It's difficult to find fault with either the accommodation or the host of this charming bungalow on the crest of a hill in rural Portugal. However, you won't believe this is a real review unless I do, so in December and January, when the nights dropped below zero but the house was snug and warm, there was a fair amount of condensation in the bathroom and kitchen, but that's nothing to the positives.
The bungalow itself is part of a larger quinta where the owner's parents live, but it has its own gates and driveway and our privacy was respected. The house is a single story modern build, licenced as a holiday let, with a large lounge/diner, two bedrooms, a kitchen and bathroom.
The kitchen is fully equipped with stove, dishwasher, washing machine, coffee machine and everything else you would want if you're not going to try any of the delicious restaurants in the area (and if you're not, why are you in Portugal?).
The bathroom has a sink, shower, loo and bidet. The main room has cable TV and a hifi.
The lounge has a couch, chairs, dining table and (as we were there midwinter) a very efficient pellet stove.
But it's all the little extras that make you feel welcome. Ourico supplies various folders with things to do, places to see and eat and market days in the various towns. He even supplies a Tomtom with the places pre-registered in it. There's wifi, a series of DVDs and books in English and Portuguese and even some games. His English is perfect and he's keen to help further if there's anything else you need.
The village is small and quiet. There are no local cafe or shops, so you will need a car (though if you're up for it, there's a fantastic restaurant, cafe adeil luis in vale florido a two mile walk away)
As we were there over Christmas and New Year we even got a mini Christmas tree on the table and some Christmas goodies.
Not the place for night clubbers, but I can't recommend this charming village treat for those that want to immerse themselves in Portuguese countryside.