Welcome to our sanctuary! We are Rita and Teresa Durão, sisters and granddaughters of Avó Lídia, who built this beloved family home. Our mission is to keep our grandmother’s legacy of warm Portuguese hospitality alive while protecting and sharing the incredible biodiversity of the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros. As passionate nature lovers, we spend our free time birdwatching around the village and exploring local trails. We are also incredibly proud that Retiro da Avó Lídia is officially integrated into the Portuguese Night Butterfly (Moth) Stations Network ("Rede de Estações de Borboletas Noturnas"). To monitor and study these delicate local species, we regularly set up harmless, scientific light traps. If you are curious, you are warmly invited to join us in this magical catch-and-release experience under the stars—kids and nature enthusiasts absolutely love it! However, your peace is our top priority. We believe in absolute privacy, so we will remain completely in the background to let you enjoy the villa and garden in absolute independence. We are always just a message away if you decide you want some ecological tips, trail maps, or if you simply wish to participate in our conservation activities. We look forward to sharing our peaceful mountain haven with you!

Where memories come to life. Granddaughters Rita and Teresa Durão have lovingly restored their grandmother Lídia’s old house, preserving the region's stone walls, wooden ceilings, and traditional fireplace, while adding modern comfort. The result is a cozy retreat, perfect for families and couples seeking absolute privacy (no shared spaces). Free parking included. The true luxury here is space, time, and genuine connection. In the large backyard with its traditional threshing floor, children can play and enjoy the swing. Every morning, you can hear the birds visiting the organic garden. The patio with a BBQ invites you to long lunches with the sunset filtering through the oak trees. At night, moths flutter under the dark mountain sky. Inside, the living room with its original fireplace warms up conversations during winter days and crisp autumn or spring nights. The 4 bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms (plus a guest toilet), premium mattresses, and thoughtful decor, comfortably accommodating up to 8 adults. A fully equipped kitchen, laundry machines, and Wi-Fi ensure total autonomy. Discover the rhythm of Mendiga, its local grocery shops, the café, and the fascinating Telhados d'Água. In the heart of the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park, the Retreat is the ideal base to explore caves, the Olhos d’Água do Alviela river beach, the castles of Porto de Mós, Ourém, and Leiria, Batalha Monastery, the Convent of Christ, and Fátima. All just a short drive away. With the genuine hospitality that defines the Durão family, every stay feels like a home away from home. Available upon request (additional fees apply): "Grandma’s Breakfast" with local flavors and exclusive SUV tours through the park, guided by a naturalist who reveals secret trails and dinosaur footprints. Disconnect from the routine and let Grandma Lídia’s essence inspire your days with those you love most. Dates for this exclusive retreat fill up quickly. Secure your peaceful days at Retiro da avó

Guests are consistently captivated by the unique contrast of our location. Tucked away in the peaceful mountain village of Mendiga, you will experience the quiet slower pace of authentic Portuguese country life, while being just a short drive from some of the country's most spectacular historic wonders. Nature & Adventure right on your doorstep The house is enveloped by the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Nature Park, a stunning limestone landscape famous for its hiking trails, deep caves, and unique flora. Nature lovers are just minutes away from the iconic Olhos de Água do Alviela river beach, a pristine freshwater oasis perfect for cooling down on summer afternoons. World-Class Culture & Heritage Within a 20 to 25-minute drive, you can visit three of Portugal’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the majestic Batalha Monastery, the poetic Alcobaça Monastery, and the historic Convent of Christ in Tomar. The spiritual sanctuary of Fátima is just 27 km away, while the charming medieval walled village of Óbidos makes for a perfect afternoon trip. Local Flavors & Gastronomy Mendiga and the nearby town of Porto de Mós are famous for traditional mountain gastronomy. We highly recommend visiting the local family-run taverns to try the famous slow-roasted kid goat ("cabrito"), fresh local cheeses, and regional wines from the Tejo region. Our guests love the warmth of the local community, always ready to share recommendations.