Apartment for Rent

Lounge Area

Welcome to our Monte. It is the ideal place to have some 'me' time. Get away from the pressures of modern life and step back 30 years. The self catering apartment forms part of the Monte which had been sympathetically restored with beams and feather board ceilings; thick walls that insulate, having a cooling effect in the summer whilst retaining the heat when the log burner is stoked up in the colder months. Open the triple paned french doors in the lounge and let in the sun. The other rooms have stable doors where you can watch the storks' nest. There is a private garden area at the back but you are welcome to wander on the Monte's 5 acres . There is a well and an old garden at the bottom of the field with vines, damsons, prickly pears. The Monte's garden area has been landscaped with the mediterranean plants that flourish here. There are views over the rolling plains with the cork trees; the sound of the farm animals and wildlife; the beautiful sunsets; and blue skies.

Kitchen Area

Bedroom

 

Prices Currency Conversion

 

Changeover day
Flexible.

Accommodation

 

Notes on accommodation
There are fans available in the summer. The log burner for heating in the winter, but there are a variety of heaters if you do not want to light the fire. There is a fire extinguisher and smoke alarm.

Amenities/Facilities provided

 

Outside
The Monte is surrounded by a gravel patio area with planted garden. There is a BBQ, outside garden furniture, and sun loungers. Every year we have a family of storks in our large olive tree. This year they had 3 offspring who were learning to fly in July. There is no pool because it is in an ecological area, but it is in a area ideal for bird watchers with hoopoes, great bustard, storks and many more. There are some binoculars in the cupboard. See our 'Bird' page on www.rustic-portugal.co.uk for species. There is a Sports Center eight miles away which has 3 pools and cost at1.60€ per person per day. There is a grassed area and loungers around the pool and a lifeguard. There is also a cafe on site if you aren't taking a picnic. The sun going down in the evening in a spectacular array of reds and pinks is beautiful with the sound of the owls and rural animals.

Coast/Beach
The scenic West coast is more relaxed and generally less commercialised than the South. The beaches mingle with the rugged cliffs. There are the safe sandy beaches, the ports for fishermen, the rolling waves for the surfers plus many restaurants/cafes for you to enjoy the local cuisine. The Algarve to the South is a more populated area with much history and beautiful beaches plus many themed restaurants and pubs. Enjoy coastal walks and swimming for some gentle exercise.

Golf
The Algarve is the main area for golf which is less than an hours drive. New local courses are planned for the near future.

Travel
Air: many budget flights on offer by different operators dependent on which route you prefer. Car: there are an abundance of car hire companies that enable you to pick up and return your car to the airport. Sea: there are ferries to Santander in North Spain and also the French ferry ports if you are touring Europe. Also for the future - there is an airport being built in Beja, many opening dates have been given but nothing has materialised - yet.

Distances
Nearest vila: Ourique 5kms.
North: Castro Verde 14kms - mkt 1st Wed of mth. Beja 58kms - largest district town.
East: Almodovar 24kms - unusual metal artwork roundabouts. Mertola 56kms - castle on top and river runs through.
South West: Monchique 66kms - glorious views - go up to Foia.
South: Faro 103kms. Albufeira 82kms.
North West: Lisbon 191kms - train from Funcheiro (15kms).
East: Vila Nova de Milfontes 61kms - beautiful. Monte da Rocha (lake) 14kms.

Further details
Ourique the local town is 5 mins drive away and has orange tree lined streets and an observation point (miradouro) situated in the castle at the highest point showing outstanding 360 degree views. Vineyards: there are local vineyards if you wish to taste the local Alentejo wines which are becoming more popular worldwide. The brown road signs with ‘Adega’ will direct you. Gastronomy: there are many tasty cheeses to enjoy, some served with honey for starters with the homemade breads. The black pig ‘preto porco’ is an Alentejo speciality and the alfresco barbecued Chicken 'frango' also has it's own delicious flavour. If you like olives there are many varieties to try. Unlike the more expensive coastal areas food is very good value for money. You can buy wines in the supermarket for around 1.50 euros and less. A bottle of beer in a café is about 80 cents. A meal will cost about 9 euros. Local activities include fishing, swimming, horse riding, local festas and feiras, bird watching, hiking, historic monuments, walking.

Booking notes
30% non refundable deposit on booking. Balance to be paid 4 weeks before arrival. Total amount to be paid in full if booking within 4 weeks of arrival.

Guest comments
'Thank you from both of us for our lovely holiday in your sweet cottage. We enjoyed ourselves very much'

'Thank you for making us feel welcome. We really enjoyed our stay and will probably be asking to stay again'

'The house was impeccable, lovely wood burning stove to keep us warm... Thank you for your hospitality and your adorable little guest house' Christopher & Jacqueline, January 2010

All other comments are on the owner's website.

For booking and further information

 

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This advertiser joined Owners Direct in June 2006,
and has advertised this property with us since June 2006.

Property Ref P2547
When contacting the owner please mention that you saw this property on Owners Direct Website.