beds; even the kitchens are inviting – we loved the Sant' Anna tiles. There are outdoor sitting areas for summer, wood-burners for winter and palm trees and peace all year round. As for the pool, it's a half moon-shaped beauty set into the old threshing floor. Have a splash, gaze on the sea... the beaches are a ten-minute drive (or mini-train ride). Brilliant for families, couples (the cottage is a sweet retreat) or a great big party of friends.
Features
- Wheelchair access
- At least one bedroom & bathroom accessible.
- Children welcome
- Kids of all ages can stay.
- English spoken
- Host speaks English, whether perfectly or not.
- Air conditioning
- Some bedrooms are air conditioned.
- WiFi
- Wireless internet access available.
- Pets welcome
- Pets allowed in bedrooms (not on the bed).
- Owner has pets
- Animals living on the property.
- Swimming pool
- On the premises.
- Bikes available
- On the premises to hire or borrow.
Address:
Estiramantens, 8800-504 Tavira, Algarve
Phone: +351 281 961099 +351 961 142562
Website: www.monte-serra.com
Closed:
Rarely.
