Introduction
Farm / SmallholdingPrivate HouseSmall semi-wild paradise, nestled in a valley and crossed by one of the cleanest rivers in Europe, which gives it a unique life and biodiversity. Its privileged location gives the possibility of visiting a large part of Northern Portugal on day trips. Quiet place, ideal for those who want to disconnect from the world and from the clock. The farm and its mill previously belonged to a family of millers, in a region known for its bread. It was recently rehabilitated by a couple from Porto who decided to move to the rural world and thus develop a more sustainable way of life, closer to nature.
Facilities
FurnishedMeals on RequestInternetCar ParkingRiverside mill recovered and furnished with one bedroom with double bed and one living room with sofa bed for two (so capacity for 2 + 2 guests).
Good speed Wi-Fi. Parking space. Need to self-drive.. Equipped kitchen; we also provide biodegradable products for dish washing and soap; local amenities for short-term stays (olive oil, salt, vinegar); homemade jams and access to vegetables and aromatics garden. Exterior areas with several corners to relax, big patio with table and chairs, riverside deck to sunbathe and chill. The sound of the river creates the perfect atmosphere to relax.
Meals can be provided on request.
Surroundings
Outdoor ActivitiesRiver BeachesCultural SitesLocated on the banks of the Ovelha river, with its crystal-clear waters, and is a natural habitat for otters, trout, dragonflies, water blackbirds and kingfishers. In front of the building, there is an excellent area for bathing and observing the fauna, particularly birds, and local flora. Guests can bathe right next to the house, in a private river corner!
Despite the feeling of isolation, it is located 5 minutes from highway (which connects the Portuguese coast to northeast Trás-os-Montes), 10 minutes from the beautiful city of Amarante, 45 minutes from the city of Porto and 50 minutes from Porto’s airport.
Amarante is the closest city (only 10 min drive) and it is a beautiful historical small city. Located on the banks of the Tâmega River, with its amazing São Gonçalo church and bridge, it is home of Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso art museum.
Surrounded by mountains, Amarante provides a perfect harmony between the city and the natural landscape. Nearby are the mountains of Serra da Aboboreira, Alvão and Marão, ideal sites for nature tourism lovers, with plenty of walking or biking trails and river activities. For those who enjoy river bathing, apart from Ovelha river, there are several other pristine rivers a short-drive distance!
Go Pure
Family RunAlternative EnergyOrganic Grown FoodPets WelcomeWe both came from Porto, but we actually met around here! Having left behind the stress of a bigger city, we share the same goal of a more simple and nature connected life.
The farm was historically a family water mill for grinding flour. we actively participated in the farm’s renovation works. Personally undertook all the wooden crafting, including balconies and furniture. All the details were considered for optimising comfort and functionality, starting by working the odd angles of an ancient and several times adapted house. In the rehabilitation process, locally sourced materials were used, namely wood from the sawmill in the neighbouring parish and schist stone from the Valongo mountain range (located 30 minutes away).
We use biological products in our daily routine, such as cleaning products for ourselves and the houses. We urge our guests to do the same: we invite to reduce the use of plastic to a minimum, offering refillable containers with biodegradable shower gel and shampoo, as well as artisanal soap.
We take recycling seriously and encourage all guests to do the same. We provide different containers for waste separation. All organic residuals are used for our compost to fertilize our soil and complete the circle of life.
Guests can enjoy local organic products from our garden, namely aromatic herbs for cooking and infusions, depending on stock.
Conditions
Monthly rental available from October to May.
Utilities included, except gas refill for the heater.