Moinho da Fadagosa

• Sleeps: 2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Just an hour-and-a-half’s drive from bustling Lisbon, Moinho da Fadagosa is a dreamy rural escape from stressful everyday life.

Dedicated owners Simon and Fiona have made it their mission to create a retreat in which guests can leave life’s fast lane and relax amongst the bounty of nature, perhaps with the occasional glass of fine local wine thrown in!

As such, you’ll find their sanctuary-like mill – available from March to November each year – perfectly secluded amongst serene countryside in the heart of Portugal, on the peak of a small hill that showcases incredible, far-reaching hill-and-mountain views.

Surrounded by whispering pines and peaceful meadowland, a gently-flowing river runs just below… with plenty of scope for wild swimming against a joyous soundtrack of birdsong.

Inside the mill awaits plenty of rustic home comfort, accented by vibrant dashes of colour and all the holiday facilities you could possibly need. Ideal for a romantic couple, there’s a downy queensize bed to curl up in after a long day of doing absolutely nothing, and a warming fireplace to give your evenings an irresistible glow.

There are full kitchen and bathroom facilities, too, along with plenty of wonderful al fresco spots for you to discover. For the loveliest way to start a new day, why not take your morning coffee outside, grab a chair and watch the sun rising over the mountain?

You could also choose to greet the day with an energising dip at the small, secluded river beach you’ll find practically on the doorstep (it’s the perfect setting for lazy afternoon picnics, too!)

At a glance

• A peaceful, lovingly-restored retreat secluded on a small hill in the rural heart of Portugal – an ideal base for exploring the wider country and also just 1.5 hours from Spain.
• Ideal for a romantic couple, there are full self-contained facilities and plenty of scenic al fresco space to enjoy.
• Take a wild swim at a nearby river beach, or pay a visit to the friendly and truly authentic local towns, complete with traditional restaurants to help while away your time!
• There are some beautiful nature-walks in the surrounding area, with an option to book a ‘Wild Weed Walk and Talk’ with a trained herbalist.
• In-mill activities include pizza evenings and local wine-tasting, which are available at an extra cost.

Features

• Adults Only

More information

There are plenty of larger river beaches to explore close by, along with friendly, picturesque towns and some truly magnificent walks that will lead you through tumbling waterfalls and shaded valleys. You’ll also have the option of arranging a ‘Wild Weed Walk and Talk’ with a trained herbalist – ideal for learning more about how to live a healthier life through plants.

Staying put? No problem! Indulge in a mouth-watering Pizza Night, with a jug of local wine and delicious pizzas freshly-cooked in Simon and Fiona’s self-built clay pizza oven, topped with fresh seasonal vegetables plucked from their garden (you could also choose to learn how to make the pizzas yourself in a personalised Masterclass).

Places to visit nearby include an olive oil museum and local wineries. However, Simon just happens to be a wine expert and the co-owner of a Brighton-based wine business – which means you can arrange an enlightening ‘Introduction to Portuguese Wine Tasting’ session without leaving the mill’s irresistibly cosy confines.

Things to note

The mill is not suitable for children or pets. Bookings are available from March to November each year. Internet access is reliable, but please bear in mind that this is a rural setting. A car is recommended for exploring the local area. Please note that the mill is at the top of a steep hill, with steep stone steps inside and out, so may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.