Inspiration and contemplation

 

"Life is unhurried here. Donkeys pull carts, sheep wander through villages and the bakery is the most important place in town. Tucked between the Acor and Estrela mountains, above the river Alvôco, the quinta has a timeless feel. This is an outside sort of place with walks through pine and eucalyptus forests, hikes onto the tops (in winter, there’s skiing at Serra da Estrela), canoeing or swimming in the river. And there’s a lovely riverside walk to the village and the chance of spotting otters. Come back to cool off in the pool or under the pergola; in the evening, raise your glass to the stars with only the rush of the river to disturb the silence." (Quoting Special places to stay. Portugal)

There is a golf-course on an hour distance. Horseriding is another tempting possibllity.