Olhao Town House

Beautifully restored designer townhouse in Olhão with a plunge pool, rooftop terraces and uplifting interiors in the heart of the Algarve.

  • Sleeps 10
  • 7
  • 5
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Highlights

  • Stay in a beautifully restored historic merchant's house designed by Julian Chichester, where original Portuguese architecture meets exceptional bespoke interiors.
  • Sleeps up to 10 guests across seven elegant bedrooms, making it ideal for family holidays or memorable getaways with friends.
  • Relax in the terrace plunge pool before enjoying sunset drinks on one of three beautiful outdoor terraces overlooking Olhão's rooftops.
  • Discover thoughtfully curated interiors featuring handcrafted furniture, international antiques, artisan lighting and luxurious textiles throughout.
  • Enjoy flexible entertaining with three kitchens, including a spectacular rooftop kitchen perfect for alfresco meals under the Algarve sky.
  • Leave the car behind thanks to the excellent rail connection from Faro, then explore the surrounding area using the owners' four electric bikes.
  • Perfectly positioned in the heart of authentic Olhão, just moments from bustling markets, fantastic seafood restaurants and boats to the idyllic islands of the Ria Formosa.
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You should know

  • There are seven bedrooms, with five ensuite bathrooms and two bedrooms sharing one bathroom.
  • Car hire is not essential thanks to the direct train service from Faro and the owners' electric bikes.
  • The property has a plunge pool rather than a full-size swimming pool.
  • WiFi, luxury toiletries and premium linens are provided.
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The details

On a quiet corner in the charming fishing town of Olhão, this remarkable townhouse is a masterclass in thoughtful restoration and inspired design. Lovingly transformed by celebrated designer Julian Chichester and his filmmaker wife Holly, this historic merchant's house effortlessly combines its rich Portuguese heritage with an eclectic collection of bespoke furniture, handcrafted details and carefully curated antiques. The result is a truly uplifting retreat where every room tells a story and every corner invites you to slow down and savour your surroundings.

Step through the weathered front doors and into a grand entrance hall, where the home's original character immediately shines through. Cool stone floors, locally fired terracotta tiles, exposed brickwork, timber beams and graceful lime-washed arches create a calm, airy atmosphere filled with natural light. Throughout the house, original wooden windows, shutters and beautifully aged floorboards have been meticulously restored, while Julian Chichester's own furniture designs sit effortlessly alongside international auction finds, rich textiles and artisan lighting to create interiors that feel both elegant and deeply personal.

Sleeping up to 10 guests, the townhouse offers seven beautifully appointed bedrooms, including five with ensuite bathrooms and two sharing a family bathroom. Spacious living areas provide plenty of room to gather together or enjoy peaceful moments alone, while three separate kitchens, including a fully equipped rooftop kitchen, make entertaining wonderfully easy whether you're preparing leisurely breakfasts or sunset feasts overlooking the rooftops.

Outside, the house continues to impress with a series of inviting outdoor spaces that encourage lazy days in the Algarve sunshine. The peaceful ground-floor courtyard is perfect for morning coffee beneath the open sky, while the first-floor terrace, complete with its own fireplace, offers a magical setting for relaxed evenings. Climb higher and you'll discover a stunning rooftop terrace with panoramic views across the town, alongside the second-floor terrace where a refreshing plunge pool provides the perfect place to cool off after a day exploring Olhão's bustling markets and waterfront.

One of the joys of staying here is how effortlessly you can explore without ever needing a car. Faro Airport is connected to Olhão by an inexpensive and efficient train service, while the railway continues east along the coast towards the Spanish border. Once you've settled in, the owners' four electric bikes make it easy to discover the surrounding area at a leisurely pace. Wander through Olhão's vibrant markets, sample exceptional seafood restaurants, catch a boat to the spectacular islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park or spend your days discovering the unspoilt beaches, charming villages and peaceful countryside that make the Eastern Algarve one of Portugal's most authentic and rewarding destinations.

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Short breaks are available out of season.

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FAQs about Olhao Town House

How many guests can the townhouse accommodate?

The townhouse sleeps up to 10 guests across seven beautifully appointed bedrooms.

How many bathrooms are there?

There are five bathrooms, with five bedrooms featuring ensuites and two bedrooms sharing one bathroom.

Is there a swimming pool?

Yes. The second-floor terrace features a delightful plunge pool that's perfect for cooling off on warm Algarve afternoons.

Is the townhouse suitable for groups?

Absolutely. With spacious living areas, multiple terraces, three kitchens and seven bedrooms, it's ideal for families and groups of friends.

Do I need to hire a car?

No. Faro Airport is connected to Olhão by an affordable and regular train service, and the owners also provide four electric bikes for guests to explore the local area.

What outdoor spaces does the property have?

Guests can enjoy a peaceful courtyard, a first-floor terrace with a fireplace, a second-floor terrace with the plunge pool and a rooftop terrace complete with an outdoor kitchen and wonderful views.

What makes the interiors so special?

The house has been restored by renowned designer Julian Chichester and features an eclectic collection of bespoke furniture, antiques, handcrafted details and carefully chosen artwork, all while preserving the building's original historic character.

What is there to do nearby?

Explore Olhão's famous seafood markets, stroll the waterfront, catch boats to the islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, visit charming villages and discover the beautiful beaches of the Eastern Algarve.

Is WiFi available?

Yes, complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property.

How do I book?

You can contact the owner through the 'Request to Book' button on the Coolstays listing. You can then reach out and enquire about possible dates. The owner will then reply and you can book directly through them.

Olhao Town House is listed by the managing agent Tamar.
Ask a question or make a booking request directly with Tamar.