The Quinta de São Vincente is an excellent choice for lovers of wine and rural retreats. This pretty rustic estate produces the bubbly “vinho verde” or green wine (which refers to its young age, not colour). Guests can visit the cellars and buy the house wine, or simply talk about things vinicultural with the charming hostess, Teresa Ferreira.

As a rural estate it also has other interesting points of note, including the uplifted corn houses called “Espigueiros”. São Vicente also has its own chapel going back to 1623 which is situated under the shadow of a century old olive tree. The rooms, all en suite or with shower room, are comfortable, unpretentious and certainly good value for money.

Those wine tasting sessions can be shaken off with a horse rides (facilities available in-house) or to a visit to the wonderful and spectacular Geres national park nearby.

Not to be missed if you get the chance.