Villa Murrelet

Description

The main house comprises 6 bedrooms. The master en suite is very spacious and overlooks the rooftops of Santiago do Cacém. The bathroom has a shower and bath. The Blue Room has two single beds that can be converted into a double and a separate bathroom. The two rooms are perfectly situated to combine as a family suite. The Oriental Room has a double bed and en suite bathroom and as the name implies is decorated with a nautical chart celebrating the Portuguese discoveries of the Far East.

The Castle Room is a double en suite and has views of the castle and church and overlooks the upper garden. The Sea Room can either be set up with two single beds or a double. This room shares a bathroom with the Flower Room which is located in the attic and has a double bed. Both have lovely views over the town and the castle. Separate from the main house, the Garden Suite has been converted from one of the old outhouses which has charming features including an old bread oven and the en suite bathroom is situated in what was an old dovecote, rediscovered during the renovation. The suite has two single beds that can be converted into a double. The Garden Suite also has a small kitchenette.

The stunning gardens are one of the most interesting parts of the house. The lower garden is the ideal place to have an evening cocktail or to simply relax under the gigantic araucaria tree (an evergreen coniferous tree – Araucaria angustifolia). It is a formal topiary garden with several types of roses, a collection of “succulent” plants and some archaeological pieces. From this garden, bordered by a large cistern, you can access the “patio”, a cobblestone Alentejo corridor where meals can be served, and then from there, you can go up to the so-called “upper garden”. The water tank has been converted into a wonderful heated swimming pool and an old dovecote has been converted into changing rooms and a bathroom. There’s a choice of areas to relax, read and soak up some sun. Various types of fruit trees, vines and an organic vegetable garden for home consumption, complete nature’s gastronomic selection. A barbecue and al fresco dining area under a pergola, surrounded by citrus fragrances, different shades of green and charming views of the castle and church make the gardens a truly magical experience.

The medieval town of Santiago do Cacém is a joy to explore with a labyrinth of cobbled streets, the Moorish castle, church and the nearby roman ruins of Miróbrigo. The entire area is essentially agricultural, with the cultivation of cereal, fruit and cork and cattle rearing. This, together with the stunning nearby beaches (the nearest are about 15-20 minutes away in Melides and the beaches of Comporta are about 30-40 minutes away) contribute to a hugely varied and beautiful landscape, unlike anywhere else in Portugal. In Santiago do Cacém and its surroundings, you will find perfect spots for surfing, diving, trekking, cycling, horse-riding, motocross, hunting and fishing, as well as excellent producers of fruit and traditional sweets, handicrafts, restaurants and monuments that deserve a special visit.