How does everyone feel about travelling at the moment, given the ongoing restrictions and quarantine rules? I’m still nervous about it, but that hasn’t stopped me browsing the net and dreaming about where I’ll go as soon as I feel a bit more confident. And my latest find, Casa na Terra in Portugal’s beautiful Alentejo region, is certainly fuelling my wanderlust.
I’ve visited the Alentejo once before, during a research trip for my previous job as deputy editor of a travel website, and I was captivated by its vast plains, rolling hills and open skies. I’d love to go back to explore at a more leisurely pace and this stunning holiday rental – the latest opening from Silent Living, whose portfolio also includes the renowned Santa Clara 1728 in Lisbon – looks like the perfect base.
Created by Aires Mateus and named Arch Daily‘s ‘Building of the Year’ for 2020, Casa na Terra overlooks the mirror-still expanse of Lake Alqueva, just outside the hilltop town of Monsarez. It was designed to blend into its surroundings and it’s near-impossible to spot from most angles – the rear is huddled into the terrain and covered with a grass roof, with only the white-tiled light wells and narrow, slit-like entrance providing any hint of its presence. It’s only when you reach the front that the cantilevered concrete structure reveals itself, jutting out from the hillside to form a series of inverted domes. It’s sculptural and highly contemporary, yet it almost looks as if it’s a natural part of the landscape.
Inside, a central corridor zig-zags through the house, with the living area and kitchen opening out to the lake-facing terrace on one side and the three ensuite bedrooms tucked beneath the earth on the other. The cast-concrete frame has been left exposed throughout, creating a sleek, minimalist feel that’s enhanced by swathes of floor-to-ceiling glass and banks of built-in cupboards. Rattan pieces, raw timber panels and wooden chairs add texture and warmth, softening the overall look and providing striking elements of contrast. There are also lots of little touches that give a nod to the rustic setting, including gnarled antique furniture and hand-tied leather straps for door handles.
I don’t know about you, but I can’t think of a better place to soak up the tranquility of the gorgeous Alentejo countryside. Oh to be there right now, sitting back with a glass of local wine and watching the ever-changing light dance across the water…
Find out more about Casa na Terra and make a booking here. Rates start at €350 per night, with a minimum stay of three or seven nights depending on the season. The house sleeps up to six, and breakfast and daily cleaning are included in the price.
Photography by Nelson Garrido and Rui Cardoso for Silent Living
Wonderful!