L'AND Vineyards ★★★★★ - Relais & Châteaux

The L’AND Vineyards exists in harmony with the surrounding countryside, its dazzling white walls and huge panes of glass, unobtrusive and barely rising above the sparse trees. With its sharp edges and unique shape, the main building is a contemporary interpretation of the region’s undulating hills, rising smoothly and seamlessly from the contours of the ground around it. Designed by Marcio Kogan, the focus is on the synergy of modern architecture and nature – from the form of the building, to the luminous interiors and retractable roofs, the relationship between interior and exterior is very fluid.

Do not be put off by the sound of sharp modern architecture – this is not cold or heartless design. The abundance of soul and character is clear on entering enter the lobby, where you’ll find ambient lighting, wood panels and rich shades of red and gold that lend the space real warmth. The reception is a modern reinvention of Roman and Arabic atriums, and extends into a living room, library, gift shop, dining room, spa and other spaces including panoramic terraces, all of which maintain the same welcoming and friendly ambiance.

Perhaps the most notable area is the winery. Guests are invited to marvel at every stage of the wine making process, and to discover the vineyard’s own wines. The knowledge and enthusiasm of the sommeliers really help you celebrate the art of wine, leaving you yearning for more.

Taking inspiration from Portugal’s great history of exploration, the cuisine at Chef Miguel Laffan’s star-awarded restaurant is itself a journey through typical Portuguese gastronomy. The best natural and organic local ingredients are served in traditional dishes with influences from elsewhere, notably Asia. The breakfasts are equally sublime, with yet more organic home-made treats to enjoy along with beautiful lake views.

The luxurious and well-equipped suites are spacious, luminous and elegantly designed, coming with private patios or terraces, superb bathrooms, and huge king-size beds with soft Egyptian cotton. We particularly recommend the Sky View Suites, where you may open the ceiling and fall into a blissful sleep under the unspoilt starry Alentejo night sky.

Alongside the many activities proposed by the hotel (bike hire, balloon rides, yoga, sky diving, drives into the countryside for a scenic picnic…), there are at least a couple of restful options – the large swimming pool with bed-like sun loungers and amazing lake views, or the spa. In a truly serene setting, designed with natural stones and woods, the spa offers an indoor pool, a vast range of facilities and treatments, and the unusual ‘vinotherapy’ which makes use of grape-based products.

Finally, you won’t run out of places to explore during your stay. Just 45 minutes away is Lisbon, and even closer, is the museum town of Evora with its architectural riches, not forgetting the little-trodden surrounding countryside, where medieval castles and monasteries are hidden amongst the quaint villages and picturesque landscapes…