A stay in this modern villa combines rural relaxation and keeping active all at once. Those that like to stick to a fitness schedule (or those that just want to splash about) can make use of the private indoor swimming pool, lined with loungers. There’s a saltwater sauna for afters, or perhaps you just want to head up to the terrace for a sundowner. On the same site, you’ll find a state-of-the-art gym, football field and tennis court too. There’s an element of fun to this home as well, with a children’s play park in the grounds and a full-size snooker table in one of the lounges.

That’s right, “one of” the lounges. There are three to choose from inside – the grand, chandeliered main lounge set around a fireplace, a snug with an upright piano for a sing-along, and the laid-back games room with its own bar. Bedrooms are spacious and retain an air of class with dark wood headboards. Our favourite has to be the wood-clad bedroom with trinkets and curios scattered across built-in shelves.

In terms of location, you’re in the rural area just outside Porto, yet just a fifteen-minute drive to the restaurants, historic sights and buzzing nightlife of the city centre. If you fancy a day at the beach, Arcozelo is just a ten-minute drive away.

Home truths:
*Your host can provide a travel cot and high chair for infants, just ask
*Quiet hours and enforced between 10pm and 8am
*In a fairly rural area, having a car is recommended and there is plenty of private parking
*The football pitch and tennis courts can be used by appointment, just ask your host