Casa Mero Douro
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Overview
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A decadent and stylish villa based in the charming region of Alijo, Casa Mero Douro is the ideal property for large groups who are looking to unwind and reconnect as a collective. The outdoor grounds of this villa are truly phenomenal, sporting a far-reaching decking area with a tremendous swimming pool, that naturally blends in to its surroundings. Thus, guests are free to float aimlessly in the crystal-clear water as they appreciate the sublime views that surround them. In addition, this property is home to an attractive selection of outdoor terraces. These are the perfect areas for guests to enjoy a range of al fresco dining experiences, helping to elevate the luxury of this marvellous property.
Travelling inside, this property presents a stunning array of ornate furnishings, helping to build a deeply expressive holiday home. The living area is home to an eclectic range of seating arrangements, such as a considerable sofa and an assortment of rich green armchairs. Thus, guests can use these spaces to their fullest potential, recharging their batteries as they reminisce about their favourite parts of the trip so far. The dining area is incredibly spacious, ensuring that guests can enjoy their daily meals in style. Using a broad dining table and a wealth of grey fabric chairs, this space helps to accentuate the opulence and affluence of this entire property. The kitchen within this property adheres to a much brighter theme, presenting a collection of bright white cupboards and surfaces. Therefore, guests will have access to everything they would need to craft a plethora of amazing meals throughout their stay on this impeccable property.
The first floor is home to eight beautiful bedrooms overlooking the Douro River. All of these bedrooms host a considerable double bed that has been fitted with a collection of ample and crisp linens. Again, all of these rooms are home to incredible double beds, ensuring that guests can revel in a deeply restful and tranquil night’s sleep throughout the duration of their once-in-a-lifetime trip.
What you should know…
- Breakfast is included but lunchtime or evening meals are extra and the owner prefers the clients to comply with these conditions (please see Ts&Cs)
- There is a little mooring at the end of the garden so the owner can organise taxi boats to collect the clients and take them to nearby villas and then return them. The property is very remote therefore this option is perfect for clients that do not want to do too much driving
- Due to its rural location and how the property blends in to its surroundings, there are drops and uneven ground, which may not suite families with small children.
- The two floating staircases, to the first floor, do not have hand rails
- The train runs along the back of the property a few times during the day, its just a small train that provides a service to the Douro area.
Property Features
The Villa
Casa Mero Douro has been painstakingly restored to maintain the existing Old-World charm while adding New-World conveniences and infrastructures. Enjoy a house with a decoration designed for comfort and well-being, this house is enveloped in a breathtaking setting!
Ground Floor
- Large living room with various seating areas, fireplace and access to the terrace
- Open plan area with two games tables
- Media room with comfortable seating and TV
- Open plan dining area for 16 people and access to the terrace
- Fully equipped kitchen with breakfast bar and access to the terrace (Please see Ts&Cs)
- Laundry room with washing machine
- Two guest toilets
First Floor
- Bedroom with two single beds pushed together, access to a balcony and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with two single beds pushed together, access to a balcony and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with two single beds pushed together, access to a balcony and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed, access to a balcony and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed, access to a balcony and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite shower room
Exterior Grounds
- Private swimming pool overlooking the river
- Large terrace and garden area
- Covered terrace
- Various sun loungers
- Outdoor dining
- Garden furniture
- Private parking
- Barbecue
Additional Facilities
- Access to the river (please note, Douro River is closed to navigation from January to march)
- Wi-Fi connection
- Washing machine
- Cot and high chair
- Hair dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Casa Mero DouroCasa Mero Douro is just a 20-minute drive away from the quaint region of Alijo, giving guests a chance to explore this premium area with ease. One of the most alluring attractions in this region can be found in Pinhao station, which is based around half an hour away from the villa. Complete with 19th-century fixtures and unique artefacts; this train station is a great place to visit if you wish to learn more about the whimsical legacy of Alijo. This station is also home to an array of decorative tiles, which depict the timeline of this region’s history in great colour and detail. Whilst you’re here, make sure to observe the grandiose bridges and railways that help to accentuate the timeless nature of this landmark.
Alijo is often commended for its variety of port wines, a commodity that helps to characterise the rich culture of this entire region. If you are an avid lover of this type of wine, a trip to Regiao Demarcada do Douro Vinhateiro is a real treat. Translated as the Demarcated Region of Douro Winery, this landmark presents 26,000 hectares of luscious foliage and has been producing port wine for over 2000 years. This high-end production has allowed this attraction to be classified as Mankind’s Heritage by UNESCO, due to its integral impact on the local community and its ability to effectively reflect the evolution of human life. Região Demarcada do Douro Vinhateiro is located just over 35 minutes away from Casa Mero Douro.
Alongside its vast selection of native wines, this region is also celebrated for its riveting food scene. Gambas al Ajilo, also known as Spanish-style garlic shrimp, is a simple yet divine dish that is much loved by tourists and locals alike. This meal pulls upon a collection of fresh prawns that have been prepared with a plethora of garlic-infused olive oil and hints of smoked paprika. Thus, this is a fantastic dish to try if you are looking to take a leap out of your culinary comfort zone and delve into something new. This dish can be found in many bars and restaurants within the town centre, allowing guests to soak up the bustling local atmosphere as they revel in a truly amazing meal.
Some interests locals nearby
- Boat Pier: 50 metres away (navigation on the Douro river is not permitted between January – March)
- Local train station (the Douro Line runs between Porto and Pocinho): 10 minutes drive
- Tua dam (this dramatic construction is located on a tributary of the Douro River): 6 kms
- Pinhão (harbour): 17 kms by car or 35 min by boat
- Favaios Bread & Wine Museum (the village is also famous of its dessert wine): 10 kms
- Heliport: 6 km
- Quinta da Romaneira: 6,6km
- Quinta do Bomfim: 17km by car or 35 min by boat
- Quinta do Crasto: 1h:15m by boat
- Quinta do Ventozelo: 20 min by boat
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Porto Airport
(150 km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Castedo
(4 km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Alijo
(9 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Beira-Rio Restaurant
(6 km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
Supermercado Coviran
(11 km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Soutelo do Douro River Beach
(43 km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Lamego Mini Golf Course
(80 km) |
||
Note
Please be aware that the location tab shown on the website is not based on the property's exact location; therefore, all location amenities are an approx of facilities, restaurants, and villages/towns you might find around the property. The property's exact location will be provided to you before arrival and might come along with some recommendations about the area and what to visit.
ABOUT THE DOURO
A symbol of Portugal’s birth and growth as a nation, the Douro has long been the country’s lifeline. Leaving the pastel-coloured metropolis of Porto, venture through the enchanting countryside.
Following the winding Douro river east from Porto reveals one of the most scenic drives in Europe and Portugal’s premier wine region, the Douro Valley. With terraces of vines lining the riverbanks, Douro Valley holidays offer stunning hiking trails, beautiful viewpoints and a wonderful selection of peaceful retreats.
In the Douro, you will find quiet towns and villages, vineyards hugging the bends, castles from the time of the Reconquest and other places worthy of a stop to look far into the horizon.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesAlijo is teeming with cultural landmarks and historical monuments, making it the perfect holiday destination for children who are eager to explore the world for themselves. This region is also celebrated for its rich religious history, with Igreja Matriz de Alijo standing at the forefront of this legacy. The exterior of this monument is absolutely awe-inspiring, showcasing a plethora of attractive Baroque and Neo-Classical motifs and a looming central nave. Inside, this building continues to inspire and delight every guest that steps through its doors. Decorated with a collection of altarpieces and polychrome carvings, this is a fantastic place to visit if you wish to reconnect with the more joyful aspects of the Christian faith. An added bonus of this attraction is that there is a wide variety of parking spaces available, making it a very accessible landmark. Igreja Matriz de Alijo is situated around 20 minutes away from Casa Mero Douro.
Edificio dos Tacos do Concelho de Alijo, also referred to as the Alijo Town Hall is a truly marvellous piece of architecture and is based just 20 minutes away from the villa. This building presents two spacious floors, with the former presenting an 18th-century Baroque style and the latter showcasing a 19th-century style. These impeccable design choices help to exemplify the tremendous history of this building and the unique impact it has on the bustling local citizens. Though this is a government official building, it still welcomes an abundance of tourists. Guests are encouraged to travel up to the upper levels of this monument so that they can bask in the collection of phenomenal panoramic views.
Casa Museu Mauricio Penha is an unconventional museum that celebrates the life and works of the Penha family, particularly the pieces created by acclaimed sculptor Mauricio Penha. Guests are free to analyse all of these pieces in full detail, exploring the affluent art scene seen throughout this region. Since this building has undergone an intense restoration process, it still manages to uphold a collection of its original structures. In turn, guests also have the chance to meander through a traditional 18th-century home, giving them more insight into the past styles of this area. Casa Museu Mauricio Penha can be found just under half an hour away from Casa Mero Douro.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Watersports
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
Onsite Facilities
- Indoor Games
- Waterfront
Services Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
- Breakfast Included
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Transfers Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
- On-Site Concierge
- Breakfast Included
- Bathroom Toiletries
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to travel services we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.
Please note that all services are subject to availability and must be requested in advance and that due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. Prices are on request. We will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Villa Services Paid Locally
• Pre-arrival fridge stock up (food & beverages) as well as menu meals, paid locally
• Personal laundry service, paid locally
• Babysitting, paid locally
• Airport transfers or private driver, paid locally
• Boat & speed boat activities, paid locally
• Vineyards visits & wine tastings (can include a lunch or dinner wine producing Quinta), paid locally
• Canoeing, electric bikes tour, other Douro exploring tours, paid locally
• Concierge Service: check-in and check-out assistance plus booking restaurants, winery visits/tastings, panoramic Douro tours, spa services (massages), taxis and airport transfers
| Security deposit | Credit card details are required 2 weeks prior to departure for pre-authorisation. |
| Arrival time | After 3 pm |
| Departure time | 5 pm |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | Credit card details are required 2 weeks prior to departure for pre-authorisation. |
| Arrival time | After 3 pm |
| Departure time | 5 pm |
| Energy costs included? | Yes, included in the rental price. |
| Heating costs included? | Not available on this property. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, included in the rental price. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes, included in the rental price. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or garbage disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Internet access? | Wi-Fi internet access included. |
| Minimum stay | 3 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Smoking & Vaping are not permitted. |
| Pool heating charge? | Not available on this property. |
| Tax | Tourist Tax included in the rental price. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A non-refundable 50% deposit is required to confirm a booking at this property (or full payment if booking within 12 weeks of departure). |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that breakfast is included in the rental price. However, kitchen use is subject to certain conditions. If you prefer not to use the kitchen and decide to have the chef for meals, we offer a reduced rate of €250 per night. Please indicate this preference during the booking process, and feel free to contact us for further details. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 8 people:
| Rental period | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 24th 2024 - Jan 1st 2025 | £7,183 | £9,577 | £11,972 | £16,758 |
| Jan 1st 2025 - Jun 27th 2026 | £7,496 | £9,995 | £12,494 | £17,488 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Reviews
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Vacation of a lifetime
Casas Mero Douro was a vacation of a lifetime. To experience the Douro Valley in such a beautiful residence was truly special. Our host Miguel and his staff were magnificent and help create memories that will last a lifetime. No detail was sparred in assuring that our group of 12 had the best experience. The food prepared for us both at dinner and breakfast was equivalent to a 5 star restaurant. The residency was so beautiful and comfortable. Moreover, Miguel helped us arrange a fun day excursion every day and each of them were perfect. Thanks so much for a fantastic time.
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Wonderful scenery
An idyllic place, both in the surroundings and in the house itself, architecture and decoration. Great social spaces, indoors and outdoors. Beautiful pool!
Access to the boat from the house, what a wonderful convenience!
Well equipped kitchen. Top breakfast!
Miguel was very welcoming and was there to welcome us from the moment we arrived; Susana was very helpful and affable during our stay.
We couldn't ask for a better location! To arrive during the day, to enjoy the wonderful scenery.
I wish I could do it again one day!
Well done. -
A magnificent villa
A magnificent villa, quiet near the Douro, 5-star service, the staff is discreet, professional, attentive and always there for anything. The meals are excellent, Adson managed to get me to eat foods that I hate such as Brussels sprouts, peppers, orange cake... The cleanliness of the room and bathroom: impeccable.
It felt like home, I would love to come back. Thanks to the team it was great. -
Everything was spectacular
Casa Mero Douro was one of the most memorable vacation stays ever! I travelled with a group of twelve adults with two kids and everything was spectacular. The house is right on the river with a private dock. The pool and deck are perfect. And each bedroom has an ensuite bathroom. Miguel was the most amazing host, arranging everything from ground transport from Porto to the house, restaurant reservations, winery visits, and more. He was communicative and was very upfront with any costs or expenses. One of our guests needed gas to fill up their car and Miguel helped arrange that as well.
If you're looking for a house to relax, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy the beauty of Douro Valley, this is the place! I cannot recommend this house and Miguel enough.
Thank you Miguel and the staff for making our trip so memorable! -
Fantastic location
Fantastic location beautiful views and a very friendly staff ! Great food and wine!
We had a very nice holiday and the powerboat was super
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What a great place
What a great place! Casa Mero Douro, luxurious furnishings, all facilities are available. With very friendly and fantastic service. You will certainly relax here... Thank you Casa Mero Douro
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Just wonderful
Magnificent space with superb views of the river. The service was wonderful.
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A paradise on earth
I loved standing over the Douro River, it was absolutely beautiful. Wonderful location and service.
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