At a Glance
Located down a long, winding road, this tasteful bed and breakfast is set on over 200 acres of property and is run by a plugged-in, connected owner.
Review
The Herdade da Chaminé is the passion of Marta Galvão de Mello, who turned her family’s estate into an exclusive hideaway in 2006. Located a one-and-a-half-hour drive east of Lisbon, in the mostly agrarian Alentejo region, the Herdade sits on a 214-acre property, which is planted with pine, cork and olive trees and includes three horse stables, a cattle pen and large swimming pool.
The peach-and-white-colored 17th-century main house, which is only available for full take-overs in one-week periods, is surrounded by outdoor patios and seating areas. The property was lovingly restored by de Mello, who decorated the interiors with her family’s art and antiques. A plugged-in guide, she can arrange a variety of special activities in the area, including private wine tastings at one of the 30 vineyards nearby, hot-air balloon trips, tee times, painting classes and tickets to the local Portuguese-style bullfights. If you’re not prepared to play Ernest Hemingway for the day, she can still get you to meet and have lunch with the toreadors afterwards. Families and friends traveling together should consider taking over the entire property (a private chef who specializes in regional cuisine is on site at all times).
Who Should Stay
Herdade da Chamine is an equestrian's paradise: guests have access to any of the three perfectly maintained stables. The hotel is also recommended for guests who like intimate, personalized service. Herdade da Chamine hosts a maximum of 26 guests so be prepared to get to know your fellow visitors quite well.
Written by