Quinta do Quirino | 6-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Ermida

The Douro Valley demands more than a passing visit. Fourteen guests, six bedrooms distributed across a main residence and independent studio, four bathrooms, and views that stretch across terraced vineyards planted in 1756—this is Quinta do Quirino in Ermida, where the landscape itself becomes part of your stay.

Inside Quinta do Quirino

Quinta do Quirino sleeps 14 guests across 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, split between the primary villa and a self-contained studio apartment. The accommodation layout reflects thoughtful planning for groups and extended families seeking both togetherness and private retreat space.

Main House – Ground Floor
The working heart of the residence sits here: a fully equipped kitchen with breakfast bar opens into dining space that comfortably accommodates ten people. The living room anchors the social area, featuring a working fireplace and SMART TV for evening gatherings. A ground-floor bedroom with double bed and direct terrace access suits guests who prefer to avoid stairs. The twin-bed bedroom on this level provides flexible sleeping arrangements, while a shower bathroom serves the lower level.

Main House – First Floor
The master suite commands the upper level with a double bed and en-suite bathroom featuring a freestanding bath—the kind of bath where you settle in with a book and lose track of time. Two additional bedrooms (one double, one twin configuration) flank the landing, where a dedicated workspace transforms a quiet corner into a functional office. The first-floor shower room serves the upper bedrooms.

Independent Studio
Separate from the main villa, this annexe operates as a fully autonomous dwelling. The lower ground floor contains its own kitchen with dining table for four, an open-plan living area with working fireplace and sofa bed, plus a double bedroom. A shower room connects directly to a private terrace, creating a retreat within a retreat. This layout proves invaluable when multiple families travel together or when additional privacy becomes essential.

The interiors throughout combine natural materials—stone, wood, local textiles—with contemporary furnishings sourced from Portuguese artisans. It’s the opposite of staged luxury: every object appears to be there because it serves a purpose or tells a story.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

Two terraces define the outdoor experience. A 100-square-metre terrace on the ground level provides seating and dining space overlooking the River Corgo gorge. Below it, a 150-square-metre terrace hosts the heated infinity pool (operational April through October), positioned to frame the valley as your backdrop. Sun loungers line the pool’s edge—prime real estate for morning coffee and afternoon wine tastings.

The grounds allow direct river access, where walking trails thread through the estate’s own vineyards. At harvest time (September–October), you witness the operational reality of wine production: the sounds, the activity, the purpose behind the landscape. Outside harvest season, the wine cellar converts into a private event space, perfect for celebrations or formal dinners with hired chefs.

Wide balconies scattered throughout the property capture southern exposure and valley light. Morning sun hits differently here than elsewhere in Portugal—higher altitude, sharper clarity. Evenings turn the terraced hills burnt orange and deep purple.

Location: Ermida and the Surrounding Area

Ermida sits within the UNESCO-protected Douro Valley, approximately 12 kilometres south of Régua, the historic centre of the world’s oldest demarcated wine region (established 1756). This positioning offers immediate access to serious wine culture without the tourist density of Régua’s main attractions.

Vila Real, the district capital, lies 25 kilometres north and represents the region’s cultural hub. The city contains baroque palaces, Gothic cathedrals, and the remarkable Casa de Mateus—an 18th-century mansion that appears on Portugal’s €1 note. The town of Lamego sits 20 kilometres west, famous for its Baroque sanctuary, Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, visible from across the valley. Both towns offer restaurant dining that extends beyond tourist fare: expect feijoada à transmontana (a rich stew particular to the Trás-os-Montes region), grilled sardines, and wine lists that could occupy an afternoon of study.

Quinta do Quirino positions you for authentic wine tourism. The Douro Historical Train departs from Régua (12km) on heritage steam journeys through the valley during summer months (June–October), running along the riverbank with commentary on valley history. Nearby viewpoints like São Leonardo de Galafura offer sweeping vistas after 45-minute hillside walks. The Corgo river itself provides kayaking opportunities—several outfitters in Régua supply equipment and guides.

For practical necessities: Régua contains supermarkets, pharmacies, and a covered market where local producers sell directly. The nearest significant hospital is in Vila Real. Porto airport (125 kilometres northwest, approximately 2 hours 15 minutes by car) handles international flights. The drive along the EN108 follows the river valley and counts among Europe’s most scenic routes.

The region’s character shifts seasonally. Spring (April–May) brings wildflower bloom across the terraces and mild weather ideal for walking. Summer (June–August) brings heat and full tourist season but outdoor living becomes the obvious choice. Autumn (September–October) overlaps harvest time—if you coordinate your stay correctly, you experience active wine production. Winter (November–March) quiets dramatically; vineyards sleep, and rain becomes frequent, though prices drop and the valley transforms into raw, dramatic landscape.

When planning your visit, explore our luxury villas in Europe for comparative options, or browse our villas in Vila Real District for neighbouring properties. Our full collection of properties in Ermida shows other options in this pocket of the Douro, and our Portugal travel guide provides deeper context on regional culture, wine terminology, and seasonal planning.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Extended Family Groups (3+ generations)
The main house plus studio layout allows parents, grandparents, and adult children to share meals and social space while maintaining independent sleeping quarters. Ground-floor bedrooms accommodate elderly relatives or mobility concerns. The kitchen capacity supports family-style dining.

Corporate Retreats and Team Celebrations
Fourteen-person capacity fits mid-sized groups. The wine cellar (outside harvest) converts to conference or event space. Chef and sommelier services elevate celebrations beyond typical villa stays. The wine-tasting programme appeals to clients and staff seeking memorable experiences.

Milestone Celebrations
Anniversary groups, milestone birthdays, and wedding parties benefit from the villa’s event infrastructure: multiple terraces for staggered dining, professional kitchen, wine cellar, heating pool for shoulder-season celebrations. Private chef services can create multi-course dinners reflecting Portuguese tradition.

Families with Children
The heated pool (April–October) accommodates young swimmers. Ground-floor bedroom reduces navigation. Children’s books and plastic crockery are provided. The estate’s walking trails offer safe exploration without road traffic. Yoga classes and spa treatments allow parents respite. The rural setting—vines, river access, seasonal activity—provides educational context rarely found in urban holidays.

Wine Enthusiasts and Culinary Groups
Quinta do Quirino’s integrated wine programme (tastings available), private chef services, and Douro location position it as a culinary destination. Groups organised around wine education or cooking find both the setting and logistical support essential.

Practical Information

Capacity and Layout
Quinta do Quirino accommodates up to 14 guests across 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The main house provides five bedrooms (one ground-floor, four upper), while the independent studio offers one additional bedroom. Additional sleeping capacity comes from the studio’s sofa bed in the living area.

Nearest Airport and Travel
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto) is the primary arrival point, 125 kilometres northwest (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes by car). Regional transfers can be arranged through Excellence Luxury Villas upon request. Driving follows the scenic EN108 route along the Douro riverbank.

Included Services and Amenities
Wi-Fi connectivity spans the property. Air conditioning provides cooling during summer months. Linens, towels, and basic kitchen provisions are provided. The infinity pool operates heated April through October. Pre-stocked fridge service means arrival without shopping stops. Maid service, private chef services, wine tastings, and spa treatments are available (subject to separate arrangement and cost).

Check-in and Operational Details
Standard check-in occurs 15:00 with check-out at 11:00. Flexible timing can be negotiated subject to availability. The property operates year-round. Outside harvest season (November–May), the wine cellar is available for private events. Inquiries regarding specific dates, seasonal characteristics, or service combinations should be directed to Excellence Luxury Villas directly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Quinta do Quirino

How many guests does Quinta do Quirino sleep?

Quinta do Quirino sleeps up to 14 guests. The main house contains five bedrooms (one with double bed on ground floor, one master suite with double bed and en-suite bath on first floor, two first-floor bedrooms with double and twin beds respectively, and one ground-floor twin bedroom). The independent studio annexe adds one bedroom with double bed. The studio’s sofa bed provides additional sleeping capacity if needed, accommodating a 14th guest. This configuration suits large families, multi-generational groups, or corporate teams.

What is the nearest airport to Quinta do Quirino in Ermida?

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto is the nearest major airport, located approximately 125 kilometres northwest of Ermida. The drive takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes via the EN108 route, which follows the scenic Douro valley. This route, while longer than motorway alternatives, provides some of Europe’s most remarkable landscape views and remains the preferred choice for arriving guests wanting to transition gradually into the region’s pace and character. Private transfers can be arranged upon request.

What is the best time of year to rent Quinta do Quirino?

The region operates beautifully across three distinct seasons. Spring (April–May) offers mild temperatures (15–22°C), wildflower blooms across the terraces, and comfortable walking conditions. Summer (June–August) brings reliable sunshine and pool season but attracts peak tourist numbers and higher temperatures (25–32°C). Autumn (September–October) overlaps harvest time, allowing guests to witness active wine production and enjoy warm weather with fewer visitors. Winter (November–March) quiets completely: rain becomes frequent, temperatures drop (5–12°C), but the landscape becomes raw and dramatic, and rates drop significantly. The heated pool operates April–October. Book autumn for harvest culture, spring or early autumn for balanced weather and activity, or winter for solitude and rates.

Is Quinta do Quirino suitable for families with children?

Yes, with specific considerations. The heated infinity pool (April–October) accommodates young swimmers, though supervision remains essential. The ground-floor bedroom reduces navigation for families with small children or elderly relatives. Children’s books and plastic crockery are provided. The estate’s private vineyards and walking trails offer safe exploration without road hazards, and the rural setting educates about agricultural systems in practical ways. Nearby towns contain family-friendly restaurants (many with outdoor seating and traditional Portuguese menus). The property’s spa and yoga services allow parental breaks. However, the property suits families seeking educational and nature-based experiences more than those wanting dedicated children’s activities or built-in entertainment. The Douro region lacks typical seaside beaches (river access exists but is not beach-like), so families prioritising sand and shallow water may find alternatives better suited.

What is included in the rental price at Quinta do Quirino?

The rental includes Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the property, air conditioning in all bedrooms, linens and towels, basic kitchen provisions and pre-stocked fridge service, pool heating (April–October), utilities (electricity, water, heating), and cleaning on departure. Additional services—private chef and cooking, maid service, wine tastings, spa treatments, and yoga classes—are available for supplementary fees and must be arranged in advance. These optional services require notice and pricing varies by duration and intensity. Clarification on specific inclusions should come directly from Excellence Luxury Villas at time of booking.

What restaurants and shops are near Quinta do Quirino?

Régua (12 kilometres north) contains the region’s primary shopping and dining infrastructure: supermarkets, pharmacies, a covered market with local producers, and restaurants ranging from casual taverns to fine dining establishments. Traditional dishes include grilled sardines, caldo verde (kale soup), and the regional speciality feijoada à transmontana. Lamego (20 kilometres west) offers additional restaurants, many with terrace seating overlooking the sanctuary. Vila Real (25 kilometres north) provides urban dining options and a wider supermarket selection. For wine-focused dining, numerous quintas (wine estates) within the immediate region offer private tasting menus and cellar tours. Shopping for local products—cheeses, cured meats, wines—occurs best at farmers’ markets rather than supermarkets; Régua’s market operates most days with direct producer sales.