Villa in Viana do Castelo District, Portugal
Reasons to book
About this villa rental
The main house, set within a 300‑year‑old riverside mill on the Coura River, blends stone, wood, and water into a truly unique Minho stay. Fully restored, it offers 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and accommodates up to 8 guests. Part of a four‑house complex that hosts up to 20 people, it features private access to the river beach and sits just 5 km from Caminha and 10 km from the Atlantic coast.
The Space:
Three hundred years of history live within the granite walls of this restored watermill in Vilar de Mouros, where the gentle murmur of the Coura River drifts through dark wooden windows. The T4 house, the largest of the four stone homes in the complex, accommodates 8 guests across four bedrooms — three with queen‑size beds and one with twin beds — each with its own full bathroom.
Inside, original granite blends with walnut‑tone wood floors, exposed beams, and a striking detail: a glass floor panel revealing the century‑old mechanisms of the former mill. The open‑plan social area offers river views, while the fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and the spacious dining area with a handcrafted chandelier create a warm, slow‑paced atmosphere.
Outside, guests enjoy shared gardens, sunny terraces, and a private path leading to the river beach, which is publicly accessible. The indoor barbecue belongs exclusively to this house (T4) and is available both when the house is booked individually and when the entire complex is reserved.
Guest Access:
Guests have exclusive access to the entire property, including the private gardens, the barbecue area, and the private path that leads directly to the Coura River’s natural beach. The property offers free private parking with space for multiple vehicles. Portugal Active’s concierge service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ready to assist with anything you may need — from organizing local excursions to arranging a private chef. Please request any additional services at least 72 hours in advance.
The Neighborhood:
The Coura River wraps around the property in a generous bend, creating a crystal‑clear river beach right at your doorstep. Vilar de Mouros, a quiet riverside village in the Minho — also known for hosting Portugal’s oldest music festival — offers silence, nature, and the constant sound of water flowing over the rocks. In summer, the Coura provides excellent conditions for swimming. Just a few kilometers away, Caminha (5 km) features a medieval historic center with the Clock Tower and a granite square. Even closer, Vila Nova de Cerveira invites you to explore its art scene, castle, and the banks of the Minho River. Spain is only 20 km away: La Guardia, famous for its seafood preserves, is a classic getaway. Further afield — but unmissable — are Viana do Castelo (25 km) with the Santa Luzia Basilica perched on the hilltop, the Atlantic beaches (10 km), and even Peneda‑Gerês National Park (40 km). Porto Airport is about 90 km away.
Getting Around:
The car is the most convenient way to explore the region: Caminha is just 5 minutes away, Viana do Castelo is 30 minutes, and Porto is a little over an hour. The A28 provides fast access both north and south, and the Spanish border in Caminha opens the way to Galicia’s Rías Baixas. The property offers private parking with space for several vehicles. For those who prefer public transportation, Transdev buses connect Vilar de Mouros to Caminha, where you’ll find a train station with direct service to Porto.
Other Things to Note:
Portugal Active Exclusive Concierge Services
Enhance your stay with our exclusive services:
✔️ Luxury transfers: A private chauffeur takes you from the airport directly to your apartment.
✔️ Personalized experiences: From a private chef to a personal trainer, every detail is tailored to your preferences.
✔️ Daily cleaning and babysitting: Services designed for a worry‑free stay.
✔️ Local team on hand: A Portugal Active team member is always available throughout your visit.
Adventure Experiences
✔️ Horseback riding: Explore scenic trails and beaches along the Minho coast on a unique riding experience.
✔️ Guided hikes, wild swimming, and lunches: Discover stunning landscapes, swim in a hidden lagoon, and enjoy traditional tapas.
✔️ E‑Bike Wild Tour: Uncover the secret corners of Viana do Castelo at your own pace on an e‑bike.
✔️ Surf and watersports: Kitesurfing, stand‑up paddle, windsurfing, and bodyboarding at Cabedelo Beach.
Book your stay. Portugal Active, your private hotel.
Interaction with Guests:
The Portugal Active team is committed to ensuring your stay is both memorable and enjoyable. We are always available to support, advise, and assist you throughout your visit. From the moment you arrive, we are here to make you feel at home. We offer an exceptional range of experiences to elevate your holiday, including adventure tours, private chefs, massages, babysitting services, and much more. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to help you create unforgettable memories. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Amenities at Riverside Watermill House · Private Beach Access
Map of Viana do Castelo District, Portugal
