Western Algarve’s Monta da Vilarinha, close to Carrapateira
The 10 self-catering rooms, studios, and apartments at this hilltop refuge were made from local materials, including slate, terracotta, bamboo, and the adobe-like taipa, to create a fashionable and modern place to stay, proving that family-friendly needn’t mean functional and unappealing. For children, there is a playground, table tennis, playroom, and DVD library. There are also plenty of options for socialising around the crescent-shaped pool or at the shared BBQ. This facility is as much fun for parents as it is for kids thanks to the pre-bookable meals in the poolside café, spa treatments, and babysitting service.
Near Tavira in the eastern Algarve is Quintamar.
This modest self-catering facility, which is located in the Ria Formosa natural reserve in the more sedate end of the Algarve, is not very extravagant. White walls, tiled flooring, woodburning stoves, vibrant rugs and blankets, and flower-encrusted balconies may be found in four plain homes and apartments that can accommodate five to eight people each. Owners Tamar and Miguel’s own children should not come as a surprise because they have thought of everything to make families feel at home, from books and toys to a trampoline, sandpit, and wooden pirate ship. Even rabbits, guinea pigs, and chicks are available for young children to terrorise. Cool yourself in the natural swimming pond with lily pads and croaking frogs after spending a hot day at the beach.
Alentejo’s Casas da Comporta.
Comporta is where Lisbon’s fashion and media elite go to get some sand between their neatly manicured toes, despite the area’s drowsy, slightly rundown atmosphere. Just below the white sand beach, there are a few privately owned hippy chic bungalows, however the pricing can be exorbitant. Casas da Comporta is a quiet “village” of flats and villas centred on a swimming pool that is significantly more cheap. Although there is a playground, games area, mini-market, and snack bar, you really simply want to use this location as a launching point for exploring the wonderful beaches of the Troia peninsula.
Lisbon, Casa do Valle, and Sintra
From the sprawling gardens of the Casa do Valle, a welcoming little B&B just a short stroll from this picturesque town’s historic center, take in the picture-perfect views of Sintra mountain and its palaces. Families are welcomed by the welcoming proprietors, and most of the delightful guestrooms can accommodate additional beds and cots. Unheated pool, computer room, and small library with board games and maps are all available.
Quinta Coimbra, close to Centro de Coimbra
The best of both worlds may be found at this charming old converted mill, which is located just 25 miles from the cosmopolitan attractions of the great old university town of Coimbra while still enjoying a tranquil rural location. The welcoming owners have made a private section of their house available for visitors. The stone structure, which beds four people, has whitewashed walls, wooden floors, antique furniture, and stunning views of farmland and forest in all directions. The region is well known for its crystal-clear rivers, several of which offer sandy beaches ideal for some secluded swimming.
