People searching for a tranquil and historic location in Portugal immersed in nature will be drawn to the northern countryside. Home to charming towns and Douro vineyards yet close to Porto, there are unique real estate opportunities to mull over, from this 80-hectare farm in Cête to this mansion in Gaia. The region also offers meaningful investment potential.
The sales are being handled by specialist firm The Local, represented by Residents Real Estate.
Allure of Luxury Living in Northern Portugal
As the oldest nation-state in Europe, Portugal is peppered with hidden architectural gems steeped in rich heritage, surrounded by picturesque landscapes – particularly the North, a haven for high-end living.
Exuding grandeur and elegance, the exceptional estates provide a glimpse into Portugal’s illustrious past and offer the chance to invest in a legacy. Meanwhile, as demand for upscale dwellings continues to rise, these authentic and exclusive retreats boast unparalleled returns and capital gains potential.
At the same time, Northern Portugal is a prime spot for nature lovers and adventurers, with lush valleys and rugged mountains waiting to be discovered on foot and bike. Peaceful and verdant, it’s a welcome sanctuary from the bustle of city life, yet Porto and its international airport are within easy reach.
Another enticing aspect is the region’s temperate Mediterranean climate: mild winters and warm summers. Community living is important and crime rates are low, with residents enjoying a sense of security and serenity.
Furthermore, the food scene is thriving, deeply rooted in tradition and local ingredients. And let’s not forget North Portugal’s Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its terraced vineyards.
Historically Significant Countryside Estates
In the Porto District lie two exceptional examples of ancient countryside properties: A walled palace and a rural manor house. Alongside their impressive history, the estates offer an array of economic opportunities for smart investors, be it transforming them into boutique hotels or capitalizing on the region’s blossoming wine industry. Alternatively, they’re ripe for organic farming or agritourism. Below, we take a tour.
Walled Palace in Vilar do Paraíso, Gaia
This eight-bedroom abode sits on a 5.6-hectare plot and combines history and splendor with the potential for diversified investment, including a hotel, school, or senior residence. Indeed, the property comes with an approved Intervention Plan for high-rise construction (up to 30,000 square meters).
On the market for €8,000,000, the 19th-century mansion was built by English hands in a Brazilian colonial style and comes complete with a turret. Admire the sea views from the main residence before checking out the smaller buildings: two houses for caretakers, a pair of warehouses, a stable, a cowshed, a cellar, a water mine, wells, and storage space.
Additionally, there are extensive grounds spanning a vineyard, kiwi orchard, and pine forest. The location is peaceful, yet just 15 minutes from Porto.
Gothic Monastery and Charming Manor House in Cête, Paredes
Listed for €6,500,000 is “Quinta de Cête”, an 80-hectare farm consisting of 12 properties, just 20 minutes from Porto. Covering 3,632 square meters of inside space in total, explore the 19th-century English-style primary residence boasting 40 rooms and the magnificent Cête Monastery, classified as a national monument since 1910, plus the outbuildings and stables.
Out in the garden, there’s a pool. The site is also home to Cête Monastery, a Romanesque and Gothic landmark, classified as a national monument
The classification of the monastery and church as national monuments necessitates the owner to keep them accessible to the public, while allowing them to benefit from the revenue generated by visits. The estate’s grounds boast rich and diverse features, encompassing centuries-old forests. Furthermore, both the estate and its surroundings are safeguarded by a Municipal Master Plan.
Development possibilities are numerous, from a resort with a nine-hole golf course to a Vinhos Verdes wine production business.
The Local: Experts in Luxurious Countryside Real Estate
Representing expertise and exclusivity, The Local focuses on luxury real estate. In particular, they cater to people seeking to invest in the countryside, where rare and historic residences are enviably located.
The team is aware that purchasing in rural places requires a deep understanding of the area and its characteristics, as well as a firm grasp of the intricate tax and legislative framework.
With years of experience, The Local provides tailored services according to individual needs, whether you’re a savvy investor or a first-time buyer. On hand every step of the way, from property selection to legal assistance, they have vast and specialist knowledge of destinations like the Douro Valley and the characterful villages of Minho in the North, plus other regions like Alentejo and the Algarve.
North Portugal: Where History Meets Investment Potential
The countryside of Northern Portugal captivates residents and investors with its myriad benefits, from unspoiled scenic landscapes to a laid-back pace of life. On top of that, the region is home to historic properties with tremendous investment potential. For more information on the area and its unique real estate, contact The Local.
