Castelo Ventoso Country Estate

About Castelo Ventoso Country Estate

A serene, family-run estate nestled in the picturesque Alentejo region of Portugal. With a storied history, breathtaking landscapes, and a commitment to sustainable farming, we provide a warm, authentic experience imbued with tranquillity and charm.

The house, available for exclusive rental, seamlessly blends the elegance of the Jesuit era with modern comforts, offering a peaceful and inviting retreat. It’s an idyllic venue for intimate events, providing a stunning backdrop for life’s most cherished celebrations.

Situated near the UNESCO World Heritage town of Évora, it also serves as the perfect base for exploring the region’s rich culture and history.

Behind The Brand

What was the initial spark for the property and how did it all begin?

Our story with this property began quite unexpectedly. We hadn’t planned to buy a monastery – especially after completing the renovations on our family estate, so deeply connected to my husband’s roots. But when we learned about this extraordinary property nearby, our curiosity got the better of us.

The estate had been in the same Portuguese family for over 250 years, and from the moment we saw it, we knew it was something truly special. Its charm and potential were undeniable. Together with our Portuguese friends and cousin, we decided to take the leap, embarking on an exciting journey to create something meaningful in this remarkable setting.

The estate is a traditional montado, home to cork forests, grazing sheep, ancient olive trees, and even remnants of a Roman road. At its heart lies a 16th-century monastery, once home to Jesuits from the University of Évora. Its soaring ceilings, serene chapel, and original benches exude timeless character. To us, this blend of nature, history, and comfort is utterly unique—an inspiring place where the past and present harmoniously coexist.

What spaces do you offer for a wedding or event?

We have several gardens around the house that are perfect for intimate weddings and events. The old olive orchard, the charming square in front of the house, the garden near the swimming pool with a sunset view, and the large garden behind the kitchen – ideal for long tables and a dance floor. These different spaces offer a wonderful flow, taking guests from the reception to the ceremony, then to dinner and drinks.

How many guests can you cater for?

We work with several good event planners and caterers who know the place and suppliers well, and the ideal size for events is up to 80 people. This allows the beauty and intimacy of the venue to be fully appreciated.
 The house can host up to 16 people to stay the night.

What is it that makes your property magic?

What makes our property so special is the feeling you get when you arrive. You can still sense the history from when the Jesuits lived here – the serenity of the 16th-century building, the old olive and cork trees, and the beautiful views. It really feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The days around the event are also great to relax at the swimming pool or play a match of padel tennis at our private court.

What advice can you give couples when selecting their venue?

We believe the personal contact and touch is important. Whether it’s for a wedding, a special event, or a relaxing holiday, you don’t want to feel like just another guest. Everyone has different interests and needs, and we really enjoy getting to know our guests and make sure their experience is memorable.

Editor’s Notes

Why we love it…

This family-run sanctuary exudes timeless charm, offering a serene escape with a deep connection to its heritage. From its centuries-old cork trees and Roman road remnants to the 16th-century monastery at its heart, every corner is storied and steeped in otherworldly elegance.

For the couple…

For couples enchanted by the grandeur of old world features and the allure of history, Castelo Ventoso is a dream realized. Perfect for those seeking an intimate celebration amidst Portugal’s rolling hills and evocative architecture.