Lost Valley of RamilaMarvão, Portugal

Hidden away down a rough track just a short drive from the medieval hilltop town of Marvão lies Lost Valley of Ramila, a complex of eco-friendly buildings spread across the hillside. Choose from four cosy self-contained apartments, each with neat kitchenettes, spacious bedroom/living area and private terrace with a glorious vista across the hills. Down by the river stands the charmingly renovated, century-old mill, with thick stone walls, neat windows, rustic furnishings and, forming one of the two bedrooms, a sleeping platform. All bathrooms are modern with showers and terracotta floor tiles.

The setting is magical – think rocky outcrops covered in lichen, wild swimming in the river (or in the purpose-built hillside pool), secluded picnic spots beneath gnarled cork oaks, and wooden decking areas connected by pathways that meander through cacti, yuccas and olive trees. You can even try your hand making pizza or homemade bread in the traditional wood oven. Shops and restaurants are just a short drive away and the area is a dream for nature walks, photography, bird-watching and horse-riding.

The choice of accommodation is also an advantage; choose between newly built, eco-friendly apartments or one of the century-old mills, painstakingly restored to their former glory, with all the contemporary trimmings. But it's the Sever River that makes this place even more special. As you meander along the river through the valley, enjoy your own private river beach, swing bridge or a nature walk through the São Mamede Natural Park.

get there

You can take bus services from Lisbon, or bus and train services from Madrid to the area.

amenities

• Free wi-fi
• Equipped kitchenette
• Toiletries
• Towels and linen provided
• Free parking on-site

• Black slated pool
• Private river beach
• BBQ facilities
• Table tennis

price guide

Apartments start at US$85 per night.

contact

Lost Valley of Ramila
lostvalley.pt
info@lostvalley.pt

need to know

This tip was provided by Lost Valley of Ramila, but we’re sharing it with you because we think it’s great.