The QuintA
Quinta Souto Covo is situated in the Beira Alta Province of Northern Portugal. It is in a remote valley overlooking the beautiful River Paiva which meanders its way along the bottom of the property, approximately 5 miles down-stream from the quaint town of Castro Daire and 1 mile from the appealing little village of Reriz.
The Douro River and Port wine area are nearby and historical towns such as Vila Real, Bragança and Coimbra are an easy day trip away. The views from the main house and the self-catering Lodge are breathtaking. There is a natural spring pool on the terrace below the Lodge and down at the river a private ‘beach’ and swimming area with its own sun-baking terrace.
The gardens are extensive and beautifully terraced, made up of a forest of vines, mature pine, oak, chestnut trees and several different kinds of fruit trees. It is a pleasure to walk through and the sound of water follows you wherever you go.
Accommodation
The property consists of two houses – the main house and the Lodge – designed by an artist to blend in with the stunning countryside and are both built of local materials.
The independent Lodge is ideal for families as it can sleep up to 7 people. It is comprised of a very large sitting room with north-facing cathedral windows that lead onto a balcony with breathtaking views over the private estate and river valley.
The Lodge also has satellite TV, internet connection, a fully equipped kitchen and dining area.
The main house is a split-level construction of local stone and with a slate roof, and which was recently renovated to the highest standards. The accommodation in the main house consists of two suites each with their separate dressing room and shower rooms with all the requirements and luxuries you could wish for to make your stay a memorable one.
The Grounds
The grounds are very secluded in their own bend of this delightful valley, with stunning views over the river and the Serra de Montemuro mountains opposite. This marvellous countryside is ideal for those who enjoy walking, swimming, bird-watching, trout fishing, kayaking down the river or practising various outdoor pursuits.
It is also the perfect spot for those who are looking for peace and tranquillity, “far from the madding crowd”, in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Quinta nestles in a green and lush valley: the sides of the mountain are clad in eucalyptus and pine, and the tops are open moorland which in the spring time is covered in heather of the most beautiful colours. In the valley floor grow warm Mediterranean crops which are available from the garden in season.
Legend relates that the artist, Picasso, visited this estate on a number of occasions as the guest of the original owner of the property, the German artist Heinz Kraken.