From your lounger at the edge of the infinity pool, staring at the sheep grazing over the hills… it does not get any more Alentejo Zen! At 45 minutes from Lisbon airport, we discovered this new gem. A recently completely renovated farmhouse, the house of the grandparents of the dear hostess Dona Toia, is now a charming bed & breakfast with 5 suites. All with their own terrace, bathroom and fully equipped kitchen. But this is not all, the family now owns 3 townhouses in the historic town of Alcácer do Sal, 10 minutes by car, which are also rented out.
I have a new happy place… a place where I have set my heart on having my own Hideaway – Casa Cubista in Sedella. It is located in the Axarquía, the area east of Malaga. Not yet very well known and it has everything: sea, mountains, nature, a wonderful microclimate and a choice of white villages. Because I now spend so much time in this part of Andalusia, I came across this striking guesthouse, located in the neighbouring village. Contemporary, comfortable, affordable and a super deluxe breakfast… an absolute insider tip!
Upon entering, I have a flashback and I think for a moment that I am entering a riad in Marrakech… not surprising because the Moorish influences are omnipresent in my favourite Olhão! Tucked away in one of the narrow streets filled with white cubist houses you will find this beautiful Hideaway. The big surprise awaits upstairs: the roof terrace… an inviting small swimming pool, a lovely lounge terrace and the most spectacular view over the roofs of Olhão and the sea!
This super-stylish B&B is almost in my own backyard… just a village away. So it felt a bit strange to have a ‘test sleep’ at the neighbors ;))) But gosh, am I glad I did! Because this beautiful old farmstead has it all! 3 deluxe rooms with beds you never want to get out of, 2 rooms have bath and shower and one room has a lovely rainshower. The different spaces are tastefully decorated, with beautiful art (hobby of the owners) and relaxing nooks and corners. The old orchard and garden are a perfect place for lazy summer days and soaking in the hot tub is possible all year round. You can also rent the entire place for a small party or business meeting. Add to that the enormous hospitality of the owners, who spoil you with breakfast, sometimes a ‘table d’hôtes’, delicious wines from the wine cabinet, regional insider tips and you never want to go home again! Life is good in Rivierenland … I can talk about that!