Casa Modesta | Wallpaper*

Exterior view of Casa Modesta and surrounding greenery under a blue sky

(Image credit: João Carmo Simões)

Set in the lush, wild environs of the Algarve’s Ria Formosa National Park, Casa Modesta is a rural hotel with a distinct contemporary Portuguese edge. Owner Carlos Fernandes named the property after his mother, Modesta Maria, who grew up in the original 1940s house built by his grandfather, a local fisherman. Transformed by Fernandes’ sister, Vânia - of local architecture firm Par – the humble home now features nine suites, each with private bathrooms and patios. Inside, Albio Nascimento and Kathi Stertzig of The Home Project Design Studio have echoed the exterior’s clean cubic aesthetic, by creating an unfussy interior that sees vaulted brick ceilings and traditional terracotta floor tiles complimented by Canadian cedar furnishings and bespoke cork and brass lamps. Surrounded by acres of almond and olive orchards, the hotel’s garden-cum-greenhouse provides fresh organic vegetables for the kitchen, while a range of spa treatments are also available, using the natural properties of the local olives, almonds and algae.

Interior view of a room at Casa Modesta featuring white walls, floor tiles and a bed with a wooden headboard, two lamps, white pillows and white linen. There are also two different bedside tables, a white wardrobe and a pendant light by the window

Interior view of the living area at Casa Modesta featuring white walls, tiled floors, arched brick ceiling, a grey sofa, a fireplace, terracotta pots and a door

Interior view of a bathroom at Casa Modesta featuring white painted wall tiles, terracotta tiled flooring and steps, gold tap and handles, two rolled towels and soap on a dish. There is also a partial view of the bedroom

Interior view of a space at Casa Modesta featuring white walls, tiled floor, arched brick ceiling, wall lamp, wooden dining table with bench seats, wooden shelving unit, two plants and a large glass door

Alternative exterior view of Casa Modesta, two bikes and surrounding greenery under a blue sky

Exterior view of Casa Modesta and the rectangle archway leading to the stairwell under a blue sky

ADDRESS

Quatrim do Sul, 8700-128 Olhão
Algarve

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Rupert Eden has worked for Wallpaper* magazine since 2010 covering everything Iberian from architecture and design to wellness and travel. He is happiest championing sustainable projects featuring up-and-coming artisans or chefs.