Portugal in Spring: Peace in the Countryside
Herdade da Barrosinha
As we roadtripped through Portugal, from Porto to the Algarve, we stopped for a night at Herdade da Barrosinha, a peaceful estate tucked into the Alentejo countryside near Alcácer do Sal. The drive itself was one of our favorite parts—winding roads through rolling hills, the scent of orange groves in the air, and the kind of golden light that makes you dream about moving to the countryside.
With the estate nearly empty during the spring off-season, we had the pool, orchards, and sprawling grounds to ourselves—exactly the slow, peaceful pace we were craving. The kids spent hours swimming, plucking oranges straight from the trees, and befriending a gentle local dog who wandered among the villas. We loved the thoughtful design—natural materials, rustic-modern touches, and a layout that felt rooted in the surrounding landscape.
Though spring brought its own quiet charm, we can easily imagine how magical this place would feel in summer: sunlit poolside afternoons, al fresco drinks under the trees, and creative workshops in the on-site artist studios or winery.
Why We Loved It:
Quiet off-season magic: Serene, spacious, and perfectly suited to slow family travel.
Beautiful, family-friendly design: Minimalist rooms and villas with character and comfort.
Simple outdoor joys: Orange picking, swimming, playground time, and friendly animals.
If you’re dreaming of a restful, visually rich escape—especially in a quieter season—this is a stay to bookmark.