Pedras Verdes Guesthouse, Olhao, Portugal

Just 4 Km from Olhão and 20mn drive from either Faro or Tavira stands Pedras Verdes Guesthouse.

The house is typical Algarvean architecture as its best, well proportioned and wholly sympathetic to the calm surroundings. The spacious ground (4 acres property) have, for the most part, been left in their natural state, apart from clearing away undergrowth to enhance the smattering of ancient cork, orange, olive and carob trees and laying out simple gravelled path edged in collected rocks. Hammocks are indolently slung between the trees and the ecological saltwater pool area is sufficiently far from the house for boisterous swimmers not to spoil the peace and harmony. The overall colour is white, with exclamation marks provided by stone sculptures, odd walls, steps and doors painted in orange and giving a delightful effect.

The real "pieces de resistance", though are the bedrooms; so simple, but quite sensational. They are all the same size in proportions (all with air-conditioner, safe, TV, fridge and its own private bathroom), but each has an individual theme: Baroque, African, Asiatic, Zen, Arabic or blue "Tricia Guild style". There are big mosquito nets over the beds, funky walk-in showers with pebbled or wooden flooring and big shower heads, plain walls, minimalist decor, and either some modern pieces or objects bought all over the world by the owners, giving this away-from-it-all feel. The little touches make (artistically placed fruits in the bedrooms, sweets, fresh flowers and postcards) a real impact and even the keys have their own symbol, themed to the room.

Muriel and Andre are genuinely welcoming and very enthusiastic at creating a beautiful space.

Breakfast is served in front of your room and dinners are provided on occasion, guests being informed on the wonderful big blackboard hung on the terrace.

There is an overriding sense of calm and peace here

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