Between the sea and the mountains

Discover the charm of Tavira in an authentic retreat with the comfort of four unique houses.

About Quinta do Mestre

Welcome to your retreat in Tavira

Located in the heart of the eastern Algarve, this typical 1888 farmhouse offers four independent houses designed to provide comfort, tranquility, and a genuine experience.

Just a few minutes from the idyllic beaches of Ria Formosa and the historic center of Tavira, you will find the perfect balance between nature, culture, and well-being. 

Relax on the patio, gaze at the city, the sea, and the stars from our century-old rooftop terrace. Feel close to nature and return to your roots.

Learn More About the Farm

A legacy rooted in the mountains, mines, and eyes set on the sea

Around 1870, at the height of mining in São Domingos, families abandoned the harsh mines of Alentejo in search of a more dignified life. Unequal industrialization and foreign control over resources led many to travel down the Guadiana River towards the eastern Algarve, where time was still measured by the seasons and the hoe.

One of these families settled in Casa Queimada, in the heart of the Algarve barrocal. From there, in 1880, Manuel Custódio and Maria Gertrudes set out to take on the challenge of caring for an agricultural property. Thus was born Quinta do Mestre, nestled among silent hills and looking out to sea.

The first house built was Casa do Mar, in 1888, welcoming the young couple at a time when the country was facing political and economic instability. Even so, in the mountains, the rhythm was dictated by the land.

The farm grew with agricultural needs and the winds of history. In 1904, Casa dos Proprietários was built, used as a holiday retreat in the countryside. In 1910, the year the Republic was established, the Armazém and Cabana were built, a sign of expanding production. In 1938, under the Estado Novo regime, the terrace and hayloft were built, at the height of agricultural activity.


During the 1950s, a time of rural emigration and political isolation, a corral, chicken coop, pigsty, and cowshed were added. Many men left for the salt flats of Tavira or to fish for tuna; the women, with their children, remained on the land. It was then that they would climb up to the roof terrace and, with their eyes on the sea, pray for their loved ones.

Modernity arrived slowly. It was only in the mid-1980s, after the 25 April revolution, that electricity lit up the farm's evenings. Running water only arrived in 1995, when Portugal had already joined the European Union.

In 2015, Manuel Custódio's great-grandson, Miguel Mestre, and his wife acquired the property with the aim of preserving the family heritage, restoring the houses, and sharing this authentic way of life.

During the renovation work, traces of the ingenuity of times gone by were found: oars transformed into beams, Grandfather Mestre's old bakery, and a crucifix nailed to the wall of the terrace — a living memory of the prayers for the return of the men to sea.

Located at one of the highest points in the region, the farm once offered an unobstructed view of the sea at Cabanas. From the rooftop terrace, the men observed the state of the sea and the women entrusted their loved ones to faith.

Today, Quinta do Mestre has been reborn as a genuine rural tourism destination, where every stone, every shadow, every whitewashed wall tells a story.
Visiting Quinta do Mestre is to become part of it.

Our accommodations

The charm of a memorable stay

Free WiFi so you can stay connected throughout your stay.

Fully equipped homes so you feel at home, away from home.

Free parking next to the houses, ensuring more time to relax.

Access to Tavira's attractions, to enjoy local experiences.

Our Houses

An invitation to visit Tavira

House of the Sea

House of the Sea

An elegant retreat with sea views, ideal for up to 4 people. With 75 m² of space, it includes 1 bedroom, a sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a fireplace, and a private outdoor area with a garden, terrace, and barbecue. Free parking and easy access. Top marks for comfort, cleanliness, and location.

Country House

Country House

Rustic charm in a 65 m² space with panoramic views of the countryside and sea. Sleeps 4 people with 1 bedroom and sofa bed. Features a full kitchen, balcony, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, shared garden, and barbecue. Peaceful setting and direct contact with nature.

House of Birds

House of Birds

The most welcoming option for up to two people, with 16 m² full of charm. Includes a bedroom, living room with kitchen, bathroom, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, TV, crib/high chair, and access to the garden. Ideal for couples seeking intimacy in a peaceful environment.

House of Eira

House of Eira

Spacious and family-friendly: 110 m² with capacity for 5 people, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, and full kitchen. With air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, washing machine, and private covered terrace. Offers views of the shared garden, privacy, and complete autonomy—perfect for families or groups.

Choose your retreat and experience Tavira at your own pace

Choose from our four charming and comfortable houses and enjoy peaceful days in the heart of the Algarve.

What do our customers say?

An unforgettable and unique experience

“A very welcoming farm that provides a beautiful and deep connection with nature and the best Tavira has to offer! Great space for families, couples, and even pets. The owners are five-star, always very helpful and welcoming! I highly recommend it!”

“An extremely pleasant place with a lot of history, located between the sea and the countryside, offering unforgettable moments. The house is very cozy and the hosts, Sandra and Miguel Mestre, are impeccable. I will definitely return with my family on our next vacation. Thank you very much to Quinta do Mestre!”

Our Contacts

Book your stay here

Call to national mobile network

Contact us via email

Reservation confirmation is made within 24 hours, and payment terms will be indicated in the response to the reservation request.

Name*
Contact*
Choose your house*
Check In Date*
Check Out Date*
Observations
Please fill all the required fields!
Please accept terms and conditions to proceed
Name*
Contact*
Choose your house*
Check In Date*
Check Out Date*
Observations
Please fill all the required fields!
Please accept terms and conditions to proceed
Please wait