Self Catering Farm Stays: Porto (2023)

Quinta da Pousadela is a highly recommended vineyard hotel near Porto in Portugal’s Vinho Verde-Douro Valley wine region, It’s in a beautiful setting with over 60 acres of vineyards and lots of hiking trails around the surrounding hills and forests, and the accommodation is top class. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a range of accommodation in renovated traditional cottages around the grounds of the farm to sleep up to six guests. All their cottages are stylish and comfortable, and all have a well-equipped kitchen and a lounge area with a flat-screen TV. Outside each, there is a patio area with outdoor seating, plus you’ll have loads of outdoor space to explore or to relax in; the large vineyard of course but also terraced areas and the well-tended lawns and gardens which also contain an outdoor swimming pool. The accommodation is self-catering but breakfast is also included in the rate. They also have a shop at the farmhouse where you can sample and buy some of their own wine as well as some local food specialties. THE VINEYARD: There is a full 60 acres of vineyard, as well as numerous marked trails for walking, running, and biking through the property and the surrounding hills and forests to be explored. They produce their own classic Vinho Verde and Douro Valley wines. They arrange tasting sessions for guests and informative tours of the vineyards. THE LOCATION: Quinta da Pousadela is less than an hour from the city of Porto and its international airport, (there is a shuttle service to and from the city and the airport direct to the Quinta), in the fertile green hills of the Vinho Verde wine region between the Douro and Olo rivers. The area is popular with more seasoned travellers, especially those with an affinity for good food & wine, nature, and relatively undiscovered destinations. The countryside is lush and peaceful and there are many lovely towns around, one of the nicest of all being Amarante on the banks of the River Tamega, about 10km from the agroturismo. The whole area is still under the radar for international tourism though that might change soon, in the meantime this very READ MORE

In Paços de Gaiolo, Portugal, about 40 kilometers along the Douro Valley to the east of Porto, Quinta da Bouça is a very lovely escape to nature, with 16 hectares of woodland, fruit orchards, and vegetable gardens along with a seasonal outdoor pool and barbecue facilities. They have four spacious and comfortable self-catering cottages to rent, all with kitchen and lounge with flat-screen TV and WiFi. And guests are welcome to wander through the woods or gardens, pick up some fruit or vegetables and maybe meet some of the friendly Garranos horses, a rare breed of horse native to Northern Portugal and Galicia, Spain, which roam freely around the property. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Location is breathtaking, very special place. Items left in the fridge for making breakfast and fresh bread dropped by the door in the morning. We didn’t meet the host but they were always very quick at replying and check in and out smooth and easy. Would come back again….” “ Lovely hosts who made sure I got whatever I needed. It was restful, quiet, and peaceful with stunning views of the surrounding hills. And their estate wine was complementary. 😋 I had my own pool and washing machine and wonderful privacy…..” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT QUINTA DA BOUÇA:   READ MORE