Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix
This is paradise for families who love to be in the midst of nature, but close to villages and towns. We're 15 minutes from Braga and Guimarães, but totally in the country. From the house you can walk along established trails through the forest to Sameiro and Bom Jesus, visit the churches and gardens, have a coffee and then amble back home. Once you drive through the gates and park along the front of the farmhouse, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the stunnning views all around. The apartment is on the ground floor - on hot summer days, you'll be impressed by the coolness of the sitting room, with its thick stone walls - from the days it used to be the winehouse. Now with windows on three sides, large comfortable sofas, a wooden dining room table, a large flat screen TV (English, French, Portuguese and German TV channels and Netflix), and double doors out to the patio...it is a wonderful place to sit and read in comfort, or go outside and enjoy a glass of wine sitting under the shaded pergola, with the BBQ less than a stone's throw away. The house is set above the village of Santa Cristina de Longos, only 15 minutes from the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, and less than 10 minutes from the pretty spa town of Taipas. Longos itself has 2 restaurnats and various cafes - although guests are treated to fresh bread rolls, brought to the house by the breadman every day. It's in a very central location to explore the north of Portugal - even Porto is just 45 minutes away or 1 hour by train from Braga. Meet our adorable little flock of Cameroon sheep (currently eight). You can even feed them! And enjoy eggs from our free range chickens - of varying colours! The apartment accommodates 6 people, with 3 beautifully furnished bedrooms, one with twin beds, one with a King size bed (1.80mx 2m) with French doors giving access to the front garden (bathroom next door), and the third bedroom has a double bed, with a bathroom opposite. There is a large living room/kitchen/dining area, with an induction hob, electric oven, microwave, fridge-freezer, washing machine and dishwasher. Capsules and powders are provided. The whole house has Central heating and there is a wood burner, giving a lovely warm atmosphere, for the colder Winter days - firewood is provided. The pool, (6 metres x 6 metres), is accessed by a short aluminium ladder (4 steps). It is a minute's walk away, at the end of a pergola with jasmine and scented climbers overhead. It is set on a terrace, with magnificent views, surrounded by palm trees, kiwis, fig and olive trees. There are sun loungers (towels provided) and a fridge for cold drinks. Guests are spoilt here and always arrive to bread, wine, cheese and the famous Portuguese 'natas'. There are swings for children in the garden and a table tennis table, with bats and balls provided. The farm has many fruit trees and guests can eat whatever fruit is in season - plums and figs in the summer; oranges, kiwis, lemons in the winter. The area abounds in history, culture and gastronomy! There are lots of walks around - behind the house itself, a river walk in Taipas, a raised wooden platform in Vizela, walks by the sea in Esposende and Ofir. Gerês national park is only 45 minutes away. There is no need to do much research in advance as Virginia will happily listen to what you enjoy doing and advise you on where to go, which restaurants you might enjoy - she and her Portuguese husband have lived at the farmhouse for the past 25 years. They have 2 dogs and a cat, 8 Cameroon sheep, 8 chickens - and three children, all at University. Their entrance to the first floor of the house is at the rear side of the property, whereas guests' main door is to the side. If you want to be part of a happy busy farm environment, hearing the sounds of nature around you (birds, sheep, hens, crickets, frogs, eagles) look no further. You'll be very well looked after here, but given your own space and privacy.
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Stunning Mountain Retreat, with private pool, BBQ, fire pit, Wifi
Longos, Guimarães
Stunning Mountain Retreat, with private pool, BBQ, fire pit, Wifi
Events allowed: family gatherings and birthday parties
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
No smoking indoors - but you can smoke outside - using an ash tray.
No really loud music after 10pm.
The apartment has its own pool. When guests are out for the day - the owners might occasionally use the pool.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings and birthday parties) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 12
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number 10308/AL
About the area
Guimarães
Located in Guimarães, this apartment is in a rural area and in the mountains. Citania de Briteiros and Sameiro Sanctuary are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Casa dos Lobo Machado and Centro Cultural Vila Flor. Consider Quinta Lago dos Cisnes for a night out or Centro de Artes e Cultura de Vila Verde if you're travelling with kids. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Porto (OPO-Dr. Francisco de Sa Carneiro) - 53 min drive
Restaurants
Albino - 7 min drive
Pastelaria Sunset - 7 min drive
Bar Do Lago - 13 min drive
Dona Júlia - 8 min drive
Carreira do Tiro - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix?
As of 9 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix on 30 April 2026 start from NZ$298, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix?
Checkout is at 10:30 AM.
Where is Beautiful spacious farmhouse apartment, with private pool, terrace, BBQ, Netflix located?
This family-friendly Guimarães apartment building is located in the mountains, within 3 mi (5 km) of Sameiro Sanctuary and Bom Jesus do Monte. Parque da Ponte and Citania de Briteiros are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
I wish I could give 6 stars. Virginia is a gift to travelers. She was so kind and inviting and set us up with so many welcome "treats." She had so many good suggestions on where to visit and what to do. The apartment itself is amazing. It is so comfortable and the setting is idyllic. Then there is Skye & Luna in case you miss your dogs as you're traveling. The stellar views do come at a slight price so be confident in driving up the steep roads as you approach. We truly hated to leave but had more to do & see in other areas of this wonderful country.
Dave N.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2026
Many thanks. so happy you liked the house, the views and the dogs - ruined for ever!
Yes, the road up is a challenge until you've done it one or two times. Then it's absolutely fine. No traffic here, so you can drive at your own pace.
As I've lived here for 26 years, I know the area well. Happy to make recommendations.
It was lovely to meet you and I feel a bit more knowledgeable about Canada, the landscape, architecture and weather. A treat to have you stay here.
Virginia made our stay a most pleasant one. The property is everything the pictures and description implies. Virginia and her husband went out of their way to be gracious hosts. Well stocked kitchen, comfortable beds, intimate, shaded outdoor spaces to relax. Plenty of day trips within a short car ride. Wonderful!
Don V.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 October 2025
Really happy you had a good time here.
And thank you for leaving the place so tidy and clean...you really didn't have to do the recycling as well, but much appreciated.
It was a joy to get to know you, and I loved our little trip off to Sameiro/Bom Jesus.
Enjoy the rest of your time in Portugal.
Big hug,
Virginia xx
Great location for sight seeing, host was exceptionally helpful throughout our week stay including providing provisions for a supper on our first night late arrival. We loved the fresh eggs provided during the week and the daily fresh bread delivery.The house is very spacious and we loved the outdoor eating area in the shade.We enjoyed the company of the dogs.We made use of the table tennis and the pool.We would highly recommend this house for a holiday in the Minho area.Thank you Virginia.
We had some great days in the apartment of Virginia and her family. Virginia is a super friendly host – we even received fresh bread rolls and eggs, wine and super delicious desser. Everything was clean and well maintained. The kitchen was well equipped with everything we needed. Highly recommended!
This comfortable and well-appointed country farm, situated in northern Portugal, offers spectacular vistas and interesting places nearby to visit that include Braga, Guimaraes and Porto.
Our host, Virginia, and her family were delightful, as were her two dogs, eight chickens and three Cameroon sheep. Many thoughtful gestures, such as fresh bread every morning, and suggestions about places to see or local restaurants to experience, and and a host with a kind and helpful personality insured that we had a very positive and enjoyable week.
Lesley G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 17 June 2024
Many thanks for your lovely review.
I'm really pleased you had a good week here. It was fantastic having you.
Since getting our Cameroon sheep it feels even more like a farm!!
We're lucky we live quite centrally, between Braga and Guimarāes, and just 1 hour from Porto. Lots to see and do.
Enjoy the Summer ahead of you. After your visit, I feel I know Canada a little better. Such an impressive country!
All the very best,
Virginia xx
Our family of four spent one week at Virginia's home in early July 2024. Here is our review:
The house is big, especially the bedrooms
The kitchen is very well equipped
We loved the daily bread delivery and home-made jams
The bedrooms were cool due to stone construction
Parking was right at the door
Access was a bit steep and winding but we got used to it
The pool deck has a great view and comfortable lounging furniture
Pool temperature was perfect
The grocery store was an easy 10-minute drive in Taipas
During our stay, we visited Braga, Guimaraes, Porto, Parque Geres, Douro Valley, Bom Jesus
We would return without hesitation. If available for your dates you should book it without hesitation.
Pamela L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 15 July 2024
Many thanks Pamela. Really pleased you liked the house and pool. You managed to fit in lots of visits to the surrounding towns.
Yes, the initial ascent to reach the house is a bit daunting the first time, but once you've done it a few times it's a walk in the park.
I've been living here for 25 years and enjoy the drive...easy in daylight, more difficult at night. But very doable.
Hope you got safely back to Canada.
Kindest regards,
Virginia
Staying at Virginia's house is a wonderful experience. Set on a farm in the hills of rural northern Portugal, we felt we had a truly authentic experience. The old house with the thick stone walls, the sheep, the chickens, the citrus trees, the steep cobblestone roads, it was all fantastic. Be aware, this is rural Portugal so the conveniences of the city are not always available but Virginia has created a space where everything you need is here. She welcomed us with gifts of food and the kitchen is super-well stocked. The furniture and living areas are very comfortable and we appreciated all of the space (we were four adults traveling together). Sometimes the place felt a little dimly lit but the beds were comfy, the showers excellent and the wifi superb. We could hear her family above us but it wasn't a big deal and we really enjoyed listening to her daughter practice the trumpet in the early evening. Virginia has thought of everything including an excellent guide book for what to see and do in the area (the farmhouse is close to Braga, Barcelos and Guimares for wonderful day trips).
Eric H.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 October 2024
Really pleased you liked being here.
Just sorry you hit Portugal's wettest week for a long time. Thankfully the good weather returns tomorrow.
Your 3 nights here flew by... too fast.
It was really lovely to meet you.
All the very best,
Virginia x
Our stay was perfect, we couldn't have asked for more. Virginia and her family were very accommodating and excellent company. Virginia was there on a moments notice and the accomodation, even though it is on a shared property with the hosts, was very private and secluded with its own entrances and is very well sound isolated. The property was gated so we felt comfortable with our 4 year old running mostly free playing with the cat and chickens. The home sits on top of a hill on a very private road with a beautiful overlook of the cities in the valley. We happened to pick the only rainy week in months but with a cozy wood stove we still enjoyed the time "stuck" inside. We forgot boots and Virginia even found boots that fit our son so he could run around and splash in the puddles. When we arrived Virginia had a welcome Quiche and some basic food supplies waiting for us because she wanted to make sure we didn't have to go out after a long trip in.
The inside of the home was very child friendly (no stairs, no particularly fragile decorations around, etc.),the beds were good quality, everything was very clean and well kept, and there is a ton of space. We are only a family of 4 but I suspect you still would not be bumping elbows even if you filled all of the beds. The kitchen was well equipped and spacious.
Summary: this isn't just a stay, its a unique opportunity to make new friends and meet amazing people, while still having the privacy of a more isolated accommodation.
Steven O.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2022
Many thanks! That's really kind of you to write such a lovely review.
I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay here - you were indeed not lucky with the weather. I'm still feeling guilty about that!
The only advantage of having bad weather was that I could interact more with your family - as the rain stopped (or at least limited) your plans to go out and explore.
At least the apartment is big and spacious - plenty of room for little ones to run wild. And the wood burner throws out good heat - so you could keep warm, even on wet blustery March days.
I'll certainly never forget you, and if you ever come back to this neck of the woods, you must come and see us.
All the very very best.
Kindest regards,
Virginia x
Un séjour formidable dans la campagne de Longos. Une maison accueillante entourée d’arbres fruitiers, de verdure et une vue magnifique. Une hôte remarquable et attentionnée. Du bon pain frais à tous les jours. Nous sommes tous les quatre nostalgiques déjà. Un endroit et un accueil que l’on se souviendra longtemps. Merci Virginia, José et leur chiens Bella et Luna. Pour ceux qui aiment la campagne, c’est pour vous.
Robin L.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 September 2025
Many thanks for your lovely review.
It was such a pleasure to have the four of you staying here. I loved our little chats.
And thank you for leaving the house so clean and tidy - and you've given me new ideas regarding the best cupboard for the crockery. We can learn from each other.
A big hug,
Virginia
La propriétaire est généreuse , joyeuse, lumineuse et elle un super de bon guide de la région
Et une bonne accompagnatrice si vous le désirez et si elle est disponible,elle parle 3 langues
Manon D.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 October 2024
Merci beaucoup..vous êtes trop sympa!
J'habite ici 25 années, alors je connais bien la région.
C'était un vrai plaisir vous hôter ici.
Amitiés,
Virginia
We would highly recommend staying at Quinta Tapada. We were extremely well looked after and the property was in a beautiful location, with all the amenities you could wish for; Satellite TV, Netflix, Vinho Verde from the vineyard and friendly dogs to pet and walk in the woods with! The pool was a particular hit with the children, with fantastic views over the valley from the poolside. Some really good recommendations from Virginia on places to eat and visit. We felt very relaxed and sorry to leave by the end of the week.
Andrew F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks - I was also sad to see you go.
Very happy you liked the place - the house and pool (not to mention the dogs and cat).
It is a relaxing place to be - in the country but near the towns of Braga and Guimarães.
Wishing you all the best,
Virginia xx
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Quinta da Tapada as a family of four. The accommodation is superb, spacious and a wonderful combination of old world charm blending perfectly with the modern convenience of a fully equipped kitchen and two modern bathrooms. The setting is first class and the views, especially from the swimming pool, are breathtaking. The abundance of vines growing around the property along with the numerous trees offered plenty of shaded areas to escape the Summer Sun. The interior of the farmhouse maintained a perfect temperature due to the thick granite walls. What made this stay extra special was our lovely hosts Virginia and Jose, who, along with their children (and the two dogs and cat) made us feel very welcome. They made sure not to intrude on our privacy but were always available to problem solve if required. Virginia provided us with some very welcome groceries upon our arrival. She gave us ideas regarding places to visit in the area, arranged for a wheelchair for my Mother in Law and made sure that it was onsite upon our arrival. It is these actions that make staying at Quinta da Tapada such a memorable time.
Steve G.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks. I'm delighted you enjoyed your stay here - I do try to be helpful but unobtrusive. Yes, the view from the pool is lovely - very peaceful. Although we're near Braga it could be 1000 miles away.
So happy you had a great holiday here - you were the perfect guests.
Kindest regards,
Virginia
Well the title says it all really!
Virginia went above and beyond her remit helping us arrange things prior to our arrival and up until the very last minute we left the property, I can’t praise her enough.
The property and surrounding gardens is the perfect place to get away from it all, the pool is in a raised area with great views down the valley. Restaurants and supermarkets are within a few miles radius which is ideal.
I can’t recommend this property enough.
I would like to thank Virginia and her family once again for their hospitality.
Wayne C.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks! It was great having you here to stay - a real pleasure!
I treat guests how I hope I'll be treated when I book a holiday. It was no trouble at all (organising the wheelchair).
Kindest regards,
Virginia xx
Amazing house with a lot of space, very clean and well equipped. Everything was exactly as described and even better than the pictures.
We enjoyed it to the fullest and would love to stay there again.
Virginia is very lovely and dedicated and quick in answering any questions.
Daniela R.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks for your lovely review. It was great having you here and I really do hope to see you again one day.
Take care,
Virginia
Die Quinta liegt absolut herrlich oberhalb des Ortes mit fantastischem Blick in die Umgebung.
Die Anlage ist paradiesisch mit allem was man sich nur wünschen kann. Schöner Wohn und Schlafräume, eigener Pool, eine große Anlage darf komplett genutzt werden, inclusive. der saftigen Orangen auf den zahlreichen Bäumen. Die Gastgeberin ist sehr freundlich und hilfsbereit. Kein Wunsch, der offenbleibt.
Wir würden jederzeit sehr gerne wiederkommen und können die Quinta uneingeschränkt weiterempfehlen.
Gerhard K.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Danke vielmals.
Es war so eine Freude, Sie hier zu haben.
Ich hoffe, wir sehen uns eines Tages wieder.
Ich wünsche Ihnen viel Erfolg und Glück.
Liebe Grüße an alle,
Virginia xxxx
If you stay here you will be making memories you'll treasure for a long time.
Virginia's place is one of the best we've stayed in during the year we have spent in Portugal!
It's impossible to get bored on her property because it is full of fun things to do: a beautiful swimming pool, ping pong, a workout/dance room, board games, friendly dogs and a cat, trails to explore around the house. And we couldn't even begin to see all of the incredible sights nearby.
But what is most special about this place is the hospitality of this lovely, interesting and kind family: we instantly felt welcomed and surrounded by abundance, warm hearts, and inspiration. They even bought a computer chair for our stay because we told them we'd need to work for a couple days while we were there!
Virginia is kind and generous, full of enthusiasm and adventure. It's great to see someone so enjoying the experience of being a host and sharing her inspiring life with others.
More than a vacation rental, this place is an experience. If you stay here you will be making memories you'll treasure for a long time.
Pavel F.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks indeed. It was fantastic to have you here.
I am so delighted that you liked the place and it was lovely for us to meet you and spend some time together.
Hopefully we'll keep in touch over the years and see you again soon.
Virginia x
"Que semana deliciosa passámos na Quinta da Tapada!! Não foi só o conforto da casa ou o seu entorno maravilhoso, mas também a simpatia e disponibilidade da Virgínia e do José, que nos brindaram com mimos e boa conversa. Pão fresco pela manhã, vinho da casa, figos colhidos na figueira mesmo ali ao lado, fizeram da semana uma estadia única para 5 amigos que foram para estar juntos, descansar, rir e acabaram por receber muito mais do que esperavam! No final, todos tínhamos a certeza de querer regressar numa próxima oportunidade. Obrigada, Virginia e José! 🙂"
Maria Clara R.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Muitíssimo obrigada. Estamos mais que felizes que gostaram das férias aqui.
Foi um prazer hospedá-los aqui. Um privilégio, mesmo - com Pedro tocando a flauta transversal e o Rui a percussão. Cada noite (infelizmente não todas) ouvíamos pequenos concertos incríveis perto da casa ou à volta da piscina.
É um grupo de amigos tão unido - a vossa alegria é contagiosa.
Espero que um dia voltarão para nos visitar.
Um abraço,
Virginia xx
We prize this particular stay as one of the best HomeAway stays ever. Wonderful, friendly, welcoming hosts. Beautiful pool, pastoral setting, close to points of interest. Very, very comfortable. Lots of happy assistance from hosts as needed.
Jim N.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Graham P.
23 May 2018
Great place, very helpful hostess
It is a lovely building on the slopes overlooking the valley so has great views. Virginia is very helpful providing us with some nice bits and pieces for when we arrived. All the rooms are a good size and the kitchen is well equipped. The showers work well, sometimes we had to give the water some time to get hot. The sitting room is very comfortable but we spent most of the time sitting outside. It is a short drive to Braga and about 20 minutes to Guimaraes, which is a very nice town. We would definitely go again.
Graham P.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks for this lovely review.
I always buy in some food/coffee/tea/wine for guests' arrival - I hate the idea of people having to drop off their bags and then go shopping. They're already tired enough after a day of travelling.
It does take a few minutes for the water to heat up in the morning - the plumber just tells me it's because the house is so big, and the water has to travel quite far along the pipes to get from the outside boiler to the 6 bathrooms. So, time to brush teeth, splash face and by then the shower should be hot enough. We have plenty of water - from 2 underground water mines.
Braga is close by and Guimarães is not far either - so I feel we're well located, in between the two cities. We're also very near Taipas - which is a very pleasant little town, with a market on Mondays. Longos itself is just down the road - it has a small supermarket, 4 cafés and a hairdresser's.
I'm very happy you enjoyed yourselves here - if you were to come back I'm sure I could suggest other places you could go visit!
Take care,
Virginia
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Dominik H.
11 October 2017
Herzliche Unterkunft mit Ausicht
Von Braga nur einmal über den Berg liegt am Hang dieser wunderschöne Hof in den Weinbergen. Die herzliche Vermieterfamilie lebt im 1. Stock, während die Ferienwohnung im Erdgeschoss ist. Man gehört sofort dazu und wir konnten die gut ausgestattete Wohnung ebenso wie das tolle Grundstück und auch den neuen Pool sehr genießen. Wir kommen gerne wieder!
Dominik H.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2017
Archival
6/10 Okay
Mario O.
6 September 2017
Nice stay in the Quinta Da Tapada
We spent a nice week in the Quinta Da Tapada. The owners, José & Virginia, were very kind and gave us a lot of suggestions what to do in the neighbourhood. Also the apartement was good equiped and nice furnished in style. You can sit and relax on the terrace (under a roof) in front of your door. They have 2 lovely dogs and one cat, but they came to us very often. We also had to watch the door because otherwise the animals would enter the appartment. That didn't always give us a relaxed feeling and was the reason that we mostly have eaten inside. Our daughter of 13, who just finished her first year on highschool, was very pleased to play lots of games with the daughters of José & Virginia and practise her English.
Mario O.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Miguel M.
26 April 2017
Simply....perfect!!!
Very nice and large property, absolutely quiet, one minute from the village by car, at the top of a hill with panoramic view, 20 minutes from Braga and Guimaraes. The best of all, the owners. We have booked houses and apartments around all Europe in the last 8 years, and always quite well. But never like this time. Absolutely recommendable. Everything were details and flexibility. Thank you again.
Miguel M.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks!
It was an absolute pleasure having you here. And, an educational experience learning about Burgos... Thankfully your English is better than my Spanish!!
Kindest regards,
Virginia
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Kellie D.
26 October 2016
A great place to stay!
This is a wonderful rental that we highly recommend! We (two parents and three teenagers) spent two weeks in this beautiful farmhouse and had a great time working at the nearby university and exploring the region. The apartment is spacious, very clean, comfortable, and well furnished with everything guests need. The layout works well, allowing for meals and social time in the large kitchen/dining room/living room area and quiet and privacy in the back bedrooms.
The outdoor spaces are a special part of staying at the farmhouse, and we spent as much time as we could outside enjoying the lovely views, meals, coffee, wine, reading, cards, and ping pong. We also hiked and jogged on the trails near the farmhouse, and the teens hiked down the mountain to the local bakery. We looked forward to returning to the property – with its vineyards, fruit trees, and friendly animals – each day.
Virginia has a book for visitors with many suggestions for restaurants, sites, and trips, and she is a great source of ideas for exploring the area. The drive up to the farmhouse takes a time or two to get used to but is well worth it. In addition to experiencing the nearby villages and cities, we made several day trips, including ones to the Douro Valley, Geres (site of a beautiful waterfall), northern Spain, Porto, and coastal towns.
While we had a wonderful time visiting the area and taking in some special local events, we also thoroughly enjoyed our time at the farmhouse relaxing. A highlight of our trip was meeting and getting to know Virginia and her family. They are friendly and gracious hosts. We had a delightful stay and are pleased to give this property the highest rating!
Kellie D.
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks for this lovely review. I still have great memories of our trip to the University of Minho to watch the World Skipping Competition - and you are the only family I've met who have managed to go to a church service in the hidden away Santa Cruz Sanctuary - mostly reserved for the monks, nuns and the angels.....
The drive up to the house is initially a bit of a challenge - but as it's "off the beaten track" and the road is actually good it's not a problem at all - I feel as if I'm driving along my own personal avenue. But, admittedly, with 3 children I'm up and down that road about 10 times a day, so I know every bend and curve...so far, with a wing and a prayer, I've survived very happily.
And it was lovely to get to know your family too - it's great we've kept in touch. One day you might find us skipping our way to Texas!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Sven L.
15 October 2016
Wunderschön gelegenes Weingut in den Bergen
Wir haben Anfang Oktober zum dritten Mal eine tolle Zeit auf dem Weingut der Familie Martins verbracht. Uns begeistert immer wieder das Ambiente und vor allem die Gastfreundschaft der portugiesisch-nordirischen Gastgeberfamilie!
Die Wohnung ist sehr gemütlich eingerichtet, super ausgestattet und breitet sich über das gesamte Erdgeschoß des wundervollen Steinhauses aus.
Die Begrüßung durch die Gastgeberin Virginia ist sehr warmherzig. Sie hat viele Ideen für Ausflüge vor Ort und immer ein offenes Ohr.
Unsere Kinder fühlen sich auch immer sehr wohl gefühlt und spielen viel mit den Kindern der Gastgeber-Familie (Dart, Tischtennis, Basketball, Reiten etc.).
Die Gegend um Longos (10 Autominuten von Braga entfernt) eignet sich perfekt für z.B. Wandertouren, Städtetrips nach Braga, Guimaraes oder Porto und Ausflüge in den Naturpark Geres, an den Atlantik oder nach Spanien. Viel Kultur und viel Entspannung. Hier ist wirklich für jeden was dabei! :-)
Danke nochmal an Virginia und ihre Familie für den "perfect stay". See you soon again! :-))
Sven L.
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2023
Many thanks and I hope we do indeed see you soon. You were a joy to have at our home. 😄
Warmest regards,
Virginia
About the host
Hosted by Virginia Henry Martins
I was born in N.Ireland but went to university in England, where I met my husband, who is Portuguese. I've been living in Portugal since 1999. We have 3 teenage children, Freddie, Emma and Olivia. We found this house and loved the location and the view. It took a year to restore and we're always doing more. We've just built a sheep house for our little Cameroon flock...which we love! Hobbies? Architecture is my passion. Then - food, wine, reading, TV, cinema, cycling, walking... There are lots of woodland walks behind the house and if guests would like, they can come with me on a dog walk. For me a holiday is sacrosanct. When people walk through the door I want them to feel more than at home - we live at the house too but on a different floor, with our entrance at the back of the house. Everyone has their independence and privacy. The house is rustic from the outside (all granite) but modern and bright in the inside. On a level below the main house I rent out a small Pool House (for 4 people) - they have their own space and are totally independent of the main house above. So, overall, this is a great place to come and relax, explore the countryside and the towns around, dip into the pool, and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Why they chose this property
It's got a great view, surrounded by nature - often I see eagles in the sky above me. There is a forest right behind the house - perfect for my dog walks. I feel as if I have the best of both worlds - in the middle of nature but close to Braga and Guimarães. Until last year we had vines - now we've taken out the vines and have a little flock of Cameroon sheep. It'll be a steep learning curve... I like architecture and this house is quite typical of the granite houses of the Minho. There is a good local restaurant in Longos and another in Balazar, so when you don't feel like cooking, you just go out and let others impress you with their expertise - and the price is very reasonable, about 10€ per head. Here, we're in the country but only 15 minutes from Braga, 20 minutes from Guimarães and 10 minutes from the charming town of Caldas das Taipas, complete with spa, restaurants and cafés. Porto is 1 hour away by car or by train, so you can enjoy the countryside but not turn your back on a bit of city life too. To sum up, here you're mostly in the country but are very close to towns. So, you have the best of both worlds.
What makes this property unique
The view, which is splendid. The welcome - guests always arrive to afternoon tea, and a supply of tea, coffee, milk, wine, eggs, cakes. The breadman brings fresh rolls every morning - all included in the price. And, guests can help themselves to whatever fruit is on the trees - plums in the summer, oranges, lemons and kiwis in the winter. Woodland walks right behind the house (you can accompany Virginia on her dog walks, if you'd like to). The pool - with a great view. Sunloungers, a table and chairs, a fridge for your cool drinks. In front of the sitting room door is the patio (next to the BBQ), with comfortable sofas and a table, where guests can enjoy eating outside. There are gardens on all sides, with a table tennis table and swings for young children in front of the house. No worries about car parking - right in front of the house. Well located to explore the north of Portugal - near Braga, Guimarães, Porto, Ponte de Lima, Esposende... I've been living here for 25 years, so I know the area very well! It's a very beautiful part of Portugal.
Languages:
English, French, Spanish, Portuguese
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