A relaxing retreat, by every sense of the term. Casa Baio Bed and Breakfast, in the north of Portugal’s Alentejo region, is that complete escape that you’ve been telling yourself you need. Sitting in the middle of 70 hectares of rolling hills, there is not a single glimpse of civilization in sight. The silence is noticeable, only interrupted by an occasional sheep making its way past your window. It is much needed medicine for the urban life that ails you.
Owners Vincent and Alan, Belgian and American expats, respectively, built the contemporary home from an abandoned farmhouse. (Like you) it was their dream to leave the daily grind of London for greener, quieter pastures. After an extensive search for property, from north to south in Portugal, they settled on the solitude of Monte Vale De Baio. As Vincent is an interior designer, he went to work on designing a property that would function as a modern home, incorporate the beautiful, natural surroundings, as well as indulge visiting family, friends and guests.
Unfortunately, the original farmhouse was in complete disrepair. The only thing salvageable from the structure, the multi-colored glass door, was refurbished for an honorable placement as the entrance to the home. The unique design feature is now the first impression guests see as they enter the modern compound.
Beyond the door, guests will find an open-to-the-environment courtyard. The owner’s residence is on one side; the four guest suites, placed in pairs are on the other and separated by a large garden. Each suite has south-facing, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and windows, ideal for fully-appreciating the natural landscape.
The rooms are minimal, with comfortable modern bed and two chairs turned outward toward the view. Antique bedside tables add an eclectic touch and are reminders of the rustic heritage of the location. Built-in desk, shelving and wardrobes, are camouflaged into the walls and have all the storage space that you need. The generous-sized bathrooms, with small atrium open to the sky, could rival those of any five-star resort.
Although there is no “restaurant” at Casa Baio, a delightful breakfast is delivered to your door every morning. Inside the picnic basket are still-warm bread and pastries, fresh squeezed orange juice, homemade granola and Greek yogurt, a fig compote made with figs from outside the door, and fresh honey from Casa Baio’s apiary. Dinners, prepared by the owners, can be requested for an extra charge.
There is not too much to do on site…but that’s the point, right? Sit on your terrace, read a book or take in the views. Hike the paths through olive tree groves. Have a crisp glass of white on the sitting area extending out from the property. Dive into the refreshing pool and enjoy the Alentejo sunshine.
Casa Baio requires a two-night minimum stay. Prices start at €130 per night. Take a break from the day-to-day madness and relish the modern accommodations in a rural setting.
For more information, visit the Casa Baio website.
Casa Baio Bed & Breakfast
Monte Vale De Baio
Figueira E Barros
Alentejo
Phone: +351 911 950 550
Email: ola@casabaio.com
