Monte do Casarão is an enchanting 86-acre eco-lodge in Portugal’s untouched Alentejo region, where six cottages sit atop their own private hills, blending privacy with panoramic views. Adjacent to the Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina, this secluded retreat combines traditional Alentejo architecture with modern comforts, featuring distinctive white walls, red roofs, and blue accents.
Guests can enjoy absolute privacy, stunning countryside views, and pristine beaches nearby, while the property’s central swimming pool and outdoor living spaces provide perfect spots for relaxation. The eco-conscious estate generates its own power through solar panels and maintains sustainable water systems.
Their story
Monte do Casarão was established by Wynand, Nel, and Lies after falling in love with Portugal’s Alentejo region in 2001. They purchased the 86-acre former eucalyptus plantation in 2004, transforming it into an eco-friendly retreat with six architect-designed cottages.
After overcoming infrastructure challenges like water and electricity supply, they opened in 2007. The estate preserves century-old cork oaks and provides a perfect base for stargazing, swimming, and exploring the nearby Atlantic coast. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The cottages are architecturally designed to harmonize with the natural landscape, featuring local materials and traditional Alentejo building styles.
- The eco-lodge runs on solar power, with minimal generator use, and recycles water through wells and a reed-based treatment system.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The eco-lodge generates its own power using 36 solar panels, each producing 1.3 kW output, significantly reducing reliance on their backup diesel generator from five hours to less than one hour daily.
- The property’s electrical infrastructure was thoughtfully designed to support simultaneous use of all appliances while maintaining efficiency. Their advanced system includes four Phoenix Multiplus units for power conversion and battery charging, managed by smart controls.
Pioneer in waste management
- The estate utilizes advanced sewage treatment systems, with waste water from all houses collected and naturally treated through gravel and reed filtration before being safely returned to nature.
- Shower water is repurposed for plant irrigation, demonstrating their water conservation efforts.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The estate utilizes two wells for water supply, implementing eco-friendly purification through ion exchange based on salt rather than chemicals. They practice extensive water conservation by collecting and reusing shower water for plants. Their sewage treatment incorporates natural filtration using gravel and reed beds before returning water to the environment.
- The swimming pool uses an eco-friendly salt-based cleaning system, minimizing chemical usage.
Actively protects nature and community
- They protect ancient cork oaks, which are harvested sustainably every decade. The estate’s pristine location offers guests unparalleled stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Their commitment to environmental stewardship extends to wildlife protection and maintaining the natural landscape.
- The owners foster a strong community spirit, welcoming guests as family while educating them about local ecology and sustainable practices.
Most Popular Activities Near Monte do Casarão
- Swimming in the scenic 6x12m salt-water pool with panoramic views.
- Pétanque games on dedicated court next to the pool.
- Stargazing under pristine dark skies with professional telescope.
- Walking trails across the 86-acre estate amid cork oak trees.
- Painting workshops in spring and autumn for all skill levels.
- Mountain biking and e-bike rentals on nature trails.
- Canoeing adventures in nearby waters.
- Horse riding lessons and trail rides.
- Beach activities at local Atlantic coast beaches.
- Wellness programs including Zumba and Pilates classes.
- Surfing at nearby Aljezur surf spots.
- Cork harvesting observation (seasonal).
- Guided wildlife and nature tours.
- Swimming in Santa Clara reservoir.
- Day trips to historic towns like Évora and Marvão.
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Best Time To Visit Monte do Casarão
- The best time to visit Monte do Casarão is between March and October, when the Alentejo region enjoys mild to warm temperatures perfect for enjoying the estate’s outdoor amenities.
- Spring (March-May) brings comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers, ideal for painting weeks and hiking.
- Summer (June-August) offers perfect conditions for swimming and stargazing, though it can get quite hot.
- Early autumn (September-October) is particularly pleasant with warm days and cool nights, perfect for exploring nearby beaches and villages.
- The estate remains accessible year-round, with wood-burning hearths providing cozy comfort during the cooler winter months.