Várzea Estate is a rural agro‑tourism property located in Portel, Évora, featuring a touristic hunting area and prime facilities for nature tourism.
During the rehabilitation process led by Visioarq, exterior spaces for contemplation were created, along with an infinity pool integrated into the landscape – for enjoying late afternoons when deer, gazelles, and wild boars appear – as well as a round pen for equestrian activities. The intervention drew inspiration from Alentejo architecture, featuring stylized, clean, and simple shapes that do not overshadow the extraordinary landscape. Individual small balconies were separated by wooden structures that frame each room, allowing private outdoor enjoyment while still offering panoramic views.
The hotel establishment combines nature and comfort, sobriety, and well-being, offering memorable days in the heart of Alentejo: a natural swimming pool, stables, a riding arena, and a hunting lodge equipped for hunting enthusiasts to engage in their activity are just a few of the available attractions. The biologically filtered natural pool softens the natural aridity of the Alentejo, refreshing the surrounding environment, while the Hunting Pavilion serves as a communal dining area; there are also adjacent nuclei with various functions.
A communal dining area, a lounge, and a trophy room are available for the visitors’ enjoyment. The endless Alentejo plains and advantageous proximity to Alqueva, the largest artificial lake in Europe, are additional highlights of Várzea Estate. The architecture was developed to foster an intimate and constant connection with nature.
