Lying in the north-east corner of the Alentejo, a stone’s throw from the Spanish border, is the Tapada do Falcão Estate. On its doorstep to the north is the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, a protected area noted for its beauty and nature; to the south are the wonderful marble towns of Estremoz and Elvas. This is an exceptional corner of unspoilt Portugal, characterised by pretty whitewashed villages, historic hilltop border towns, rolling vineyards and cork forests. The pace of life is slow and gentle. It is a place to relax the body and restore the soul.
Nestled in the midst of the estate is Casa do Outeiro, a newly renovated luxurious three ensuite bedroom house. Flooded by light from the large windows overlooking its infinity pool and with wonderful views beyond, Casa do Outeiro is a luxurious base from which to explore the local villages and delve into the region’s history. The uninterrupted views from the terrace across the pool and valley to the vineyard and the rolling hills beyond are simply the best.
The house has been built to exacting standards and all rooms have ceilings lofted to the rafters, creating a wonderful sense of space and light. In the heart of the house is the open plan living area comprising sitting and dining space and kitchen. Wide sliding glass doors lead to a covered portico with extensive terraces and the pool beyond. The kitchen is well equipped with full sized oven, separate integrated microwave, induction hob, dishwasher, washing machine and large fridge freezer. The living area has a TV and an efficient log burner with free supply of logs for use in winter.
Leading off the living space are three ensuite bedrooms all similar in size – two with king sized beds and one which can be configured as two singles or a king. Two of the rooms have glass doors leading out to the terrace and pool. The ensuite shower rooms are tiled in local stone with underfloor heating, and feature large walk-in rain head showers with separate hand-held attachments.
There is air conditioning throughout, and free wi-fi.
Outside, extensive terraces surround the infinity pool, with sunbeds (and umbrellas) and an outside sofa area looking out at the wonderful views. There is a dining table that seats six and a gas barbecue.
Casa do Outeiro lies at the end of a 500 metre driveable track which leads off the main drive of the estate, and is totally hidden from view and separate from the main house. Its occupants enjoy complete privacy. It is surrounded by cork oaks, olives and other fruit trees with abundant wild flowers in Spring. The area is calm and tranquil and the surrounding nature and amazing night sky restore the spirit.
There are walking trails around the estate and further afield walks and wildlife to explore in the São Mamede Natural Park. There is a tennis court on the estate which guests share with the main house. Despite its peaceful and secluded position, it is possible to walk through the Estate to the small local village in under 15 minutes. Supermarkets are in Portalegre, a 10 minute drive away.