Casa da Ria
EAST ALGARVE / HOME / TRIED & TESTED
Winding through rugged farm roads lined with quaint holiday houses and sprawling orange groves, the scent of salt and citrus fills the air, offering glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean. This path leads to Casa da Ria, a hidden gem nestled between Santa Luzia and Fuseta in the Eastern Algarve. Sliding gates reveal a panoramic vista of the UNESCO-protected Ria Formosa, with its vast white sand stretches and intricate islands and a concrete staircase leads to the heart of the house, designed by a Luso-Brazilian architect in the 1980s. This post-modern masterpiece contrasts and complements its breathtaking surroundings, embodying a distinct chapter in the Algarve's cultural heritage.
The house's recent renovation in 2021 preserved its mid-century charm while adding modern amenities like air conditioning and heating. Expansive glass facades frame panoramic views, blending geometric forms with the organic environment. Owned by a Portuguese family spread across Portugal, London, and Dubai, Casa da Ria reflects an artistic spirit. The matriarch, an accomplished interior designer, and her sons, Fred and Alex, have meticulously decorated the space with a vibrant color palette and eclectic collectables from their travels. Each of the four bedrooms features floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto the garden, with private indoor-outdoor bathrooms. The garden, with its labyrinth of canals, islands, and marshlands, is a haven for wildlife. Guests can enjoy a saltwater pool and various seating areas along the water’s edge, perfect for quiet reflection as the sun sets.
Casa da Ria is a sanctuary for those seeking to reconnect with nature and the Algarve’s architectural history. With its serene surroundings and artistic touches, it truly embodies the meaning of a hidden gem.
Room Service
Location: Luz, Algarve
Price: Price on Request.
Sleeps: A total of eight, in four ensuite double bedrooms. T
Highlights: The iconic mid-century architecture, and of course, the views…
Our favourite room: There are two ‘master’ suites at each end of the house with the most privacy, and whose bathrooms have floor to ceiling glass windows that that open up to those spectacular vistas.
Services: Self-catered but a breakfast chef is included, and a private chef can be arranged to prepare heavenly spreads throughout your stay. Turndown services are also on request & there is a concierge service provided also.
Designed by Designed in the 1980’s by a Luso-Brazilian architect, the four-bedroom villa was fully renovated in 2021.
Photography by Design Escapes.
The Neighbourhood: The house is located close to the quaint little fishing towns of Fuseta (where you can catch the boat to the desert islands, and Santa Luzia, a seaside village famed for its maritime heritage and the cherished tradition of octopus fishing.
Things to know: A stay here is best with your own set of wheels so you can explore freely.
Casa da Ria is a member of the Design Escapes Club, tried & tested by us.
The Map
Casa da Ria is located on the Ria Formosa in East Algarve, around a twenty five minute drive from Faro. Fly to Faro & rent a little car to take a road trip while finding some freedom while you’re there.
Download the Design Escapes Directory for local recommendations & to ensure you don’t miss out on any spots on your journey.