Quinta Souto Covo is situated in a very peaceful valley, one and a half hours drive from Porto and near the beautiful city of Viseu. The Douro River and Port wine area are nearby and historical towns such as Vila Real, Bragança and Coimbra are an easy day trip away. The views from the main house and the self-catering Lodge, are breathtaking. There is a large, salt filtered pool on the terrace below the Lodge and down at the river a private 'beach' and swimming area with its own sunbaking terrace. The gardens are extensive and a pleasure to walk through and the sound of water follows you wherever you go. The property consists of two houses, the main house occupied by the owners, Tony and Sherrin and a spacious, loft style guest house which is called the Lodge. The Lodge is a family house, with a large sitting room opening onto a 32 m2 terrace overlooking the pool and gardens which lead down to the river and sleeps 5 family members comfortably but we also offer two suites in the main house for larger families or friends who would like their own space. These two en-suite, bed sitting rooms have their own separate entrances so are separate from the main house and approached through the garden on a separate level, about 25 meters from the Lodge. The Lodge: The main bedroom with a super king size bed is on a spacious mezzanine floor with spectacular views. It has a hand basin, antique desk and large cupboard. The second sleeping area is an attic niche off the entrance hall. It is reached by a small ladder and is a favorite with children and teenagers. It has two large single beds, overhead individual reading lamps and a storage area for cases and clothes. The third sleeping area is a single , ensuite bedroom with shower, vanity basin and WC , which is part of the house but has its own entrance next to the Lodge front door. This is particularly good for a Granny or older child who would appreciate more privacy. The kitchen / breakfast room with a huge picture window is fully equipped for 12 people and has a dishwasher, coffee machine, all laundry items and fridge/ freezer. On the terrace , there is ample seating and outdoor furniture for alfresco dining . You also have your own BBQ area with a picnic table and benches in a garden next to the Lodge. All linen , towels and beach towels are supplied . Towel changes as needed. The pool is large , salt water filtered ( so no harsh chlorine ) with a sun deck with sun beds and down at the river is a sun baking terrace , ideal for picnics, with steps down to a sandy beach and a safe natural pool. Following downstream is a long swimming lane leading to a ford, ideal for boating and exercise for the wild swimmers! We have a kind, gentle dog on the property so lots to amuse little ones who find it a magical place. Although your privacy of home and pool use is guaranteed, we are close enough to help with all your queries , if you need, during your stay. Special interest holidays: Known as a painter's paradise, the area and indeed the views from the rooms are perfect for the aspiring or established painter, and it is rumoured that Picasso painted here in this very Lodge. Fishing is an absolute must ( in season) with an idyllic flowing river at the bottom of the garden and plenty of trout! Walking in the hills and valleys is ideal for the energetic. On the River Douro, 35 minutes drive away there are several Quintas who offer wine and Port-wine tastings. Nearby are two renowned Health Spas which offer various types of specialised treatments. 20 minutes drive from here there is a very entertaining riverside Water Park which is ideal for little ones and adults alike. There is a tennis court 15 mins drive away. Fly fishing is a relatively new sport in Portugal and we offer a wonderful river and expert ¨Ghillie¨service for enthusiasts. Trout, and local species are to be fished. Coast/Beach: Aveiro and the village of Costa Nova is the closest beach. It is a one and a quarter hour drive away. The beach is over 6 kilometers long and very clean, with beautiful dunes and fine sand and there are wonderful Seafood restaurants to be found there and fun beach bars. This is one of the areás best kept secrets. Travel: Porto Airport is 1.40 hours drive away and Lisbon 3 hours. A car is essential. Distances: The Douro River and wine-making area is 45 mins away by car. Castro Daire (ameneties) 15 mins. Viseu (historic provincial capital) is 30 minutes. Reriz 5 minutes. There is a wonderful beach close to Aveiro in Costa Nova 1 1/4 hours drive away which is also renowned for its really very good Seafood restaurants. Further Details: In nearby Reriz village is Teresa's Bar which serves the best chicken piri piri, salad and jug of local Dão wine for 6 euros a head! Nearby are many more , good for typical local specialities such as roasted baby goat and the typical bacalhâo, (salted cod) cooked in many different ways. Castro Daire , a bustling market town, has all the shops you could want, banks, large supermarket and again many great, cheap restaurants. The local health centre is efficient and professional in case of emergency.