There are plenty of holiday homes to rent in the area, but this mansion in the former civil parish of Vale Formoso, on the outskirts of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park and mountain range, is one of our favourites: a cream-coloured villa with a terracotta tile roof, rugged interiors and multiple outdoor areas. In the living room, a giant brick fireplace takes center stage, surrounded by stone walls, rough-hewn wooden tables, and antique Portuguese ornaments. The kitchen is more modern, with marble floors, pendant lights and an elegant dining area, while a marble staircase with a glass balcony leads to the upstairs bedrooms, all covered in cozy fabrics in soft tones, with traditionally tiled bathrooms and sea views. Outside, there are plenty of shady nooks with tables and chairs for alfresco dining or evening drinks, plus a huge swimming pool surrounded by thick greenery, gnarled olive trees and plenty of sun loungers. (Note that there is a seven-night minimum here.)
Sleep: 10
