Casa da Maria | 5-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Portugal

Twelve guests, five bedrooms, and a private pool overlooking rice paddies and cork forests—this is where a luxury villa rental in Alcácer do Sal, Portugal transforms from accommodation into memory. Casa da Maria sits in the heart of the Alentejo region, where the Sado River winds through countryside still shaped by centuries of agricultural tradition, and where silence is the loudest luxury you’ll find.

Inside Casa da Maria

Casa da Maria sleeps 12 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, distributed across a thoughtfully restored property that balances contemporary ease with regional character. The ground floor anchors around a generous living space divided into two distinct seating zones—one oriented toward the fireplace, the other toward the windows and garden views. Adjacent sits the dining room, centred on a substantial round table that seats the full party, while the breakfast room features its own oversized table for morning gatherings or casual meals throughout the day.

The kitchen commands serious attention: fully equipped with professional-grade appliances, three separate refrigeration units, a Nespresso machine, and work surfaces that encourage actual cooking rather than reheating. This is the kind of kitchen that makes reluctant cooks volunteer for dinner duty. A laundry room with washing machine and dryer serves the practical side of longer stays.

Bedrooms are arranged across two levels. Three primary suites each offer a double bed and private ensuite bathroom—these rooms receive afternoon light and overlook the property’s southern gardens. Two additional double bedrooms share a family bathroom, positioned to accommodate secondary guests or multi-generational groups. High chairs and travel cots are available on request, signalling family-friendly infrastructure. Every bedroom features air conditioning, essential during Alentejo’s warm months.

The working fireplace in the main living area burns real wood and functions year-round—practical in winter, atmospheric during shoulder seasons. Wi-Fi reaches throughout the property, though many guests discover they use it far less than expected.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The fenced private pool dominates the rear grounds, with shaded terraces positioned for morning swimmers and afternoon loungers. The exterior kitchen and dining area sits steps from the pool edge—a covered structure that transforms evening meals into extended social events. A separate WC serves outdoor guests, and the built-in BBQ handles everything from simple grills to elaborate feasts.

Gardens extend beyond the immediate pool zone, with mature plantings of lavender and rosemary releasing their scent during warmer months. The property holds designated lake views from certain vantage points, a reminder of the water-rich landscape surrounding Alcácer do Sal. Terraces and pathways allow guests to navigate the grounds at different times of day, following the sun or seeking shade depending on the season.

Location: Alcácer do Sal and the Surrounding Area

Alcácer do Sal operates as the cultural and geographical hub for this corner of Alentejo, sitting roughly 85km south of Lisbon and 15km inland from the coast. The town centre, approximately 5km from Casa da Maria, preserves medieval character through winding cobbled streets and a functioning castle that dates to Moorish occupation. This isn’t a tourist theme park but an actual working town where locals still move through daily routines around ancient stones.

The Sado River, which threads through Alcácer do Sal itself, supports populations of bottlenose dolphins that migrate seasonally—boat tours departing from the town centre offer genuine wildlife encounters rather than guaranteed sightings. Birdwatchers find rich pickings along the river’s wetland margins, particularly during spring and autumn migrations.

Beach access lies 12-15km away. Comporta, a low-key coastal village 14km southwest, hosts long sandy beaches backed by pine forests and a scattering of restaurants and beach bars. Carvalhal, 16km south, offers similarly unspoilt shoreline with reliable waves for paddleboarders and beginner surfers. Neither beach operates as a busy resort destination; instead, both attract guests seeking quieter Atlantic coastline without the infrastructure of the Algarve or Costa da Caparica.

Local markets in Alcácer do Sal itself sell fresh fish delivered daily from nearby ports, seasonal vegetables from inland farms, and the cork products that define the regional economy. Several small wineries operate within 15km—the Alentejo wine region produces full-bodied reds from native grape varieties like Aragonez and Castelão. Olive groves surrounding the property offer tastings and mill tours during harvest season (October-November). For a deeper dive into regional food and wine culture, explore our Portugal travel guide.

Hiking trails crisscross cork forests to the east, with routes ranging from 8km half-day walks to full-day circuits through the interior. Rice paddies occupy the flatter terrain immediately surrounding Alcácer do Sal, creating distinctive wetland landscapes that flood during winter and spring planting. The entire region sits within an Important Bird Area designation, recognised by international conservation bodies.

For broader destination context, explore our luxury villa collection across Portugal and our full range of Portuguese properties. Lisbon lies approximately 85km north and represents the nearest city for cultural institutions, international restaurants, and high-street shopping—a 90-minute drive in normal traffic conditions.

Seasonal timing affects the experience considerably. May through September delivers warm, dry weather ideal for pool use and beach visits, though July and August bring peak European tourism. October and November offer autumn harvests, milder temperatures perfect for hiking, and dramatically emptier beaches. December through March brings cooler temperatures, frequent rainfall, but also the most dramatic river and wetland activity. April represents a sweet spot of warming weather, wildflower blooms, and spring migration birdwatching without summer crowds.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Multi-generational family groups find Casa da Maria particularly workable. The bedroom distribution accommodates grandparents and parents with ensuite privacy, while additional bedrooms suit adult children or teenagers. The pool, outdoor games, and proximity to child-friendly beaches at Comporta and Carvalhal make it functional for families with children aged 4 and above. The breakfast room’s big table naturally gathers everyone for morning meals, and the exterior kitchen allows parents to maintain sight-lines while cooking.

Groups of friends celebrating milestones—50th birthdays, anniversaries, reunions—find the space, privacy, and convivial layout conducive to extended social time. The round dining table seats everyone together. Outdoor spaces allow subgroups to form without isolation.

Couples seeking retreat space will find the property oversized but not oppressive—the two separate living areas allow independent activities, while the pool and terraces offer romantic evening settings. The wine-tasting opportunities and quiet river landscape appeal to guests interested in slower, more contemplative travel.

Those working remotely will appreciate reliable Wi-Fi and quiet surroundings, though the distance from Alcácer do Sal town centre (5km) means limited café culture for co-working.

Practical Information

Casa da Maria accommodates 12 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The property includes Wi-Fi, air conditioning throughout, working fireplace, washing and drying facilities, and a fully equipped kitchen. Pool heating operates seasonally. Linen and towels are provided. High chairs and travel cots can be arranged for families with young children on request.

Humberto Delgado Lisbon Airport (LIS) lies 85km north and represents the primary arrival point—approximately 90 minutes by car to Casa da Maria under normal traffic conditions. Smaller airports at Porto (around 300km north) and Faro (180km south) offer alternative entry points with longer transfer times. Ground transportation arrangements, including private car hire and driver services, can be organised in advance.

The nearest supermarket operates in Alcácer do Sal town centre, roughly 5km away. A smaller convenience shop sits closer to the property. Local restaurants in town include Mel e Sal (seafood-focused) and Casa de Gente (Portuguese regional cuisine), though many guests choose to prepare meals on-site given the kitchen quality.

Check-in typically occurs on Saturday afternoons and check-out on Saturday mornings, though flexibility can sometimes be arranged based on availability and seasonal demand.

Frequently Asked Questions about Casa da Maria

How many guests does Casa da Maria sleep?

Casa da Maria accommodates 12 guests across 5 double bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. Three bedrooms include private ensuite bathrooms, while two additional bedrooms share a family bathroom. Travel cots and high chairs are available on request for families with infants and toddlers. The property does not include sofa beds or roll-away options, so 12 represents the maximum comfortable capacity.

What is the nearest airport to Casa da Maria in Alcácer do Sal?

Humberto Delgado Lisbon Airport (LIS), located 85km north of Casa da Maria, serves as the primary international gateway. The transfer typically takes 90 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions. Porto Airport lies approximately 300km north (around 3.5 hours), while Faro Airport sits 180km south (approximately 2 hours). Lisbon offers the most frequent connections to major European and international hubs.

What is the best time of year to rent Casa da Maria?

May through September offers warm, dry weather with reliable sunshine—ideal for pool swimming and beach days, though July and August bring peak European tourism crowds. October and November provide milder temperatures, harvest season activities (wine and olive oil tastings), excellent hiking conditions, and significantly quieter beaches and local venues. April and May deliver spring wildflowers, warming weather, and spring migration birdwatching without summer heat. December through March brings cooler temperatures and frequent rain but also the most dramatic wetland and river activity, making it ideal for serious birdwatchers and those prioritising solitude over sunshine.

Is Casa da Maria suitable for families with children?

Yes, Casa da Maria functions well for families with children aged 4 and above. The property includes a fenced private pool (depth varies—shallow areas exist for younger swimmers), high chairs and travel cots available on request, and an outdoor play area. Nearby Comporta and Carvalhal beaches offer gentle waters and family infrastructure. The breakfast room’s big table accommodates family meals easily. However, the property lacks specific toddler safety features like stair gates or dedicated play areas, so families with children under 3 should assess their comfort level. The 5km distance to town means families need their own transport to access shops and restaurants regularly.

What is included in the rental price at Casa da Maria?

The rental price includes Wi-Fi access, utilities (electricity, water, heating), air conditioning, linen and towels, pool access and seasonal heating, and access to all furnished interior and exterior spaces. The fully equipped kitchen includes cooking facilities, three refrigerators, and a Nespresso machine. Washing machine and dryer usage is included. Pet accommodation can be arranged on request, likely with additional fees. End-of-stay cleaning is not typically included but can be arranged separately. Wood for the fireplace may incur a surcharge depending on rental length and season.

What restaurants and shops are near Casa da Maria?

Alcácer do Sal town centre, approximately 5km away, contains the nearest cluster of shops and restaurants. Mel e Sal operates as a seafood-focused restaurant with river views, while Casa de Gente serves traditional Portuguese regional cuisine. A small supermarket and convenience shops serve basic provisions. For more extensive shopping and dining variety, Lisbon (85km north) offers comprehensive options. The property’s fully equipped kitchen and outdoor cooking facilities make on-site meal preparation the preference for most guests, particularly given the excellent local fish and produce available at Alcácer do Sal markets.