We had a wonderful, relaxing week at Casa do Campo. The house is a few minutes from the town of Silves, a quiet valley village, and about 20 mins from the nearest (and stunning) beach. It's a perfect home base for exploring the Algarve and after checking out the entire region and it's vast differences, we were so glad that we were staying in Silves. It is "away from it all" and yet so close. But, more importantly for us, a family of four, the house was incredibly comfortable. It's well-equipped and the recent restoration to the house is gorgeous. There is a lovely outdoor living area as well, though it was too cold in February to eat outdoors. You can see how many considered choices were made in the design and decor-- Nelson and Lena did a fabulous job and the photos on the listing do not do this home justice!!! The pool is small but I imagine the perfect place to cool off when it's hot in the summer. The gardens are so lovely and our kids absolutely loved checking for eggs in the chicken coop every day. We were also welcomed to pick vegetables and fruit (the best fresh squeezed orange juice ever) from the garden. Surrounding the house are vineyards and more orange groves. We saw one neighbor the entire week (their is plenty of space between neighboring houses). It was such a quiet, restful and relaxing week! I will absolutely miss sitting in the hammock each morning enjoying the morning sun, soaking in the view of the rolling valley and vineyards.
Nelson met us on the first day and left a lovely welcome gift of cheese, bread, wine. And, of course, fresh eggs from the chickens! Nelson checked on us once more during the week and is such a gentle and kind host. Sonia, their daughter, was available quickly via email every step of the way and was so generous with her kindness as well. They offer several suggestions of what to do and where to eat and we can confirm that the simple chicken restaurant next to the veg market in Silves is delicious.
If you're looking to be away from the tourist scene and have a more authentic Algarve experience, this home is a wonderful choice. I would absolutely stay here again and have already recommended this home to friends.