"I’ve stayed at Casa Vella several times, in all seasons, and it’s hard to say which time of the year is best. I think I’d have to go for the time of the grape harvest at the end of September, when the trees are full of fruit, and it’s hard to keep up with the supply of figs, chestnuts, walnuts, peppers, and tomatoes. The weather was lovely, although I was the only one daft enough to swim in the pool as the sun came up in the morning. It was bracing to say the least. We had some great days on the beach at Playa America and Samil, both about an hour’s drive away, and some more great days at home, helping with the wine making and enjoying the sunshine in the garden.

But it was lovely in the winter too, walking up the mountain behind the house to enjoy the even better views of the Penedes Mountains from up there, and then spending cosy evenings in the house, drinking Paul’s wine and watching the stars from the upstairs sitting room window. And in the spring there are fresh oranges from the tree (the one by the house is best) for breakfast, and the dubious pleasures of eating lamprey in the local restaurants with noisy Spanish friends. They are really ugly sort of giant eely things (the lamprey that is, not the Spanish friends), which are kept alive in a tank downstairs until you order them, and are a speciality of the village of Arbo. And at any time of the year it’s a lovely walk (or cycle if you’re feeling energetic) down the hill and across the River Miòo into Portugal. Melgaço, the village you can see from the house, has some nice cafés and delicious bread.

I think one of the nicest things about the place is its border position, high up in the hills, and only minutes from Portugal, so you get two countries in one holiday. You can drive along the River Miòo to where it meets the sea, and there’s a Celtic village on top of a hill called Monte Tecla, or you can drive the other way along the river, following the border inland and into the mountains. Or you can stay where you are and enjoy just being there. I think next time I go it’ll have to be in the height of summer, so I can check out the kiwi vines and strawberries."

Barbara - South West Wales

Paul & Lisa! Glad to be of help. We found it a wonderful place to relax, in a superb setting overlooking the valley to Portugal. The accommodation was first rate.

Playing croquet halfway up a mountain is just one of our lasting memories, plus the eagles soaring overhead!! We still have hopes of returning one day!

All the best Dennis & Anne

Our visit to Casa Vella last May was thoroughly relaxing and enjoyable. The house was clean, comfortable and had every thing we needed. The rustic setting and views from the house were outstanding. Thank you for the lovely organic wine and vegetables. We would recommend this holday to anybody wanting a peaceful break in tranquil surroundings.

Chris and Alison Williams. Beverley E.Yorks.