Go riding (horse or donkey) with your young hosts. Find 3 farm cottages on this charming organic estate, one contemporary, all with pools

An old-fashioned jewel in the crown of Portugal, a welcoming place for poets, foodies and romantics. Close to the beautiful beaches

Wander in the gardens, taste sparkling wine from the vineyard and book a cookery, gardening or port wine workshop

Just half an hour from the Spanish border in deeply wooded countryside, a homely place for families and friends with big garden and pool

Taste the wine, plunge into the granite pool, play billiards in the library, linger outdoors as swallows swoop – eat delicious local dishes

Lavish, theatrical accommodation in the history-steeped environs of Marialva. Dine regally beneath a chandelier, admiring panoramic views

Serene heritage gardens, big baroque bedrooms and views of the mountains of the Peneda-Geres National Park

Rustic, relaxing, comfortable and fun with pool and play area, river beaches, great hosts, peaceful countryside, an hour from Porto

Roses, dahlias and azaleas bloom profusely here, as pretty a welcome as you could wish for. Bedrooms are comfortable and clean

A true gem - sleep in a small hillside castle, share delicious communal meals, walk or cycle to the beautiful waterfalls nearby...

The only hustle and bustle is the river doing its thing. Wild swimming is straight from the terrace, the house offers much comfort and space

Unostentatious and solidly comfortable, you can really relax here. Take in the views, dine under orange trees and visit the nearby castle

In the green hills of Penafiel just east of Porto, a delightful family offer 10 quirky rooms, a swimming pool and scrumptious food and wine

João & Ana Luisa’s stunning cottages superbly blend contemporary and traditional styles. Vineyards, beaches and restaurants are all close

A traditional hotel for peace seekers and history lovers; comfortable rooms, organic produce from the farm, large pool and stunning views

Great décor - traditional and a tad funky, local and homemade food - yogic calm close to Guimaraes and the Douro valley

Foodies, shoppers and culture-seekers will be happy exploring the city. Return to crisply modern, arty bedrooms, a spa, restaurant and pool

Wrapped in private grounds, a noble house full of tradition and history with shady terraces and cool rooms. Handy for Oporto.