Around 4 km from the centre of Vila Real, Casa de Mateus is one of the finest examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal.
The house was completed in 1744 and is surrounded by formal gardens, vineyards and a large park. The main façade, reflected in the water in front of it, is probably its most famous view.
Inside, you can visit rooms with furniture from different periods, paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries, carved wooden ceilings, ceramics and a historic library. The house and its collections tell the story of a family that has been connected to this place for generations.
The gardens are also worth taking time to explore. One of the most beautiful parts is the long cedar tunnel, but there are also boxwood gardens, orchards and vineyards around the property.
A curious connection with Portuguese wine
You may have seen this palace before without knowing where it was.
In 1942, Casa de Mateus became connected to the creation of Mateus Rosé, which would become one of Portugal's best-known wines internationally.
The wine took its name from Casa de Mateus, grapes originally came from its vineyards, and the palace appeared on the label. The famous rounded bottle was inspired by the shape of military canteens used by soldiers during the Second World War.
Mateus Rosé was already being exported to Brazil in 1943 and later became known around the world.
Casa de Mateus is only 4 km from Vila Real, so it is easy to combine with a visit to the city. It can also be a good stop if you are travelling through northern Portugal or exploring the Douro region.
You can visit the house, chapel and gardens, and wine tastings are also available.
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