The property was far more comfortable, spacious and secluded than we expected when booking. It is built in a traditional style on an old smallholding in the hamlet of Bardeiras which is close to Sao Gregorio. By using local building techniques the house remains remarkably cool when the outside temperature can be blistering.
The house has a lovely outdoor swimming pool and a large portion of our holiday was spent by the pool. The pool area is gated, which would be very useful if you went with small children. I also enjoyed walking and running through the surrounding countryside and farms. There are not clear maps or rights of way, which we are used to in Britain, so you have to be quite intrepid to find your way initially. However, this is part of the charm of such a holiday.
The property is also a great place in which to base yourselves in order to explore the fascinating collection of historical sites and places of interest which are generously scattered across the Alentejo. While the driving distances might seem large on a map, there is very little traffic outside of the main towns.
The owner of the property is very helpful and friendly; ready to answer questions, contactable and responsive to any queries we had. While the remoteness of this villa might not suit everyone, if you do wish to experience the seclusion of a villa deep in the Alentejo countryside, I highly recommend this holiday home.