Sleeps:

4

Bedrooms:

2

Bathrooms:

2

Just a short distance inland yet a world away from the hustle and bustle of the coast sits Loulé, an attractive market town, renowned for its traditional handicrafts. In the hills bordering the town we made a delightful discovery, Casa La Dona, a lovely country cottage, a hundred years old or more, nestled on peaceful slopes with a wonderful, mature garden and quite the most breathtaking views across the countryside to the sea. The house is charming. Lovingly restored it boasts many original features, such as open-faced stonework, vaulted ceilings, low door frames, thick stone walls and exposed Santa Caterina-tiled floors all complemented by a tasteful mix of contemporary and antique furniture, rustic memorabilia and attractive artwork. All on one level, there is a rustic kitchen, two dining areas and a spacious living room. The two bedrooms both have their own bathrooms. Outside, a covered and open terrace runs along the back of the house, an ideal location from which to admire the superlative view. We are sure the table and chairs here will be the venue for many an al fresco meal. The private swimming pool, on a lower level from the terrace, is accessed via a gate to the garden, and sits amongst mature trees and established shrubbery, which ensure privacy. A local café is within 2km and a country restaurant about 2.5km from La Dona, and do be sure to visit the market in Loulé (5km) on a Saturday for the freshest fish, delicately flavoured herbs and spices, or cakes made from local ingredients such as almonds and figs. Explore the nearby ruined castle, which betrays Moorish origins, or head down to the sandy beach at Vale de Lobo, about a 20 minute drive, where two championship golf courses can also be found.

Please Note: A compulsory breakage fee of £4 per person is payable in advance.