The houses: The houses which are offered by us are generally authentic granite houses, which have been renovated without doing harm to the characteristic elements. As for new houses the characteristic architecture is as much as possible considered. Almost all houses have central heating and/or a fireplace or additional heating. Most of the houses are located near small villages, as a result of which it's possible to make contacts with the very sympathetic population. In case there aren't any shops around, information about local suppliers will be present in the house.         Large groups: If travelling with more families or with a large group of friends, you can also rent two or more houses close together.         Owners: There are both Dutch and Portuguese owners. Some of them speak French, German or English; others only speak Portuguese. With pleasure they will inform you about the village and/or the region. If necessary you can always appeal to us.         Period of lease: In principle your lease can start on any day of the week, provided that it's combinable with other reservations. It is also possible to book for one night or a couple of nights.         Travelling: A journey by train, car, or bus is quite possible, but it takes a lot of time. Take into account a 2000 km trip. It is also possible to fly from Amsterdam or Brussels. Your travel agency can inform you about it. From Porto it is still 90 km, about 1.5 hour, to your destination. Depending on your choice you can rent a car by yourself or we could meet you at the airport and take you to your destination.         Insurances: We would like to advise you to take both a travel insurance and a cancellation insurance for the house you rent. A liability insurance is advisable in case of any possible damage in or to the house.         Wheelchairs: This region is not suitable for wheelchairs because of the hilly surrounding and steep streets. Very often the pavements are high and the roads very bad. Shops and public buildings are mostly not adapted for wheelchairs.         Transport airport - holiday address: If you wish we can pick you up at Oporto airport and take you to your holiday address. We charge 50 Euro for a maximum of 4 persons.         Shopping service: On the day of arrival we can take care of some food-service. (Ingredients chosen by yourself) Please let us know at least one week in advance whether you want to make use of this service. We expect you to pay at arrival. Shopping service is not available for all houses. Please check this when making the reservation.         Blankets and linen: In all houses: blankets and/or continental quilts and pillows. Sheets, covers, pillows, towels and tea-towels are also available.         Pets: In a number of houses you can bring your pet with you. Will you please inquire after the houses in question. When you make a booking you always have to contact us,if you are planning to bring your pet(s) with you.