"Thank you once again Jan & Richard for a wonderful stay in your lovely Monte. The area is great to explore - and thank you for the walking book where I've left some detailed comments that will hopefully ne useful for other guests who like to explore on foot. .................... This time we've visited Silves, Sagres, + Setubal. Would recommend all of these places, especially Sagres. .............. We've seen so much wildlife, particularly the birds. The storks have provided much amusement + the Kites, Kestrals + Hen Harriers have been spectacular. .................... It is really hard to leave such a comfortable + friendly place - but all the more reason to return."
- from the comments book

This is an ideal location for a wildlife and cultural heritage holiday. The landscapes of the Montados and the steppe-plains are really special.
At O ninho you feel absorbed into it. The sheep, cattle and goats of the adjoining farm together with Jan & Richard's very own flock of hens are truly rustic Portugal.
While here we have ticked off 43 species in 4 days although unfortunately no Bustards, Sandgrouse or Cranes. Thereby hangs a reason for returning during the Spring / early Summer.
The accommodation is of the highest quality with every thought given to the needs of the self-catering, independent travellers. Everything is so tasteful. We would recommend a stay anyonewe meet.
- from the Comments book

"Without any fear of contradiction the nicest place of many we have ever stayed and testimony to Jan & Richard.
We have visited Portugal many times but first time to this area, so impressed that in just over a week we have set the wheels in motion to purchase a nearby property.
So we will be returning soon hopefully to stay at O Ninho several more time as things progress?
Thank you both Jan & Richard your advice has it appears changed our lives."
- from the comments book

"What a fabulous place – just what we needed. Super relaxing and a unique retreat from busy lives. Our batteries are definitely recharged! We’ve had a great time and thought the ‘cottage’ was just perfect for a getaway. Jan & Richard’s hospitality has been great and we would certainly recommend O Ninho to others. Thanks so much for making our stay so enjoyable."
- from the comments book

"What a wonderful find! The monte is perfect - so comfortable with everything you would need.
The situation is beautiful - isolated yet near to all places of interest - would recommend Mertola, the area of Monchique if not the town itself and the gorgeous Atlantic Coast - try the smaller beaches / resorts rather than Milfonts?
Saw some amazing wildlife, different birds, animals, insects and loved having breakfast with the chickens and Henry the cat.
Jan & Richard are great hosts - we feel as though weve left as friends and had some lovely evenings.We'll be back for that game of dominoes & Jan's lentil rissoles!
Thank you so much x"
- from the comments book

"Just spent a wonderful relaxing week in this idyllic spot - just what we needed after an overly hectic week in Milfontes!
The cottage is perfect and Jan & Richard are welcoming generous hosts.
Recommend visits to Castro Verde, Beja, Santiago de Cacem and Evora - which although is quite a trip (circa 2 hours) is a very beautiful city.
Altogether, a great experience - thanks!"
- from the comments book

"The phrase in the website that really caught our attention is "great for me time"! That is exactly what we needed. We truly have enjoyed the peace and tranquillity offered here and on many days there was no need to leave 'our gardens' and it was just a matter of resting, relaxing, reading and finding the coolest breeze.
Jan and Richard were ideal hosts never intruding into "me time" but being kind and friendly, helpful and hospitable beyond the necessary."
We will come again for the wonderful peace and relaxation where everything needed is provided but never intrusive.
Thank you so much Jan & Richard for becoming good friends." - from the comments book

We spent 2 very restful and happy weeks ar O Ninho in May 2010.
The accomodation was very comforably furnished and very well equipped. It is situated in the countryside, with great views, but within a few minutes of the town and some good restaurants. Numerous interesting old towns as well as the coast are within a one hour drive.
We were amazed at the variety of flora and fauna in the region which made for enjoyable walks.
Richard and Jan were welcoming and helpful without ever being intrusive.
We certainly hope to return in the future and would recommend O Ninho to anyone who is looking to see real Portugal.

O Ninho is a very comfortable base to see the colourful scenery of the Alentejo in all its Spring glory.
Richard & Jan have furnished a lovely cottage with everything you could hope for. It has glorious views and is an ideal base for bird watching - we managed to see Great and Little Bustards as well as Stone Curlews. Many thanks.

Richard & Jan, a lovely place to stay, with everything you need to make yourselves comfortable & warm! We enjoyed it very much. Next time we'll order the sun in advance!!

What a lovely last minute get away. So cosy and comfortable, you've thought of everything from DVD's to candles. Sorry it was such a short stay. Thanks for your hospitality.

How glad we were to escape freezing conditions in snowy England and spend some time in rain-swept but (relatively) warm Alentejo. The house was impeccable, lovely wood burning stove to keep us warm and cosy with excellent burning olive-wood. The slow cooker allowed us long days out with something to look forward to on our return with a couple of glasses of excellent local wine! The last two days were cold and clear with blue skies and sunshine. We went as far as Mertola to the East and Santiago de Cacem in the West. Both places we recommend to any visitor. All in all, a week that could have been far longer, especially with the prospect of returning to cancelled flights, snowdrifts and ice! We hope it won't happen.
Thank you Richard and Jan for your hospitality and your adorable little guest house. All the best for to you for the future.
Christopher & Jacqueline
January 2010