Riverside House

Gorgeous sandy beaches, bathed in warm sunshine make the Algarve a family favourite and Riverside House is near enough, yet far enough away from the tourist honey pots to be a superb retreat for up to 10 family and friends

Riverside House has a stunning location, nestled in a bend of the River Funcho in a protected reserve at São Bartolomeu de Messines, 10 minutes from the Moorish town of Silves. Frazzled parents can unwind in peace and tranquillity, with fabulous views all around, but also take full advantage of local restaurants and shops, or head for the Algarve's endless beaches and coves under half an hour's drive.

Inside and out, Riverside House is pretty special and the owners can be justly proud of achieving an impressive balance of super sophistication and child friendliness. Fresh white walls throughout and high beamed ceilings create a cool and airy ambience, complemented by the comfort of three Laura Ashley sofas and a designer chef's kitchen that's as well equipped for little cooks as grown-ups, with special recipe books, jelly moulds and cutters, a US-style fridge freezer, ice maker, blender and Rangemaster oven. Five spacious double bedrooms each have their own stylish colour theme, two of which have sleek, contemporary ensuites in addition to the roomy house bathroom, with his and hers basins and huge walk-in shower.

The villa is well equipped for amusing youngsters indoors, with a large TV, DVD player and DVD's , electric piano, wi fi, toys and books but The Algarve River House beckons guests outdoors. Folding doors in both the living room and kitchen open onto a large wooden deck with Oz shading, complete with outdoor furniture, and a Weber bbq for dining al fresco beneath the carob and gum trees. A private, crystal clear pool with deep cushioned loungers on the deck provide the perfect spot for snoozing in the sun and toddlers have a shallow infinity pool of their own, table tennis and five baby dens that can be used in various combinations.

Amoung the other thoughtful services to ensure holidays get off to a completely stress-free start, a baby hamper of essentials, a welcome hamper of provisions and meals in the freezer can all be booked in advance.

Accommodation Overview

Riverside House sleeps up to 10 family and friends plus up to 2 babies in cots, with 5 bedrooms, two ensuite shower rooms and a huge house shower-room. The Striped and Teal ensuite double bedrooms are on the ground floor and both have room for a cot. The Purple bedroom upstairs has twin beds and also room for a cot. The Zebra and Green Rooms have twin bed which can be made up as a Superking.

(Registration number: 3184/AL )