Dá Licença

Santo Estêvão, Portugal - map
www.dalicenca.pt

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of the Alentejo region stands Dá Licença, a sanctuary of beauty and tranquility. The Herdade das Freiras, dating back to 1830, once flourished as a prominent olive oil production center. Today, it spans an expansive three hundred acres, adorned with more than thirteen thousand olive trees that proudly rise from the pure, white and pink marble rocks that characterize the terrain.

From its vantage point, Dá Licença offers a panoramic 360-degree vista, treating guests to awe-inspiring views of the Serra d’Ossa forest and the majestic castles of Evoramonte and Estremoz, each a testament to Medieval and Manueline architectural splendor. It was here that Vitor Borges and Franck Laigneau discovered a sense of déjà vu, an inexplicable familiarity that stirred their souls and drew them to this enchanting landscape.

For Vitor, tales recounted by his mother instilled within him a deep sense of belonging to this land, while for Franck, the rolling hills and ancient fortifications evoked echoes of the Jugendstil/Art Nouveau era, with its harmonious blend of natural forms and geometric precision.

The essence of Dá Licença lies in its five luxurious suites, ranging from 50 to 180 square meters, each meticulously decorated with refinement and elegance. Adorned with unique art pieces and boasting spacious bathrooms crafted from local marble, these suites offer a haven of comfort and serenity. Two suites even feature private pools finished in marble and treated with saltwater, providing an exclusive retreat for discerning guests.

Moreover, four spacious junior suites with private pergolas and patios offer panoramic vistas of the organic landscape, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. Every detail, from the individually sculpted washbasins to the carefully curated art collection, speaks of an unwavering commitment to excellence and sophistication.

Culinary delights await at Dá Licença, where the ever-changing menu showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from the property's organic garden and local farmers who prioritize quality above all else. Each dish is a celebration of the region's rich culinary heritage, perfectly complemented by a curated selection of local wines.

The heart of Dá Licença beats within its art gallery, housed within the original olive press dating back to 1904. Here, Franck Laigneau's visionary art concept comes to life, bridging the gap between past and present, tradition and innovation. Inspired by the anthroposophical art movement, which seeks to imbue art with a sensory experience, the gallery showcases pieces that marry Scandinavian Jugendstil with vernacular arts and crafts.

At Dá Licença, art isn't merely confined to gallery walls; it permeates every aspect of the guest experience, enriching the soul and stimulating the senses. Amidst the tranquil beauty of the Alentejo landscape, Dá Licença invites guests to embark on a journey of discovery, where art, beauty, and nature converge to create an unforgettable escape.