Built from rough stones and surrounded by nature, the Granite House offers sweeping views and an intimate, calm atmosphere. With its secluded spot in the Portuguese countryside, it has plenty of hiking trails, nearby beaches, and charming little towns like Monchique.
© Courtesy of The Granite House
The view
Overlooking the vineyard from the top of the hill, Granite House is one of three houses at Quinta da Lila. Its terrace with plunge pool, deck, sun loungers and parasols is the perfect place to unwind. A small herb garden and orchard provide lemons, oranges and the rare Pera de Monchique apple—ingredients that may well feature in breakfast or at the barbecue.
© Courtesy of The Granite House
The architecture
Separated into two levels, the interior features a well-equipped kitchen and a bathroom with dark plastered walls. Underfloor heating and a wood-burning stove in the centre of the living room provide warmth in winter, while air conditioning on both floors ensures pleasantly cool temperatures. A solid oak staircase leads to the second floor, with a spacious double bed and plenty of storage space.
© Courtesy of The Granite House
© Courtesy of The Granite House
A look inside
At the centre of the living area stands a large, oversized sofa designed by renowned Dutch designer Gerard van den Berg. A vintage moon lamp by Verner Panton illuminates the interior of the house. Next to the kitchen, a dining table provides space for conversation over dinner. Its vintage chairs were designed by Mauro Pasquinelli in 1976.
The second floor is kept in a light grey tone, which makes the room appear spacious. The dark plaster in the bathroom highlights the modern taps.
© Courtesy of The Granite House
© Courtesy of The Granite House
© Courtesy of The Granite House
Surrounding area
Several supermarkets, cafés and restaurants can be found in the nearby small town of Monchique with its charming, cobblestone streets. Locally produced pottery and woven goods are also sold here. Close to the town is a forest with typical Portuguese cork trees.
© Bextrel, Monchique – 19.09.2019, adjusted colours, CC BY-SA 4.0
Interesting spots
In the midst of nature and mountains, the Granite House is the ideal starting point for hiking—whether to nearby Picota Mountain or Fóia, both offer sweeping views over the valleys and mountain bike trails. Both photography enthusiasts and birdwatchers will find plenty to enjoy on the highest peaks of Serra de Monchique.
Known for its golden sand and dramatic cliffs, Praia da Rocha, the closest beach on the southern Algarve coast, is only 35 minutes away. Another beach with dunes and calm waters is Praia de Alvor, around 40 minutes away. More rugged and natural beaches like Praia da Arrifana or Praia do Amado await on Costa Vicentina—offering perfect conditions for surfing.
©Serge Fenenko, Serra de Monchique, road to Cascata do Barbelote, adjusted colours, CC BY-SA 4.0
© Courtesy of Yellow House
What we love about it?
That the cosy holiday home has both indoor and outdoor areas for socialising and retreating. As it is the highest of the three houses, it also offers the best view over the vineyards.
© Courtesy of The Granite House
© Courtesy of The Granite House
Who is this place best suited for?
For couples and small groups of friends. At Quinta da Lila, larger groups or families have the option of renting additional houses on the estate.
© Courtesy of The Granite House
© Courtesy of The Granite House
Details
Interior
- On the mezzanine an extra large double bed on the mezzanine (1.80m x 2.00m),
- Super large double relax platform on the ground floor (2.20m x 2.40m)
- Bathroom with water-saving rain shower and toilet
- Wonderful well-equipped kitchen
Exterior
- Beautiful plunge pool (3m x 2m)
- Several terraces with comfortable outdoor furniture
- Private garden and lawn area
- Orchard with fruit trees
- Herb borders
- Sun loungers
- Parasols
- BBQ (Kamado Joe Classic II)
- Parking facilities
- Beautiful views over the vineyard and across the valley towards Foia, the highest point of The Algarve
Facilities
- Ultra-fast Wi-Fi (Starlink)
- Premium quality music system from Bluesound
- Fully equipped kitchen with 2 mobile induction rings, combi-oven, dishwasher and fridge/freezer
- Good collection of pans, dishes, glassware and cutlery
- Air conditioning
- Underfloor heating
- Wood burner
- Nespresso coffee machine
- Kettle, juice maker and toaster
- Hypoallergenic duvets, pillows and bedlinen
- Bath and hand towels
- Beach towels
- Kitchen and tea towels
- Hair dryer
- Shampoo and shower gel from 8950 Cosmetica
© Courtesy of The Granite House
