Unique to its country, Quintas are cherished estates offering high qualities of living in the Portuguese countryside. Often paired alongside large hectares of land, it’s not uncommon to see these Homestays also producing wine with the ‘Quinta’ title in the Douro giving it a distinct reputation as producers of the highest quality. From authentic to grandeur, there’s a Quinta to suit all tastes, here’s a sample of what you might expect at our favourite few.

Located on lands with centuries of history, tradition is at the heart of design in a Quinta and evident in every element of detail. Small-scale stays more like ‘Casas’ with a handful of rooms holding their same historic roles such as kitchens and libraries to replicate the long-held principals of its previous families. All offer special homages to the region and its people, which take pride in design to elude local personality. By incorporating native material such as schist, the same that gives hold to the walls surrounding its vines and azulejos splayed fireplaces, it’s clear these buildings are alive with the souls of its various past possessors.

At this Quinta, produce is at the heart of its heritage with homages to this incorporated in all elements of its old baronial-style house which was restored to create a blissful stay. Like their wine production, the house combines history and innovation to cultivate impeccable experiences which aid in the understanding of producing the perfect Port Wine. Rise with its workers and unearth the production process from vine to bottle, finished with a tasting served alongside sumptuous produce grown on its fertile lands. 

Located down a dusty pot-holed track in the far removed upper reaches of the Douro two hours from Porto, this small six bedroom lodge is artistically suspended across a gorge with remarkable views out to the remote vines above the river. The design features an open-plan living room with splashes of colour in its woven rugs to create an ‘Out-of-Africa’ feel and dated black and white photographs which give a glimpse into the Quinta’s history. Adventure is on your doorstep exploring the surrounding by bike or foot and the suspended infinity pool is the perfect spot to come back to and relax after a days ride, with a glass of their impeccable organic wine in hand.