Casa das Lajes – The Algarve’s hidden rural charm
It is not uncommon that in coastal holiday hotspots you have to venture inland a little to find true tranquillity and peace. You’ll certainly find equanimity at Casa das Lajes, nuzzled in the heart of the beautiful and unspoilt Serra da Caldeirao in the Algarve. In this picturesque spot nature dominates your surroundings as the rolling landscape comes alive with birdsong of the rarest of birds.
Casa das Lajes is a tastefully renovated Portuguese single story farmhouse full of authentic antique furniture but at the same has all the modern conveniences such as satellite TV and Wi-Fi. The beamed ceilings are in-filled with bamboo, the contrasting wood and colours creating an authentically-stylish look.
The floors throughout the house are tiled in a traditional style while an open fireplace is a central feature of the living room and is perfect for anyone visiting out of season when the nights can be a little bit chilly. The use of time-honoured materials runs throughout the whole of this three bedroom villa, which can comfortably sleep six.
The kitchen is particularly delightful with glossy wooden work tops and cupboards complementing the chunky wooden beams above and rusty ceramic tiles below. Instead of having doors hinged the cupboards in Casa das Lajes’s kitchen the cupboards are covered with fabric, a simple yet effective design trait that seems confined to the Iberian Peninsula.
Outside is equally as quirky, interesting and natural with traditional traits effortlessly merged with the modern. A large private pool takes centre stage surrounded by natural stone paving. The villa’s covered terrace sports spectacular views of the surrounding nature. An all-important built-in barbecue awaits visitors, the focal source of all that al fresco wining and dining under the clear, crisp Algarve night sky.
Casa das Lajes lies within the sleepy hamlet of Lajes, which has no shops, bars or amenities, just friendly locals and breath-taking views. The closest place of civilisation as we know it is the the small village of Parizes, which is six kilometres away. For a more comprehensive shop you will need to travel to the market town of Sao Bras De Alportal which has everything you need including supermarkets, bars and fine restaurants. The coast is approximately an hour’s drive away where the characterful coastal town of Tavira awaits, which is well-known for its history, architecture, river and many top-notch seafood restaurants.
Although the real magic of this hidden Algarve gem lies on its doorstep in the verdurous valleys of the Serra do Caldeirao. This vast stretch of protected hills and woodland is covered in Strawberry Tree, Tree Heath, Sunrose and Cork Oak. With eagles, sparrow hawks, and woodpeckers, be sure to take your binoculars with you when exploring this area of unsurpassable natural beauty, or at the very least, your camera.
Crowds and commercialisation are pretty easy to find at home and on holiday while a little peace and quiet tends to be more elusive. It is for these reasons that Portugal’s Casa das Lajes is a remarkably special place to stay. For more information, photos, availability and prices visit: vintagetravel.co.uk.