Monte do Olival

Infinite expanse. Tranquility in paradise. And picturesque beauty. Like a painting in shades of blue, beige and white, the Monte do Olival farm lies in the middle of the Portuguese region of Alentejo—surrounded by fields as far as the eye can see, olive trees and stork nests. Sheep and cows graze here and there. Herons circle overhead. Maria Antonia, the hostess with a big heart, is in the kitchen preparing cakes for the delicious breakfast. A long time ago, she dreamed of building a house in this very place—not only for her own family, but also for others, to make the magic of the farm accessible to everyone. She herself spent her vacations on Monte do Olival as a child enjoying the unspoiled nature. Today, she is the grandmother of five grandchildren who now roam the farm, looking for adventures and feeding donkeys. Together with architects and a friend, interior designer Ligie Casanova, the family ended up building three houses: Casa da Oliveira, Casa do Alecrim and Casa do Rosmaninho. These three holiday homes were completed in 2021 with the addition of the Quarto das Figueiras double room. They are like a declaration of love to the region and are true feel-good places; flooded with light, they are carefully furnished with wood-burning stoves, wicker lamps, bamboo tables, wooden shelves, high-quality textiles and fine ceramics. But the highlight is right outside the door: An infinity pool filled with salt water with a view that you’ll never forget for the rest of your life. Those who prefer the ocean can drive just a few kilometers away and enjoy the most beautiful beaches in the area. It’s fair to say that Maria Antonia has made her wildest dreams come true—and we can all be part of it!

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• Alentejo is the largest region in Portugal with a unique, partly protected landscape—between endless fields and the smell of the ocean nearby, you can enjoy boundless freedom and immerse yourself completely in untouched nature.
• Monte do Olival tells the beautiful love story of a family that passes on the traditions and great passion surrounding the farm in the olive grove from generation to generation—as a guest, you feel warmly invited to be part of it all.
• The understated yet thoroughly stylish interior succeeds in bridging the gap between tradition and modernity: Simply let yourself slip into this timeless ambience.
• The three houses each have a well-equipped kitchen, a bedroom with a double bed and a bathroom with a shower; in the living area, a wood-burning stove creates an even cozier atmosphere, and each house also has its own private courtyard where you can enjoy a relaxed meal or chill out..
• The day could hardly start better than in the inviting open-plan communal room, where breakfast is served for all guests—often even by Maria Antonia herself. Featuring a fantastic view of the pool and the fields from the large windows, you’ll hardly believe your luck.
• All parents can take a deep breath and relax: Children are welcome guests here (fun fact: The hostess used to be a nursery school teacher); baby beds and high chairs can be booked free of charge.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The lovingly prepared breakfast is included!
• Monte do Olival is a typical Alentejo farm about seven kilometers from Alcácer do Sal, with its great restaurants, plenty of shopping opportunities and even a castle to visit.
• Comporta, a nature reserve with an Atlantic beach, can be reached by car in just 20 minutes. The fine white sand and the incredibly clean, clear water must be experienced—Comporta is not considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world for nothing. You can really enjoy yourself in the cool beach bars and restaurants.
• Water sports enthusiasts should visit the surf school Surf in Comporta, where children and adults, beginners and advanced surfers can all improve their skills.
• Alentejo is perfect for long hikes or bike tours: Numerous routes through olive groves, vineyards and fields bring you right up close to the original Portugal; you can even hire bikes with child seats in Monte de Olival.
• The farm is only an hour south of the capital Lisbon—a visit to the colorful metropolis is always worthwhile; and don’t forget to try a Pastel de Belém!