Exploring Quinta do Pinheiro, a laid-back farmhouse nestled in the Algarve region
Nestled in the heart of Algarve, Portugal, lies the enchanting Quinta do Pinheiro. Originally conceived as a private family hideaway, this 19th-century farmhouse and estate has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a boutique hotel and retreat centre.
Purchased in 2021 by Dutch couple Martijn Kleijwegt and Monique Snoeijen, the 35-hectare estate near the Ria Formosa Natural Park was initially intended as a private sanctuary. However, with the collaboration of architect Frederico Valsassina and designer Marta Valsassina, the couple transformed the property into a hospitality venue that opened its doors in January 2025.
The estate now boasts five multi-bedroom houses, a pool, a lounge, outdoor dining areas, a fitness studio, and a massage room, all surrounded by pine trees, olive groves, orchards, and vineyards. The owners envisioned the property as a retreat space for physical rejuvenation, creative expression, and intellectual stimulation, aiming to offer memorable experiences to other families beyond just their own.
Quinta do Pinheiro seamlessly blends rural charm with luxury accommodation, emphasizing its agricultural roots through local wine production. This evolution reflects a harmonious blend of heritage preservation and modern hospitality, perfectly encapsulating the scenic and cultural richness of the Algarve region.
Guests at Quinta do Pinheiro can enjoy a variety of experiences. The estate offers access to oyster farms, mom-and-pop seafood restaurants, walking and cycling trails, and island beaches only accessible by boat. While there are no restaurants or bars on the property, the staff can serve breakfast and light snacks, and book local chefs for in-home meals or cooking classes. For those seeking a more active vacation, the estate also offers a small movement studio for workouts, with plans to expand the wellness area to include fitness endeavours, pilates, aerial yoga, hammam, and a plunge pool.
The three-bedroom Casa Celeiro, with its soaring ceiling in the living and dining area and an arch-like shaped bedroom ceiling, is one of the standout accommodations at Quinta do Pinheiro. Each of the five two-to-three-bedroom houses features spacious living areas, full kitchens, and some outdoor areas, with similar decorative details including sculptural blonde wood dining sets, Futah wool blankets, and lighting systems by brands like Anglepoise and Santa & Cole.
This summer, Amsterdam-based chef Ben van Geelen is hosting a culinary residency at Quinta do Pinheiro, preparing dinners for in-house guests. Additionally, local wellness practitioner Michele Surya provides in-casa massages, offering guests the chance to relax and rejuvenate.
Quinta do Pinheiro is conveniently located, approximately 30 kilometres east of the airport in Faro and 10 kilometres west of the town of Tavira. The estate's wilder, more natural environment offers a refreshing contrast to the area's more established vacation hotspots.
For those seeking a unique, luxurious, and authentic Algarve experience, Quinta do Pinheiro's rates start from 300 €. Whether you're looking for a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or a creative retreat, Quinta do Pinheiro promises to deliver an unforgettable stay.
[1] Source: Quinta do Pinheiro official website
The transformation of Quinta do Pinheiro in Algarve, Portugal, results in a hospitality venue that caters to various tastes, providing a seamless blend of home-and-garden, travel, and lifestyle experiences. Guests can enjoy stays in charming, restored houses nestled among pine trees, olive groves, and vineyards, with access to local culinary delights, wellness services, and attractions such as oyster farms and island beaches.
For a memorable Algarve adventure, consider booking a stay at Quinta do Pinheiro, offering the perfect blend of rural charm, cultural immersion, and luxurious comfort, while providing opportunities for physical rejuvenation, creative expression, and intellectual stimulation.
