Casas Na Areia : Houses With Sand Floors 

Located in Comporta, one hour south from Lisbon, is Casa Na Areia. Comporta is one of Portugal’s untouched destinations, offering 50 miles of sandy beach and turquoise waters. Casas na areia is a collection of 4 buildings. The thatched walls and sand floor speak to an earlier time, while the minimalist architecture highlight the simplicity of a fisherman’s village. Casas Na Areia is a unique beachside retreat which was originally designed as a weekend house but thanks to renowned architect this work of art represented Portugal at Venice Architecture Biennale in 2010 and ever since gained popularity and has been available for guests.

Casas Na Areia is a one of a kind place in Portugal where nature meets luxury. The traditional floor have been abandoned for sand covered floor (except for the bedroom and bathroom), not just that, the sandy floors have heating built in for those colder nights. Sometimes less is more and that is the philosophy at Casas Na Areia, the decor is simply chic with thatched walls, minimalist contemporary architecture with African art and furniture.

It has an old Fishermen’s house vibe with a feeling of tranquillity all around. There are 4 sand houses in total which are self catered. They have double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and are fully equipped with modern technological comforts. One of the houses traditional thatched houses offer a spacious living room which is fully equipped kitchen a chic long wooden dining table and another with a private plunge pool that faces the rice field, perfect for a dip on a hot summer’s day.

HOUSE 1 The traditional thatched households the living area, with a fully equipped kitchen to prepare meals, a long wooden table, and relaxing sofas to contemplate the view. The sand floor (heated in winter) invites guests to slow down, encouraging serenity and togetherness.

HOUSE 2 & 3 These simple white houses each have a bedroom and en-suite bathroom. The atmosphere is cool and calm, with incredible views.

HOUSE 4 This house has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, which are connected. However, they can easily be used independently. An ideal solution for those with children

The destination has plenty to offer, with the beach just 20 mins away on bicycle, the local area is dotted with dunes, pine forest, rice paddies as well as salt pans. Explore the nearby village, taste the local wine or observe the wildlife, the nearby nature reserve spots a flock of flamingos and a pod of dolphins.

All photos: © Casas na Areia and Nelson Garrido