Welcome Guide
Riverlake
House
Fernandaires · Castelo de Bode
Welcome Guide
Fernandaires · Castelo de Bode
Welcome
Some places are made for seeing as much as possible.
Others are made for slowing down.
Riverlake House sits on the shores of Castelo do Bode lake. One of the prettiest in Portugal. Surrounded by nature, water and space to breathe. While there are wonderful places nearby, many guests tell us that their favourite memories were made right here — breakfast in the garden, reading by the water, watching the light change over the lake.
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your stay.
There's a magic to this place that is indescribable.— Sonya, Pennsylvania
Philosophy
Many arrive planning to explore somewhere new every day.
Many leave wishing they'd simply stayed longer.
The reasons are often surprisingly simple.
The bird song every morning was soul restorative.— Sonya, Pennsylvania
Rituals
i.
On calm mornings the lake often becomes perfectly still, reflecting the surrounding hills like a mirror. If you're awake before breakfast, step outside first.
ii.
Watch the sunset from the garden, then drive two minutes to Fernandaires viewpoint. Around 20–30 minutes later you can catch a second sunset from a completely different angle. Guests who discover this tend to go back every evening.
iii.
One of the quietest corners of the garden. Here, a tucked-away spot that many guests use for yoga, reading, or simply sitting with nothing to do.
iv.
Clear nights here reveal a sky full of stars. Well away from city light, this part of Portugal is exceptional for it. Take a few minutes to look up. You may even see a shooting star.
A piece of heaven.— Paulo, Dublin
The Grounds
The house is only part of the experience.
The garden, terraces, lake views and outdoor spaces are where many guests spend most of their time.
The Garden
Several seating areas, shaded corners, olive trees from which we press our own oil, fruit trees and flowers of many colors. All of this for you to enjoy.
Outdoor Living
Meals, coffee and sunset drinks all seem to taste better outdoors. The barbecue, fresh herbs and long evenings on the deck invite it.
The Lake
Swimming, paddling, fishing, or simply watching the light change across the water. The blue-flag river beach is steps from the gate.
Hammocks & Shade
Several hammocks are scattered through the garden. Find your favourite spot and claim it early.
The house itself is great, but the outside is even better.— Monika, Berlin
Arrive
Preparation
We wish we had spent more time here and less time driving.— A recurring thought among guests
Exploring
One of Portugal's most beautiful lakeside villages. A medieval Templar tower rises from the water's edge.
Historic streets, riverside cafés and the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ — one of Portugal's great monuments.
A fairy-tale castle on a tiny river island. One of Portugal's most photographed views.
Waterfalls, wooden walkways and some of the clearest water in the region. Worth half a day.
Both viewpoints are a few minutes driving away. Wide views over the lake — especially beautiful at sunset.
Water
Waterfront
Right on your doorstep. Clean, warm water. On quiet mornings, you may have it almost to yourselves.
Scenic and with a pleasant on-site restaurant for a long, slow lunch on the water.
Lively waterfront atmosphere and a full range of nautical activities, as well as a restaurant with traditional dishes and appetizers.
A tranquil bay most visitors miss entirely. Untouched and naturally beautiful.
Crystal-clear mountain spring water, stone pools and waterfall trails. A full afternoon's adventure.
Recommendations
We prefer small, family-owned tables over anything a guidebook would suggest.
The classic local spot, family owned. Ask for suggestions and you'll be amazed — some of the best local and traditional dishes you'll ever taste.
A more refined experience — creative Portuguese dishes, beautifully presented, signature cocktails and right by the small river.
Directly on the water. Go for a long, slow lunch and watch the boats drift past. Best on a warm afternoon.
Simple, reliable and deeply local. The wood-grilled piri-piri chicken is exactly what it should be.
Practicality
Starlink
ig@riverlakehouse
Runs automatically each morning ~09:00
Close securely at night, or a curious fox may come and say hi.
Mosquito nets on the windows — keep doors closed. Anti-mosquito devices provided for the rare cases they're needed.
Switch off when leaving the house
Netflix, YouTube & casting ready
Return
Farewell
Thank you for choosing Riverlake House.
We hope your stay leaves you with memories worth keeping, and that we have the pleasure of welcoming you back.
@riverlakehouse
More photos and videos of the house, the lake and the area — including seasons, light and moments you might not expect.
Until next time.
@riverlakehouse