When King Philips II built a fort in the 16th century to protect the harbour and the hinterland of the town of Setúbal, nobody would have thought that Jaap and Jeanine would take over centuries later. Nor that they would be sharing the two authentic windmills near the fort with their guests. Where people would be enjoying the Portuguese rural lifestyle, the sea and the city. When Jaap passed away, the everyday care of this paradise was left to the responsible hands of another couple. Who pour all of their love into the place to do justice to the Dutch owners’ dream.
The first time I visited this remarkable house (or should I say moinhos), is etched in my memory. I had stopped near the fort, in a large old olive grove with a beautiful well. Jaap had told me to drive up the steep meandering road. And stop at the top of the mountain where two Portuguese white windmills overlook the castle, Setúbal city, Sado river, the peninsula of Troia, the sea and the Serra da Arrábida natural reserve. His description was perfect. Because there I was, in front of the authentic windmills and the majestic house in the sun. The olive trees were gently waving and I was facing a difficult decision. I really wanted to stare at this view all day long, and yet the prospect of seeing the centuries-old moinhos was irresistible as well. ‘Come, let me take you to the windmill so you can look around. Afterwards, you can head over to the garden and enjoy the view for as long as you like,' Jaap had laughed.
The round rooms, the centuries-old walls, the atmospheric interior, the stunning views and white steps, the garden, the patios with large tables and the warm atmosphere... We had arrived on the patio where I feasted my eyes some more. I was beaming. Just like the sun. Yet another thing King Philips could never have anticipated all those years ago. I felt like a queen. No less.
Jeanine is a real fan of Portugal and will do whatever she can to pamper you to the extreme. You will be welcomed with a bottle of white wine in the fridge.
It's possible at the time of booking due to Covid-19, services and facilities are different than when your holiday begins. As the services and facilities mentioned are subject to change, no rights can be derived from this.
Are you booking a flight holiday? Then a rental car of the lowest category (Small Class) is selected as standard for your trip and you have the option of upgrading the rental car. You can pick up the rental car at the airport and drive to your accommodation yourself.
Are you booking a holiday with own transportation? Then the rental car is not included in your trip and you can (at some destinations) book the rental car if you are interested. When you book your rental car, you can pick it up at your destination and drive to your accommodation yourself. The transport to the pick-up point of the rental car is arranged by you.
Tip: If you are travelling with 4 or more people, it is advisable to book an upgrade or an extra car. You can select the car upgrade in the booking steps. Do you want to book an extra car? Please contact us.