Relive the 70s - Comporta and Melides

Comporta and Melides - wander barefoot, drift through the day in a flowing silk caftan, and fall asleep in a fisherman’s hut by the sea

The Comporta region is a very laid-back place, where luxury comes barefoot, the sun settles on the line of the sea, and forests of cork and pine stretch to the horizon. The charming hamlets and beautiful beaches along Comporta’s stretch of coast are no longer undiscovered, yet they have kept their calm and rustic atmosphere where architecture and nature coexist in harmony. Those in search of authenticity will always find a place that feels like home on this wild and beautiful coastline located just 80 km from Lisbon.

Best places to stay in Comporta and Melides

To decide whether to spend a holiday or a weekend in Comporta is the easy part. The endless beaches with golden sand and turquoise water, some feeling untouched, some with trendy restaurants and lively beach bars, all surrounded by dunes and pine forests interspersed with lush green rice paddies seem almost unreal.

But then you will have to decide where to stay and the choice is large. In this first post we will present our handpicked selection of the best holiday homes, stylish cabanas, family friendly rentals and luxury villas in the villages of Comporta, Carvalhal, Melides and the beautiful town of Alcácer do Sal a few kilometres up the Sado estuary.

Chic beach cottages and cabanas in Comporta

It might sound like a paradox when you hear that there are quaint little villages with locals sitting in the cafés, rice fields being cultivated and mostly nature to be seen and then others saying that it is super chic. But it is exactly this contradiction that makes it chic. Having been an insider spot of a few glitterati for decades, Comporta and Melides have now (regretfully) been discovered. The magic of the places though has remained.

Besides the wonderful beaches and nature, one of the reasons it became chic were the typical fishermen’s cottages made from rice straw and held together by white painted wooden planks and thatched roofs. Renovated and transformed into beautiful beach cottages they started showing up in upmarket decoration magazines the world over.

Some of these marvellous cottages can now be rented as holiday homes:

Casa no Pego

This stylish cabana is located near to the beach in the town of Carvalhal, halfway between Comporta and Melides. Only a ten-minute walk from the beach, this stylish cottage creates the atmosphere of a beach cabin due to the sandy surroundings and wooden details. The natural and light interior design makes the space open and welcoming, and connects the living area with the villa´s terraces, private pool, and garden. >> more

Casa na Areia

Just outside of Comporta on the estuary of the Sado river the Casa na Areia is a very special place.

In the main cabana, sand takes a central stage. The shared heart of the property has a well-equipped kitchen, long table, comfortable sofas, and calmess that settles in straightaway. Outside, adobe, timber, cane and straw echo the old fishermen’s huts of the area.

Days drift around the pool, with nature all around and storks cutting across the sky. The one small caveat—so this paradise doesn’t read as too perfect—arrives at dusk: mosquitoes. >> more

Monte das Casolas

A bit further south near the town of Grândola a landscape of pine and cork forests predominates. Spread over a hill at the foot of the Serra de Grândola, the more modern Monte das Casolas has 8 picturesque bungalows that blend rustic charm with modern comfort and have impressive views overlooking the surrounding countryside. The spacious outdoor area is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the calm surroundings or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool. >> more

Holiday homes in Melides with a local touch

To experience Comporta’s authenticity more like a local, we have selected two charming holiday homes with a traditional touch near Melides. These accommodations offer a more intimate way to experience the region than traditional hotels.

BomBom

The BomBom holiday home, in the hills above Melides, close to Comporta's untouched beaches, is a lovingly restored "Monte Alentejano". The villa offers an authentic escape with charming architecture, vintage touches, a cozy outdoor area, and a lush garden. Relax by the pool, enjoy the night sky from the rooftop, or explore the surrounding preserved nature. >> more

Blue House Melides

Set within a cork tree orchard in the hills of the Serra de Grândola, the Blue House allows you to feel being far from everything while at the same time being able to reach the next village, restaurant or beach in a 15 minute drive. A true hideaway.

This country house is a rural family, group and pet friendly accommodation with 4 bedrooms, a kitchen, lounge, outdoor areas and small pool. >> more

Luxury villas in Comporta

Hidden from the public eye and set within large county estates, luxury villas and holiday homes in Comporta can be found just outside the village or along the coast near the town of Carvalhal and the village of Melides a bit further south.

They range from renovated fishermen’s cottages turned into luxurious beach retreats, redesigned farm houses in the hills above Melides up to avant-garde architectural jewels that inspire awe. The architectural beauty, exclusive amenities, high-end designs and spacious privacy turn these villas into the highlight of any trip.

Casa Atlântica

This design villa in the Serra de Melides is perched on top of a hill and boasts magnificent views from all sides over the surrounding cork oak forests. Designed by architect Manuel Aires Mateus, the four independent holiday bungalows each have a modern design with elements of the traditional Alentejo houses. Enjoy afternoons at the property’s impressive infinity pool, or cool down at the beach that is located only a then-minute drive away. >> more

Casa 4 Serras

Casa 4 Serras is a luxury villa whose location on top of Serra de Grândola gives you the opportunity to enjoy breath-taking panoramic views over 80 km of Atlantic coastline from wherever you are in the house.

It is made up of two independent but connected houses, perfect for a holiday with the whole family or friends. With the modern interior and exceptional services, this retreat offers a luxurious way to enjoy a seamless escape and take in the surrounding nature. >> more

Small houses with big character

Just a 25 minute drive east of Comporta you will find a wonderful country retreat that emphasizes nature and intimacy over luxury.

Monte do Olival

Monte do Olival is a wonderfully renovated farm, transformed into three apartments with a shared pool and panoramic views over the countryside. Inside, the cozy apartments combine the traditional elements with a bohemian chic style. It is a perfect place to enjoy the tranquillity of nature. >> more

Budget friendly holiday rentals in the Comporta region

The region around Comporta has become trendy and fashionable bringing with it a rise in prices, but there are several nice options if you don’t want to spend too much on accommodation. We have selected two beautiful holiday rentals that are located a 25 minute drive east of Comporta in the town of Alcácer do Sal, one of the most picturesque places in Portugal.

Casa Branca do Olival

This charming holiday apartment in the centre of Alcácer do Sal, not far from the river Sado, is held mostly in white, where rough finishes, exposed brick walls and high ceilings contribute to a very delicate harmony. The aged wood, metal, glass and wool and sisal rugs, along with organic textiles, ensure a fresh atmosphere that makes us feel as if we were on a never-ending holiday.

It has two comfortable bedrooms, a living room and a spacious kitchen, while still being kind to your wallet. >> more

Villa do Povo

Another great budget-friendly accommodation in Alcácer do Sal is the Villa do Povo: a cute holiday home just above the historic part of the town that is a perfect destination for a couple’s getaway.

It has one bedroom, a living room, a well-equipped kitchen and a small pool perfect for a refreshing dip during those lunches under the olive tree. >> more