Let's go back to the beginning. The young couple Esmee and her boyfriend Laurens decided that Amsterdam wasn't the place where they could dream freely. But where then? Portugal. it isFriendly people, a wonderful climate, surfing, delicious food—what more could you ask for? Trailer packed, dog included, all their belongings packed—and off they went. They visited about twenty plots of land and ended up at Casa Nova da Cruz, where they were allowed to take over the farm—complete with all its amenities. After two and a half years of renovations, they are now ready to welcome their first guests to the six studios.

Their love for good food and drink, along with their fantastic interior design, is evident everywhere. The kitchen is stocked with fresh vegetables from the garden, and if you're lucky, you might even get to sample Esmee's culinary skills – they're truly exceptional. Next LevelPeaches, figs, apples, and pears grow in the garden. Perfect for your morning yogurt bowl.

Think: ochre-yellow and deep-pink walls, your own living room and kitchen, a welcome basket for your first breakfast—and then you're free to do as you please. The large open-plan kitchen in the center of the property is available for everyone to use. You can store your own groceries in your room, and if you have friendly neighbors (probably), you can light the BBQ together in the evening—and then the campfire. During the day, you can hike to the surrounding beaches of Odeceixe and Alteirinhos, walk the dogs, retreat with a book, do yoga on the yoga deck—and there's even a gym nearby for those who prefer heavier weights. Laurens and Esmee are often working on the farm during the day—and always up for a friendly chat.

Helder Farm Studios can still develop in many ways. The rooms can, of course, be booked for overnight stays as a hotel guest, but Esmee and Laurens also want to continue to challenge themselves creatively. They organize culinary retreats at the farm, together with renowned chefs. They also open the location to others who want to host their own retreat – from writers' retreats to yoga weekends. In winter the couple is also certainly open to long-term stays – so who knows, Helder might just become your new home. Either way: check the farm out. It is truly a pearl in Portugal, for those who want to Escape want to be in nature where everything revolves around taste, quality and connection.

Helder Farm Studios