Quinta do Pinheiro rests quietly between sunlit field with grapevines and the gentle sway of avocado trees, its restored architecture an understated dialogue between past and present.
Brought back to life by Frederico Valsassina and his daughter Marta, the whitewashed walls—softened to warm pink by the southern Algarve sun—seem to breathe serenity. The design encourages guests to slow down and take in the surroundings—the cool stone floors, the breeze from the Ria Formosa, and the sensoric surfaces of terracotta, offering a holistic experience deeply rooted in the region.
Quinta do Pinheiro has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Built between 1870-1875 by the grandparents of the former owner, Mrs. Luiza Junqueira Reis, the estate originally spanned 35 hectares and included Casa da Eira and Casa das Flores. Initially focused on wine production and agriculture, the property also provided employment for the local community. Mrs. Luiza continued wine production until around 2000, later transitioning the land to avocado farming and the house into a holiday retreat. Her husband transformed part of the house into a museum, and some of his collections, including antique toys, remain in the property today.
In 2021, the estate was purchased by a Dutch entrepreneur and his wife, who deeply fell in love with the estate and slowly started nurturing the idea of the future retreat. They also enlisted renowned winemaker José Luís Santos Lima Oliveira da Silva to revive the vineyard. Now, Quinta do Pinheiro serves as both a family retreat and a destination where new experiences and connections can flourish.
The Quinta, with its timeless blend of traditional Portuguese charm and subtle modernity, presents a serene escape into a landscape where nature and history coalesce. The exterior of the estate, with its whitewashed walls and deep red window frames, draws on classic Portuguese design, grounding it in a visual harmony that seems almost painted by the light of the surrounding natural beauty. The original color palette of the frames, preserved with care, provides a striking contrast to the soft, neutral tones of the building, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both grounded and ethereal.
Terracotta tiles, continuing from the exterior into the interior, imbue the space with warmth, while the preserved stone flooring offers a cooling touch—an elegant remedy for the summer heat, bringing a sense of refreshment to the estate’s timeless allure.
Inside, Marta Valsassina's design sensibility stands out in its delicate interplay between old and new. Original furniture and cherished collectibles from the former owner are seamlessly integrated, lending the rooms not just beauty but a rich historical context. These preserved pieces—each with its own narrative—serve as gentle reminders of the estate’s past, allowing guests to inhabit a space where time slows, and history feels alive.
The natural color palette indoors evolves with the changing daylight, subtly mirroring the colors of the land outside. As the sun rises and sets, the hues within the rooms shift, allowing the interiors to feel connected to the ever-changing landscape. Carefully chosen furnishings—cream-colored sofas, elegant armchairs—emphasize understated luxury, inviting relaxation while maintaining a refined sense of comfort.
The surrounding landscape is inextricably woven into the design of the Quinta. Nestled within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the estate offers sweeping views over the wetlands, where the colors shift throughout the day, from the soft pinks of dawn to the deep blues of dusk. Guests are invited to explore the sprawling grounds, from the lush avocado groves to secluded spots perfect for quiet reflection. Outdoor terraces and meandering pathways evoke the atmosphere of a traditional Portuguese village, offering both respite and a deep sense of connection to the land.
Starting summer 2024, Quinta do Pinheiro opens its doors to guests for the very first time. Whether lounging by the pool, wandering the groves, or enjoying the carefully curated interiors, every moment at Quinta do Pinheiro is an invitation to slow down, and reconnect with a timeless sense of place.
