Agua Hotels Mondim de Bastos ★★★★

Leafy trees rustle in the soft breeze of the forest, as rabbits scurry across the earthy ground where colourful flowers pop up in the most unexpected of places. As far as the eye can see, vibrant greens and golds glisten under the sun. Perhaps, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll spot a mythical ‘duende’ here...

Portugal’s agriculture, fresh fish cuisine and extraordinary flora are all products of the country’s rich and natural environment. This is a land where wildlife and plants flourish in peace, under brilliantly blue and cloudless skies. Whilst many make plans to someday visit this celestial and harmonic paradise, few will be wise enough to stay at a resort which reflects its charming qualities.

There is no better place from which to discover the heavenly region of northern Portugal, nor is there a place more appropriate place for those looking to recharge. If you’re looking for tranquillity and lavish relaxation – look no further.

Getting in touch with nature does not have to include cutting yourself off from the luxuries of modern life; a fact made clear at the Mondim de Basto. The spirit of countryside living is incorporated into every part of the hotel, yet each room contains the highest quality linen, ergonomic furniture, exquisite bath products and a flat screen TV. The large windows and spacious balcony give you incredible views of the surrounding mountain lakes whilst allowing you to all times feel connected to nature. Drifting off to sleep in the warm comfort of your room, it’s almost as if you’re camping outside amidst the distant sound of chirping crickets and a star-studded sky. At night, the sweet and mellow scents of summer are carried through the air by the pine trees and lavender growing nearby. Open your window, breathe in the perfume and let its calming effect fill your dreams.

It’s not just the rooms that boast modernity in design and function; the entire hotel has a contemporary look and countless start-of-the-art facilities. With its wide, white surfaces reflecting the lustrous sunshine, the hotel appears – from a distance – like a beacon of light. There’s no doubt that the building’s pristine and vogue architecture makes it stand out amidst the trees and rivers of Portugal’s countryside...we can’t help but think of it as a ‘shining refuge’ waiting to be found by tired mountain hikers.

Hiking certainly isn’t the only thing you can do for fun around here – although it’s a rejuvenating activity we’d highly recommend. With so much fresh air kindling your mind and body, you might find you’re filled with a desire to exert all this new-found energy. The hotel’s outdoor infinity pool puts you right in the middle of the mountain valley and is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing swim. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the large tennis court, or simply get straight to stretching and strengthening at the hotel’s excellent gym.

For when it’s time to unwind, however, the Agua Hotels Mondim de Bastos Spa is waiting for you. A one-of-a-kind outdoor experience; these pampering treatments will help you enter a state of bliss whilst you’re surrounded by nature’s calming beauty. A tranquil dining experience then awaits you at the hotel’s restaurant, with its nature-friendly cuisine that bursts with flavour. Taste the fruity wines on offer in the vast wine cellar, and couple your favourite with a juicy steak or salad. For the perfect end to your meal, try the divine peach cream tart which just seems to melt in your mouth…