Casa Rio D'Além - An eco-sustainable retreat where time slows down!
Hidden on the banks of the Mouro River in Melgaço, Casa Rio D'Além is much more than accommodation: it is an invitation to disconnect from the world and reconnect with what truly matters.
This restored stone house is set within a landscape of rare natural beauty. With no connection to the conventional power grid, it runs entirely on solar energy, which powers the house, outdoor spaces, and swimming pool. Here, nature is not just the setting — it is part of the experience.
Inside, you will find a large open-plan living space, bright and welcoming, where a fully equipped kitchen blends seamlessly with the dining and living areas. With, a wood-burning stove and a comfortable sofa bed, the space is designed for families and friends all year round. Large glass doors connect the interior with the outdoor patios, filling the house with natural light.
On the lower floor there are two cosy double bedrooms sharing a full bathroom with shower, offering comfort and privacy for up to six guests.
But it is outdoors where the real magic happens...
Between the river and the mountains, you will find several corners designed for slow living. Lay a blanket on the grass for a picnic or an outdoor nap, or let yourself be gently rocked in a hammock by the sound of the river. Have breakfast wherever you like, moving the outdoor table while birdsong and flowing water accompany you.
The barbecue area invites long outdoor meals, while the fire pit creates the perfect atmosphere for unforgettable nights under a star-filled sky. Far from city lights, fire and stars become the only illumination needed.
The swimming pool, facing the river and heated using surplus solar energy, offers a privileged space to relax or extend your swims into the evening. The only neighbours are nature itself: birds, occasional otters, and fish freely moving through the crystal-clear waters of the Mouro River.
At Casa Rio D'Além, the river sets the rhythm of the day, nature embraces every moment, and time becomes the ultimate luxury.
Here, you don’t just stay — you feel!
The story of this retreat, told in the first person:
It all began at the start of our love story. Between walks, conversations, and dreams for the future, there was always one place we returned to: an old family home shaped by time, surrounded by the calm of the river, birdsong, and the simple beauty of nature.
In 2014, we decided to restore it. It was not just a renovation, but a life project. Over the years, we invested our savings, time, and dedication, transforming this house into a retreat where every stone carries meaning.
But what makes this house truly special are not only its walls, but the stories within them.
As you move through the space, you will find family objects filled with memory. The bed throw was made from a traditional burel blanket belonging to Grandmother Maria. Old wooden suitcases from Grandfather Artur recall his journeys to France and his life between both countries.
School books and Grandfather Zé’s old telephone take us back to simpler times. Grandfather Miro’s shaving kit still preserves everyday rituals of the past, while Grandmother Matilde’s glasses invite guests to enjoy a liqueur just as she once did.
Grandmother São left behind a collection of old keys and cardboard suitcases, along with a legacy of imagination and creativity that gave soul to many corners of the house.
A special detail we love to share: the tables and chairs once belonged to the iconic Basófias boat in Coimbra and now continue their life hosting meals and conversations in a completely new setting.
More than a countryside house, this is a place where nature, authenticity, and memory meet. A space for those who value real stories, peace, and moments that stay long after the journey ends.
We hope you feel part of this story during your stay — and take with you not just photos, but the feeling of having discovered a place with a soul. 🍃✨