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Saltwater pool, sun loungers and yellow Mediterranean villa at Sunrise Villa Alvorada in Vila Nova de Poiares

Vila Nova de Poiares · Central Portugal

Sunrise Villa Alvorada

An elegant countryside retreat in the heart of Central Portugal, with a saltwater pool, antique Portuguese decor, mountain views, many hidden gem destinations, warm five-star hospitality & an option for accessible stay. A proud N2 destination.

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Please note: the villa is equipped to welcome children aged 12 and older, and we are not able to accommodate pets.

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Wi-Fi 5G, high-speed internet5-star hostessVila Nova de Poiares · CoimbraSaltwater pool, gardens, natureDisability accessible

Outdoors

Pool, garden & grounds

Set within generous private grounds, Sunrise Villa Alvorada is surrounded by mature gardens and fruit trees such as lemon, fig, orange, cherry, plum, and nectarine. Throughout the year, the air carries various scents of eucalyptus, citrus blossom and ripening fruit, blending with the quiet rhythm of the Central Portuguese countryside; a peaceful place to slow down, rest, and reconnect.

The Pool

Enjoy our sparkling saltwater pool set on a sunny terrace, framed by open skies and privacy walls. Comfortable loungers, fresh towels, and an effortless step-free access ramp make it easy for everyone to settle in and stay a while. A calm, sun-warmed space for unhurried swims, long afternoons, and quiet moments in the mountain air.

The saltwater pool at Sunrise Villa Alvorada
Saltwater pool in bright daylight with loungers and yellow villa
Long view of the saltwater pool with rock garden and cabana
Poolside cabana with wicker seating and dining area
Poolside bistro table with Portuguese tile top overlooking the water
Pool framed by purple wandering jew plants and stone garden wall
Pool at night with candle lanterns and warm cabana lighting
Turquoise-lit pool at night with cabana glowing behind
Cabana lit up at night reflected in the pool
Pool edge at night with flickering candle lanterns and string lights

The Garden

Surrounded by nature and far from city noise, the villa's garden offers a sense of calm that begins the moment you arrive. Fruit trees, shrubs and flowers surround the house, and tweeting birds fill the air with a sense of peace. In the adjacent field you'll find free parking, a beautiful vegetable garden, a young orchard and, beyond, a larger stretch of land with mature cork, pine and oak trees. The manicured land invites slow walks, quiet time outdoors, meditation, forest bathing, or simple moments of reflection.

Gravel garden path lined with lemon trees, irises and a stone cairn leading past the koi pond
Sunrise Villa Alvorada's yellow facade with the crimson Bottlebrush Tree in full bloom by the driveway
Close-up of the Crimson Bottlebrush Tree covered in vivid red brush-like blossoms against a bright blue sky
Crimson bougainvillea climbing the villa wall above beds of blue plumbago, yellow lantana and orange gazanias
Long white wall lined with climbing red, yellow, cream and pink roses in full bloom
Rockery bed with a stone cairn, pampas grass plume and layered shrubs under a bright blue sky

Fruits & Flowers

The gardens change with the seasons, offering something new throughout the year. Wander among fruit and olive trees, pick fresh herbs for your meals, or simply enjoy the scent and colour that surrounds the house. You'll find apples, cherries, figs, lemons, limes, nectarines, oranges, pears and plums, along with raspberries, strawberries and passion fruit. The herb garden is filled with basil, oregano, thyme, chives and other culinary herbs, while roses, bougainvillea and flowering shrubs bring colour to every corner. One highlight is the magnificent Crimson Bottlebrush Tree in front of the house, whose vibrant blooms attract bees, butterflies and other local pollinators, making the garden feel alive from morning until evening. The bees here are so busy gathering nectar that they simply ignore humans passing by.

Ripe red cherries hanging in clusters on the cherry tree
Bowl of freshly washed dark red cherries
Large bowl of just-picked cherries with stems in the sunshine
Big pot of pitted cherries ready for jam or preserves
Blueberries ripening on the bush among green leaves
Bowl heaped with freshly harvested plump blueberries
Two large bowls of freshly picked dark purple wine grapes in the kitchen
Bowl of bright green limes fresh from the garden
Tray of just-picked oranges beside a pitcher of fresh juice
Sliced oranges on a wooden board with a pitcher of fresh-squeezed juice
Bowl of freshly picked oranges warming in the Portuguese sunshine
Glass pitcher of fresh-squeezed orange juice with a poured glass beside it
Tray heaped with bright yellow lemons just brought in from the garden
Pile of garden lemons on the kitchen counter, halved and ready to juice
Cluster of ripening green figs on the tree, framed by broad fig leaves
Sliced fresh figs on a pink plate revealing their honeyed pink centres
Tall climbing red rose bush in full bloom against a white wall
Climbing pink and cream roses cascading beside pale lilac blossoms
Trellised wall of pink-edged cream roses and soft pink climbers
Trellis of vivid coral-red climbing roses in full bloom
Deep red velvet rose against a bright sky
Rich crimson double rose in the garden
Soft pink and cream rose with dew drops on the petals
Pale pink and white ruffled garden rose
Buttery yellow rose blushed with pink at the petal edges
Bright lemon-yellow rose unfurling in the sunlight
Coral orange rose opening under a cloudy sky
Cluster of soft pink shrub roses in bloom
Bright pink osteospermum daisies against fresh green foliage
Mounds of pink osteospermum and yellow euryops daisies along a stone path
Pink marguerite daisies with sunlit water droplets on the petals
Purple bearded irises blooming in the garden with a yellow iris behind
Vivid orange calla lilies rising from a bed of glossy green leaves
Bright red verbena clusters spilling from a garden bed
Cascading mound of yellow bidens flowers along a white wall
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The Villa

Tradition and comfort, surrounded by rolling hills.

Sunrise Villa Alvorada blends classic Portuguese charm with modern comfort. Terracotta floors, a wood burning stove and antique touches sit alongside fully renovated rooms, new beds and modern appliances. There is no city noise here, just the garden, birdsong and fresh mountain air.

The villa is set up for children aged 12 and older, and we are not able to host pets.

  • Saltwater pool
  • Lush garden & terrace
  • Disability accessible
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Private kitchenette
  • Free private parking
Sunset panorama from the hills above Vila Nova de Poiares
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Accessibility & The Rooms

Three bedrooms, one welcoming home.

Sunrise Villa Alvorada is designed to welcome everyone. Ramped access, ground-floor rooms and accessible bathrooms mean you can relax from the moment you arrive.

Need specific measurements or details we haven't listed? Just call or email Denise, she is happy to walk you through anything you need to plan your stay.

The Sun-Kissed Suite

Ground-floor accessible suite

A private ground-floor suite with a comfortable bed, a bright seating area and a fully accessible bathroom with roll-in shower, accessible toilet and sink, and grab bars throughout. This is the fully disability-accessible room.

Seating area, living & bedroom

The Sun-Kissed Suite opens onto a light-filled seating area with clear circulation width for wheelchairs and walkers, and a restful bedroom just steps away.

Sun-Kissed Suite bedroom with clear circulation width for mobility devices
Sun-Kissed Suite seating area with wide open path between furniture

Suite bathroom

Roll-in shower with grab bar, accessible toilet with grab bars, open-knee vanity, and a comfortable seating area inside the wet space.

Roll-in shower in the Sun-Kissed Suite with grab bar and handheld shower
Accessible toilet in the Sun-Kissed Suite with vertical grab bar and fold-down rail
Open-knee sink and vanity in the Sun-Kissed Suite bathroom with LED mirror
Seating area and wider view of the Sun-Kissed Suite bathroom

The Rose Parlor

Second ground-floor bedroom

A spacious room with an entrance able to accommodate a walker or small wheelchair, plus a private porch seating area for relaxation, writing, catching up online or a quiet breakfast. The nearby hall bathroom is walk-in with a small step up into the shower (no grab bars, portable shower chair provided). Ideal for guests who walk with a cane or walker, or use a chair to get to the car but can walk short distances.

The Rose Parlor & private porch

A restful ground-floor bedroom with its own bougainvillea-framed porch. Photos of the hall bathroom will be added shortly.

Rose Parlor with queen bed, chandelier, wall-mounted TV and French doors opening to the porch
Queen bed with patterned linens, carved wooden chest at the foot and window with garden view
French doors open from the Rose Parlor to a sunlit private porch
Handcrafted oak armoire beside the door in the Rose Parlor
Private porch with wicker sofa, potted plants and bougainvillea beyond the arches

The Orchard Lookout

Upstairs bedroom

An upstairs bedroom with a private balcony and seating area overlooking the orchard and gardens, perfect for morning coffee or an evening glass of wine under the stars. Reached from the entrance of the house by an interior staircase, so best suited to guests who are comfortable with stairs.

Room, bathroom, balcony & entrance stairs

The upstairs bedroom, its private bathroom and balcony seating area, plus the interior staircase from the entrance of the house up to the Orchard Lookout.

The Orchard Lookout — king bedroom with antique armoire
The Orchard Lookout — bathroom with blue tile floor and wooden vanity
View of the orchard and rolling hills from the Orchard Lookout balcony
The Orchard Lookout — antique three-door mahogany armoire

Ramped Access

Front of the house & path to the pool

From the parking area, a gently sloping tiled pathway leads to the front entrance, where a well-lit access ramp provides step-free entry to the front door. The doorway is wider than 32 inches (81 cm), with only a 1-inch (2.5 cm) threshold lip. A second portable ramp continues from the terrace all the way to the saltwater pool.

Front entrance, approach & ramp to the pool

Front entrance and approach first, then the ramp from the terrace to the pool.

Front entrance of the villa with tiled approach path leading up to the open door
Front porch and entrance from the driveway showing the tiled approach to the open front door
Looking into the entrance hallway from the front door
Ramp from the driveway up onto the front porch of the villa
Ramp leading from the terrace toward the saltwater pool

Mobility Equipment

Most mobility equipment can be rented for a small fee through a company affiliated with the local pharmacy. Just let us know what you need before your arrival, and we'll be happy to help arrange it.

Good To Know

The villa welcomes children aged 12 and older. We are not able to accommodate pets at the villa.

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Our Home Town

Vila Nova de Poiares.

A small, welcoming rural town in the Coimbra district, nestled between the Serra da Lousã and the Mondego valley. Life here moves at a slower pace, neighbours still greet each other in the street, the bakery smells of warm bread every morning, and Sunday lunch is a proper event. It is the kind of place travellers come to for a week and quietly start looking at real estate.

Chanfana country

Poiares is the self proclaimed capital of chanfana, a slow roasted goat dish cooked in red wine and bay leaf. Local restaurants still serve it in traditional black clay pots.

Riverside afternoons

Praia Fluvial da Ribeira offers a calm river beach with shaded picnic areas in summer, only a short drive from the villa.

Weekly market & cafés

Fresh produce, cheeses, olives and honey at the town market, then a strong espresso at a family run café in the main square.

Festivals & tradition

From the Feira da Chanfana to summer religious festivals with music and fireworks, the town has a warm, living community calendar.

Nature at the door

Walking and cycling routes head straight into the schist villages, oak woodland and viewpoints of the Serra da Lousã.

Everything you need, close by

Supermarkets, pharmacies, a health centre and small shops are all within a few minutes, so a relaxed stay never feels remote.

Sunset over the Serra from the hills above town
Sunset over the Serra from the hills above town
A local companion watching the sun set over the valley
A local companion watching the sun set over the valley
Orchard and olive trees at first light
Orchard and olive trees at first light
Igreja Matriz, the parish church at the heart of town
Igreja Matriz, the parish church at the heart of town
The Câmara Municipal (town hall) on the main square
The Câmara Municipal (town hall) on the main square
The town crest, laid in traditional calçada mosaic
The town crest, laid in traditional calçada mosaic
Steps rising to the Cruzeiro landmark
Steps rising to the Cruzeiro landmark
View back down to town from the Cruzeiro steps
View back down to town from the Cruzeiro steps
The Cruzeiro cross above Poiares
The Cruzeiro cross above Poiares
Rooftops of Vila Nova de Poiares from the Cruzeiro
Rooftops of Vila Nova de Poiares from the Cruzeiro

More photos of Vila Nova de Poiares coming soon.

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Explore Central Portugal

Denise's Day Trips & Hidden Gems.

Central Portugal is best discovered one day at a time. That's why every guest of Sunrise Villa Alvorada can receive access to my personally designed day-trip itineraries, featuring scenic drives, charming villages, hidden swimming spots, local restaurants and unforgettable viewpoints. Whether you're staying close to the villa or venturing further afield, each itinerary is created to help you experience the region at a relaxed pace.

Please note: the villa and these itineraries are best suited to travellers with children aged 12 and older. We are not able to accommodate pets at the villa.

Aveiro, Canals & Atlantic CoastAveiro, Canals & Atlantic Coast

Aveiro, Canals & Atlantic Coast

approx. 1h 20m drive

Ever wandered through a city of colourful boats gliding along saltwater canals?

Explore the lively city centre, take a boat or tuk-tuk ride, walk through salt pans, and spot flamingos among the lagoons. Don't miss the iconic striped houses along the coast.

Directions from the villa

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Bussaco, Palace & Forest GardensBussaco, Palace & Forest GardensBussaco, Palace & Forest GardensBussaco, Palace & Forest Gardens

Bussaco, Palace & Forest Gardens

approx. 45m drive

Have you ever stepped into a forest that feels like a hidden royal world?

A historic palace set within ancient woodland, with shaded forest gardens, towering trees, and peaceful walking trails perfect for a quiet escape.

Directions from the villa

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Coimbra, University & Historic City CentreCoimbra, University & Historic City CentreCoimbra, University & Historic City Centre

Coimbra, University & Historic City Centre

approx. 25m drive

Want to explore one of Europe's oldest university cities, still full of life and history?

Cobblestone streets, fado music, river views, centuries-old buildings, and cafés serving traditional Portuguese treats create a vibrant cultural experience.

Directions from the villa

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Figueira da Foz, Beach, Boardwalk & CasinoFigueira da Foz, Beach, Boardwalk & CasinoFigueira da Foz, Beach, Boardwalk & CasinoFigueira da Foz, Beach, Boardwalk & Casino

Figueira da Foz, Beach, Boardwalk & Casino

approx. 45m drive

Want to experience a long, open Atlantic beach with a classic seaside feel?

A relaxed coastal town with a wide boardwalk, historic lighthouse, endless shoreline, and a laid-back atmosphere by the ocean.

Directions from the villa

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Lousã, Castle & Schist VillagesLousã, Castle & Schist VillagesLousã, Castle & Schist Villages

Lousã, Castle & Schist Villages

approx. 40m drive

Have you ever walked through mountain villages built entirely from stone?

Discover hidden schwarfs villages with narrow paths and fairytale-like doorways, set among forested hills, castle ruins, hiking trails, and wide mountain views.

Directions from the villa

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Porto, Riverfront & Historic DistrictsPorto, Riverfront & Historic DistrictsPorto, Riverfront & Historic DistrictsPorto, Riverfront & Historic DistrictsPorto, Riverfront & Historic DistrictsPorto, Riverfront & Historic Districts

Porto, Riverfront & Historic Districts

approx. 1h 30m drive

Ever explored a city shaped by river trade, bridges, and tiled façades?

A vibrant riverside city filled with historic streets, markets, cafés, and cultural landmarks, all set along the iconic Douro waterfront.

Directions from the villa

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Hi, I'm Denise.

Denise Kearney, host of Sunrise Villa Alvorada, on the coast at Nazaré

Denise on the coast at Nazaré

Noelle, a fluffy tabby-and-white cat, in the garden
Noelle
Chloe, a tri-colour collie mix, resting on a soft rug
Chloe

Originally from Canada, I moved to Portugal in 2021 and absolutely fell for the peaceful countryside, the history and the warmth of the people. I've been a 5-star host for many years across different platforms and cities. For me it's all about making you feel comfortable, welcomed and at home.

I live on the property with my very tranquil cat and dog. They don't come into guest rooms, but you'll see them around. Many guests love having them as part of the atmosphere.

"Denise welcomed us warmly and gave us wonderful tips for our trip. Soon we may be her neighbours."RUBEN, PORTUGAL · BOOKING.COM

Languages spoken · English · French

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What Guests Say

Stories from Sunrise Villa

Sunrise Villa Alvorada is without a doubt one of the best places we have ever stayed. We have stayed in five-star hotels across Texas and in boutique hotels in Costa Rica, and Sunrise Villa outshines them all.

My wife and I came to Portugal for a scouting trip, and Denise made us feel at home within minutes. She even stocked the kitchen with groceries so we could rest after a long journey.

My wife had been ill and disabled for many years, so Denise arranged a hospital bed in the accessible suite that rivalled the one we had at home. The ramps and thoughtful accessibility made our trip truly fantastic.

We fell in love with Portugal and decided to move here. After my wife passed away, Denise helped me through the grieving process, guided me to buy a car and land, and supported me as I began building a house. I still stay at Sunrise Villa whenever I visit Vila Nova de Poiares, and soon I will be Denise's neighbour.

Don Hall · Sunrise Villa Alvorada
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Retreats

A space to create, reflect & reconnect

Sunrise Villa Alvorada is ideal for retreats for writing, meditation, yoga, wellness, songwriting, art, internet, cramming for exams or dissertations, or basically any process where a serene, comfortable environment would enhance the creative process.

We can handle up to eight people in the house with the use of trundle beds. Also, if any additional people were able to come to the property in self-contained caravans, there is ample parking space. No hookups (yet), but plenty of level parking with areas to set up for outdoor seating and even cooking with contained barbeque units. Sorry, no open campfires.

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Thinking of Moving?

Stay a week… Then maybe stay forever!

Many guests fall for Central Portugal and ask me the same type of question: How can we move here? Can you help us?

My answer is always, Yes! I can help! I have been working as a real estate agent for more than 5 years and my focus is on helping people outside Portugal to move here.

I do more than just find your dream home! I guide you through visa applications, finding a trusted notary, house inspector, lawyer, property purchase, home service set up, etc. Everything from A to Z, since the small details matter and make all the difference when moving countries.

If Portugal is something you want information on, please reach out!

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Get in touch

Tell Denise what you're planning

Pick the topic that fits and share a few details. Your answers go straight to Denise so she can reply with something personal, not a template.

Please note: the villa is equipped to welcome children aged 12 and older, and we are not able to accommodate pets.

Opens your email app with your answers pre-filled, ready to send to Denise.

Get in Touch

Come for a stay. Leave with a story.

Questions about the villa, the region, or moving to Portugal? Denise answers every message personally, usually within a day.

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