Welcome to ‘Pátio’
Welcome to Pátio das Andorinhas, a little piece of spectacular wonder in the middle of a tiny village in Alentejo. The magnificent property is unknown by many, but loved and treasured by those who have already visited. It’s a special place in a special town. Far away from the rest of the world, smack dab in the middle of the famous Portuguese region known mainly for its wine sits Pátio. But here at Pátio das Andorinhas, Moroccan vibes, eclectic decor, and vibrant colors are like sugar to the senses. Most particularly to the eyes.
It’s a magical place to spend a few days. With a pool to dream about, sunsets that are warm and romantic, and did I mention all the vibrant colors? The colors leave one spellbound and amazed more than anything. The care and attention by the owner is what really makes you feel like you belong there, though. Rui, a self-noted artist, doesn’t just make you feel like a special guest, he makes you feel like a part of the family at Pátio das Andorinhas!
Pátio’s History & the Owner
The property had originally belonged to the Rui’s grandfather, who, after passing, left Patio to his grandson. For 22 years, the property sat abandoned, completely untouched. Since the house itself is over 200 years old, and due to the neglect, it was in need of renovations. Because of its state and condition, Rui spent the next 13 years restoring it piecemeal, always looking ahead to the goal of evolving it into a proper business. Though it started out merely as a hobby, first fixing the roof, then installing large bathrooms for each of his units, it turned into a labor of love. Now, with 5 units and a total capacity of being able to host 18 people, Rui can smile with pride and accomplishment over a job well done.
Because of the 50-something’s passion for art, he has turned the guesthouse into more of a showroom for his skill. Decor unlike any you’ve ever seen throughout the whole property, Rui likes to grace the walls of each of the units with a little something special.
Decor & Guests
Pátio das Andorinhas’ design is broad-based with a an all-around different approach. With knick-knacks from his travels through Asia, India, South America and more, guests feel like they’re in a fantastical journey through the Arab world, more than in Portugal. Two levels full of eye-popping exterior design, Rui’s eclectic taste would be most accurately described as Moroccan funk. It’s not just a mixture of different cultures intertwined, but that of ideologies as well. A perfect example of this is the chapel he’s constructed inside of the guesthouse, ideal for his Catholic guests looking for a place of retreat. While in the main entrance to the property, he has a statue of Buddah for others who are not of the same religious persuasion.
And his guests are indeed a mixed bag. From all different corners of the world, Rui is constantly amazed at so many of his guests wanting to come to such a small town. And while he scratches his head sometimes asking why they would come to such a small town like Ferreira do Alentejo, maybe his question is actually the answer. Perhaps because it’s such a small town, that’s exactly why they seek it out.
What’s on Offer
But what does Pátio das Andorinhas mean exactly? Quite literally it is “the patio of swallows”. No, there’s no metaphor behind the name. It’s actually quite literal. Because swallows are always overhead, the guesthouse reportedly use to have many of the birds inside the rooms, even with nests! Rui decided to dedicate the name after the “original tenants” so to speak.
And aside from the lovely flying creatures that soar by each day, what else can you find at this great guesthouse? For one, each and every morning Rui sets out a beautiful breakfast for his guests to indulge in. Whether it’s fresh pastries, rolls or hams, he will make you feel important with whatever you would like. I was unfortunately sick while there, but Rui couldn’t have been more attentive to helping me get well. Making me fresh squeezed orange juice, and even offering to pick me up anything I needed at the store. He always went above and beyond what any owner would normally do for their guest.
To see more photos of Pátio das Andorinhas, make sure to click here
Not only does he have this great breakfast each morning, but he always has extra food on stash. Guests are welcome to come into the communal kitchen and help themselves whenever they like, in case they can’t make it to the store, or are in a bind.
Perhaps the best part about Pátio das Andorinhas though, is the overall vibe. In the evenings, if you want to sit outside and have a drink on the patio you’re more than welcome to do that. Oh, and do it by candlelight at sunset. Sitting on the amazing couches he has on the lower level of the property. With incredibly colorful pillows. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from Aladdin. It’s so cool.
Want to do some sunbathing? Great. Make sure to do some lounging by the poolside, either in one of the sunbeds or comfortable couches upstairs.
Extra Information
When asked what makes Pátio das Andorinhas stand out from other properties, Rui smiles and says it’s the neighborhood-like approach more than anything else. Each unit has its own private entrance, making guests feel like they’re a part of a community when they come in and out of their rooms. Rather than staying at a guesthouse or hotel, this is a much more cozy setting. He likes this feel, and designed it specifically this way.
If you’re interested in art and exhibitions, then it might behoove you to go when he holds such retreats for guests who are keen on artistic expression.
Rui also invites his guests to try the best restaurant in town. I went to the restaurant for a super traditional Portuguese lunch one afternoon and this is what it looked like.
O Portão Restaurant is the kind of place you want to go to feel like you’re one with the locals. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll love being able to bet you’re the only foreigner in the joint! With super friendly staff, and a delicious menu, you will not want to go home without trying their grilled meat, and their traditional soups!
In short, Pátio das Andorinhas has exceptional service, amazing decor, wonderful vibes and a history dating back over 200 years. It’s all there waiting for you. So what are you waiting for? Book your stay today, and when you do, make sure to tell them Lisa sent you!
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