Quinta da Lila
As we approach the estate in the tranquil Algarve mountains, the first thing we notice are the terraces framed by stone walls. Vines grow here as well as olive and mandarin trees. From their hillside location, three vacation homes oozing historical charm overlook the surrounding area. When Herman and Angela, a Dutch-Brazilian couple, bought the property in 2021, it was in ruins. Bit by bit, they converted the old farm into a wonderful retreat for vacation guests. The Yellow House consists of three separate buildings and is suitable for anyone who likes to travel in a group, but also values their space. Built from rough stone, The Granite House has a fruit and herb garden, where even the rare Pera de Monchique apple variety thrives. The former bakery, now The Baker’s Cottage, overlooks Picota, the second highest peak in the Algarve. The hosts love vintage pieces and insist they add soul to a room. We couldn’t agree more—especially when they’re so skillfully combined with minimalist luxury as they are here with matt black aluminum kitchens, lime-plastered walls and fragrant flowers from the garden.
WHAT WE LIKE MOST:
- Each house is unique, combining historic charm with modern amenities.
- The great vintage furniture, such as the huge “Strips” lounge sofa by Cini Boeri in The Yellow House. In The Granite House, the relaxing sofa “The Rock” by Gerard van den Berg embellishes the room; in The Baker’s Cottage, there’s a floor lamp by Luigi Massoni.
- All units are illuminated by warm light—in the spirit of well-being and relaxation.
- Each accommodation has a mini pool, created from historic irrigation tanks—one of which is even supplied by a fresh mountain spring.
- Care was taken during the restoration to ensure that all authentic details were preserved. Many things were reconstructed true to the original, such as the terraces, some of which are over one hundred and thirty years old.
- The estate’s own wine will be available for tasting in a few years’ time. In 2024, the hosts planted 7,000 vines—the first environmentally friendly vineyard in Monchique!
- It’s a place just waiting to be explored: The Quinta has a huge expanse of cork oaks and strawberry trees, whose fruit is distilled into medronho.
- The Quinta is also committed to sustainability: Eco-friendly materials such as cork insulation were used in the renovation of the houses. These are also heated with electric heat pumps and hot water is provided by a solar-powered heating system.
- The location is right in the middle of nature, just five minutes from Monchique. Bathing and surfing beaches are also within a 30 to 45-minute drive.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- The Yellow House can accommodate up to six people. It consists of a main house and two separate buildings; each has a bedroom with a double bed and bathroom.
- The Granite House sleeps two to four people. On the first floor, there’s a kitchenette with a place to sit and a sleeping area with a double bed; on the gallery, there’s another double bed.
- The Baker’s Cottage is divided into a living area and a bedroom and is suitable for two people. A cool extra is the sheltered terrace, which is perfect for yoga.
- The accommodation is recommended for adults and children aged 12 and over.
- All houses have terraces and access to the garden, underfloor heating, air conditioning and a wood-burning stove.
- All three accommodations have a kitchen with induction hob, oven, dishwasher (except The Baker’s Cottage), Nespresso machine, kettle, juicer and toaster.
- Hello BBQ evenings – each house is equipped with a Kamado charcoal grill.
- Care products from the local brand 8950 Cosmetica, which are made from 99% natural ingredients without microplastics, are available to guests.
- The vineyard is actively cultivated, which means that workers will be present at certain times of the year.
- In Monchique, guests can explore charming cobbled streets, visit a Franciscan monastery and discover handicrafts. The thermal springs in Caldas de Monchique are 10 minutes away from Quinta da Lila.
- Fóia and Picota are the highest peaks in the Serra de Monchique and are perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
- seit Herman und Angela die Algarve zum ersten Mal besucht haben, sind sie verliebt in diesen Ort. Wie bei ihrem ersten Projekt Casa da Lila, www.casadalilasilves.com, wollten sie der Region auch dieses Mal etwas zurückgeben und haben bewusst marode Häuser gekauft, um diese vor dem Verfall zu bewahren
- Preferred language for enquiries is English
- The nearest airport is Faro, about an hour’s drive away.
Sleeping arrangements and amenities
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The Baker's Cottage: Up to 2 guests
The Granite's House: Up to 4 guests
The Yellow House: Up to 6 guests - Yes
- Sorry, no
Other Equipment
Rates
Baker's Cottage: ab 750 € pro Woche
Granite House: ab 995 € pro Woche
Yellow House: ab 1600 € pro Woche
Ganzes Haus: ab 3000 € pro Woche