Casas da Lapa is a 5-star hotel located near Seia, 800 meters above sea level, on the slopes of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, with an innovative mountain concept that provides luxury and authenticity within a small mountain village. Here I found a family home, genuine hospitality and the tastes and flavors we take with us when we travel, a luxurious simplicity that cannot be explained, only felt.
In Aldeia da Lapa dos Dinheiros, there is a tradition that has lasted for several generations, a lost charm in the middle of the mountain and where you can breathe the pure mountain air, in a tranquility that invades us as soon as we arrive, with mountains and valleys as the eye can see. It is in this environment, fully integrated with nature, that we find the 15 rooms, 8 of which are suites with mountain views, a spa with personalized aromatherapy, a heated pool, sauna and Turkish bath, 3 swimming pools (one indoor and two panoramic outdoors), a cinema room, living room, library, restaurant dedicated to contemporary mountain cuisine and a fantastic breakfast with no time limits, with local products and completely à la carte, in an incredible service that provides a good experience to start the day off right!
The clean-lined architecture had an increased concern in re-interpreting the space with the use of wood and granite, wide openings in the rooms and terraces with open views of the stunning landscape, and the interior design favors what is typical of the region with references to old Portuguese furniture from the 1950s. The coverings, textiles, blankets, curtains, sofas and armchairs included an endogenous product from the Serra, burel.
Next to the Casas da Lapa gardens, there is a natural waterfall, which provides a unique environment in the relaxation space in full enjoyment of the surrounding nature, and which constitutes a differentiating factor. Inside, the library provides a unique reading and creative gathering experience, largely due to the re-interpretation of the old holes in the village. The area around the hotel invites outdoor activities and a walk along the Lapa dos Dinheiros River Beach is a must, whether summer or winter, the surrounding beauty makes us forget all our worries and is an authentic natural spa!
After experiencing Nature, comfortably contemplated from the gardens or experienced on walks through the woods, the true mountain experience is complete at the table. In the kitchen, regional products are valued in order to enhance and preserve the traditions of Serra da Estrela. At the Casas da Lapa restaurant, the Serra way of life is celebrated with seasonal products and the usual flavors.
The Slow Living we experienced throughout our stay is true luxury. Being able to enjoy this family atmosphere and mountain traditions, walking along paths and lands and waking up to the sound of the waterfall, at the same time as the morning air exhales the aromas of the mint that grows at our feet, is priceless. This is the ideal space to come back often and let time pass, without worries, without looking at the clock, without stress.
By Carla Branco
INFO: https://casasdalapa.pt