Hidden away in the Alentejo region of Portugal, L’AND Vineyards is the sort of place that makes you want to drop everything, pack a bag, and question why you always forget that taking yourself away is the answer to everything. Nestled in Montemor-o-Novo, just an hour’s drive from Lisbon, this boutique vineyard retreat is equal parts rustic charm and modern luxury. Think sweeping views of rolling vineyards and minimalist design that feels like it’s been plucked straight out of Architectural Digest.

What: At its heart, L’AND Vineyards is about immersing yourself in the rhythm of the land—and by “land,” we mean wine country. The hotel combines sleek contemporary suites with private patios, plunge pools, and did we mention the retractable ceilings for stargazing from your bed. Yes, you read that correctly. The rooms are the perfect blend of warm natural tones and cool modern edges, exuding an effortless elegance that whispers rather than shouts about its luxury.

Then there’s the wine. As you might have guessed, the estate produces its own wines, and guests are invited to partake in tastings, vineyard tours, and even a winemaking workshop if they fancy rolling up their sleeves. The wine is spectacular – as you may expect from being surrounded by six hectares of organic vineyards. The crop is composed of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Alicante Bouschet and Syrah red grape varieties, and Gouveio, white grape variety.

Why:

Because the best kind of luxury is the kind that feels grounded. L’AND Vineyards isn’t just about opulence; it’s about reconnecting with nature, indulging your senses, and slowing down. The setting is serene, the service impeccable, and the food is unforgettable. But we’ll get to that later. 

When you arrive, you will be added to a personal chat with the staff at the hotel, so you can request anything or ask for suggestions throughout your stay, It’s like having a concierge in your pocket and feels like the ultimate in service luxury. 

There’s also the surrounding Alentejo region to explore, a treasure trove of medieval villages, olive groves, and some of Portugal’s most underappreciated gastronomy. We adored visiting Évora, and highly recommend checking out Jimbu – a gorgeous casual Nepali restaurant in both food and service. If you’re looking for something more fancy, Tua Madre comes highly recommended too.  But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; there’s plenty to relish without ever leaving the estate.

The Restaurant and Food: MAPA is possibly the most beautiful restaurant we have ever stepped foot in, and we don’t say this lightly. The tables are set up in a unique formation, all facing the same direction, with the panoramic view of the land taking centre stage. The kitchen is helmed by David Jesus, whose culinary philosophy is bold and inventive. The menu is a celebration of Alentejo’s rich culinary heritage, infused with a bit of modern magic. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients speak for themselves, and the results are nothing short of exquisite.

 A restaurant can always be measured by the quality of its bread and butter, or in this case, olive oil. The estate’s olive oil has the same level of complexity as its wines. From there, you’ll find dishes like Indian inspired roast suckling pig infused with herbs and spices from the vineyard gardens or our stand-out dish of red shrimp paired with green apple – a simple yet somehow simultaneously sublime bite.

The Spa: If the wine doesn’t melt your stress away, the spa at L’AND Vineyards will do the trick. The facilities are a sanctuary of calm, blending modern design with natural materials to create an atmosphere which feels both serene and indulgent. From the moment you step in, the beautiful aromas and calming vibe signal that you’ll be taken care of.

The standout treatment is the Deep Relax Body Massage, a 60-minute journey into bliss that leaves no knot untangled. Using a combination of long, flowing strokes and targeted pressure, the therapist leaves you feeling like you’ve floated out of your own body. The oils used are infused with locally inspired ingredients, adding a lovely layer of Portugal to the experience – even though you’ll likely forget where you are and who you are during this message. 

In Summary: L’AND Vineyards is not just a hotel; it’s a love letter to the simple, profound joys of life—wine, food, and unspoiled beauty. Come for the vineyard views, stay for jaw-dropping food. This place is close to paradise.

For more information on L’AND Vineyards, see here