Info For Your Stay

Quinta Esmeralda is a traditional granite-walled farm property with orchards, terraces, an organic vegetable garden, a koi pond, chickens, and quiet corners to enjoy at your own pace.

The accommodation is made up of two adjoining homes that can be rented individually or together. Each has its own entrance and private indoor space, so households can enjoy their own privacy. Most outdoor areas are shared.

The owners and hosts also live on the property, on a separate terrace nearby, so help is close if you need anything while still giving guests their own privacy.

The atmosphere here is calm, welcoming, and adult-focused. It’s a place for slow mornings, meals outside, reading, walking through the garden, or simply doing very little for a while.

Guests are welcome to enjoy the outdoor spaces, visit the orchard and garden, and experience a little of the rhythm of farm life. Depending on the season, you may also be able to harvest produce from the garden, and we’re always happy to point you toward the weekly town market.

Quinta Esmeralda is a welcoming space for people from all backgrounds. Respect for each other, the property, the village, and the nature around us is part of what keeps the place feeling special.

We’ve gathered the most useful information here to help you arrive easily, settle in, and make the most of your time at Quinta Esmeralda.

Getting Here

Quinta Esmeralda is set in the countryside north of Porto, close enough to the city and airport, but with the slower feeling of village and farm life.

For directions, you can open the location directly here:

Open in Google Maps

or manually fill in our address:

Rua Central 55,

4485-932, Mosteiró

There is free street parking available at the property if you’re coming by car.

If you’re arriving from Porto Airport or Porto city without a car, Uber and Bolt usually work very well and are often the easiest option.
As a rough guide, we are around 15 minutes from Porto Airport and around 25 minutes from Porto, depending on traffic.

A car can be useful if you plan to explore more widely. We are around 20 minutes from Vila do Conde, 45 minutes from Braga, about 1.5 hours from Peso da Régua and the Douro Valley, and around 1 hour 15 minutes from the Galician border.

Car rental recommended for distances over 20km, inland areas and mountainous terrain such as the Douro and for ease of spontaneity

**Ensure your rental includes the Via Verde toll pass as there are electronic tolls that will accrue fines if unpaid.

Public transportation is available but limited and time consuming.

Arrival & Check-In

Please be advised: a TOURIST TAX is charged at check-in and collected in cash. 1€/per person, per night, for guests 16 years of age and older; up to a maximum of 14 consecutive nights for reservations. A receipt is available upon request.

Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll send you the details you need for your arrival.

When you get here, we’ll give you a short welcome tour so you can find your way around the Quinta, understand the shared outdoor areas, and feel settled before you unpack.

Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is until 11.00.

If your arrival time changes, just send us a message. It’s always easier when we know roughly when to expect you.

🍞 🍎 🥬🧀Supplies

NEARBY GROCERY STORES - approximately 10 minutes by car

**Wednesdays there’s a farmer’s market (bread, produce, fish, meat, plants, wares) in our town center from 7:30-11:00!

Nearby Restaurants

O Industrial - traditional Portuguese - the first restaurant we went to after moving to the quinta! Their peppercorn steak and fish dishes are some of the standouts. https://maps.app.goo.gl/j3naJSkYzcoLVPMd6?g_st=aw

Salitre - Fabulous oceanside views, in a slightly more formal yet casual atmosphere with an amazing wine selection (bottles are also available to-go) https://maps.app.goo.gl/xxuA6psLCQxGqkCW8?g_st=aw

Restaurante Casa da Guripa - A lively restaurant with a creative menu, known for their paella and ‘pica pau’ tuna appetizer.  https://maps.app.goo.gl/yg3NUHyLuKfW3txA7?g_st=aw

Tasquinha das Mares - In one of the small fisherman’s villages, Lavra, by the ocean with a nice covered patio. Known for their seafood rice!


Nature & Animals

Farm life comes with a lively little ecosystem. You may see birds, bees, lizards, insects, chickens, and other wildlife around the property.

We hope guests enjoy being close to nature, but because of the animals, gardens, and wildlife on the Quinta, pets are not allowed.

A Note About Accessibility

The Quinta is an old countryside property, and part of its charm comes from its original stone paths, terraces, steps, and traditional architecture.

Because of this, there are many steps around the property. Some are steep, uneven, low-lit, or without handrails. Parts of the Quinta have cobblestone paths and older features dating back many decades.

The village also has narrow cobblestone roads, often without pavements, so please stay alert for cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles when walking nearby.

In Kiwi House, the original architecture has been preserved, including a lower entry into the kitchen and bathroom.

For these reasons, the Quinta is not suitable for infants, children, or guests with mobility challenges. The property is designed for adults who are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces and using stairs.

House Rules

To help keep the Quinta peaceful and comfortable for everyone, please take a moment to read the house rules before your stay:

Read The House Rules

Nothing complicated — just the usual things that help protect the property, the garden, the animals, and the people staying here.

Local Experiences

We love helping guests discover the area in a more personal way.

Depending on the season and availability, we may be able to help with ideas such as a Douro boat trip, a local winery visit, a cooking class at the Quinta, or other food and wine experiences nearby.

If you’re walking the Camino de Santiago, our town is also close to a credential pick-up and stamp location, making the Quinta a more peaceful alternative to a traditional albergue.

📍 Porto

Walk across the Ponte Luis bridge for quintessential views over to Gaia and meander through the W.O.W (Wine of World). https://www.wow.pt/en/

FC Porto Museum at Estádio do Dragão - A fun diversion from a typical museum. Tours of the stadium are an option as well. https://share.google/vTuWA3rBglhA00TPK

📍 Gaia

Pink Palace - Rosé Wine Museum in the W.O.W area is fun for all ages! https://share.google/L4MgvLp9icLY88Ga4

Casa Tão Longe, Tão Perto - a fantastic neighborhood wine bar, with a welcoming, chill vibe and eco-minded perspective known for wines on-tap. The view is priceless as well! https://share.google/4ZhbuknsZpKPFZZTG

📍 Douro - approximately 1.5 hrs by car

We absolutely recommend visiting the Douro Valley especially if you love wine! And even if you don’t, the landscape is spectacular, there are fun swimming spots along the river and a great museum in Regua. Keep in mind the roads can be extremely narrow and windy, with often only one way in and one way out. A map app may quote an hour but it will take double the amount of time due to these factors.

Visit Libatio - the first and only natural wine bar in Regua hosted by the incomparable Mariana. https://maps.app.goo.gl/9Jgxy6sdeXHvFM7Z6?g_st=aw

📍 Vila do Conde - approximately 20 minutes by car

Rich maritime history and architecture.

📍 Braga -

A former Roman city, now the capital the Minho region and the 3rd largest city in Portugal

Braga Cathedral - the oldest in Portugal with architecture that incorporates Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline and Baroque styles. It is recommended to purchase the full tour for a more interesting  experience.

Stairway of the 5 senses of Bom Jesus de Braga sanctuary - a UNESCO Baroque element; the sanctuary was developed over 600+ year period on the slopes of Mount Espinho (overlooking Braga) that includes a forest, ponds and grottoes. A popular picnic spot with wonderful views.  https://share.google/OGDYmJHSPxKLtnVvf

📍 Viana do Castelo - approximately 40 minutes by car

A jewel of northern Portugal.

📍 Ponte de Lima - approximately 55 minutes by car

The oldest town in Portugal

📍 Caminha - approximately 1hr by car

A quaint village, adjacent to the Spanish border, full of medieval charm. https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Attractions-g644298-Activities-Caminha_Viana_do_Castelo_District_Northern_Portugal.html

🌿 Scenic & Nature Experiences

Monte de Santa Eufemia - At the top of a hill; One Sunday a month they have a large market that includes local wares, produce, plants, and live animals. The small tasca, Casa Sãozinha, is a local hotspot and the best moelhas! The most famous market and festival takes place during the annual pilgrimage on the third Sunday of September. During this time, the grounds are packed with stalls selling traditional food, roasted meats, and local crafts. https://www.portugalplease.com/porto/trofa/o-que-visitar/monte-de-santa-eufemia

🌄 Serra d’Arga

A granite mountain, surrounded by seven stone villages inViana do Castelo. Hike through this natural park with peaceful mountain landscapes, traditional villages and natural swimming spots. Home to the Iberian wolf and a species of wild horses that are only found here and in the Peneda – Gerês National Park.

🌊 Minho River Estuary

Perfect for birdwatching, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.

🚶 Coastal Walks

Walk sections of the Camino de Santiago along the Atlantic ocean; most of which is on wooden boardwalks.

🚶 Peneda-Gerês National Park

https://maps.app.goo.gl/dkjJdK5h3Z1zkhccA?g_st=aw

Cascata de Pincães

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ebNwqsWL1dshqwrn9?g_st=aw

Cascata da Portela do Homem

https://maps.app.goo.gl/qgrSjgUjUihWyLfBA?g_st=aw

Sete Lagoas

https://maps.app.goo.gl/pQLJSJxKeHwTqdAVA?g_st=aw

Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Sro9qR5qdC2bYDkC7?g_st=aw

🏖 Best Beaches

🌊 Natural ocean ‘pools’ (1 for adults and 1 for kids) in Leça da Palmeira designed by architect Siza Vieira  - tickets must be purchased in advance. https://www.matosinhosport.pt/piscinas/piscinas/piscina-das-mares

Try Lessa for lunch/dinner - quaint neighborhood spot with a more modern take on Portuguese food. https://share.google/Xco5cX4tNV8bbhK3u

🌊 Praia de Vila do Conde

Long sandy stretches adjacent to town. During the summer, temporary cabanas and lounge chairs provide a more comfortable option

🌊 Praia da Amorosa, Viana do Castelo

Long sandy stretches adjacent to town. A beautiful, expansive sandy beach adjacent to town, known for its natural rock pools, excellent surfing and body boarding conditions, and dunes. A vast stretch of fine sand with rocky formations that emerge during low tide, creating calm, protected, and shallow pools perfect for safe swimming. Flanked by a protected dune system and wooden walkways, making it great for peaceful coastal walks

🌊 Praia de Moledo, Caminha

One of northern Portugal’s most beautiful beaches renowned for its medicinal waters rich in iodine and strong waves. You can hike the 4.2 km trail from the beach to the center of Caminha 

🥾Ecovia do Litoral Norte

73-kilometer continuous cycling and pedestrian route via wooden boardwalks, paved paths, and dirt trails - passing through coastal pine forests, sand dunes, and protected natural areas from Esposende to Caminha. 

Our Local Guide

🍞 🍎 🥬🧀Eat & Drink

Perhaps you’ve noticed a common theme by now. Chris & Leah are hospitality veterans of 35+ years - food & wine is one of our greatest passions!! Since 2023, we have been continuing our tenure, meeting and consulting with some superstars of the industry. and we hope you will consider checking out these standout establishments in our community! 

Mito - Mirna Gomes was on Master-chef Brazil and is one of the most passionate, lovely people we have befriended here. Her food is packed with so much soul and flavor. The carrot dish is not to be missed! https://maps.app.goo.gl/tWZ5687mFfNQczKDA?g_st=iw

Apego - We are consulting for the lovely chef/owner Aurora Goy, recently included in a NY Times article, received a Michelin recommendation this year, as well as Timeout chef of 2023. Intimate, old school environment. Half French & half Portuguese, she has a wonderful style paying homage to both while respecting the origins of the ingredients. https://maps.app.goo.gl/3eH1UWzMRKqrM8Cb9?g_st=in

Nani - new; lunch/dinner - Georgian food and fantastic Georgian & Armenian Wines. https://maps.app.goo.gl/PXfuACGyygMU9aWCA?g_st=iw

Alto - Nani’s sister restaurant, brunch/dinner, eclectic menu with solid execution. The burnt Spanish cheesecake and the chocolate mochi are absurd (and we normally don’t eat dessert). https://maps.app.goo.gl/v6jLuj5U2qSstipB6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

Borboleta - lunch/dinner - small plates, simple, fresh, flawlessly executed - wonderful outdoor patio in the back yard. https://maps.app.goo.gl/tSRSF5WsAuZVa3uZ9?g_st=iw

Meia Nau Matosinhos - there is a branch in Porto but this one is the original and the food is superior; especially as they use the old school charcoal grills for the fish. https://maps.app.goo.gl/SPKqbQa3GzfT4oCp8?g_st=in

Taberna Dos Mercadores - Delicious traditional Portuguese, tiny, charming spot. Try to get a reservation or get in the cue early. https://maps.app.goo.gl/DMwnUX6xZh2SLPFv5?g_st=in

Epoca - Vegetarian lunch menu that changes daily in a small, lively cafe. https://maps.app.goo.gl/Tc9C4n2pcazK1XrFA?g_st=in

Out to Lunch Kitchen - A German & Japanese team, Svenja & Yoske have a fascinating story. They have a wonderful shop a couple doors up the street with an eclectic range of specialty products - including some of her fashion line, jewelry, ceramics and more! https://outtolunch.pt/pages/izakaya-porto

Gharb - Casual Middle Eastern, open straight through the day til night which is rare, great people watching. https://maps.app.goo.gl/EGvgKrhzkBz29fLw9?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

TAB (TakeABreak) Restaurant - Owned by a sweet Thai & Italian couple. They have Thai, Nepalese and Japanese cooks so the fusion of Asian cuisine is more authentic than you would normally find. https://maps.app.goo.gl/6nVemhnJj2WiAhgt7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

Terraplana - thin crust pizzas and cocktails, funky spot with cute indoor/outdoor seating. https://maps.app.goo.gl/nNtotQFPa1TQDK1G8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

Francisco - a tiny spot with huge smiles; excellent on-the-go focaccia sandwiches and specialty coffee drinks. https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wdemyh2i2JVSGdvQ6?g_st=aw

COFFEE

SO Coffee - Incredible local roaster that offers snacks as well. https://www.soroasters.com/

Senzu Coffee Roasters - Shop that highlights local designers in front and a co-work space in the back. https://maps.app.goo.gl/YKYXNVRJNJ5djjqk6?g_st=in

Von&Vonnie - Young couple from Wales and Germany recently opened this micro-roastery. https://maps.app.goo.gl/RuNwG7vjtQDsu6eL8?g_st=in

NATURAL WINE BARS

Cave Bombarda - You would never know it's there. Fabulous neighborhood natural wine shop where you can grab a glass or bottle as well. Jorge is a wealth of knowledge and we help out when he's on vacation. https://maps.app.goo.gl/tP7qxe6XEwVTeeaL6?g_st=in

FUNQ wine bar - Hannah & Peter are a dynamic duo. https://www.instagram.com/funqwine/

Arco das Verdades - Delightful husband & wife team, amazing views of Gaia and the Douro. https://maps.app.goo.gl/rPsD1pEp4uMFuMDi9?g_st=in

Prova - One of the first wine bars in Porto; industry hotspot. https://maps.app.goo.gl/gpGabovMFrkqEHHC9?g_st=iw

BEER

RCA Radioclube Agramonte - A wonderful spot offering live music, great outdoor space, food, beer, wine & cocktails. Generally has a great vibe! https://www.instagram.com/rca_porto/

Catraio - Wonderful artisanal beer spot! Walk all the way back to the ‘hidden’ beer garden; food pop-ups almost every night. https://maps.app.goo.gl/oVieZp1ZFdsMD3Df7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

Musa - Brewery with great selection of beers and phenomenal views of the sunset from their patio overlooking the river. https://maps.app.goo.gl/YaJupCUy9ZXxwego6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

SWEETS & BREAD

Dubon - Fantastic truffles and other chocolate delights; Karen does a fun chocolate and drink pairing offering. https://maps.app.goo.gl/KAUqwJG7QocBJY5F7?g_st=in

Gelataria Portuense - gelato. https://maps.app.goo.gl/VV9TJdXjc1KZCRbg9?g_st=iw

Brites - Fabulous bakery for sweet & savory items (infamous pastrami croissant) and the best foccacia; they have opened a tiny cafe next door. https://maps.app.goo.gl/kaS9TJaZ8L4DWMuk7?g_st=in

ACTIVITIES

We’ll keep adding to this over time as we discover new places and update our favorites.

Need Anything?

If you have a question before or during your stay, just contact us. info@quintaesmeralda.pt

We want your stay to feel easy, relaxed, and memorable — with enough information to feel prepared, but still plenty of room to slow down and enjoy the place naturally.