Vinte Quinta da Boavista – a serene retreat in Northern Portugal

Each detail, from the personalised service to the distinctive ambience at the quinta, is thoughtfully designed.

Surrounded by peaceful countryside, whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous holiday, Vinte Quinta caters to both, and you don’t need to leave the property, because literally everything you could wish for is here. Its proximity to Peneda-Gerês National Park makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. But if you prefer not to travel further, the quinta itself offers entertainment for both children and adults. Here, you can experience the calming rhythm of nature, combined with the team’s warm energy.

First impressions

I believe it’s essential to experience this place firsthand, as every detail is crafted with precision, and it’s difficult to describe it without seeing it yourself.

We arrived in the evening, and Maria was waiting to welcome us. She is very kind, friendly and passionate about her job. She previously worked at high-standard hotels, but as she explains, “I worked as a front desk manager, and always some problems appeared. Here at Vinte Quinta everything works perfectly, and if something doesn’t, it’s fixed immediately”.

We stayed at the Family House for two nights, which has four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Designed with simplicity and unique décor, it’s perfect for a family stay.

Even before entering, we were captivated by the patio, featuring a large dining table, a hammock, and an outdoor grill.

Although the quinta dates back many years, its current owners, Ella and Sergey, acquired it in 2018. They first renovated the main house, where they live, and then decided to expand, building four new houses and two apartments, with the vision of bringing more people to the area and sharing its beauty with others. As a result, all houses for rent were built recently, yet feel timeless.

Accommodation options and design

Ella works only with experts in every field, so a team of international architects helped design the houses. Carefully selected materials underscore a commitment to natural elegance while preserving authenticity, creating a tranquil space for guests.

Each house and apartment is individually decorated, with its own history and charm. Each space is designed with authenticity, comfort and elegance.

Casa Julieta is a romantic duplex designed for couples. Beautifully decorated, with an old-style wood-burning stove, a balcony, and a bedroom with access to the terrace. Thanks to its romantic design and remote location, it’s a perfect place to spend a honeymoon.

Casa Sobre a Vinha is also a duplex house, with large windows offering wonderful views of the vineyards. There is a shared barbecue area with a grill and picnic tables, providing guests with an immediate connection to nature.

All houses feature a calm, soothing colour palette that harmonises the interior and exterior spaces, reflecting the houses’ identity.

Paintings by Spanish illustrator David Pintor decorate the walls of each house, showcasing different corners of the quinta. David’s work is known for its range across illustration, caricature, and visual storytelling. His illustrations capture perfectly the magical atmosphere and daily life at the quinta.

Life at the Quinta

Vinte Quinta spans 13 hectares and is managed by a dedicated team that cares for vineyards, an orchard, and an olive grove. They produce their own olive oil, jams and many other products from their fruits and vegetables. Quinta da Boavista proudly produces a distinguished collection of high-quality wines under its own brand, Vinte Vinho and Vinte Videiras.

They even have chickens, so at breakfast you can enjoy egg dishes prepared from their very own eggs.

That’s how we started our Saturday, at the main house, we enjoyed a delightful breakfast with a great selection of healthy and homemade products and fruit, but especially vegetables, which are usually missing at the hotels.

After breakfast, we took a trip to Ponte de Lima, Portugal’s oldest village, with its iconic bridge. It’s a beautiful historical place with charming shops, cafés and restaurants.

For lunch, we returned to Vinte Quinta and enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by their private chef, who uses fresh ingredients grown on the farm and produced with care and love.

In the afternoon, Ella invited me to a yoga class at Vinte Quinta’s yoga pavilion. This was a very special experience, as the pavilion is entirely glass, offering panoramic views of the surroundings. In summer, the pavilion opens to the fresh air. Individual classes can be booked by appointment.

Exploring the area

There are many nearby places to visit. During our December stay, we went to Floresta Encantada, a Christmas-themed event. However, Porta do Mezio is an excellent destination year-round, one of the five gateways to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, offering spectacular mountains and valleys. A territory so magnificent that UNESCO considers it a World Biosphere Reserve. A great place for relaxation and family fun.

The quinta has excellent facilities for children! The next morning, my son played in the indoor playhouse, which is such a great idea for rainy and cold days! It’s a two-floor space with a large sofa bed upstairs, toys, a small library, and a built-in climbing area with tunnels that lead to the upper floor, where children can slide back down. Outside, there’s a fantastic playground with a large trampoline.

Sports enthusiasts can rent equipment needed for basketball, volleyball or table games. There are also two hiking trails directly at the quinta, so you don’t need to leave to go for a long walk. Many other hiking routes are nearby.

Let’s not forget the pool; unfortunately we couldn’t use it this season, but it’s open year-round.

In the winter, it’s great to visit their sauna or book a massage or a treatment. Ella thinks through everything, and soon hairdressing services will be available.

There is something magical in the air at Vinte Quinta. Staying here means slowing down, reconnecting with nature and with yourself, and enjoying the simple pleasures of wide-open outside space, sunshine, and comfort.

To discover more, visit their website https://vintequinta.com/