Lisboa Less Traveled:
Tranquil Days in Torres Vedras
Photos: quintadavespeira
Just 40 minutes outside of Lisboa in the coastal countryside of Torres Vedras, there is an enchanting farmhouse that was saved from a near-ruin fate to become an idyllic backdrop for memorable experiences. Nestled amid rolling hills and vineyards, it’s the ideal setting to sit back and soak up the tranquility. On your first day, you’ll be treated to a thoughtfully prepared lunch underneath the wisps of the estate’s majestic weeping willow tree.
The specially-curated tasting showcases the richness of the area with local ingredients from land and sea. In the afternoon, you’ll visit a local winery and stay for a sunset dinner among the vines.
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The next day, a private chef will visit to put the farmhouse stone oven to good use. You’ll learn how to bake the area’s favorite snack–the pão com chouriço (bread stuffed with smoked sausage).
You’ll also help the chef make sandes do cozido (a sandwich based on the popular boiled meats recipe, cozido), a specialty of Torres Vedras. It’s a sandwich so obscure, many Portuguese don’t even know about it! These hearty flavors will be paired with a craft beer tasting organized by a local brewer at the farmhouse.
It’s easy to succumb to the spell of the farmhouse…lingering among its verdant grounds or lounging poolside. Yet if adventure calls to you, there’s hiking, biking and surfing at your doorstep–all of which we can arrange during your stay.
