Imani: Love, Land, and a Lush Oasis in the Alentejo
Where design, history, and nature entwine in slow, soulful harmony
Quinta de Montemuro
7000-223 Guadalupe (Évora), Porrugal
Type: boutique hotel, design hotel, heritage hotel, independent hotel
Style: contemporary, charm
Vibe: countryside retreat, quiet, slow living
A Story of Faith and Reinvention
Born from the remnants of a once-thriving farm, Imani—meaning “believe” in Swahili—is a love story brought to life by TV producer Mariana and her actor husband Zé Pedro. Together, they’ve transformed the whitewashed ruins into an intimate, romantic retreat that is both timeless and refreshingly contemporary. Officially known as Quinta de Montemuro, the estate’s history dates back to the early 20th century, when it bustled with 50 full-time workers tending olive groves, citrus orchards, and gardens. But its roots reach even deeper: below the surface lies a vast Roman-era network of mines, wells, and irrigation tunnels that still nourish the land, creating a green oasis in the heart of the sunbaked Alentejo.
Rustic Soul, Contemporary Spirit
With the help of an Australian architect enchanted by the region—and the couple’s own impeccable eye for design—Imani has been reimagined with sensitivity and flair. Interiors strike a perfect chord between rustic charm and modern refinement, blending local materials with clean lines and subtle textures. Think stone walls, antique wood beams, and linen-draped beds paired with crisp, contemporary lighting and bespoke furnishings. Earthy tones and natural finishes create a sense of harmony, while thoughtful design details make every space feel personal, welcoming, and deeply rooted in the landscape.
Nature in Every Corner
Surrounded by expansive gardens, ancient olive trees, and the gently rolling plains of the Alentejo, Imani invites guests to slow down and reconnect. Shaded terraces, meandering paths, and a serene pool framed by cypress trees enhance the sense of seclusion and peace. This is a place for long breakfasts, slow swims, golden hour walks, and uninterrupted conversations under the stars.
A Home Steeped in Hospitality
What sets Imani apart is the spirit behind it. Mariana and Zé Pedro aren’t just hoteliers—they’re hosts in the truest sense. With their children often at their side, they share not just a space, but a way of life: warm, creative, and grounded in the rhythms of nature. Their vision is evident in every corner of the property, from the curated décor to the lovingly prepared meals.
DNA Hotels Verdict
Imani isn’t just a retreat—it’s a declaration of love. To the land, to heritage, to design, and to the quiet luxury of living well. A stay here feels like slipping into a slower, more soulful way of being—where the past is honored, the present savored, and belief in beauty is fully restored.
Amenities:
• air conditioning • bar • bicycle rental • free WiFi • garden • facilities for kids • massages • on-site parking (free) • restaurant • 2 outdoor swimming pools (open all year) • wheelchair accessible • no pets allowed
