It’s hard to believe that this peaceful suite was once a donkey dormitory—but the signs are there if you look closely. Its low-slung, thick stone walls, small, shuttered windows, and terracotta-tiled roof are charming, but also serve as reminders of this mid-1800s farmhouse’s origins. Inside, broken stone flooring and whitewashed wooden ceiling beams are decorated with rattan rugs and bamboo furniture, adding to its authentic Algarvian appeal.

Outside, dine al fresco on one of the terraces, or in the spacious garden next to the natural swimming pool. If a night out calls, Vilamoura is only a short drive away; and if this suite doesn’t have availability for your dates, look to its sister property, The Old Pig (a former pigsty—a lot more enchanting than it sounds) instead.

Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom

Amenities: Kitchen, washer, dryer, AC, swimming pool, outdoor dining area, cot on request, on-site parking

Location: Loulé

Courtesy of the Airbnb photographer community

A whitewashed exterior and colorful window frames give this two-bedroom home a distinct personality. Inside, it’s all beach house vibes—white walls, sheer curtains, a jute rug here, a raffia light there. But it’s the view from the bougainvillea-filled garden that will enchant you the most. Overlooking the town of Aljezur and its surrounding mountains, the outdoor space is a welcoming retreat after a day exploring the town—or after taking part in the region’s sun, sea, and surf culture; nearby beaches Praia da Arrifana and Praia da Amoreira are two of Portugal’s best for surfing.

Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom

Amenities: Kitchen, washer, outdoor dining area, grill, cot on request, on-site parking

Location: Aljezur

Courtesy of the Airbnb photographer community