Odeceixe – Memorable Stay at Casas do Moinho

There’s a special place on the west coast of Portugal. It combines the bucolic countryside with an impressive coastline and its characterized by astonishing beaches. Moreover, is separated by dramatic cliffs, untouched landscapes, and a strong raw Atlantic essence hard to find elsewhere in the world.

Being Portuguese, I might sound suspicious talking about it but for me, it’s one of my favorite places in Portugal.



The tiny village of Odeceixe, a name whose pronunciation will make you suffer and laugh at the same time. It has a slow-paced atmosphere, and a unique charm all of its own. Definitely, a place to visit if you ever decide to spend your holidays in Portugal or even if you are in Lisbon for a few days.

Odeceixe is extremely calm out of season, however, its spirit changes in summer. Because attracts a lot of water sports enthusiasts, campers and families seduced by an amazing beach and a relaxed atmosphere. Which we felted very attracted to and even thought on living there for a while.

All the action is focused on a single main street and a small square, Largo 1 de Maio. Where there are not only a few cafés and restaurants but a couple of lively bars and mini-markets, and several craft shops.

The streets are narrow and the houses whitewashed with red tile roofs. Upon a hilltop with panoramic views over the valley below, sits a blue and white windmill. Very near the place where we were going to spend our first night, Casas do Moinho.

As soon as we arrived at Casas do Moinho. The sun was disappearing behind the hill from our private terrace and we could appreciate all the surroundings. It was the perfect set to recharge some batteries before going to eat a traditional pork dish called Carne de Porco à Alentejana.

Wonderfully located in a natural park, Casas Do Moinho is close to several beaches. It offers 5-star accommodation with free WiFi and includes an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic views. Which is the hottest days is a blessing for anyone who wants to refresh and chill in the countryside. The room where we stayed was kind a little cute apartment with a kitchen and dining area. If you happen to visit the small town of Odeceixe and you are searching for a exquisite stay, we totally recommend this place.

Early in the morning, there was a yummy breakfast by the pool waiting for us. After having a wonderful meal and our bellies satisfied, we hit the road in direction of the beach, Praia de Odeceixe. Located only around 3km west of the village.

Driving down the broad valley keeping parallel to the River Seixe, we could see farmlands and swirls across a huge belt of sand into the ocean. The road climbs up out of the valley floor through a hillside offering a wonderful view over the valley and river below. Be sure you have your photo camera ready for some epic pictures.

Aljezur is only 17 min away by car from Odeceixe. A village with remote origins and marked by various archeological remnants. Over there, we only spent a few hours visiting the castle located on the top of the village. The views are impressive, due to its location.

The nearest beach, Arrifana is known as a popular surfing destination to many who travel to the Algarve. Characterised by a long slip of pale sand sheltered by a crescent bay and accessed by a hilly path. If you ever travel to Odeceixe, it’s definitely a place worth visit.

In the end of the day, we head back to Odeceixe, where we were about to experience something new.

Together with Paulina, we were about to spend our first night in a Mongolian yurt at an eco-friendly retreat center in Odeceixe.

Love, Pedro.