Paradise in Portugal

I have just returned from an exceptional birdwatching holiday, staying at one of the most beautiful locations that I have ever visited. Frank, Daniela and the team offer wonderful hospitality. The birding was brilliant, with Frank and Tony going the extra mile to find the stunning birds of southern Portugal.

Paradise is unique; perhaps it is because of the peace that takes over as soon as you arrive; maybe it is the unexpected luxury; but really, the couple who run Paradise have created an atmosphere of calm and ease that allows the ‘normal’ world to disappear. I have never experienced anywhere like it.

Visited the Quinta recently for a week for a printmaking course & had a fantastic time. It definitely lives up to its name & Frank, Daniela & the team were amazing. It was the perfect place to unwind with beautiful peaceful surroundings, there were many beautiful spots to indulge in book reading. The food Daniela prepared each day was gorgeous, varied & so fresh. The rooms are simple but incredibly comfortable. Franks knowledge of the area & the wildlife is vast & I learnt a lot about the area we were in & Portugal as a whole Special shout out to Jack too for just being a gorgeous little dog ❤️

I have travelled all over the world and I have to say this stay was one of the best retreat settings have experienced. First, the location is stunning. The area, happily off the beaten path, is idyllic and full of flora, birds and trees unique to the area including the local cork. The view from all rooms (and individual porches) is of a lake and hills. It is built on the side of a slope and despite that they have easy paths that do not require a lot of work with little outdoor rooms to sit and admire the views all the way to the lake where you can paddle away on their kayaks/canoes or take a dip in the lovely waters even in October. The Villa was built stone by stone by Innkeeper Frank, Daniela and their community. The decades labor of love shows in the best way possible. The rooms are unique and decorated with what I assume what they picked up over time locally and on their own travels. Frank is quick to offer a story if asked of the adventure associated. He is a bird expert and offers bird tours. There is a bird hide on property as well as a plunge pool, outdoor yoga studio, and fantastic yurt where it is a treat if Daniela offers a 'sound bath' before bed- don't miss that opportunity. All impeccably maintained and laundry services offered. They also have community meals. I was there for an art holiday. This was a special time of the day and to discuss the day and hear about others local adventures. The food was cooked by Daniela and team and outstanding. We agreed at dinner with Frank she should write a cookbook. Frank also offered in addition tour art class, a gentle walk in a local area to get inspiration as well as a tour to a local potter. Overall, very laid back. If you want a retreat, to bird, water sports, fish, relax, do art, yoga etc. and get away, go to Paradise!

A fantastic place to be away from the hustle and bustle of Portugal's cities. Extremely comfortable accommodation. Delicious meals. All dietary requirements catered for. Fabulous bird watching. The hosts went out of their way to make sure our stay was amazing. I would have no hesitation in recommending.

Frank and Daniela are generous hosts. We stayed for two weeks, unusual as more active guests stay for a couple of nights before moving on. Every evening we enjoyed a delicious meal in good company. We had a lot of fun both in and on the enormous lake. There is a wonderfully positioned yoga shala which we used almost daily and a beautiful yurt. The garden and terraces we found are a lovely shaded haven on those hotter days. Our room was comfortable and kept spotlessly clean. Built with love over many years this is a special and unique place. The stars are pretty good too.