Casa do Foral, Portugal — Top with kids

Casa do Foral in Rio Maior captures the essence of traditional Portuguese hospitality and charm. Nestled within the picturesque countryside, this quaint bed and breakfast offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. You can say it’s truly a nice budget friendly guest house.

Upon arriving, we are immediately struck by the beautifully preserved architecture of the building, which exudes a sense of history and character. The warm, terracotta-colored walls and wooden shutters create an inviting and authentic atmosphere that transports you back in time.

The interior of Casa do Foral is equally enchanting. The Gite has 6 rooms with private bathrooms. All rooms are tastefully decorated, blending rustic elements with modern comforts. We appreciate the attention to detail in the furnishings and decor, which added to the overall cozy ambiance. The beds provide us with a peaceful night's sleep, and the private bathrooms are well-maintained and clean.

One of the highlights of our stay is the delicious breakfast served each morning. Casa do Foral takes pride in showcasing the flavors of Portugal, and the breakfast spread featured an array of fresh local produce, cheeses, pastries, and aromatic coffee. Dining in the charming courtyard, surrounded by blooming flowers and the gentle chirping of birds, was a truly delightful experience. There are many birds around and white storks nesting not far away. Blackstarts are on the hill behind town. If interested, take your binoculars. The breakfastroom is also used as a rather big room for all guests to relax, read, play a game, or enjoy the fireplace. Please note, that according to reviews Wifi isn’t always great. Children will love the outdoor pool and we also enjoyed the lovely garden.

The surroundings offer a variety of family-friendly activities. In Guia, Zoomarine Algarve is an exciting marine theme park where kids can watch dolphin and seal shows, learn about marine life, and even have the opportunity to interact with animals. If you want to be in the water yourself: ofcourse there are beautiful beaches along its coast, and many of them are family-friendly. Kids can build sandcastles, swim in the ocean, and enjoy various water sports like bodyboarding or surfing. Some notable beaches near Casa do Foral include Praia da Marinha and Praia de Benagil. Or head to a waterpark: the Algarve region has several water parks like Slide & Splash, Aqualand Algarve, and Aquashow Park, offering thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and swimming pools that kids of all ages can enjoy. Another nice day trip is the zoo in Lagos. It features a variety of animals from around the world. Children can observe animals like lemurs, meerkats, and various birds while learning about conservation efforts. If you want to be more active: the Algarve has numerous mini-golf courses where children can practice their putting skills while enjoying a game with the family.

If your family wants to explore the region, check out the caves and grotto tours by bout, with unique rock formations. A but less pricy: consider going on a family hike, on one of the many scenic trails and nature reserves. Or just visit the local markets, such as the Loulé Market. Children can sample local foods, see colorful produce, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Sneak preview of Obidos (photo credits: Pixabay)

History lovers (as we have in our family) may fall for one of the medieval castles and ancient forts, such as the Castle of Obidos or Silves Castle. We enjoy our visit to Obidos: an enchanting medieval town that left us spellbound. Its well-preserved city walls, cobbled streets, and picturesque white houses adorned with vibrant flowers create a fairytale atmosphere that's simply irresistible. Exploring the ancient castle and wandering through the charming shops selling local crafts and Ginja liqueur was a delightful experience. The town's rich history, culinary delights, and timeless ambiance make Obidos a must-visit destination that feels like stepping back in time.

Also, we take our chance to visit the Monastery of Alcobaça. The Monastery of has a vast and impressive architecture, including towering Gothic columns and intricate Baroque details, that can spark your curiosity. The tragic love story of Pedro and Inês, whose tombs are housed within the monastery, adds a touch of romantic intrigue. Additionally, the serene cloisters and well-maintained gardens provide ample space for children to explore and perhaps even engage in a game of hide and seek. Overall, the monastery's historical significance offers a glimpse into Portugal's rich cultural heritage.

The wonderful Monastery of Alcobaça (photo credits: Pixabay)

It’s a 40 minutes’ drive to Peniche at the stunning Silver Coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Peniche has beautiful beaches with gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for kids to swim and play in the sand. The town is famous for its strong connection to surfing, and there are surf schools where children can take lessons and experience the thrill of riding the waves. Peniche is also home to the impressive Peniche Fortress, a historic site that can captivate imaginations with its cannons and towering walls. Furthermore, families can enjoy boat trips to the nearby Berlengas Islands, where you can explore nature reserves, spot seabirds, and even snorkel in clear waters.

The Peniche fortress. Photo credits: Pixabay

WOW

# The hospitality of the hosts at Casa do Foral is worth special mention. They are warm and welcoming, always ready to offer helpful tips and recommendations for exploring the surrounding area. Whether it was suggestions for hiking trails, local restaurants, or cultural attractions, their knowledge for the region enhanced our stay and made us feel like welcomed guests.

# Casa do Foral's location is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being within reach of cultural and natural attractions. It's reasonably close to Lisbon, about a forty minute drive. The nearby towns and villages offer a glimpse into traditional Portuguese life, and the stunning landscapes of the region provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

# Casa do Foral is a charming and authentic destination that offers a serene escape from the ordinary. Its historical charm, comfortable accommodations, delectable breakfasts make it a memorable place to stay while exploring the beauty of Portugal's countryside.

At the time of our visit, Topwithkids wasn’t launched yet. However we feel this destination should be mentioned here. Credits of most photos are for the destination itself or pixabay.