In the picturesque landscape of northern Portugal, the grand Paço da Glória has begun welcoming visitors once again following an extensive 3-year renovation. This majestic manor house and estate, which can trace its origins back to the 13th century, offers breathtaking views of the Lima River valley. With a rich history and a lineage of illustrious owners, from Portuguese diplomats to descendants of English Prime Ministers, this property has been in the same family for over two decades.
Rebecca, a member of the family, has been the driving force behind the rejuvenation of Paço da Glória. Her vision for the property began to take shape during a lockdown period spent on the estate with her family. Encompassing the Manor House, an additional residence called Meia Lua, beautiful gardens, and a serene lake, the property provides accommodation for up to 20 adults. Stays are available for a minimum of three nights during the low season and extend to seven nights during the high season.
The renovation of Paço da Glória has preserved the gothic heritage of the buildings’ exteriors, while internally, Rebecca has introduced a chic and refreshed aesthetic. Using materials like parador and microcement, guests can now enjoy Paço da Glória year-round. Meia Lua, a building within the estate, has been transformed into two studio apartments and a house with seven suites connected to a three-level tower featuring a living room, dining room, and kitchen – perfect for bigger groups of friends and family.
Prices for a stay start at €750 for three nights. All rooms and studios offer luxurious living spaces with high-quality linens, premium bath amenities, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Communal living areas feature medieval fireplaces, and a spacious, fully-equipped 40m2 kitchen allows for culinary adventures, with many ingredients sourced from the farm and vegetable gardens.
Paço da Glória is nestled within a lush and verdant farm, making the land an integral part of the guest experience. The estate boasts a saltwater outdoor pool, a heated indoor pool, tennis courts, historical gardens, a vegetable garden, and a serene lake. Rebecca has reinvigorated the land and plans to explore regenerative farming techniques.
On-site, guests can enhance their stay with massages, yoga sessions, and chef-prepared meals. Beyond the estate’s gates, the charming town of Ponte de Lima offers Jeep tours, biking, hiking, and kayaking adventures. Moreover, Paço da Glória is situated on the edge of the Peneda-Gerês National Park and is a mere 25-minute drive from Cabedelo de Viana Beach.
Northern Portugal is a natural wonderland, with its rivers, steep mountain ranges, and protected vineyards waiting to be explored. For those seeking a unique and deeper experience of the country, Paço da Glória is the perfect destination. The property is surrounded by local up-and-coming vineyards, benefiting from the region’s rich soil, abundant rainfall, and thermal springs, which keep the area perpetually lush. On a warm summer’s day, take a leisurely stroll in the hills and savour a chilled bottle of vinho verde, the distinctive white wine of the region.
In addition to being the owner of Paço da Glória, Rebecca also works as a death doula. Her mission for Paço da Glória is to create an inclusive space that can serve as a home and host various people and programs spanning a variety of themes and industries. The estate is committed to being a place where change and growth are nurtured. Rebecca hopes to initiate this transformation through her doula work, providing support to both local and international communities on matters related to death and dying.
To find out more about Paço da Glória and book, visit the links below:
Paço da Glória
Jolda-Madalena
4970-205
Arcos de Valdevez
Portugal
Web: pacodagloria.com
Tel: +351 258 947 177
Email: info@pacodagloria.com
Instagram: @pacodagloria