European Enterprise Awards 2025 Best Rural Tourism & Eco-Retreat 2025 – North West Portugal Long underrated, Northern Portugal is a favourite amongst travellers after something a little different than the usual beach or city holiday people usually have on a visit to this Mediterranean country, with this region in particular being known for its rural charm and picturesque villages, as well as Portugal’s only national park. Nestled away in this tranquil region, Quinta do Rapozinho (QdR) offers seven houses spread across a farm in Cabeceiras de Basto. The perfect place to unwind and soak up all that Northern Portugal has to offer, we take a closer look at this award-winning retreat. From one of seven homes embodying the rustic charm and cosiness of traditional country life, guests from all over the world can enjoy all that Northern Portugal has to offer. Surrounded by mountains, each of these houses comes equipped with a living room, full kitchen, bathroom with free amenities, fresh bedding and bath towels, heating, and a BBQ. Houses range in size, meaning there is something for everyone – be it a young couple in search of calm or a family of ten embarking on a oncein-a-lifetime holiday. An area of outstanding natural beauty, Cabeceiras de Basto is one of the prettiest regions in Portugal on account of its green hills, clear streams, and tranquil nature. Proud to call this area home, Quinta do Rapozinho’s aforementioned houses all perfectly embody the characteristics of the region – achieved by the owners using both recycled materials and furniture across their renovations. Alongside these houses is a shared pool area and an honesty bar, with breakfast being served daily and other meals available. This barely scratches the surface when it comes to the abundance of services on offer from QdR, which covers all of the bases for the diverse guests it welcomes. For example, if a couple want breakfast delivered to them in bed or a romantic dinner for two to be cooked and served, all they need do is ask. Similarly, if parents need someone to watch the children as they enjoy their breakfast in peace, a morning babysitter can be arranged. Guests who worry that their children may find the serenity of the Portuguese countryside boring need not fear, as QdR more than has enough activities up its sleeve to keep them entertained, no matter the time of day. This includes experiences where they can make their own pizzas or cotton candy, visit the on-site chickens to collect their fresh eggs, and even embark on a treasure hunt across the farm – with a prize. There is also an outdoor cinema to enjoy, or kids can attend a childfriendly yoga class ran by the team here. Of course, there is plenty for the adults to do as well, such as attending a group picnic walk complete with a nature-filled itinerary and a homecooked picnic, enjoying the on-demand bar service available, or attending a yoga session of their own. Adults also enjoy the small winery that is here, as well as shopping and laundry services and even someone to keep the house fireplace lit at all times. For extra peace of mind, all of the houses also have dedicated car parking, as well as two electric car chargers, reflecting its eco focus. Allowing its guests to get in touch with nature is something that QdR is incredibly passionate about, and it takes a number of steps to make this possible for them. Be it blocking the Wi-Fi on request for a specific device or the whole house (forcing kids off screens) or even just welcoming pets into the houses, the team create an environment conducive to getting out and enjoying nature. It helps that there is plenty to do in the vicinity, and QdR has partnered with many local excursion providers to offer guests the best time off-site as well as on it. Highlights of this partner network include Pena Adventure Park – which is suitable for all ages and located just 30 minutes away from QdR – as well Vertical Dream, which offers canyoning and rafting, again within a 30-minute drive from QdR. However, many of the best things to do in Cabeceiras de Basto are free, such as visiting the famous Moinhos-deRei leisure park and seeing the 14th century watermills there or stopping into the beautiful S. Miguel Monestery, which was built in approximately the same period. Ultimately, whatever a guest ends up doing during their stay at Quinta do Rapozinho, they are sure to have a relaxing visit that will see them become one with Northern Portugal’s countryside. To browse all seven properties available on this farm or to view the multitude of services and local excursions available, simply visit the link below. Contact: Teresa Guimarães & Paulo Moura Company: Quinta do Rapozinho Web Address: https://www.quintadorapozinho.com/ AIS-Nov25276
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