Quinta da Lila - The Granite House

Old Stones Given New Life by StudioArte Architects

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, plus a 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.

StudioArte preserved the farm complex's ancient charms across each of its three villas, infusing the spaces with new life after years of abandonment and disprepair.

Spanning 3+ 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.

Click here to see the Yellow House and here to see the Baker's Cottage. 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 that stretch 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. And boat trips to see the region’s rugged cliffs and arching coves and caves can be chartered to explore the area by water.

Location

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

Best time to visit

April to October

Photography: Zavial Studio - Pedro Correia

Property registration numbers: 159741/AL, 159743/AL