Silent Living
The winter blues has hit hard at The Loft. But the sun is finally out after months of cold, rain and wind. So we are more than ready to hit the road and discover someplace new. Ideally somewhere quiet, and green – or maybe it’s the hustle and bustle of a city that we are looking for. All we really know is that we would want to escape it all at one of Silent Living’s dreamy getaways.
They operate a total of four distinct properties all across Portugal, each completely different to the other, but all equally serene and soothing. Most of their houses started out as family homes, which they have restored in close collaboration with intrepid local architects. Thus working together to reshape the spaces with respect for their heritage. All the locations are described as being :
“An image of stories – of the ones who built these walls and left their prints in them, but also the ones who sat on this couch and shared long laughs along the evening. This is an image of textures – the textures of a vivid home, where people play the most important role in architecture – living the space.”
Santa Clara 1728
First up is the more well-known Santa Clara 1728. While dipping into the massive marble bath, you could almost forget the packed winding streets of Lisbon. While a soft linen curtain blows in the air, revealing a majestic view over the river. This former palace offers all the space to get away from busy city life and indulge in ancient halls and marble staircases. The interior is austere, but with an exquisite eye for detail that makes it feel luxurious, all the way from the tiles to the linen bed sheets. It’s the kind of luxury that is refined and understated, without all the bells and whistles.
Casas Na Areia
Meanwhile, just a stone's throw away from buzzing Lisbon is a cluster of beach shacks like no other. If what you’re longing for is a sea breeze and the feeling of sand in your hair, you will feel right at home at Casas na Areia. It’s hard to believe this group of thatched cabins are just a short hour's drive from the capital. Even more so after you’ve landed into the state of calm that surrounds all of Silent Living’s destinations. This is the place for long walks on the beach, horseback riding and endless sunsets. Mostly because it overlooks beautiful natural landscapes and is so close to the sea you can smell the breeze.
Cabanas No Rio
Similarly, the romantic wooden shacks at Cabanas No Rio take simplicity to the next level by offering two very minimalistic living spaces that are free from superfluous details. These minimalistic hideouts are framed by a wooden pier and the vastness of the Sado River. This means going back to basics while appreciating all of the surroundings and disconnecting for a while. Which is a luxury few of us take time for nowadays – my favourite of the four without a doubt.
Casa No Tempo
Casa No Tempo is a more secluded space, set between green rolling hills and surrounded by nothing but nature. This rustic, lime-washed family home is nestled in a sprawling green property, with dramatic views over hilltops and a natural pool that seems to melt into the landscape. Therefore, this is the perfect place to set up camp and explore the quiet countryside.
Whichever is your favourite, you can discover all of them at Silent Living.
All images by Silent Living
Words by Sara Martin Mazorra