At the heart of Portugal's greenest countryside
Casa do Lento
The Slow House
In the unique Aldeia de Covas, Vila Nova de Cerveira
An ancient ruin turned into an eco-lodge
Equipped with lovely kitchen facilities for DIY meals
About us
A Modern Home with a Story, in the Heart of Leafy Minho County
If you are looking for an immersion in the stunning nature of Alto Minho, where you can truly detox, physically and mentally, this is the place. An ancient dwelling reconverted into a charming and sophisticated lodging, to experience a slower pace, relax and enjoy the rich local culture and breathtaking landscapes. We live in harmony with Nature: more time for the present moment, a deep breath of pure air and room for self-care.
View the house
Double room & living room with sofa bed
A simple double room with a king-size bed and direct access to the bathroom. The living room, with a sofa bed for two adults, sits next to the kitchenette and the garden — natural light, books and games for unhurried days.
Patios, pergolas and organic veggie garden
Cool, shaded outdoor corners to read, eat or simply be. The 100% organic veggie garden and orchards bring freshly picked fruit and vegetables — and the birds singing at dusk.
Reviews
Guest Testimonials
A place where you can truly relax and unplug from city life. The property is just perfect for resting.
Zoe – Netherlands
Casa do Lento is magical, very clean and well-equipped. The ecological approach made all the difference.
Matthieu – France
Paulo was incredibly responsive on WhatsApp before, during and after our stay.
Lee – UK
Lovely and serene all around. The attention to detail and the coherent ecological concept impressed us.
Claire – US
What you get
Immersion in a true ecological lifestyle + Amenities & Services
Free parking
Right by the house, in the village of Covas.
Yoga sessions, on request
In the garden or the living room, booked in advance.
Free Wi-Fi (low radiation)
Switched on only when you need it.
Organic veggie garden and produce
Freshly picked fruit and vegetables, 100% organic.
Solar-powered system and hot water
Renewable energy produced on the property.
Orchards and pergolas
Fruit and oak trees, shade and birdsong.
Slackline, books, games and workshops
Arts & crafts workshops at Oficina do Lento.
30 mins from river and ocean beaches
The Minho river, Âncora and the Atlantic coast.
Handmade soap and eco products
Biodegradable detergents and amenities.
Explore the region
Typical restaurants & local produce
Minho-style tascas and restaurants in Covas, Vila Nova de Cerveira and around — roast kid, lamprey in season, corn bread and vinho verde. Ask us: we keep a short list of favourites.
Tradition and gastro trips
Weekly fairs, farmers markets and vinho verde cellars. The Saturday market in Vila Nova de Cerveira is a must.
Stunning landscapes
Serra d’Arga, the Minho valley and the meeting of the river with the Atlantic at Caminha — viewpoints, waterfalls and schist villages a short drive away.
Outdoor & adventure
Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and SUP on the Minho river, surfing at Moledo and Afife. We arrange transfers and activities on request.
Arts & culture
Vila Nova de Cerveira, the "Town of the Arts", hosts the oldest art biennial in the Iberian Peninsula. Museums, galleries and the San Payo convent are minutes away.
Day trips
Ponte de Lima, Viana do Castelo, Valença and Galicia — Santiago de Compostela and Vigo are under an hour away. The Caminho de Santiago passes 15 minutes from the house.
Enjoy the beauty of northern Portugal while staying in a truly ecological household
Now open!
Please contact us for early bird booking or any enquiries!
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