Imani Country House

Imani—Swahili for “believe”—is more than a hotel. It is the result of a personal dream brought to life by television producer Mariana Roxo and actor José Pedro Vasconcelos, who transformed the abandoned Quinta de Montemuro into an intimate country retreat filled with warmth, character, and understated elegance. The estate once formed a thriving agricultural farm employing dozens of workers across olive groves, orchards, and gardens. Beneath its peaceful grounds lies an ancient network of Roman wells, mines, and irrigation tunnels that continue to nourish the landscape today, creating an unexpectedly lush oasis in the heart of Portugal’s sun-drenched Alentejo. Just fifteen minutes from the UNESCO city of Évora and moments from the prehistoric Almendres Cromlech, Imani combines rural tranquillity with one of Portugal’s richest cultural landscapes.

Rustic Soul, Contemporary Spirit

The restoration respects the estate’s agricultural heritage while introducing a refined contemporary aesthetic. Original stone walls, timber beams, whitewashed façades, and traditional materials provide the foundation for interiors that feel both sophisticated and welcoming. Natural linens, bespoke furniture, carefully selected antiques, local rugs, and subtle contemporary lighting create spaces that feel relaxed rather than styled. Vintage pieces sit comfortably alongside modern design, while earthy colours echo the surrounding countryside. Nothing feels forced. Every room reflects the personality of the house and its owners.

Rooms That Feel Like Home

The seven individually designed rooms are spread between the original manor house and the beautifully converted former stables. Wooden floors, fireplaces, marble basins carved from local stone, Hermès amenities, generous beds, and private terraces create an atmosphere that is luxurious without excess. Large windows frame gardens, lavender-lined pathways, and the rolling Alentejo landscape beyond. The largest suite, located inside the main house, adds a freestanding bath, fireplace, and views across the estate’s distinctive circular swimming pool.

Gardens, Silence, and Slow Living

Life at Imani revolves around nature. Thirteen hectares of gardens, olive trees, cork oaks, lavender fields, and open parkland invite guests to slow down completely. A perfectly round swimming pool forms the visual centrepiece of the estate, while shaded terraces and quiet corners encourage long breakfasts, afternoon reading, or simply watching the changing light across the countryside. Massages beneath pergolas, horse riding, hot-air balloon flights, and walks to the nearby Almendres Cromlech allow guests to experience the landscape at its own unhurried pace.

The Taste of the Alentejo

Food reflects the same philosophy of authenticity and generosity.

At Improvável, the hotel’s restaurant, traditional Alentejo recipes receive a contemporary interpretation while remaining firmly rooted in local ingredients. Seasonal produce, regional cheeses, fresh bread, game, cod, and locally sourced vegetables define the menu, accompanied by Improviso, the estate’s own wine created in collaboration with renowned Alentejo winemaker Paulo Laureano. Whether enjoyed beside the fireplace in winter or on the black-and-white terrace during summer, every meal feels like an extension of the family’s hospitality.

Why it Works

Imani captures everything that makes the Alentejo so special: space, silence, authenticity, and genuine hospitality. Rather than offering polished luxury, it delivers something far more memorable—a home filled with thoughtful design, beautiful gardens, remarkable history, and owners whose passion is visible in every detail. For travelers seeking a slower, more personal side of Portugal, Imani remains one of the region’s most enchanting escapes.