Imani Country House, Near Evora, Alentejo, Portugal - Explore & Book

"This is no ordinary country house. Sure, all the essential rustic elements are in place - old beams and stone hearths, pots bursting with flowers, a pin-drop peaceful setting deep in the Alentejo; there’s even a pair of donkeys braying in a field as you bump up the drive. But here they’re paired with sleek designer furniture, wall-fuls of modern art, and eclectic touches that include a display of antique sewing machines in a bathroom, salvaged neon signs in the garden and a vintage motorbike parked up in the dining room. Born from the ruins of a sprawling farm, Imani is the brainchild of TV producer Mariana and her actor husband José, who have skilfully turned the whitewashed shells into an intimate, romantic and surprisingly contemporary retreat. The 7 rooms and suites sit in converted stables, with chrome-and-glass tables, polished concrete and flea-market finds beneath soaring rafters. Some come with wood-burners for chilly evenings, and most have lavender-fringed terraces gazing out over the orange trees to the rooftops of Evora shimmering on the horizon. Outside are 2 pools, shaded nooks and hammocks for lazy snoozes. This is rural serenity with a seriously stylish twist - we loved it and can’t wait to return. Highs Wonderfully tranquil, yet ideal for exploring nearby Evora - one of Portugal’s gems, with Roman ruins, a walled Old Town and some excellent restaurantsSpoiling accommodation - even the standard Double Rooms come with swish bathrooms, top-of-the-range fittings and bags of spaceThe beautiful pools - a sparkling circular pool on the lawn, and a smaller one hidden beneath the blossoms in a tank once used for laundryThe fun, funky and very well-stocked honesty bar, which sits under a pergola in the garden, flanked by sofas, table football and giant chessFantastic staff - you’ll feel pampered from the moment you arrive, when you’re greeted with warm smiles and freshly pressed juice from Imani's own oranges Lows Unless you want to rely on taxis, you'll need a car to get here and to get out to exploreIt’s reached via a long, teeth-rattling track, with a very tight turn into the gates at the endNo twin rooms (it’s best suited to couples), though there are rollaway beds for children and some rooms interconnect" - Abi Dare