I am a retreat leader who booked Casa De Piellas for my group in September. Joao could not have been more helpful from the time we booked until even past the day we departed! We stayed for 9 nights. Some guests had left items on the estate, and he arranged to have them mailed to our next stop! He arranged tours, an amazing chef, Marta, and Isabelle, to help us with breakfast and tend to any needs we had during our stay. The little town is not touristy and worth a visit on its own merit. Now to the estate, having been in Joao's family for seven generations, I appreciate the effort and love that went into its current restoration and the generosity of the family to open it up for guests. From the well-equipped, comfortable rooms, to the pool, to the incredible grounds and formal garden, the place is a step back in time. I can not recommend Casa de Peillas more. Do not hesitate to book it.

As a family we agreed this is the best place we have stayed in - so much so we barely left the Casa! There was so much to enjoy, the lovely accommodation, the hours spent at the pool, the meals in the courtyard, the walks around the beautiful gardens and not forgetting the animals - we enjoyed collecting eggs in the morning and watching Isabella collect the geese. Joao was so helpful with all communications and arranging transport. We didn’t want to leave and we will definitely be back!

Casa de Piellas is such a unique and wonderful property that I’m at a bit of loss to convey the experience in words. Having visited 5-star hotels the world over, this rates among the very top, a rare joy in all ways. The pictures do not do it justice: the charming courtyards, comfortable interiors, and truly spectacular gardens and pool area. And the peacocks! It’s a thrill to encounter them when passing through “their” space which divides the main house from the pool house. Every detail reflects the owners’ commitment to honoring its heritage, and their own history as 9th-generation owners. But what’s most impressive is how the deeply personal antique furnishings and vintage elements (I’m thinking of cooking facilities, in particular, with multiple wood-burning cooking options to complement the modern hob/oven) are so welcoming and usable. And where modern standards are warranted, the property excels: brilliantly comfortable mattresses and modern bathrooms throughout, and well-stockeds kitchens (yes, two) with equipment to make and serve just about anything you could imagine. The bountiful produce from the gardens that appeared each morning in the kitchen - like magic - was a truly special touch. Joao is a charming and attentive host, responding within minutes to any query, and helping us organize food and excursions to the many wonderful sightseeing options in this spectacular and less-touristed part of Portugal - though I can't imagine it will stay as such much longer.

Joao could not have been a better host. He was kind, attentive, and attuned to the needs of our group. The property itself was both beautiful and filled with heart, soul, and history. Clearly the owners care deeply about the place. While the pictures are beautifully, they don't do it justice. Garden fresh produce, wandering peacocks, and burbling fountains are but a few of the touches that come to mind as I reflect on the place. I started every morning in the gardens, meditating and doing Tai Chi. After a hectic year, I felt nourished and rejuvenated ever day amidst an array of birdsongs, flowers, and well tended topiaries.. For an intergenerational family gathering, this was the ideal place to commune with each other and the region. I hope to come back again. In all my many years of traveling and adventuring, this place is atop my list of places to stay. I recommend this without reservation. Joao and family are the perfect hosts.