The concept behind the Villa is deceptively simple.Tranquillity, authenticity and quality of life are in effect the basic pillars. And it surpasses these criteria splendidly.

Set amidst 3,000 acres of rolling hills and olive groves, overlooking the tranquil valley of Sicó Hills, and recently rebuilt, it has maintained much of the old world items as possible whilst catering to modern comforts. In effect a place hand built for peace and reflection. But it was not always so. For centuries the small village where Villa Pedra is located was known as Aldeia de Cima (the village from above, given its height). It was left deserted for almost a century and its stone houses had been transformed into picturesque ruins.

Thankfully the current owners saw the potential of Villa Pedra as an ecological retreat and the first 10 houses that now make up the accommodation were reconstructed with stone blocks walls covered with lime ochre, as in the original version. All details were carefully studied on an ecological and aesthetic basis, to provide a combination of ecological awareness and comfort all year around.

Each house is autonomous and private, but whichever one you choose silence is only be broken by the chirping of the birds or winds blowing the trees. Reading, cooking, walking, swimming or lighting up the fireplace will be par for the course. Yet there is much to see and do here.

The region deserves to be explored for its historical sites, landscapes, food products and a variety of curiosities. In fact, the small villages around this area maintain a close relationship with nature, whose livelihood comes mainly by agriculture and cattle breeding – no grey factories will be found here. In short one of the ultimate places to get away from it all in our Portugal selection.