Casa Henriette

A Fashion Designer Freshens Up a Portuguese Home Near the Sea

In the historical center of the whitewashed port town of Olhao lies a traditional two-story house, restored by a former fashion editor of ELLE, and a fashion designer in her own right.

Her sense of space and design make the home worthy of its own magazine editorial, with charming and authentic touches spilling into every room. We love the effortlessly chic built-in shelves and little reading bench.

This house in Portugal house consists of three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and can accommodate up to six guests. On the ground floor, there is a large kitchen and an outdoor patio; one floor above will take you to a third bedroom and bathroom with a large terrace.

The crowning jewel of this property is the roof terrace with its small pool, pergola and views out over the rooftops. In a region with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, this, along with a chilled bottle of vino verde, is the spot to be.

SEASIDE SIMPLE LIFE

Dating back to Roman times, Olhao, just east of Faro, is the Algarve's main fishing port where the extensive waterways and coastal bounty remain a vibrant and sustainable part of the local community. Don't miss the the daily fish market (designed by Gustave Eiffel) and the Saturday market along the waterfront (which also supplies the many local restaurants) for some of the best seafood in the world. The old town has risen from disrepair and neglect in recent years and has undergone a cultural renaissance of sorts, attracting a creative and artsy crowd that have set about restoring the architectural mix of Moorish influences and the grandeur of the early manor houses. 

The area has thankfully escaped the more touristy beach destinations and crowds although there is over 125 miles of coastline and beaches just a short drive away. Nearby Ria Formosa national park is a lovely and protected stretch of wetlands and lagoons that features an ever-changing diversity of flora and fauna and extends over 35 miles. The outlying islands of Armona, Culatra, Farol and Deserta make great days trips and can be reached by ferry or water taxi. Blessedly free of cars, each has subtly different character and vibes that echo a slower, simpler time and all feature pristine, nearly deserted beaches.

LOCATION

Olhao, Portugal. Nearest Airport: Faro Airport (15 mins)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May through September with peak season in July and August