The Donkey House

We have a traditional 1 bedroom cottage for medium to long term rent, with an enclosed garden, private access and off road parking. The cottage can accommodate 2 people, but for a longer term rent, we feel that it may be more suitable for a single person. A well behaved dog is welcome.

The cottage has a ground floor double bedroom with a separate bathroom with a shower, and a kitchen and living area. Heating is from dual electric heating and air conditioning units, which keeps the cottage warm and cosy in the winter, and cool in the summer. There is also a washing machine, freezer and a gas water heater. It is currently furnished with essentials but we can add or remove furniture according to the tenants needs. Outside is a barbecue and sitting area with garden furniture, a lawn, planted with shrubs and plants, all enclosed with secure fencing. Water and Wi-Fi are included in the rent, but gas must be provided by the tenant. Electricity is billed every month and must be paid by the tenant. A well behaved dog is welcome, and as we are in a rural area, there are plenty of dog walking routes, also ideal for cycling and hiking.

We are in a semi rural position, with some houses and small holdings nearby, but the main property backs onto farmland and forest. There are many kilometres of tracks and paths for walking in the surrounding forests and wooded hills.

We are located 5 minutes (3.5km) from a village which has an excellent small supermarket, post office, bank, chemist, numerous cafes, bakery, vet, weekly market and all essential supplies. The town of Alvaiázere is 15 minutes drive and the beautiful town of Tomar 30 minutes away. Here there are large supermarkets and modern shopping centres, train and bus station, as well as an historic site with a 12th century castle and convent. The river Zêzere is 20 minutes away, where it is possible to swim and enjoy water sports as well as having outstanding views and scenery. The A13 motorway is 5 minutes drive away, giving quick and easy access to Coimbra and on to Porto, or to Tomar and then to Lisbon in the other direction.

We first bought and renovated the farm and property in 2005, setting up a small equestrian centre, which is now for mostly private use. The Donkey House was originally a shelter for animals which we converted to a holiday cottage, and now is used for longer term rentals. We are continually making improvements to the property and the farm, ever appreciative of the wonderful climate and surroundings. It is a peaceful and beautiful area, but still within easy reach of larger towns, many historic sites and extensive forest areas. It is an ideal location for anyone wanting to explore the area, perhaps prior to purchasing their own property, or just to enjoy this wonderful country, without the commitment of buying. Horses are an integral part of Portuguese life, both in towns and rural areas. As horses are also a special part of our lives, we built stables, paddocks and a working arena on the property. The horse capital of Golegã is only 40 minutes drive away, and there are an increasing number of opportunities for horse riders to train and compete, and the location of the property means that all these equestrian services can be easily reached. However it is not essential for you to be a horse enthusiast to enjoy this property and it’s perfect central location.

A personal viewing and meeting can be arranged before an agreement is made, though we are happy to correspond via email and video etc if that’s not possible. It is available for non smokers only. Rental will be €580 per month paid in advance, with a minimum of 6 months stay. 1 months rent must be paid as an initial additional deposit. Water and Wi-Fi is included. Gas bottles must be paid for by the tenant. Electricity is billed monthly and must be paid promptly by the tenant. We ask tenants to act responsibly, including keeping everything tidy and secure. The owners will organise repairs and maintenance as necessary. A well behaved dog is welcomed, and there is a secure fence around the cottage and garden, but please be aware that many small holdings nearby have sheep, chickens and other livestock, and the dog must not be allowed to roam unsupervised outside the enclosed area.