Casa de Antonio | 5-Bedroom Villa in Fontoura Sao Juliao

Fourteen guests step through the entrance of Casa de Antonio and the Minho region reveals itself entirely—mountain ridges visible beyond the gardens, the scale of the property immediately apparent, five bedrooms distributed across multiple floors, each with its own bathroom. This 17th-century Baroque dwelling in Fontoura, Portugal, sits within sprawling grounds that feel more like private parkland than a typical villa garden, anchored by centuries-old olive trees and modern comforts hidden within period stonework.

Inside Casa de Antonio

Casa de Antonio sleeps 13 guests across 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. The ground floor contains the primary bedroom with a 180cm × 200cm double bed and its own ensuite shower room, positioned to catch morning light. The main living spaces occupy this level: a capacious sitting room furnished with traditional pieces that invite lingering conversation, a formal dining room with a fireplace that dominates the entire room, and a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher, microwave, and range cooker—the kind of kitchen where even reluctant cooks find themselves volunteering for dinner duty.

The first floor houses four additional bedrooms. The first offers one double bed (200cm × 200cm) plus a single bed (90cm × 190cm), suitable for families requiring flexible sleeping arrangements. The second bedroom provides a 180cm × 200cm double bed with ensuite shower facilities. The third follows the same configuration—180cm × 200cm double bed with private bathroom. The fourth and largest bedroom on this floor features two double beds (160cm × 200cm) sharing one ensuite shower room, ideal for groups or families traveling together. All bedrooms are ensuite, eliminating queues for bathrooms during morning routines. High ceilings and exposed stonework preserve the villa’s historical character throughout, while Wi-Fi connection ensures modern connectivity remains available when needed.

The kitchen opens through double doors from the dining room, its vintage dressers and stone walls creating a workspace that balances function with aesthetic warmth. A separate office with an extensive library provides a quiet retreat for those who need to work remotely or simply prefer solitude with a book. Tiled walls throughout add visual interest and speak to the meticulous attention paid to the property’s restoration.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

Two private swimming pools dominate the outdoor experience. The primary pool stretches 20 meters, allowing proper lap swimming or simply floating under the Portuguese sky. Sun loungers position themselves strategically across expansive patios, while a covered terrace accommodates family meals even during light rain. The barbecue facilities invite evening gatherings where grilled fish and local chorizo become the evening’s entertainment.

The gardens themselves deserve separate attention. Three hundred-year-old olive trees—twenty-five of them—anchor the landscape, their gnarled trunks testimony to centuries of Mediterranean seasons. Fifty magnolias create dappled shade during summer afternoons. Cork oaks, chestnut trees, and assorted ornamental plantings transform the grounds into something between a private nature reserve and a cultivated estate. Fountains punctuate the landscape. Benches positioned in corners provide spots to disappear entirely, hearing only bird calls and wind through foliage. The views extend across countryside toward distant mountains, unobstructed by neighboring properties.

Parking is private and secure. Cots are available on request for guests traveling with infants. Washing machines, hairdryers, and complimentary toiletries address practical needs without requiring trips to supermarkets.

Location: Fontoura and the Surrounding Area

Fontoura sits in the heart of the Minho region, Portugal’s green northwest corridor where rivers cut through forested valleys and historic towns cling to hilltops. The villa occupies Lugar de Portela, a rural position that provides complete tranquility while remaining within reasonable drive times of significant cultural attractions.

Ponte de Lima, 40km south, deserves its reputation as one of Portugal’s oldest towns. The 277-meter bridge spanning the Lima River contains Roman masonry in its foundational five arches, with medieval fortifications adding another fifteen spans above. The Igreja da Misericordia and Igreja de Santo Antonio face each other across the river, their Baroque facades reflected in the water below. Largo de Camoes plaza buzzes with locals at sidewalk cafes. The town is inseparable from vinho Verde wine production—tastings and vineyard visits happen year-round. Three distinct viewpoints reward visitors: Miradouro of Saint Catarina overlooks the river, Miradouro of Magdalene surveys the town and surrounding valleys, and Miradouro of Bola da Pena offers 360-degree views across the entire region.

Caminha, 25km west, preserves its medieval character through the Torre do Relogio, a clock tower forming part of 12th-century city walls now designated a national monument. Climbing to its top rewards visitors with panoramic views across town and countryside. The Igreja Matriz de Caminha displays 17th-century azulejo tiles. A ferry from Caminha crosses into Galicia, Spain, making a day trip across the border entirely feasible.

Viana do Castelo, 35km southwest, combines 19th-century European elegance with Atlantic seaside character. The Santa Luzia basilica crowns a hilltop above the town, accessible by climbing 260 steps, driving, or taking the funicular railway. National Geographic Magazine rated its vista the world’s third most beautiful panorama. The St. Mary the Great Cathedral, begun in the fifteenth century, anchors the historic center. Narrow lanes lined with Manueline architecture lead toward the riverfront, where cafes and restaurants line the Lima River’s banks. Cabadelo Beach, just across the water via a short ferry journey, offers kite surfing, golden sand, and a wooden promenade ideal for evening walks.

Regional beaches extend along the coast. Vila Praia de Ancora, 30km away, provides a quieter alternative to busier destinations. Praia de Moledo, 28km distant, attracts surfers and families alike. The Foz do Minho Beach at Caminha’s mouth sits where the Minho River meets the Atlantic, creating unique tidal dynamics.

Braga, 50km southeast, holds the distinction of being Portugal’s oldest city, founded by the Romans in 16 BC under the name Bracara Augusta. The Se Cathedral, initiated in the 12th century, houses the city’s Sacred Art Museum. The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, 6km east, sits atop a wooded hillside accessible by a dramatic staircase or cable car—its gardens and religious architecture combine to create one of Portugal’s most distinctive spiritual sites. Thirty churches throughout the city earned Braga the nickname “Rome of Portugal.”

The region excels for active pursuits. The Ecovia cycling route traverses the landscape on dedicated paths. Kayaking on the Lima River suits paddlers of various abilities. Mountain biking trails cross the Serra D’Arga. Hiking opportunities range from gentle valley walks to challenging summit routes. The Lagoas de Bertiandos nature reserve attracts birdwatchers year-round. River bathing at Labruja provides natural swimming holes within forest settings.

For culinary exploration, beyond the restaurants in Ponte de Lima and Viana do Castelo, local markets in Braga’s city center offer regional produce, cheeses, and cured meats. Wineries throughout the Minho welcome visitors for tastings and tours. Explore our villas in Valenca for additional luxury accommodation in the region, browse our luxury villas throughout Europe, and discover more of Portugal through our comprehensive travel guide.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Multi-generational family groups find Casa de Antonio particularly well-suited. The combination of five separate bedrooms with private bathrooms eliminates bathroom conflicts. The pool provides water-based entertainment for children while the surrounding gardens offer safe exploration space. Teenagers and adults appreciate the office and library for quiet retreats. Capacity for thirteen guests means extended family reunions remain comfortable rather than crowded.

Groups of friends celebrating significant occasions—milestone birthdays, wedding parties, reunions—thrive in the formal dining room with its grand fireplace and substantial table. The barbecue and outdoor terraces provide natural gathering points. Privacy from neighboring properties allows celebration without concern for noise complaints.

Couples seeking peaceful retreat benefit from the scale of the property—thirteen-guest capacity means they can rent at a per-person cost comparable to smaller villas while enjoying the space and amenities of a manor house. The library and office create separate zones for those traveling together but requiring independent work or reading time.

Families with young children appreciate the pool safety, enclosed grounds, proximity to family-friendly beaches, and the combination of activity options (cycling, hiking, kayaking) alongside quieter pursuits (gardens, nature walks, local markets).

Practical Information

Casa de Antonio accommodates 13 guests: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms. Cots for infants are available upon request. Registration number 1377882/AL.

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto is the nearest international gateway, 100km south of the villa—approximately 70 minutes by car. Domestic regional airports at Braga and Vigo (Spain, 40km west) offer alternatives depending on your origin.

The nearest supermarket is in Ponte de Lima, approximately 40km away, sufficient for restocking mid-stay. Local markets in smaller towns offer fresh produce and regional specialties. The villa itself sits in genuine countryside, making self-catering convenient but requiring advance planning for substantial grocery needs.

Utilities, Wi-Fi connection, linen, towels, and pool access are included in the rental rate. A washing machine and tumble-drying facilities enable extended stays without external laundry services. Hair dryers and complimentary toiletries reduce packing requirements. Check-in and check-out times align with standard practices; flexibility may be available depending on booking gaps.

The property functions year-round, though specific heating arrangements should be confirmed directly for winter visits. Summer months (June through September) offer the most reliable weather and warmest pool temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Casa de Antonio

How many guests does Casa de Antonio sleep?

Casa de Antonio accommodates 13 guests across 5 bedrooms. The ground floor contains one bedroom with a double bed. The first floor houses four additional bedrooms: one with a double and single bed (sleeps two or three), two with double beds each, and one with two double beds (sleeps two to four). Cots for infants are available on request, allowing slightly higher occupancy for families with young children. All five bedrooms feature ensuite bathrooms.

What is the nearest airport to Casa de Antonio in Fontoura?

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto is the primary international airport, located 100km south of Fontoura—approximately 70 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions. Regional alternatives include Braga Airport, approximately 50km southeast, and Vigo Airport in Spain, 40km west. Ground transfers can be arranged through local providers; self-drive rental is readily available at all three airports.

What is the best time of year to rent Casa de Antonio?

June through September offers the most predictable weather, warmest pool temperatures, and most developed outdoor entertaining. May and October provide excellent alternatives with fewer crowds, moderate temperatures, and all facilities operational. Winter months (November through March) deliver significantly fewer tourists, lower rates, and dramatic weather—perfect for introspective retreats, though heating arrangements should be confirmed. Portuguese festivals cluster around summer months, making June through August optimal for experiencing local culture. Vinho Verde harvest season (September-October) brings wine-related activities and harvest celebrations throughout the Minho region.

Is Casa de Antonio suitable for families with children?

Yes. The two-pool system—one 20-meter pool for serious swimming, one additional pool for leisure—accommodates swimmers of various levels. The entire grounds are enclosed, eliminating concerns about children straying onto roads. Nearby Praia de Moledo and Vila Praia de Ancora provide family-friendly beaches within 30km, suitable for young swimmers. The gardens invite exploration without hazards. Ponte de Lima, 40km south, features a celebrated children’s market during peak season. Kayaking on the Lima River offers family-appropriate excursions with tour providers in the nearby towns. Cots for infants, washing machines, and the villa’s spacious layout accommodate the practical needs of families with young children. Nearby playgrounds in Braga, 50km south, provide activity options during rainy days.

What is included in the rental price at Casa de Antonio?

The rental includes Wi-Fi connection throughout the property, linen and towels, access to both swimming pools, barbecue facilities, and use of all furnishings and equipment. Utilities (electricity, water, heating/cooling as applicable) are included. A washing machine enables self-service laundry during extended stays. Hair dryers and complimentary toiletries are provided. Cots for infants are available at no additional charge upon request. Pool heating (during cooler months) should be confirmed when booking. Final cleaning may be billed separately depending on the rental agreement; arrival cleaning is included.

What restaurants and shops are near Casa de Antonio?

Ponte de Lima, 40km south, offers numerous restaurants ranging from casual riverside cafes to fine dining establishments known for regional cuisine. The town’s market (famous among locals) operates regularly and offers fresh produce, cheese, cured meats, and bakery items. Braga, 50km southeast, provides supermarket chains, speciality food shops, and restaurants across all price categories. The city’s central market area sells regional products. Caminha, 25km west, maintains smaller local shops and cafes reflecting its medieval character. Viana do Castelo, 35km southwest, combines supermarket access with excellent restaurants overlooking the Lima River. For daily essentials, local villages between the villa and Ponte de Lima offer small shops and bakeries typical of Portuguese rural communities.