Herdade da Malhadinha Nova, Alentejo

My relationship with the region Alentejo goes way back. My father grew up in Aldeia dos Fernandes, a small village next to Almodôvar, Baixa Alentejo. As a child, I got easily bored when visiting my grandparents and family in the summer. It was mostly too hot to be outside and I preferred to play by the beach. Today, I’m thankful for my roots in this rural and quiet region. Adult life gets very busy and daily life seems to be a run on a fast treadmill. Spending some days in Alentejo is the perfect retreat to recharge my batteries.

In the heart of Baixa Alentejo region we’ve found a luxurious sanctuary of tranquility: Herdade da Malhadinha Nova. The estate is framed by the beautiful and unique nature of Alentejo and offers different kind of accommodations and activities on 450 hectares. Herdade da Malhadinha Nova is a family project. It all started with a winery and in 2008 the family opened the boutique hotel with Monte da Peceguinha, a typical Alentejo-style farm with ten rooms.

In 2020, Herdade da Malhadinha opened five more housing units. Each of them has a unique personality and combines the contemporary uniquely with ancient traditions and the typical rural quality of the Alentejo plains. We specially loved the handmade chairs and tables by Olaio combined with the classy and traditional pieces of Vista Alegre. Each place offers a high level of privacy, sophistication and exclusivity.

““The six accommodations portray the various chapters in the history of this family-style project built around wine. All different yet all the same, with a unique character and purpose, the central planks connecting the different spaces together are privacy, exclusivity and luxury.””

— Herdade da Malhadinha Nova

While staying at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova, we experienced the unique luxury of Casa das Pedras. Our 100m2 suit perfectly matched our taste: delicate and warm colours, modern straight lines, wooden elements, bold concrete and a breathtaking landscape view. Every room has its own wine cooler (with your favorite wine, you’ll get asked for it beforehand). However, the most amazing thing was our private pool – it makes it very hard to leave the suite. With no common areas, which is unique within the estate, it is ideal for anyone seeking an extra dose of privacy. You can have your breakfast at Monte da Peceguinha or let it be delivered to your room. We tried both and enjoyed our slow mornings with the soothing scenery of Alentejo.

Casa do Ancoradouro – home of terracota

Casa da Ribeira – slow living villa

Casa das Artes e Ofícios – villa inspired by art

Venda Grande – a home in the village

Restaurant

The dishes served at the restaurant are inspired by the local regional cuisine and the organic products are mainly grown on the estate. The creations are a result of the work of consultant and renowned Michelin-starred chef Joachim Koerper, owner of restaurant Eleven in Lisbon, and the versatile resident chef, Rodrigo Madeira e Vitalina Santos, a cook with vast knowledge of traditional Alentejo recipes.You will not only taste unique flavors, but also be surprised by their artistic appearances. I had the Algarve shrimp with spaghetti and turnip ravioli from their garden as a main course. It was delicious. You must experience the dinner (they also have a children’s menu).

left: Desert at the Restaurant / right: breakfast on our private suit terrace, the Malhadinha Eggs are heaven.

As you already know, we love nature and to be close to it. At Herdade da Malhadinha Nova you can also enjoy nature by booking one of the many activities. On a morning horse ride, we followed our horseman Pedro Sousa through Malhadinha’s vineyards. We loved it. The Lusitano horses are very kind and gentle. On a late afternoon, we went on a Quad Bike Ride through the 450 hectares estate. I’ve never done this before but after a quick test drive, I was good to go and had lots of fun. We both enjoyed the last warm sun rays before sunset that give the Alentejo landscape a golden dress.

My beautiful horse called *rainha* (queen)

Our stay at Herdade da Malhadinha was amazing and we experienced a unique hospitality concept. We enjoyed equally the luxurious treats and family atmosphere. In most luxury hotels there is always a kind of cold distance between guest and staff. At Herdade da Malhadinha Nova it’s not like that at all. Luxury is combined with Alentejo modesty. All the staff members greet you, know who you are, what you like and are not only helpful but also interested in talking to you if you wish so. It’s a family’s business and you feel it.

Thank you so much for having us, dear Team of Herdade da Malhadinha Nova. We’ll be back for sure!