Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself?

My name is Rita, I’m 52 years old, and I live with my (spanish) husband and our two teenage sons, aged 13 and 15. I'm originally from Lisbon, and António is from Madrid. Because I could not live without the sea, after a few years living in Madrid, we’ve chosen to settle in Portugal, next to Lisbo, and close to a beautiful beach and away from the fast pace of city life. It’s the perfect place for us to enjoy nature, tranquility, and family moments.

We would love to share a bit about you as a person with our customers. Would you like to tell us more about yourself?

Since I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the beauty of details and the world around me. I graduated in Business Communication and spent many years working in Marketing and Communication for a multinational company— a field I’m still involved in today, currently through various freelance projects. However, my greatest passion has always been Interior Design.

When and in what way did this property come into your life and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

For a long time, I’ve dreamed of renovating an old house in the Algarve — the region where my roots are — and turning it into a space that reflects both my creative vision and professional background. Combining design, marketing, and a love for storytelling feels like the perfect project for me. It’s where all my passions meet, and where I find true inspiration. This dream was also a way to honour my grandfather, whom I never had the chance to meet, and whose surname was Elias. By giving this project his name, I hope to show my mother that he holds a special place in our hearts — even across generations.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

The renovation was definitely a challenge, but also a deeply rewarding process — especially since this is an area where I feel truly comfortable and inspired. My goal was to honour the traditional character of the house while giving it a fresh, contemporary touch. The design came together through extensive research and inspiration gathered over time: from my own travels, favourite magazines, Pinterest boards, and beautiful homes I admire in Portugal and beyond. To me, the project isn’t finished; I see it as something organic, an ongoing process that will continue to evolve with time.

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any standout memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

What I envisioned was a space that captured the essence of southern Portugal — simple, warm, relaxed, and authentic — while offering a cosy, homely atmosphere where guests could truly disconnect from their routines. As standout moments, I would mention. two: The first was the day the carpenter installed the doors and windows — it was the moment the house finally felt whole and real. The second was when I visited the construction site and saw the swimming pool for the first time, even though it was still empty. For some reason, both moments touched me deeply — they made everything I had envisioned suddenly feel tangible. I remember feeling surprisingly emotional, as if all the effort, dreams, and planning were coming to life before my eyes.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

Casa Elias offers a relaxed and cosy atmosphere, shaped by thoughtful details like warm lighting and a smooth concrete floor (béton ciré). The interior is a blend of influences — from the Algarve and Alentejo to Greece, Ibiza, and Comporta — creating a unique and timeless aesthetic. I’ve combined traditional elements, such as handwoven rattan chairs crafted by a local artisan, with more contemporary pieces like the sofa and armchair, where design meets functionality. The outdoor space reflects the same care: I chose to plant native, drought-resistant species — not only to preserve water, which is a priority here, but also to echo the character and beauty of the region.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

 

It’s hard to choose just one spot, because there are several parts of the property that I truly love. Indoors, I especially enjoy relaxing on the couch and taking in the view outside — it brings a real sense of calm. I also have a soft spot for the kitchen and the bathroom, both thoughtfully designed with function and beauty in mind. Outside, the pool area and the surrounding landscape are absolutely special to me. And at night, there's something magical about stepping out and looking up at a sky full of stars — it’s peaceful, grounding, and reminds me why I created this place.

What makes the location where your accommodation is located unique and special?

Although Casa Elias is located in a popular and touristic region - the Algarve - , it sits in a peaceful, nature-filled area with only a few neighbours nearby. Here, you can truly experience the authentic local vibe and enjoy quiet, relaxing days — even during the busy high season. At the same time, you’re never too far from beautiful beaches and the main attractions, so you can easily explore the best of the Algarve while still retreating to a calm and serene setting.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

Several things motivated me to start renting this property. First, I wanted to combine my freelance work in communication and marketing with a project that would allow me to balance my personal and professional life more harmoniously. It was also a chance to express and share my passion for interior design — to bring my ideas to life in a space that others could enjoy. And last, but definitely not least, I was inspired by the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures. That exchange adds a truly enriching layer to the whole experience.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

At Casa Elias, I hope guests experience a true sense of disconnection from their daily routines — a pause from the fast pace of everyday life. I want them to feel at ease the moment they arrive, inspired by the calm surroundings, thoughtful design, and natural beauty all around. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet morning coffee with a view, unwinding by the pool, or stargazing at night, my wish is that each guest leaves feeling lighter, more grounded, and genuinely happy.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

What truly sets Casa Elias apart is its thoughtful design and carefully curated décor — every detail has been chosen with intention, from the lighting to the textures and materials. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an experience shaped by atmosphere, comfort, and authenticity. Its peaceful location, surrounded by nature yet close to the coast and main attractions, adds to its charm. I believe it’s this balance — of beauty, simplicity, and tranquillity — that makes Casa Elias feel truly special and different from other places.

Can you share the best compliment you've received from a guest?

One of the best compliments I often receive is that Casa Elias feels incredibly homey — warm, welcoming, and comfortable, like a place they've always known. Guests frequently ask about the décor, which tells me the design truly resonates with them. It’s rewarding to see that the care and attention I put into every detail doesn’t go unnoticed.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay in your accommodation?

I hope guests remember Casa Elias as a beautiful and peaceful place to spend their holidays — a home away from home. More than that, I want them to feel they were truly cared for, that they received a personalised experience, and that we were always available to help and guide them. Whether it’s discovering the hidden gems of the region or simply feeling at ease, I hope their stay leaves lasting, positive memories.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday?

We’ve prepared a personalized holiday guide that we share with our guests, filled with useful information and our own recommendations — places we love and regularly update as we discover new gems. Our biggest tip, though, is to come with an open mind and heart. Embrace the local culture, stay flexible for the unexpected, and be ready to discover and try something new. That’s when the most memorable experiences happen.