Quinta da Sant’ana
MAFRA / HOME / TRIED & TESTED
An hour from Lisbon, situated above a valley in Mafra with views of unspoiled countryside, is a private drive that leads through old romantic gates to the sunshine coloured houses of Quinta de Sant'Ana. An estate passed down to what is now the third generation, this is a place filled with stories of resilience, heart & soul. Stories that, on meeting owner Ann, will make your stay here feel like you are being let in on special family secrets.
Beyond the sprawling (& organic) vineyards, flower fields & animal lodgings, four houses a swimming pool & luscious gardens have been revived & rethought through. An old adega surrounded by orange trees has become a restful cottage, while the old caretaker’s apartment now makes for a character-filled dwelling filled with Ann's collection of pottery, tiles & art. All four houses are self-catered, but fresh bread (for which the town is famous) is delivered each morning & guests are provided with a box of fresh vegetables from the garden when they arrive along with a taste of the Quinta’s wine.
Room Service
Location: Mafra, Lisbon.
Price: From 300€ per night.
Sleep: Cottages sleep between four and ten people.
Highlights: The unique colour of the estate will have you feeling instantly lifted each morning on waking.
Our favourite room: The Vineyard House is our favourite for its modern amenities including air-conditioning for the summer and heating in the winter.
Services: The houses are all self-catered. Fresh linen can be provided for those staying longer than a few days.
Photography by Design Escapes.
The Neighbourhood: Spend days walking amongst the national forest next door, the King’s old hunting grounds, or set off into Mafra to visit one of Portugal’s most spectacular & ornate palaces. The beach at Ericeira is only twenty minutes away too.
Things to know: Other than the vineyard house, the cottages, while filled with character, are fairly basic and a few features need updating. As long as you arrive with this in mind there will be no surprises.
Pair it with: A few nights in Lisbon.
Quinta da Sant’ana is a member of the Design Escapes Club, tried & tested personally by us.
The Map
Quinta da Sant’ana is located just outside of the UNESCO heritage town of Mafra, home to one of the largest palaces & royal hunting estates in Europe. Fly to Lisbon & get the train or rent a car for a little road trip & some freedom while you’re there.
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