Pazo de Mendez

As we arrived outside this charming 300 year old Galician property we could not fail to be impressed by the castellated stone walled entrance through which we were invited. The tall gates opened up to reveal the most idyllic of scenes and we found ourselves looking out across pretty cobbled terraces, immaculate lawns dotted with fruit trees and a large swimming pool beyond which a panoramic vista of lush rolling hillside completed the captivating scene.

To find a house for just four people with such ample grounds is rare and we were therefore delighted to discover this impressive and characterful home which includes not only a two bedroom stone cottage but also a spacious garden house incorporating a dining room and a charming traditional kitchen for barbecues. Whether you wish to dine inside or out, this is a perfect spot since the dining area is flanked by doors that lead out to a covered terrace overlooking the pool.

Nestling attractively amidst orange trees and shrubs on the other side of the pool is the house itself which exudes the charming and welcoming ambience of a typical country cottage thanks to an enchanting combination of open stone walls, pine ceilings and traditional stone window seats. Light floods into the open plan living area through windows on three different facades whilst doors from both here and the double bedroom provide access to the covered terrace that adjoins the house.

The hamlet of Vilariño de Arriba is home to a local restaurant which can be reached on foot from the house. Also close to hand are the spectacular golden sands that line the picturesque coastline of the Rías Baixas, the sweeping beach of Playa America being only 4.5km away and the chic coastal town of Baiona just a 15 minute drive.