Quinta da Lila

A Modern Villa Trio Rises from an Abandoned Algarve Agricultural Complex

Given new life after years of abandonment and disrepair, this trio of former farm buildings, available in full for 12 guests or as individual homes of varying sizes, occupies a fertile rural lot in the Algarve’s serene Monchique mountains.

Spanning over three hectares crisscrossed by meticulously restored stone walls, a vineyard, and olive, lemon, orange and tangerine trees, the cultivated property bobs in a sea of cork oak and strawberry trees (the latter used to distill the renowned local libation “medronho”), and offers an escape into nature in a lesser-known part of the Algarve.

Preserving its ancient rural charms, the remodeled estate, crafted by StudioArte, translates today as three modern villas, each with a private plunge pool, with one pool fed by a fresh mountain spring.

The Yellow House is the property’s largest accommodation, sleeping six in three structures. The main house contains the primary bedroom and bath, the spacious living room furnished with contemporary décor and a vintage “Strips” sofa by Cini Boera for Artflex and an Elle 55 floor lamp by Tommaso Cimini. It has a fireplace, outdoor terrace with vineyard views and a separate dining terrace for eight outside the kitchen. The two additional annexes serve as bedroom suites (with showers). The plunge pool is a converted irrigation tank with sun loungers, parasols and an outdoor shower.

The Granite House is tucked into the top of the estate, ideal for a couple but equipped for up to four. It features exposed stone and cozy styling, including an oversized sofa by Dutch designer Gerard van den Berg and a vintage Moon Lamp and modern wood stove in the living area. Designer dining chairs by Nodo date from 1976, and the kitchen is uniquely plastered in a dark, intimate color. The bedroom is a mezzanine room with a double bed, and the platform couch sleeps two more, if needed. Outdoor terraces overlook the herb garden and orchard, and a plunge pool with lounge furnishings completes the picture.

The Baker’s Cottage is nestled at the heart of the vineyard overlooking Picota, the Algarve’s highest peak. The former bread oven outbuilding now features a bedroom with a rain shower in its ensuite bathroom, and a living area outfitted with a galley-style kitchenette. A rare 1960s floor lamp by Luigi Massoni and a pair of 1970s Bruno Rey dining chairs stand out in the small space, and the cottage’s plunge pool (4m x 2m) is uniquely spring fed and surrounded by a furnished terrace.

Please note: children over the age of 12 are welcome.

Visit the hosts' home in Silves, Casa da Lila, here.

Around

Monchique dates from pre-Roman times, an Algarve town known as a mountain destination with thermal springs prized for their healing properties. The Caldas de Monchique area is about 10 minutes from the property, and the town is also home to several small-scale artisanal traditions such as weaving, ceramics and metalwork. Cobblestoned streets are lined by colorful houses, and the town’s central square is home to local cafes and taverns as well as a 16th-century church.

Monchique’s location in the Serra of the same name, with its Foia and Picota peaks offering panoramic views stretching to the region’s coastline, makes it a hub for outdoor adventurers. Hiking and mountain biking are popular, and Foia is known for its scenic roadway, for those who prefer car travel. Birdwatchers appreciate the area’s diversity of species, and trekkers can explore sections of the via Algarviana, a footpath/hiking trail that cuts through Monchique. Seafarers can make it to the beach from the farm in about 30 to 45 minutes. The Praia da Rocha (35 minutes) is one of the southern Algarve’s favorites, and the famous Portimão beach, with its golden sands and dramatic cliffs is 40 to 45 minutes’ drive. More rugged natural beaches can be found to the west of the property, spots like Praia da Arrifana or Praia do Amado, popular for surfing and less developed than others in the Algarve. A great way to explore the area is by water, and boat trips to see the region’s rugged cliffs and arching coves and caves can be chartered at the beach communities.

Location

Monchique, Algarve, Portugal. Nearest airport: Faro (90km)

Best time to visit

Year round

Photography: Zavial Studio - Pedro Correia

Property registration numbers: 159741/AL, 159743/AL