Quinta da Bouca d'Arques

Picture this: a beautifully restored manor house surrounded by trellised vineyards in the Minho region of Portugal. Part of the Abreu Teixeira family for 300 years, owners Ana and João wanted put their own mark on the property when they took it on as a project. Using non-traditional materials including concrete, glass and iron, the end result is a mix of contemporary and rustic chic. Located just 14 kilometres inland from the coastal city of Viana do Castelo, this countryside retreat in the north of the country is the place to go for a relaxing break.

A basket of breakfast produce is delivered to your apartment each day (except for Vine, where it's served in the house): the bountiful array of delights ranges from cereals, local cheese and charcuterie to crusty bread, homemade preserves and fresh fruit. Not to mention just-squeezed orange juice. Plus fridges are stocked with milk, coffee, sugar, and not one but five types of tea.

Other meals can be prepared using your kitchenette, or hop in a car (we advise that you hire one) and check out the restaurants of nearby Viana do Castelo and the surrounding areas; Tasquinha da Linda, Camelo and Solar do Pescado have been recommended by Michelin.

Dinner can also be served for a minimum of 6 people at the house on request.

The 7 casas feature a living area, outdoor space and kitchenette, yet the style differs across each. Stay in Acer or Jacaranda – a pair of apartments nestled among the gardens – and enjoy modern decor, air-conditioning and floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Or choose one of the remaining 5 studios – situated in outbuildings – and enjoy more of a classic farmhouse feel. There's also one suite (Vine) that can be found in the main house – the room does not have a kitchen, but there is a fridge and microwave.

Some of the units sleep 4, others 2, making this is a rural retreat for families and couples alike.

Take a dip in chlorine-free pool or catch a some sun on one of the water-side loungers – located in the gardens, it's a pretty spot. And for those wishing to be pampered, book an in-room massage. Families are well catered for too: there's plenty of space in the scenic grounds for children to run around, and a little wooden house where they can play. 

Or if you fancy getting out and about, grab a bike; supplied by Ana and João, they're a great way to see more of the area. Head north-east to Viana do Castelo and check out the Santa Luzia viewpoint or follow the Limia river to Ponte de Lima – if your legs will cycle that far.

There are a handful of beaches within a half an hour drive – Afife, Carreço and Cabedelo – and a couple of golf courses are within easy reach of the property if that's more your thing. Oenophiles should take a trip southwards to the vineyards of Quinta De Paços for a tour and tasting.

Free parking is available.

Free Wi-fi is available.