Morgadio da Calçada

We had a wonderful stay at Morgadio do Calcada. It has been the highlight of our trip to Portugal - and there were already so many impressive moments! The property is a manor house at the edge of Provesendes run by the 18th generation of the household. The lodge is in a newly renovated part across the courtyard from the main house, surrounded by vineyards and a citrus grove. The rooms are modern with a very spacious bathroom. The owner, Manuel, is amazingly warm. He hosted the dinner the night we dined there and shared a lot of insight on his family and the range of wines he produces from his old vines. The reserved red was stunning, so was his white port. His staff is also very friendly and knowledgeable.The village itself is UNESCO heritage protected - charming, walkable, and probably has not changed for 500 years. The church bell still rings to tell the villagers time, and a small bakery opens for a few hours in the morning to supply the village with bread. There is a cafe, a restaurant, and a bar. But the laid-back lifestyle means they may or may not be open when you arrive...You must have dinner there one of the nights. Also, if you get a chance to tour the main house, do it. It's like going back in time...