Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 82152.8 sq ft
Popular amenities
Private pool
Onsite parking available
Kitchen
Washing machine
Balcony or patio
Free internet
Explore the area
Castelo de Paiva, Aveiro
Porto Historic Center
Place, Porto Historic Center
38 min drive
Porto Cathedral
Place, Porto Cathedral
38 min drive
Ribeira Square
Place, Ribeira Square
39 min drive
Porto (OPO-Dr. Francisco de Sa Carneiro)
Airport, Porto (OPO-Dr. Francisco de Sa Carneiro)
46 min drive
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
Bedroom 1
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 3
2 Single Beds
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Bathroom 2
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area
About this property
Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10
This is a quiet 3-bedroom-2bathroom ground floor Villa with a stunning view over the Douro River and easy access to Porto city which features a large living room, 2 double bedrooms and 1 bedroom with two single beds, a fully equipped kitchen, free WIFI, cable TV (MEO) and an overall 1000m2 outdoor space with fruit trees, plants and an outdoor swimming pool, patio and barbecue, surrounded by beautiful places to visit: river beach, waterfalls and great traditional gastronomy.
This spacious, countryside style 3 bedroom ground floor Villa ideal for a quiet retreat has just finished its renovation and benefits from a delightful view over the Douro River and the traditional and well known Portuguese shale’s villages, combined with an easy access to Porto city, Douro Valley and River and many other places of interest. Warm hospitality and knowledge of the area are our pride.
Featuring a private outdoors swimming pool and a magnificent setting, it is ideal for large families or groups who are looking to enjoy a holiday in a quiet location with privacy, plenty of natural lighting. This special charming villa combines simultaneously the modern vibes of home decor with authentic, traditional structure and national materials of where its located, providing a holiday that benefits from peaceful and quiet surroundings with beautiful views and an overall comfortable familiar and cosy home-feeling within short drives to the village or even further. With 3-bedrooms (high quality mattress) and 2 bathrooms, the Villa has a spacious living room with a large L-shaped sofa that converts to a guest bed, dining area and ample kitchen newly renovated and fully equipped with dishwasher, washing machine, gas hob, oven, fridge, freezer and all appliances and utensils. You will find everything you need for a meal on the go (like preparing a picnic before driving through the Douro Valley and the surrounding villages) or a full course sit down dinner after a day exploring the amazing and historic local area. The villa includes free WIFI Internet, cable TV (MEO) and Universal Multi Plug Adapter (US / AUS / UK to EU) sockets along many other commodities. The outdoor area features a private swimming pool (please note this is an unguarded swimming pool, so children benefiting from it must be accompanied by an adult at all times), private free car parking, barbecue, gated front porch and grassed area for leisure.
A MAGIC PLACE Marco’s Villa is located in the small village of Gondarem, parish of Raiva, municipality of Castelo de Paiva, Aveiro district/Porto area. Gondarem is a small village of shale - in portuguese one of the popular ‘Aldeias de Xisto’ - a very picturesque place and recommended to visit, situated on a slope facing the Douro River with a rustic feeling and traditional architecture that flank the streets and alleys of the village creating a landscape of great beauty and history. Being Gondarem also part of an old mining region, the produce of the land, fishing and the mines of Terramonte were once the sustain of the families who lived here. The beauty, calm and peaceful environment of this place, as well as the breathtaking landscape surrounding Douro have been growing an interest and attention of visitors who are eager to combine cultural holidays with relaxing views, quiet surroundings with also exciting and perfect spots for hikers and adventurers. With excellent roads and highway access, it’s a quick 40 min drive away from Porto city and it’s part of the emerging concept of modern rural tourism in Portugal.
FAQs: - Bed arrangements: double bed for 2 guests in master bedroom with en-suite, double bed for 2 guests in second bedroom, 2 single beds on third bedroom, king-size sofa-bed in living room for 2 guests, plus an inflatable extra double bed for extra guests wanting individual bed. - A baby crib and high chair can be offered as well. - All beddings, sheets, and towels are provided, included. - Standard check in and check out are at 3:00pm and 10:00am respectively. We can welcome you at any time, however arrival and departure outside those time will incur extra fees. - Checkout cleaning and laundry are included as well. -There is NO need for you to go to an office to pick up the villa’s keys. Our Villa features self-check-in. We will provide you with 2 sets of keys and all information you will need for and during your stay. - This villa is managed by a professional support team who is consistently providing outstanding customer care. The multi-lingual team speaks English, Italian, French, Portuguese and Spanish. - We have the best housekeeping and maintenance team to ensure that the villa will be polished upon arrival for your stay with us. Our green housekeeping team is eco-friendly, using only environmentally safe cleaning products. - You can find the pictures and video to match the description and read reviews from our previous guests here. Feel free to book right away or email to ask any questions.
THE AREA Marco’s Villa is located in the small village of Gondarem, parish of Raiva, municipality of Castelo de Paiva, Aveiro district/Porto area. Gondarem is a small village of shale - in portuguese one of the popular ‘Aldeias de Xisto’ - a very picturesque place and recommended to visit, situated on a slope facing the Douro River with a rustic feeling and traditional architecture that flank the streets and alleys of the village creating a landscape of great beauty and history. Being Gondarem also part of an old mining region, the produce of the land, fishing and the mines of Terramonte were once the sustain of the families who lived here. The beauty, calm and peaceful environment of this place, as well as the breathtaking landscape surrounding Douro have been growing an interest and attention of visitors who are eager to combine cultural holidays with relaxing views, quiet surroundings with also exciting and perfect spots for hikers and adventurers. With excellent roads and highway access, it’s a quick 40 min drive away from Porto city and it’s part of the emerging concept of modern rural tourism in Portugal. Rental car is highly recommended for short trips to local restaurants, supermarkets and local markets, ATMs or tourist trips as there are many excellent day trips opportunities in the North of Portugal, such as the Pejao Mines, shale village of Midoes, Oliveira do Arda and Castelo de Paiva or even further around the Douro River, Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia and Espinho, near the coast and facing the Atlantic Ocean.
ACTIVITIES: River beach, waterfalls Fishing Tennis court Rafting Hikes Visit to historical sites Once you book with us we will send out a tourist guide listing in detail all the activities.
We look forward to welcoming you in the magnificent Douro Valley!
Other things to note: Please note for early and late arrivals, the following charges apply: For early arrivals between 10.30am and 2.45pm, there is an early check in fee of €25. For arrivals between 7pm and 11:00pm there is a late check in fee of €30. Our housekeeping team maintain our flats in an immaculate condition and welcomes you after 7pm; they forgo their dinner, their family time so this small fee is to compensate them for working outside their normal hours. Between 11:00pm and midnight the late check-in fee is of €50 to pay for their taxi back home - after such long hours we do not want our staff to risk missing their last trains. After midnight the late check in fee goes up to €100. This is to pay their taxi to the flat and back home. Our staff will be waiting for our guest till 2/3am in the morning! If you re not comfortable with that fee we kindly ask you to collect the keys before 7pm, free of charge. Please remember that there is no 24/7 reception so we have a person specially waiting for you at the flat. If you are running late without giving any notice to your greeter we may have to charge you €15 per hour. This fee is also applied if any delays obliged the greeter to wait for more than 2 hours (even with notice). Both fees are payable to our representative prior to your arrival.
Extra laundry will incur an extra charge.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Not to do or permit to be done anything which may be a noise nuisance, nuisance or annoyance or cause of damage to any neighboring or adjoining proper
Not to dispose any rubbish, bottles without a bag.
The rubbish / trash bags are to be placed in the street – on the sidewalk by the road. There is no
Not to deface, make any alterations or additions to the interior or exterior of the Premises or to the decoration, fixtures or fittings of the Premise
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 90175/AL
About the area
Castelo de Paiva
Located in Castelo de Paiva, this villa is in the city centre and on a river. Penafiel Municipal Museum and Arouca Convent are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Magikland and Centro Cultural de Paredes. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Estádio Municipal de Arouca or Municipal Stadium Cinfaes. Power boating and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
Porto (OPO-Dr. Francisco de Sa Carneiro) - 71 min drive
Restaurants
Sirga Wine & Bistró - 17 min drive
Marina Bar Pe De Moura - 18 min drive
2Rios - Steakhouse & Bar - 12 min drive
Casa Rocha - 24 min drive
Avenida Cafe - 17 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10 have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10?
As of 12 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10 on 20 Apr 2026 start from £132, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10 pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.
What time is check-out at Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Stunning 3-bed-2-bath villa over Douro River/Porto city - WIFI-sleep 6-10 located?
Located in the heart of Castelo de Paiva, this villa is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Duoro River and 3 mi (4.8 km) from Baloiço de São Gens. Hintze Ribeiro Disaster Memorial and Catapeixe Viewpoint are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We have stayed in this Villa before and enjoyed it so much we were keen to return. It’s in a spectacular, quiet, rural location with stunning views over the Douro Valley. The accommodation is excellent; the pool is a bonus. We will be back.
A clean, modern, bright and spacious property, with all the facilities. Would stay again if in the area.
John P.
Stayed 11 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Oct 2022
Hi John,
Thank you for all the positive things you said about the property. It was our pleasure to be your host and thank you for being an amazing guest!
Regards,
Marco and Team
Luxurious property in a fabulous location.This is a spacious villa with outstanding views across the Douro river. It's about 15 mins drive from a town with restaurants and supermarkets etc.The property is very clean and well maintained and the kitchen is well equipped.
Hi Krzysztof,
Thank you for your feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the beautiful view from our property. It is definitely a memorable experience. Thank you for being a superb guest!
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
Incredible view, nice amenities, very clean. Hated to leave.
Tim N.
Stayed 20 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 23 May 2023
Hi Tim,
Glad to hear that you've had a wonderful time. Mesmerizing views upon the Douro Valley. Hope you've had a chance to try one of the few trails along the Douro river. Thank you for being an awesome guest!
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
A beautifully positioned property but car essential. Shops a short drive and stocks good.Local property manager, Luzia, excellent and property in excellent order when we arrived. Gardener,Bruno, also manages the pool, and everything is in very good order.Views and all facilities marvellous, and exactly as described.A great place to stay and enjoy everything that the Douro valley has to offer.
Fabulous location and property- well equipped and clean, brilliant holiday!
Laura H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept 2022
Hi Laura,
It was our pleasure to be your host. We're glad to know that you had a great stay. Thank you for taking care of the apartment and for being a superb guest
Regards,
Marco and Team
We had a great week at the house. The views of the river are stunning. The house is very convenient and the pool is great! Love to come back!
Janna R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Oct 2023
Hi Janna,
The stunning views of the river are indeed a special feature of our property, and we're delighted that you found them as breathtaking as we do. We would be absolutely delighted to welcome you back for another stay whenever you decide to return. If you have any future plans or inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us.
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
Lovely quiet location. Beautiful accommodation. Very friendly people. We will be back.
Neil B.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jun 2023
Hi Neil,
Creating a welcoming atmosphere is important to us, and we're glad that our location provided the peacefulness you desired. It's also wonderful to know that you found our team to be very friendly. We believe that friendly and helpful service enhances the overall guest experience, and your kind words reaffirm our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality.
We're touched that you plan to return in the future. We would be delighted to welcome you back and provide another memorable stay.
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
We've had a wonderful stay at this property. A beautiful view, and all as carefully described and illustrated in the literature 😊
Susan B.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jun 2024
Hi Susan,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had a wonderful stay and enjoyed the beautiful views. It's always our goal to provide an experience that matches our descriptions and your expectations.
We look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
Amazing large property for out family of 7. The most amazing view, beautiful garden, spotlessly clean home that we all enjoyed staying at. Thoroughly recommend.
A week wasn’t long enough at this lovely villa. There is so much to do in the area, with stunning views, easy access to Porto, beaches and wine/port tasting. The villa is spacious and easily accommodated our party of 5 adults and 1 infant. Very clean, well equipped and an amazing view over the Douro river and valley, it’s a perfect location for enjoying the many delights of the region.
Julie J.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Aug 2023
Hi Julie,
We couldn't agree more that the area surrounding the villa offers a lot of activities and attractions to visit. We're delighted that the villa's spaciousness easily accommodated your group. If you ever plan to return to the region, we would be more than happy to welcome you back. Thank you for being a superb guest!
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
A beautiful place to stay with stunning views and a fantastic pool — ideal for outdoor gatherings.However, it's unfortunate that there’s no air conditioning or fly screens, which made it difficult to leave the windows open. This led to a very hot room at night and a lot of mosquito bites, which significantly affected my sleep.
Luis S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jul 2025
Thank you for your review. We're glad you enjoyed the beautiful views, the pool, and the outdoor spaces — many of our guests find them perfect for relaxing and entertaining.
Regarding your comments on air conditioning and fly screens, we'd like to highlight that our house enjoys a unique microclimate, situated midway between the river and mountains. This natural setting helps regulate temperatures, keeping the area cooler in summer and warmer in winter. As for insects, mosquitoes are relatively rare in our area. However, to ensure your comfort, most of our guests find it helpful to keep the blinds slightly closed, which effectively deters any unwanted insects. Our Portuguese-style blinds cover the entire window, with small gaps between the slats. You'll always have fans at your disposal, and we're happy to provide additional ones if needed - although most guests don't require them. We're committed to making your stay with us as comfortable as possible. If you have any preferences or needs, please don't hesitate to let us know in advance, and we'll do our best to accommodate them
The property is lovely. Very comfortable, quiet, spacious and calm. The kitchen is very modern and well equipped. The garden is well kept and there is a nice swimming pool.
The views of the Douro river are so nice that we spent most of the time at the property and just had a barbecue while relaxing. A perfect holiday. Thank you!
Va L.
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Nov 2023
Hi Valentino,
The picturesque views of the Douro river truly are mesmerizing, and we are glad that you were able to fully relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, making the most of the barbecue and your time at the property.
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
Villa was better than we expected. Spotlessly clean and well equipped. Veiw is amazing. Had a very relaxing week.
The Marco Team gave us a fantastic service after a minor issue with the electric.
Would go again.
The villa was perfect. For those who are worried about the road we were 4 adults in a SUV, Jeep Compass, and everything was ok. Villa was clean and exactly like presented. Thanks to Marco for the nice communication.
Annie D.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jun 2024
Hi Annie,
Thank you for your wonderful feedback. It was our pleasure to have had you as guests.
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
All four adults in our party loved this immaculate and lovely house. The grounds and views were magnificent as well as the immediate "neighborhood". Marco and his staff were attentive and responsive to our requests while there. We found a lovely walking trail along the Duoro River just down the hill from the house. We easily took day trips to Porto, Aviero and Penafiel. We were delighted in our visit to Castelo de Paiva as well. Good restaurants, cafes, bakeries. We would stay at Marco's house again.
Mike L.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2023
Hi John,
Thank you for your kind words. We're glad to hear that you loved the house, especially its stunning views on the Douro Valley . The trails along the Douro river are so enjoyable! We look forward to host you again in the future. Thank you for being a superb guest!
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
The house is OK, very clean and enough spaces for 6 adults. It’s more where it’s situated. Too far from a village with more commodities. The road is very hard to drive in the mountain and far from the highway. Only small cars is more covenient for that kind of roads.
Nathalie D.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Nov 2023
Hi Nathalie, we are glad you’ve enjoyed your stay overall. Yes, there is no supermarket at a walking distance nor a highway nearby. That’s what makes the charm of our villa and the reasons hundreds of out guests have chosen to stay with us. However we supply ample information in our check in instructions regarding grocery stores, restaurants, activities, best routes (easy ride from Porto with highway then well maintained roads). With little preparation one can make his stay very comfortable as per our numerous excellent reviews and we are always here to help. Perhaps the unusual heavy showers during your end of October stay has tainted slightly your experience? Have a wonderful rest of the year and thank you for taking care of the premises.
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
Situated in an isolated location with fantastic views of the Douro river this is a comfortable property. It is furnished with a homely feel with plenty of room both inside and out. The pool area is well manicured with lots of loungers, a table and chairs. Inside the bedrooms are comfortable, the kitchen well equipped including a large table for meals. The lounge area has two big sofas a coffee table and tv.
Overall we had a great stay in the property the only negative was its isolated location meant a long car journey when going out for the day. We would defiantly recommend this property.
Steven G.
Stayed 10 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2024
Hi Steven,
We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the fantastic views, comfortable furnishings, and well-equipped amenities at the property. Our guests love that the villa is in a secluded area, surrounded by lush nature, offering unique peace and tranquility. While it's hard to have the best of both worlds, - we understand your point - a short drive brings you to supermarkets and restaurants nearby. You have been a superb guest. We look forward to welcoming you back!
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
The house was great in a lovely location. Views were amazing. Good area for peace and quiet but easy 50 minute drive into Porto. Slightly lacking in glasses and crockery, we had to put the dishwasher on regularly.
There was a problem with the pool while we were there, and we were unable to use it, which was a great shame as the weather was so good. But owner has been kind enough to compensate us for this. Would recommend the house.
Sarah G.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jun 2024
Hi Sarah, glad you've had a good stay overall. The swimming pool is now fully functioning! This was an extraordinary (first time ever) and unfortunate event, a piece of the machinery had to be changed and it took us two days to get it during those last 3 days of your week stay when it was sunny. Regarding more glasses and crockery - there are plenty and enough usually - you could have let us know straight away and we would have provided extras to you within 4 hours. We look forward to hosting you in the future!
We recently had the pleasure of staying at this beautiful house in the Douro valley, and it was truly an unforgettable experience.
The house boasts breathtaking views upon the Douro river that made our stay incredibly special. Waking up to the stunning scenery each morning was a highlight of our trip. The location is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Portugal.
The property was equipped with all the amenities we could possibly need. The kitchen was fully stocked, the bedrooms were comfortable, and the living areas were cozy and inviting. Everything was thoughtfully arranged to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Our host was fantastic – very welcoming and always available to assist us. From the moment we booked, they provided detailed information and were quick to respond to any questions we had. Their warm hospitality made us feel right at home and added a personal touch to our stay.
Lastly, this house is a gem. If you're looking for a place with stunning views, complete amenities, and a responsive, welcoming host, this is the perfect choice. We can't wait to return!
arvy m.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jun 2024
Hi Arvy,
Thank you for your wonderful review. We're glad to hear that you had an amazing stay.
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
Worth the extra miles to really feel like you've experienced Portugal's Douro Valley
Pristine property and views of the Douro River and Valley. The villa was really spacious and nicely maintained. We shopped locally and mostly ate in because of the views of Gondarem and Midoes. We even saw the Porto Douro River cruise boat and others from our view.
We were confused and exasperated having been awake over 24 hours when we findly reached the property as GPS said We Have Arrived when we actually had to drive over 500 meters more. Thankfully Luzia, the property's housekeeper was outside tending to her garden, and directed us to venture up a very steep cobblestone hill to the villa. Watching the videos that Marco and his team sent are paramount.
The only suggestion, as We reserve homes versus hotel rooms, is to invest in really good cookware and have spices and other staples available for those that want to enjoy the experience of the Gondarem villa to the fullest. We never return to destinations previously visited but if we did, this would be on top.
Lynne M.
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Nov 2023
Hi Lynne,
We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience you experienced upon your arrival. The instructions were sent to your email and kudos to Luzia as she was there to guide you to the property. Your suggestion regarding the cookware and provisions is valuable to us, and we will certainly take it into consideration to enhance the experience for our guests
Best Regards,
Marco and Team
Prachtig huis, ruim en rustig. Mooi uitzicht over de Douro.
Grote tuin met mooi zwembad. Makkelijk in- en uitchecken dmv sleutelkastje. Kortom, prima huis op schitterende lokatie.