Alentejo, Portugal | José António Uva & Gonçalo Pessoa
In this special episode, we’re diving deep into a lesser known region of Portugal, The Alentejo. Here to discuss this hidden gem with me are hoteliers José António Uva & Gonçalo Pessoa.
José was an investment banker in London before returning home to cultivate land that had been in his family for eight generations. He ended up turning part of the farm into Barrocal, a gorgeous modern farm house hotel smack in the middle cork plantations, white washed villages, and two thousand year old olive trees.
Gonçalo was actually an airline pilot, staying in hotels around the world when he decided he wanted to build something special in the coastal area of Alentejo and brought the boho chic vision of his hotel, Sublime Comporta, to life.
We discuss the unique culture of the region, the fantastic food, and the special things you can create when shifting from a short term to a long term mindset.
Listen to hear:
- 02:01 – What their favorite spot on the property is
- 02:49 – Why the region of Alentejo and the village of Comporta are so distinct
- 08:24 – How the history has shaped the culture of the region
- 09:52 – What characterizes the food from this region
- 12:42 – How São Lourenço do Barrocal developed over the years
- 15:19 – About Jose’s & Goncalo’s life journeys
- 19:59 – What some behind the scene stories are
- 21:18 – Who their favorite history character that stayed on the property is
- 23:10 – What the philosophy behind the design is
- 25:47 – About their favorite activities for guests
- 33:08 – What you will learn about the world after visiting the Alentejo region
Listener Exclusive Amenities
São Lourenço do Barrocal:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Farm to table breakfast daily
Choice of a $100 USD Spa treatment credit, per booking, once during stay OR $100 USD horseback riding credit, per booking, once during stay.
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
A wine tasting for 2 people during their stay
Sublime Comporta:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Complimentary Full Breakfast for two guests per bedroom daily in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel Credit, once during stay (Not valid on spa products, on Beach Club or alcoholic beverages. Not applicable on taxes or gratuities. Not valid on spa products, not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
