The Vibe: Rural-chic art retreat.

The Area: Surrounded by amazing natural scenery, 750m above sea level in the heart of Natural Park Serra de São Mamede, just 15km from the picturesque hilltop town of Marvão.

The DNA: What really distinguishes Quinta do Barrieiro, making it unique, is the artistic sensibility of its owners. With his architectonic expertise, José Manuel Coelho managed to skilfully explore the specificity of the region’s typical architecture and materials. He has designed an involving scenic space that superbly blends modernity and tradition. A rural-chic landscape that is the perfect exhibition stage to the amazing metal/stone sculptures of his wife, Maria Leal da Costa. Outdoors is a wonderful garden with a swimming pool surrounded by pine trees and the sculpture gallery.

Suite-Me-Up: Accommodations at Quinta do Barrieiro have a rustic feel and feature such amenities as air conditioning/heating, a TV with DVD/CD player, a kitchenette equipped with all the necessary utensils for self catering and a private outside area. Private bathrooms have a hairdryer, towel heater and complimentary toiletries. There is a choice of rooms ranging from a studio to a 3-bedroom house. Accommodations are self-catering, however it is possible (at a surcharge) to enjoy a daily breakfast made of regional products brought to the room, or lunch and dinner.

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 7 accommodations (30-110m2) (323-1,184 sq ft) ✅ free on-site parking • pets allowed on request • Portalegre: 12km • Spanish border: 10km • ruins of the Roman city of Ammaia: 8km