Montimerso Country House: Alentejo’s Eco-Friendly Getaway
Tucked away in the plains of Alentejo sits Montimerso SkyScape Country House, a hidden gem of the Portuguese countryside. This quiet and secluded eco-resort offers stunning views, plenty of outdoor space and some of the best night skies you’ll experience in Europe.
If you are looking for an eco-friendly stay in the Portuguese countryside, but wonder if this location would be for you, then keep on reading!
We’ll dive deep into what makes Montimerso so special, from the quality of the stay to its vast terrain, to help you determine if this peaceful oasis fits your holiday plans!
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Getting to Montimerso
The property is situated within a protected area right next to the Alqueva Lake, the largest artificial lake in Europe. As such, Montimerso Skyscape CountryHouse finds itself quite isolated, and is more easily reached by car.
Having your own vehicle will also allow you greater freedom of movement when exploring the rest of the region.
There are, of course, other ways to reach the hotel:
Take a bus from Lisbon to Évora. It will take you just under two hours, and Montimerso staff will be more than happy to organise a transfer for you from there. Alternatively, there is also a train service running between the two cities. This option is faster, but less affordable.
Two websites we recommend you check out when planning this route are Rede Expressos for reliable bus services, and CP for trains.
Another option is to fly to Badajoz Airport, just over the Spanish border. As with the previous option, Montimerso staff will be able to organise a pick-up for you.
The Property
Montimerso occupies an area of 50 hectares, the vast majority of which is left wild, untouched and fully free for guests to explore. Cows, horses and wild animals freely roam the area, along with three dogs that belong to the owners. If the dogs worry you, be reassured that these pups are extremely friendly and might even spontaneously decide to accompany you on walks! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The property is run entirely on renewable energy, and has adopted several practices to integrate it as much as possible into the natural landscape. Several energy-consuming appliances have power saving options, such as motion-activated LED lights and the air-conditioning in the rooms automatically switching off when doors are opened. Single use plastics also are reduced as much as possible, and are almost completely absent.
Because of its eco-friendly practices, Montimerso SkyScape Country House has even made onto our list of the best eco-stays and eco-friendly hotels in Portugal!
As we mentioned, Montimerso is situated within walking distance from the famous Alqueva Lake, in the heart of a protected natural reserve. While the lake is outside of the boundaries of the property, it can be reached on foot in around 10 to 15 minutes. There, you’ll be able to go for a refreshing swim, hike through the rocky fields and observe a myriad of birds, mammals and reptiles.
Keep in mind, however, that the paths outside of the built-up area can be quite rocky and steep, while the edge of the lake can be very muddy. We highly recommend you bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes!
Pro-Tip:
Montimerso is a true haven for birdwatchers; Raptors can easily be spotted soaring through the sky, while hoopoes and other songbirds move through the trees and in the brush. Down by the lake you’ll be able to spot several varieties of ducks, herons and egrets, and, if you’re lucky, even some rare and endangered species such as the black stork and the Bonelli’s eagle.
A pair of binoculars is a must!
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The Stay
Rooms
Montimerso’s availability consists of 11 standard rooms and 4 premium suites that include a small private pool. From both sets of rooms you’ll be able to enjoy a stunning view of the property and two regional landmarks:
- Ala Monsaraz: From these rooms you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful view of the fortified town hill of Monsaraz, along with the north-eastern part of the property.
Ala Alqueva: Facing south-east, the spectacular view from these rooms is less obstructed, and extends further over the property all the way to the Alqueva lake and the Mourão castle.
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Pro-Tip:
While both rooms offer stunning views, we personally recommend the Ala Alqueva for a truly unforgettable view!
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All rooms in Montimerso are decorated in a very minimalist and rustic way, perfectly reflecting the style of the region. Regardless of the choice, they also all come equipped with a large closet, a small safe, a comfy queen-sized bed, a couch and a large private bathroom.
Additionally, all rooms have access to a private patio with reclining chairs, ideal for enjoying an early morning coffee while the sun rises over the land, or gazing at the incredible night sky after a busy day.
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The Common Area
Located in the centre of the complex, next to the reception and the restaurant, Montimerso’s common area is a charming space that is perfect for relaxing at the end of the day, connecting with the other guests or just catching up with work.
The space comes equipped with a TV and various chairs, couches and recliners, so there is plenty of space for everyone to get comfortable. What’s more, two traditional fire places provide natural heating during the colder months of the year. And for our fellow bookworms, you’ll love the small library filled with books donated by previous guests!
Finally, the common room includes a well equipped honesty bar. This concept means you can help yourself to any drink or spirit you wish, just remember to include your info and consumed item on the list hanging by the bar.
From the common room you’ll also be able to access a large external patio, perfect for an early evening drink or simply relaxing outdoors while enjoying the peace and quiet of Alentejo!
The Infinity TimeScape Pool
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Montimerso’s infinity pool is situated on the western part of the property, slightly removed from the rest of the complex. Because of its location, this area can get extremely quiet, almost to the point where we found ourselves whispering to not break the silence.
There is a wooden patio with reclining chairs for relaxing after a refreshing dip, and, while the pool bar is momentarily not in service, you can even order yourself a drink from the reception!
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Pro-Tip:
The pool area is the tallest point in the property, and as such is perfect for enjoying a spectacular sunrise!
The Restaurant
Montimerso has a rather unique approach to their meal service.
If you wish to have lunch or dinner you must give a notice 24h in advance, along with which dishes you wish to try. While this might at first seem strange, the reason this system is in place is to efficiently minimise food waste, as the only ingredients that will be prepped will be the ones for your meal.
As for breakfast, which is continental and offers vegetarian and gluten free options, it is included and you will not be required to book in advance.
Along with meals, there are also local ingredients and specialities available for purchase. We definitely recommend the honey that is produced on the property, you won’t regret trying it!
Other Amenities
- Free parking is available, and is located only a short distance from the main building. If you wish to load and unload your car closer to your room, you can drive all the way down to the reception area.
- Reliable Wi-fi is available, and is fast enough if you need to get some work done or just want to relax and stream a movie.
- Free coffee and tea, along with a minibar, are available in every room.
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What to do around Montimerso
Montimerso sits on a cultural and natural crossroad, so there is definitely no shortage of activities!
The wilderness of Alentejo is open to explore both on foot or by bicycle (available for free) all year long, although you will enjoy it best in autumn and spring, when the temperatures are more manageable.
In the summer, escape the heat with a swim in the fresh waters of the Alqueva lake, followed by a picnic in the shade of an olive tree, Alentejo style. By car, you can also reach several beaches that offer more amenities, such as bars, restaurants, sun beds and life guards. This is an ideal option for a more relaxed activity with kids.
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At night, take a path through the brush to Montimerso’s stargazing area. Here you can relax in complete silence, broken only occasionally by the movement of night animals around you, and observe one of the most incredible night skies in the world. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
In fact, Montimerso is part of Dark Sky Alqueva, the first UNESCO Starlight Tourism Destination. If conditions are right, you’ll get an amazing view of constellations, galaxies and nebulae, shooting stars zipping by and much more!
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As for sightseeing, the region of Alentejo is known for its charming and quiet fortified towns. Often located on hills, these relics of Portugal’s tumultuous history offer an escape back in time and to a simpler way of life, as well as stunning views over the lands they used to protect.
Among the ones you must visit Monsaraz is the closest, located only 10 minutes away by car. This charming town is the perfect spot to catch the sunset, followed by a bite to eat and a night walk through the narrow alleyways.
Others that cannot miss from your bucket list are Elvas, with its unique fortifications, and Évora, the regional capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Sight.
Montimerso also offers several activities throughout the year, ranging from horse rides to boat trips and guided stargazing, or more cultural experiences such as wine tastings and guided town visits. The various activities change with the seasons, so be sure to check out what is available during your stay!
Our Thoughts
Montimerso was a unique experience for us. While not the first eco-friendly stay we visited, it stunned us with its unique and wild natural landscape, and the incredible silence that seems to permeate the entire property. This, along with the minimalist architecture and interior design, really succeeds in making Montimerso a true oasis of peace.
If an escape from the chaos of city life is what you are looking for, then we would struggle to recommend a more suitable place. Sure, the price is a little steep, but it makes sense if you consider just how much roaming space you are offered. From the rocky trails of the property, where the only sound you hear is the droning of crickets and cicadas, to the open plains surrounding the lake, you would be missing out if you spent your time in Montimerso just sitting by the pool. We believe that this is the stay’s biggest strength, and what really sets it aside from everything we’ve visited so far.
If you’re looking for a dynamic location, full of entertainment and close to the action, then this will not be for you. With that said, we still recommend you check it out for a least a night and then move on to a more lively destination.
However, if what you’re after is to immerse yourself in the silence of nature and to explore all that Alentejo has to offer then we suggest you go ahead and book yourself a room, you’ll be in for a treat.
And of course, we cannot end this article without a huge thank you to Bárbara, David, Marta and the rest of the Montimerso team.
Thank you guys for an amazing experience!
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