Standing proudly against the stunning backdrop of the Basto region, this 17th-century manor house, steeped in history, offers any nature lover a genuinely delightful home in the tranquillity of rural Portugal.
As you approach through the winding fields of farms and vineyards, you will truly begin to appreciate the isolation and the serenity of the landscaped gardens. Inside, there are seemingly endless living areas, from ornate drawing rooms to open-fired dining rooms.
All of the bright rooms in Casa Cintia are bursting with a unique charm among the eclectic antiques. There is indeed something for everyone, with plenty of peaceful lounge areas for those seeking a little rest and relaxation, as well as a games room, complete with a pool table, for those after a bit of activity.
Able to accommodate up to eighteen guests, and with the option to add one additional bed in each room for those travelling with young children, this is the perfect home for a large gathering of friends or family.
Each of the nine bedrooms oozes a unique and irresistible charm, with majestic hardwood bedframes, traditional décor and elegant fireplaces. There are six double bedrooms and three suite rooms complete with double bedrooms and living areas.
All nine have ensuite facilities. Polished wood ceilings and teak floors come together to frame each room beautifully. All nine enjoy either direct access to the courtyard or a spacious first-floor balcony.
This series of quaint balconies, adorned by wicker chairs and thriving plants, overlooks the leafy courtyard creating the perfect environment for a fresh coffee in the morning sun.
The grounds, including 220 acres of forests and vineyards, are indeed the perfect place to get lost in the Iberian countryside. With vine-covered walkways, a large, log-fired barbeque and perfectly comfortable dining area for up to eight provides the space for a hearty alfresco meal, while the large fireplace is the ideal spot for an evening of beautiful, local wine and excellent conversation.
Outdoor dining opportunities are further maximised by the deck chairs dispersed across the garden. Perhaps the highlight of the expansive gardens is the huge private pool on the terrace, an idyllic spot for a relaxing morning.
All of this opulence is set against an equally stunning backdrop of the Serra do Marão mountains, just on the other side of the Tâmega river!
*** Please be aware that the housekeeper lives on the property to provide service of breakfast and cleaning at an extra cost. If you do not wish to be provided with catering, please let us know to inform the owner.
What Oliver loves...
We adore the nine ensuite rooms, each one a little unique, but all equally luxurious!
The huge pool in the private garden is a spectacular spot for fun with all the group, with the perfect choice of luscious grass or comfortable sun loungers alongside it for an ideal afternoon of relaxation
The extensive outdoor facilities, even including a badminton court, allow you to make the most of the perfect rural landscape and fantastic Portuguese weather! The barbeque zone is great for spicing up meal times
From a private pool to a multitude of ornate and beautiful living areas and even a games room complete with pool table – you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying a little down time!
What you should know
While Portugal enjoys the warmest winters in all of Europe, rainfall can still be expected through the winter months, with the occasional snowfall too, so be sure to check the forecast!
Those travelling with youngsters should take extra care as the pool is not fenced
There’s no air conditioning in Casa Cintia, but the pool is a fabulous place to cool off!
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
may have some simple amenities and features
mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
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The Local Area
About the surrounding area of Casa Cintia
Rural Location
Outstanding Landscapes
Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
Enveloped in vineyards and rolling hills of green, Casa Cintia is located in the beautiful Basto region, famous for its delicious wines and as the home of the Parque Natural do Alvao. Equidistant to the villages of Cabeceiras de Basto, Celorico de Basto and Mondim de Basto, you are ideally located to enjoy the quaint communities as well as the slow pace of life of rural Portugal.
The town of Braga, the capital of the district, is about 45 minutes away and hosts many relics of the region’s diverse history. The thriving city of Porto is just an hour’s drive away and is a UNESCO World Heritage city, built along the hills overlooking the Douro river estuary, with a busy historical and commercial centre.
Porto is, of course, famous for its eponymous Port wine, a 40% sweet, fortified wine, and you can enjoy many a port tour, and we would highly recommend a visit to the various wine caves, both of which are thoroughly affordable and excellent value.
Also under an hour away is the fabulous Peneda-Gerês National Park, the only National Park in the country. Canicada Lake and Pedras Salgadas Thermal Spa are also under 20 miles away, making them ideal for a day trip.
Portugal itself is a small, fascinating country at the most Western point of mainland Europe. The capital, Lisbon, is known for its lively nightlife, with endless bars and clubs full of fun-loving locals and tourists alike, but also has plenty of fascinating history (check out Belém, jam-packed with monuments!) and undulating terrain, famously termed the ‘city of the seven hills’.
From Lisbon, it is very quick to travel by the domestic high-speed train line to the city of Braga, which will connect you reasonably quickly to Casa Cintia.
With a vast coastline with the mighty Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is a real paradise for the keen surfer, or indeed even those looking to try it for the first time. And for those less keen on surfing, the beaches of Portugal are still well worth a visit for their beautifully clear waters.
The Region
Please be aware that the location tab shown on the website is not based on the property's exact location; therefore, all location amenities are an approx of facilities, restaurants, and villages/towns you might find around the property. The property's exact location will be provided to you before arrival and might come along with some recommendations about the area and what to visit.
ABOUT THE DOURO
A symbol of Portugal’s birth and growth as a nation, the Douro has long been the country’s lifeline. Leaving the pastel-coloured metropolis of Porto, venture through the enchanting countryside.
Following the winding Douro river east from Porto reveals one of the most scenic drives in Europe and Portugal’s premier wine region, the Douro Valley. With terraces of vines lining the riverbanks, Douro Valley holidays offer stunning hiking trails, beautiful viewpoints and a wonderful selection of peaceful retreats.
In the Douro, you will find quiet towns and villages, vineyards hugging the bends, castles from the time of the Reconquest and other places worthy of a stop to look far into the horizon.
