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Quinta de Agriboa is new to the market this year. A former farmhouse, built in the late 18th century, it has been beautifully and sensitively restored. The Quinta is surrounded by hectares of vineyards in a beautiful valley that catches the sun from dawn until sunset.
All of the original building has been preserved with restorative stonework that perfectly matches the old walls. The year-long restoration project was filmed for a series of BBC documentaries, broadcast in spring 2009, where the programme makers commented on the "breathtaking skill of local craftsmen".
Bright and spacious, with lots of natural light the public rooms are open plan but with two well defined and separate sitting areas. The large wooden dining table, in common with all the furniture in the house, was made by local craftsmen and can accommodate 14 people. There is a well-stocked library of books and dvds, including the story of Quinta de Agriboa, for the enjoyment of guests.
The two bedrooms on the main floor and the facilities in the bathroom have been specially designed to allow wheelchair access. The bright, airy kitchen, which enjoys superb views across the valley towards an ancient monastery on a nearby hillside, is well kitted out with the best of equipment. Downstairs, the four bedrooms are all en-suite. The family room has a large king sized bed and hand made bunk beds set in an alcove.
Outside, the house has two large patio areas, at the front and rear, that are perfect for al fresco dining or simply enjoying the sunshine. A large 15x8 metre swimming pool is the focal point of the landscaped garden with its orange, apple and olive trees. There is also space set aside for badminton and other activities. A bbq and dining area, shaded by mature trees, has been created by the gardeners within easy access of the house.
A small vineyard has been planted on the lower terrace of the property. By 2012 the grapes will produce one of the most popular variety of Vinho Verde, a light fresh wine that is unique to this area of Portugal. Mature olive trees provide shade if guests want to sit down and enjoy the silence and the scenery in a quiet corner within the property.
Quinta de Agriboa is within easy access to the delightful historic town of Ponte de Lima. This is the oldest town in Portugal and has as its focal point a bridge that was built by the Roman legions more than a thousand years ago. Here you will find several high quality restaurants, cafes, bars, open-air esplanades around the Lima river's waterfront, an 18-hole golf course, a horse riding centre and lots of other activities. Basic facilities such as a minimarket can be found within walking distance of the house.
Viana do Castelo, a lively fishing and ship-building port, famous for its winding streets and ancient monuments, is also within easy reach. The stunning coastline north of Viana offers plenty of opportunity for sunbathing, swimming and other water sports. Small towns like Ancora have a superb range of restaurants all selling local produce including fresh fish and shellfish landed at the harbour a few hundreds yards away.
Quinta de Agriboa is a superb base for enjoying everything that the stunning Minho region has to offer visitors.
ACCOMMODATION
Lower floor
Master double bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Set of bunk beds sleeping an extra 2 adults or 2 children.
3 twin bedrooms each with an ensuite shower room. Doors opening onto a cobble stone terrace ideal for alfresco dining.
Steps leading to the upper floor.
Upper floor
Two double bedrooms sharing a full bathroom suitable for disabled and wheelchair users. Fully fitted kitchen with doors opening onto a covered terrace, barbecue area and swimming pool area. Spacious dining room with table seating up to 14 people. Living area with comfortable seating, closed fireplace, satellite TV, music centre and DVD player. Doors opening onto a delightful balcony with stunning views over a valley.
EXTERIOR
Sunbathing terrace and lawns with delightful views. Barbecue terrace perfect for al fresco dining.
The private swimming pool is 15 X 8 metres. Badminton court. Car parking area.
The large gardens together with the recently planted vineyard with many different,
quaint areas, invite guests to simply relax in the shade or exercise every morning.
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