Villa Extramuros

Villa Extramuros is a buzzed-about boutique hotel that’s located in Arraiolos, which is near the city of Évora, which is the capital of the province of Alentejo. If you’re still not quite sure sure which country we’re talking about — it’s Portugal — it’s a testament to just how quiet and comparatively remote the place is. And while the sculptural white villa might seem, at first, at odds with the natural landscape, there’s nothing over-the-top about this hotel. With just five guest rooms and a sleek, down-to-earth aesthetic, Villa Extramuros is a minimalist getaway surrounded by olive groves and oak forests that invite a late-afternoon wander. There’s nothing much to do here except sleep in, feast on a leisurely breakfast, catch a few rays beside the infinity pool, and maybe catch up on that book you’ve been trying to read for ages: and that’s exactly the point.

That’s not to say there’s nothing around worth seeing. You could drive to the beach within an hour, or visit Évora’s UNESCO-recognized historic center. But you might not want to go to the effort after you’ve checked into Villa Extramuros. Thanks to its intimate size and a variety of art-filled public spaces — two terraces, a patio, the pool and surrounding deck, a living room stocked with books and warmed by a fireplace in colder weather — it’s almost like being in a private house, but with all the perks of staying in a hotel. All five rooms are cool and airy, with private patios, free wi-fi, and bathrooms with marble showers, skylights, and products by the Australian brand Aesop. Superior rooms offer more space both indoors and outdoors, plus extras like heated floors. Let the staff arrange horseback riding or a bike tour or a visit to local wineries and farms. Or just linger over breakfast, then doze off by the pool afterwards. Either way, you’ll be glad you booked ahead: these five rooms are in demand.

Please note: Villa Extramuros is a small property with only 5 rooms.