The hills of central Portugal may be greener than much of Spain, calmer than the hectic coast, and enjoy more dramatic scenery than most areas, but when it is hot in summer all you want to do is jump in the clear waters of the local rivers. Lucky then that Casal do Pau fronts the Rio Ceira where you can peacefully bathe all day long on your own river frontage. There are so many local river beaches and gorges in this area that this one never gets busy, but if it is total privacy you desire then this quinta (farmhouse) also has a stone-walled courtyard that would suit even the nudists of this world.

The mix of modern, antique and secondhand furnishings give the house a simple, homely Bohemian feel, and you have a large garden to romp about in. The raised patio has good views, and you can use the original wood-fired oven if you wish; the less adventurous will appreciate the modern kitchen with the usual appliances. Lots to explore in this area, with affordable eating and good drinking in the village (10 mins. walk), and a laid-back atmosphere to boot. Extra Casal do Pau photos.

The property has Wi-Fi  internet (via 'dongle', connected but not guaranteed).

First Floor (property entered on first floor)

• Reception - with seating, dining and open-plan kitchen. Modern appliances, fridge-freezer, microwave, TV (Portuguese channels)
• Master Bedroom - large room with double bed, sofas, woodburner
• Bathroom - with bath and seperate shower, WC
• Bedroom - bunks with double on top, single below. best suited to children

Ground Floor (accessed independently off courtyard)

• Bedroom - large with double and single beds

Outside:

• Large enclosed garden
• Shady courtyard or open sun terrace with views (patio furniture for both)
• Traditional wood-fired bread/pizza oven
• Direct access to swimming beach or walk further down to beautiful gorge
• Parking for up to four cars behind gates

This location is relatively accessible via public transport. You may need a taxi or to ask for a lift at the start and end of your holiday if you have heavy cases, but otherwise there are local public transport services available within walking distance. You can get information on UK transport services from Transport Direct using a destination postcode of 3330-411.

Buses and trains from Lisbon and Porto to Coimbra. Then regular buses from Coimbra to Vila Nova do Poiares (1 hour, approx €4.). Taxi to house (5 km) just off the N2

• Region - lots of info
• Clean river bathing - edge of property
• Beaches - choice of many river beaches (4 within 15 minutes)
• Villa Nova do Ceira - village with shops, cafes, bars - 10 mins. walk
• Gois - lovely town with beautiful sandy beaches- 10 mins. drive
• Schist villages - choice of 9 within 30 mins.
• Bussaco Palace, National Park & gardens - 45 mins.
• Coimbra - historic University town - 40 mins.
• Coast - (many beaches, castles) -  about 1 hour 15 mins.

Airports:

• Porto (Ryanair, Easyjet, TAP, British Airways etc.) - 2.5 hours (or less)
• Lisbon (Easyjet, TAP, British Airways etc.) - 3 hours (or less)
• Faro (Easyjet, Ryanair etc.) - 6 hours (or less) - split with stay in Algarve?

• restoration of traditional building in disuse
• conservation of original architectural features
• salvaged material used in restoration
• private drainage
• composting on site (recycling in village)
• only biodegradable detergents used & line-drying for linen
• low energy lightbulbs
• 'heat on demand' hot water

Recommended max. 6 adults as 1 bathroom Note stone steps to courtyard (with hand rail) if bringing small children