Portugal Unplugged

Relax and unwind, off-grid, camping in the unique landscape of the Serra de São Mamede Natural Parque, Alentejo, Portugal
The bell tent

Secluded Simplicity

Our bell tent is nestled amongst the wild terraces of olive and fig trees that line our river. You will be off-grid, but with solar lighting and USB charging, so if wild camping is for you, why not allow yourself a little bit of luxury on your Portuguese adventure.

Listen to the birds and bubbling river whilst having a cool drink on your private terrace. Cool down with direct access to the river, and sole use of the glamping area.

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King-size bed
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Breakfast available
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Private river access
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Compost toilet
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Charging & wi-fi available
The Quinta

A Rural Retreat

Situated in the foothills of the mountain town of Marvão, and a small drive from the lively town of Castelo de Vide, we are a farm of 28 hectares with olive terraces, ancient cork trees, willows, elder and ash trees.

We have a wild river to explore, and our mountain to climb for that sunset beer. Watch out for our visiting cows, butterflies, vultures, eagles, owls, golden orioles, bee-eaters and more. You may even see an otter or a mongoose! Come in October and you can experience the olive picking season with us!

The local area

Serra de São Mamede

The natural park of Serra de São Mamede is rich in local history, scenery and biodiversity. The area is excellent for walking, mountain biking, bird watching and visiting Neolithic tombs and Roman ruins.

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Birds

Enjoy the eagles, vultures, woodpeckers, owls, king fishers, nightingales, storks, bee-eaters, orioles and more.
European Otter
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Flowers
Visit in spring to see the local hillsides and meadows burst into colour with the huge variety of wild flowers.
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Mammals
Sightings of wild boar, martens, mongoose, genets, badgers, otters, bats and foxes are possible.
Common Genet
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Insects & reptiles
Look out for lizards, snakes, salamanders, mantis, grasshoppers, butterflies, crickets, scorpions, dragon flies and millipedes.
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Trees
The area is famed for its cork, olive and chestnut trees. See the olives being harvested and pressed using traditional methods in late autumn.
Bonelli's Eagle

Close To Everything You Need

From fresh bread, local cheeses, wines and beers to cafés, restaurants and bars or local adventures, the best of the region is right at your doorstep. Below are some of our favourites, all within a short drive.

Santo António das Areias

Our nearest town is small but has a mini-market, petrol station, cafes, restaurants and a swimming pool.

Marvão

An historic mountain town full of medieval charm, with a castle, and breathtaking views over the Alentejo region. Good restaurants, cafes, award winning wines plus local festivals including the very popular chestnut festival in November.

Castelo de Vide

A hilltop walled town, rich in history, with many restaurants, bars and a weekly market full of local produce. It also has a surprising amount of micro museums and many summer festivals.

Valencia de Alcántara

A short drive across the border into Spain. It's a lovely town with a weekly market, local supermarkets and many bars and tapas restaurants.
Santo António das Areias

Borboletta | vegan restaurant

Pao de Canela | traditional restaurant

Beirã

Cais Coberto | bar and events venue

Sabores de Marvão | traditional restaurant

Portagem

Xalipas | bar with large selection of beers, gins and pizzas

Filip.é | restaurant with seasonal specialties and Alentejo favourites

Marvão

Pousada Marvão  | restaurant and late bar with panoramic views

fago  | Michelin Guide restaurant

Castelo de Vide

Barona | craft ale bar

Pirolito.cv | wine and tapas

Valencia de Alcántara, Spain

Asador los Carballos | restaurant specialising in grilled meats and fish

Hospederia El Convento | restaurant in former convent

Rail Bike Marvão

Adapted rail bikes using the disused Marvão railway.

Old School Alentejo Tours

Jeep and 4x4 tours, kayaking, mushroom tours.

Pombais

Bicycle tours, hiking, water sports, quad bikes, buggies and motobikes.

Smuggling walking trails

Historic smuggling routes amongst the hills and river Sever that form the Portuguese/Spanish border.

Lagar-António Picardo Nunes

Heritage museum and working olive mill.

Seasonal festivals

There are many local festivals, including: FIMM Marvão International Classical Music Festival - Marvão (July); Periferias international cinema festival (August); Chestnut Festival - Marvão (November).

Marvão

Has a local grocers store and many independent shops selling local crafts.

Castelo de Vide

Has local souvenir craft shops and a large international Supermarket.

Portalegre

A 35 min drive to the largest city in the area, Portalegre has most of the large European supermarkets and shops.

Towns

Food & Drink

Activities

Shopping

Frequently Asked Questions

What time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 12:00 AM.
We’ll send you clear arrival instructions and are flexible when possible.

What is the access like?

The entrance to the quinta is down a long, narrow winding track which is suitable for cars and small vans such as a VW Camper. It is necessary to walk down a short but steep and uneven footpath to the glamping area from the parking area. Sorry, it is not currently possible to access the bell tent in a wheel chair.

Is parking available?

Yes. It is possible to park close to the bell tent, with a short walk down a series of rocky steps the remainder of the way. We can help with baggage if needed.

Is there Wi-Fi and electricity?

Not at the bell tent, but there are several locations elsewhere at the quinta with fast, reliable Wi-Fi and eletrical charging points.

Are there cooking facilities?

The bell tent does not have cooking facilities. A fresh supply of drinking water will be provided along with plates, glasses, cutlery, etc. A continental breakfast can be delivered to your bell tent, on request, at an extra cost. The BBQ is available to use outside of the high fire risk season (July-Sept) and an eletric kettle is available year-round for your use. You will find plenty of great restaurants and bars around the area that provide great food, local wine and craft ales.

Are towels and linen provided?

Yes, fresh bed linen, towels, and eco-friendly toiletries are included in your stay.

Is there a toilet and washing facilities?

Yes. The bell tent has its own basic compost toilet and basic camping shower and the river is always great for bathing when the sun is shining!

Can I bring my pet?

Yes. Dogs may have to be kept on a lead to protect other animals on the quinta.

Is the bell tent suitable for kids or families?

Due to the wild nature of the site, It’s best suited for couples or solo travelers, but small families are welcome at your own risk — just let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly or contact us for more information.

Is the bell tent heated/cooled?

The bell tent has a wood burning stove and fire pit for cooler nights outside of the high fire risk season (July-Sept).

Where’s the nearest shop or restaurant?

Just a 10-minute drive takes you to the nearest town with a grocery store, pharmacy, cafes and restaurants. We’ll send you a full list with recommendations.

What’s your cancellation policy?

We offer free cancellation up to 14 days before arrival. If you need to cancel closer to your stay, we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Good to Know

Please remember, the bell tent is situated in the countryside – you will encounter creepy crawlies, mosquitoes (the bell tent has a mosquito net) and wild creatures. The site is rugged and uneven, with narrow trails and is unlit at night. Enjoy your stay in wild Portugal!

Bookings

Price: €65 per night (maximum 2 adults sharing)
Minimum stay: 2 nights

Get in touch

Looking to book or ask a question? We’re happy to help and are always just one message away.
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Where You’ll Find Us

Nestled in the countryside near Marvão, Portalegre, Portugal. Exact location shared after booking for your privacy and peace of mind.
Simplified map of Castellina Marittima, Tuscany