When you think of the best beaches in Europe, your mind conjures images of the white sands of Ibiza and the palm fringes bays on the French Riviera. However, Portugal’s Alentejo region actually hides some of Europe’s most pristine beaches and is a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. Monte do Giestal on Portugal’s Alentejo Coast is a brilliant luxury hotel choice on this coastline.
The region is also a National Park, which means the shores remain untouched by hotels, preserving their natural beauty. If you want to explore this stunning part of the world, staying in accommodation that offers the freedom to explore and all the creature comforts of home, then take your pick of the delightful cottages-come-villas at Monte do Giestal – Casas de Campo & SPA.
Location
Monte do Giestal – Casas de Campo & SPA is a hidden gem settled amidst green fields, and blue skies, and surrounded by nature. It lies in pretty Santiago do Cacém on the Alentejo coast of Portugal, just a 1.5-hour drive from Lisbon Airport. The Giestal Estate itself extends over 71 hectares and is completely surrounded by oak trees and nature, offering a tranquil, rural escape from which to enjoy a wonderful getaway in the Portuguese countryside.
Guests here can enjoy a bike ride or a walk on the extensive grounds, play tennis, go for a swim, or even attend handicraft classes. The team at Monte do Giestal can also arrange a host of activities in the local area, including jeep tours, romantic boat trips along the Alentejo coast, fishing excursions, or even paintballing and archery!
Style & Character
Imagine rural Portugal at its best – gently rolling hills, historic towns, charming fishing villages, and quiet surf beaches all under the warm Portuguese sunshine. Monte do Giestal – Casas de Campo & SPA fits perfectly into this landscape with white-washed walls, accented with Wedgewood blue edging and terracotta tiled roofs. The architecture of the individual cottages is traditional in style and the interiors are minimalist but inviting with rustic earthy tones and natural materials and decorations. The outstanding feature of the cottages are the stunning views that are truly memorable and stay with you long after you’ve returned home. The grounds are sprawling and ideal for a bike ride, jog or gentle wander in the sunshine.
Service & Facilities
This wonderful Portuguese retreat enjoys lots of facilities including a reception, dining room, games room, living room, tennis court, outdoor pools and a large terrace where you can relax on a lounger whilst enjoying the sunshine and countryside breezes. There is also an impressive 300m2 spa with gym, infrared sauna, Turkish bath, sensations shower, heated swimming pool, relaxation room, whirlpool in Ofurö tub and massage room with a wide array of massages to choose between.
For children there’s a playground and cats and dogs are welcome to stay in the estate kennel/cattery. There is also free Wi-Fi in public areas and parking is available free of charge. In addition to all this, they lay on craft classes so you can get your creative juices flowing! The staff are young, friendly and obliging.
Cottages
The property comprises of 10 beautiful, air-conditioned cottages built in traditional architectonic style combining the simplicity of local, traditional design with all the luxurious amenities you would expect in a modern hotel. The spacious and bright 1 or 2-bedroom cottages-come-villas at Casas de Campo feature air conditioning; comfortable bedrooms; kitchens with stove, fridge and dishwasher and living rooms with flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a fireplace for those colder days. The décor has been designed in earthy tones and the materials are handmade which creates a unique, simple, authentic and, above all, a warm and cosy atmosphere.
Food & Drink
The cottages are perfect for self-catering and there’s lots of delicious local ingredients and produce to make some amazing home-cooked feasts. But for days when you fancy a night off, you can simply book your meals to be delivered from a local restaurant and dine on local cuisine in the comfort of your very own cottage.
Delicious buffet breakfasts include a choice of cereals, breads, meats, cheeses, jams and cooked foods including scrambled eggs and bacon all served in the main dining room.
Conclusion
Monte do Giestal – Casas de Campo & SPA stands as a hidden gem on Portugal’s Alentejo coast, offering an enchanting retreat amidst nature’s embrace. The great location, facilities, activities and weather all ensure a Portuguese escape with the perfect blend of freedom and comfort.
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