The Vibe: Romantic Boutique.

The Area: Located in the small village of Cerdeira with views over the Açor Mountains is Quinta da Palmeira, a typical Portuguese country house, now turned into an elegant small hotel. Nearby are the typical villages of Piodão and Benfeita, entirely built of local slate. The location is also ideal for a stopover between Lisbon and Porto and to enjoy the countryside and nature.

The DNA: This wonderful charming hotel has a living/sitting room leading to a patio; the staircase features a modern stained-glass window and the dining room, with warm yellow walls and aubergine upholstery, opens onto a veranda from where you can observe village life as the Portuguese live it. Menus are daily prepared with only the best and carefully selected fresh local produce from the farmer’s market and from the Quinta’s herb and vegetable garden. The wine cellar offers an excellent selection of regional and national wines. In the mornings an extensive breakfast is served. Shady spots can be found around the estate, and also a beautiful swimming pool overlooked by tall palm trees, and a full bar.

Suite-Me-Up: The spacious accommodations (six doubles, a single and a self-catering apartment for four) are uniquely decorated with elegant and stylish furniture. All come with a flat-screen satellite TV and a private bathroom with a bath for two and/or shower.

Your hosts: Jack Brouns & Ana Volcarte

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 8 rooms, including 1 apartment (19-42m2) (205-452 sq ft) • hotel opened: May 2011 • interior design: Sandra Oliveira Interiores • bathroom amenities: The Somerset Toiletry Company ✅ free on-site parking • no pets allowed • laundry service