Selão da Eira Velha - Nature Paradise

Hidden in a valley of the National Ecological Reserve, just a mile further down from Salgadinho, SELÃO DA EIRA VELHA surprises everyone who reaches there after a short drive or walk through eucalypus forest. It is a world apart where time seems to be on halt and the sounds of nature are the only “noise”.

The typical Alentejo forest with medronho, cork and olive trees and willows along the river, the Swan Lake and the Lotus Pond together with a dense vegetation of fruit trees, biological horticulture and ornamental plants compose a true Nature Paradise with a very special atmosphere. 

The valley is the habitat of white and black swans, geese and ducks and freely moving peacocks from our own nursery, and, of course, it has birds, fish, water turtles, and a natural yard with happy chicken.

SELÃO DA EIRA VELHA is integral part of our Nature Tourism. The guests from SALGADINHO and SÍTIO DAS ROLAS may come at any time. There is also one small guesthouse, a swimming pool surrounded by trees, charcoal barbecue and a traditional stone oven. For children, the valley is a huge adventure playground with a lot to discover.

Tourists from other places, hikers and bikers from the ROTA VICENTINA, equestrians, and - very much so - the local people are also welcome to enjoy the peaceful natural environment with a snack or drink from the Café, and anyone can book a Natural Health & Wellness Treatment.

With particular effort and pride we work to turn this charming valley of a former watermill into a local recreation area open to the public during most part of the year and also accessible in wheelchair.

Perto do Paraíso - Open-air Café

The Café is really "Close to Paradise", and it is not a normal café. Visitors may roam around and relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the valley, taking snacks and drinks to any place they like - one of the terraces and patios by the Swan Lake and the river, or the natural rest areas scattered along the Lotus Pond. The glass pavilion is a perfect retreat to read or listen to music.

PERTO DO PARAÍSO is open to anyone who loves nature and secret places. Special orders for special occasions are possible, and on request a lunch or picnic in plain nature, or a dinner under the twinkling night sky is prepared. Set dinner and lunch in the Pavillion is possible all-year round.

The Pavilion

The Pavilion ......

Casa Cisne - Overnight Stay in Plain Nature