Casa Na Terra
MONSARAZ / HOME / TRIED & TESTED
On the cusp of the Alqueva Dam, Europes’ largest manmade lake, is a private house that combines industrial minimalism with a play on texture, light & sound. Designed by Portuguese architect Aires Mateus the house, which seems almost as though it is underground, completely blends into the landscape. Surrounded by infinite countryside & with a chorus of cicadas, swallows & grazing cowbells in the distance, closing the door to the almost bunker-like Casa Na Terra envelopes guests in calmness, a thread that runs through each Silent Living dwelling.
Evoking a unique feeling of harmony & protection from the surrounding elements, four bedrooms sit beneath the earth above while the living room & kitchen dining space look out onto the surrounding vista of the lake. A step away from Monsaraz, one of Portugal’s most picturesque villages, spend your days exploring historical monuments in Winter, swimming in the lake in Summer or getting lost on never-ending walks amongst the wildflowers in Spring.
Room Service
Location: Monsaraz, Alentejo. On the banks of the Lagoa do Alqueva, known for its beautiful natural landscapes.
Price: 350€ per night for one to two people with a 50€ charge for every additional guest.
Sleeps: Eight people in four double bedrooms.
Highlights: The views at Casa Na Terra are a sight to behold & stepping out of the house onto the grasslands of the shores of the lake immediately takes guests back to nature. The architecture of the house is a clear spectacle & an experience for design-led travellers to tick off.
Our favourite room: The whole house is yours but we love the room at the centre of the house with a skylight up to the land above.
Services: If requested, & at no additional cost, breakfast is prepared each morning at the house by Maria the housekeeper alongside a delicious afternoon tea. Daily turndown is also provided should you so wish.
Designed by Aires Mateus.
Photography by Design Escapes.
The Neighbourhood: Casa Na Terra is located around a two & a half hours’ drive from Lisbon. Nearby, potters craft terracotta clay & 100-year-old weaving factories provide a unique cultural experience.
Casa Na Terra is a member of the Design Escapes Club, tried & tested personally by us.
The Map
Casa Na Terra is located just outside of the village of Monsaraz, around an two & a half hour drive from Lisbon. Fly to Lisbon & rent a landrover, then take a road trip while finding some freedom during your stay.
Download the Design Escapes Directory for local inspiration & to ensure you don’t miss out on any must see’s on your journey.
Other Alentejo Homes…
A Casa da Estremoz / Alentejo / Sleeps 12
Casa No Tempo / Alentejo / Sleeps 8
Casas Caiadas Cottage / Alentejo / Sleeps 10