Coração de Dorna House | Castro Laboreiro | Peneda-Gerês National Park

Description:
Nestled in the valley of Castro Laboreiro, deep in the mountains where time seems to flow with the stream, stands Casa Coração de Dorna. An old stone house lovingly restored with patience, respect and passion.

When we found it in 2019, its weathered walls still echoed with the memories of generations who lived from the land: bread baked in wood-fired ovens, cured meats hanging from wooden beams, livestock sheltered below, and the fire always burning through the cold mountain nights.

We fell in love with the silence, the surrounding nature and the breathtaking views over the valley, and decided to bring the house back to life while preserving its soul.

The restoration was carried out stone by stone and timber by timber, preserving the original granite, wooden beams and rustic character that give the house its unique charm, while adding all the comfort expected from a quality retreat.

Spread over two floors, the house has been designed to provide comfort and authenticity all year round. Upstairs, there are two cosy bedrooms: one with a double bed and another with a double bed and a daybed, ideal for a child or for moments of reading and relaxation. This floor also includes a full bathroom with shower and a balcony overlooking the distinctive mountains of Castro Laboreiro.

On the ground floor, the fully equipped kitchen blends seamlessly with the living room, creating a warm and welcoming space to gather with family and friends. There is also a convenient guest bathroom, and the sofa bed can easily be converted into a comfortable bed for two additional guests. On colder days, the fireplace creates a cosy atmosphere, while the electric heating ensures comfort throughout the house. Free Wi-Fi keeps you connected to the world, although you may find it hard to resist the temptation to simply switch off and unwind. Although the house does not have a conventional oven, it is equipped with an Air Fryer and an electric grill, giving you plenty of options to prepare delicious meals.

Outside, the terrace with its dining table is the perfect setting for peaceful breakfasts, long lunches or al fresco dinners, all accompanied by breathtaking sunsets and the tranquillity of the surrounding mountains. Here, time slows down and every moment is meant to be enjoyed at your own pace.

The name 'Coração de Dorna' ('Heart of Dorna') came naturally and immediately catches the eye of everyone who steps inside. At the heart of one of the walls lies a very special stone, naturally shaped like a heart.

Thanks to its location—and because we truly believe this house has a heart—it is a place created to welcome, embrace and comfort everyone who stays here.

River swimming just a few minutes from the house…
The location is perfect for those seeking nature and refreshing days by the river.

Just 350 metres away (a 4-minute walk) is Dorna Bridge, a charming spot where, during the summer, you can enjoy crystal-clear, refreshing waters. It's almost like having your own private natural swimming pool just outside your door! Perfect for a refreshing dip at the end of the day or simply relaxing while listening to the sounds of nature.

If you'd like to discover one of the region's most iconic places, the famous Cava Velha Bridge is only 1,600 metres away—around a 20-minute walk or a 3-minute drive. It is one of the best swimming spots in the area, with crystal-clear water, excellent conditions for swimming and plenty of space along the riverbank to lay out a towel and soak up the sun.

At Casa Coração de Dorna, you won't simply spend the night — you'll feel the mountains, hear the silence and take a little piece of this place with you!

Please note: Booking this accommodation requires the payment of a security deposit, which will be automatically refunded in full once the accommodation has been checked to ensure it is in good condition at the end of your stay.



















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Registry: 13317/RNET