Herdade da Corte Turismo Rural

We've been here for the second time. Above all the place is quiet - with the main road behind the next hill, the premise manages to be quite isolated and tranquil. The loudest sound is the wind going through the palm tree on site - no engine noises, no people, nothing. As most of the guests take off for a beach or similar after breakfast, if you manage to have the pool for yourself, it' amazing to unwind. Staff is supernice and attentive, happy to provide (great!) recommendations for restaurants. They are also flexible - we asked whether they could cook an octopus for Dinner for us which turned out to be one of the most authentic and nice evenings of our entire trip (octopus was amazing too)

If you're looking for a great place to chill Herdade da Corte is where you need to go. A Rio Grande style and feel about it, surrounded by fabulous hilly views, orange, lemon trees, olive groves, and pure adulterated silence. You hear the whisper of the breeze throughout the outdoor areas which have casual seating dotted about, a sweeping view, and a to die for salt-water pool. If you want 5 star service and a butler this isn't the place for you! Our favourite time of the day was a leisurely hour and half munching our way through the buffet breakfast, consisting of 4 different freshly made juices, a good selection of local produce, bread, rolls, pastries and cake, cheese, cold meats, fruits, yoghurt, and natural cereals - while idly looking out to the hills. There's also an array of teas, and the coffee is via a machine which is good - but goat's milk! We've travelled the world extensively and it's rare to find such a place. If you want to jazz up your time there Tavira is charming, along with Tavira Island. You do need a car if you stay at Herdade and want to visit many areas, however, we had read other reviews and knew that - but we just wanted to relax there and do nothing! We stayed 4 days and did venture out 1 afternoon to a restaurant in St Luzia. Local taxi, very nice driver. 20 euro each way (same prices to Tavira) about 15 minutes journey. The owners Joao and Francisco are cool, interesting guys, very helpful, and knowledgeable about the area , local produce, wines, and activities to do there - hiking, etc. Good massage also available in relaxing room. €50 Personally speaking, we dossed (an English word for lazing about) around the pool , helping ourselves to the well-stocked honesty bar, with the occasional beer/glass of wine, absorbed in a few good crime novels. Please note: after breakfast there is NO food available until 7pm. We knew that and brought along our own snacks, nuts etc. The evening menu is mainly cold, very good local produce - oh, please try the prawns (they hot). We tried almost everything on the menu during our stay - couldn't fault anything. My husband arrived completely knackered (another old-school word for tiredness) and after almost 4 days rooted to the place said he felt like the Six Million Dollar Man! Thank you Herdades, we will be back. Hayley & Alan UK