Rio do Prado | Wallpaper*

Front view of the eco-resort Rio de Prado, surrounded by grass and trees. In the distance, we see two suites that are separate buildings with floor-to-ceiling windows.

(Image credit: TBC)

The brainchild of local mayor Telmo Faria and his wife Marta Garcia, this mini eco resort is situated on the edge of a stunning lagoon and wetland reserve popular with birdwatchers and fishing enthusiasts. When approaching the hotel, the 15 turf-roofed concrete suites, designed by Portuguese architect Jorge Sousa Santos, are virtually hidden from view. The cleverly sunken complex also offers visitors the chance to get their hands dirty in the organic garden and boasts an Eco Lab, large ’social greenhouse’, sustainable spa, swimming pool and gourmet Maria Batata restaurant. Guests in the ’carbon footprint’ suites can see how they measure up on departure. Summer evenings are spent around wood-burning fires, where local foodstuffs are sampled. Leisure activities are encouraged by Telmo who recommends making home-baked pizzas, riding bikes around the lake or signing up for workshops promoting eco-design awareness. Alternatively you could hit the spa for treatments, Turkish baths or a soak in Epsom salts in the candle-lit floatation room.

Close, front view of the eco-resort Rio de Prado, with floor-to-ceiling windows, a lawn, a sitting area, and a fire pit in front of it.

Interior view of the eco-resort Rio de Prado room, with a large bed and a marble bathtub, in gray and beige tones.

Front view of the eco-resort Rio de Prado, with floor-to-ceiling windows, a sitting area, and a lawn.

ADDRESS

Rua das Poças
Arelho
Lagoa de Óbidos

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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.