A cold night at Quinta da Marka, Douro Valley, Portugal
At Quinta da Marka, in the Douro Valley, the chill in my arms hovered between desire and discomfort.
Yet, the serene night’s silence and tranquility held me captive on the balcony.
The wicker chair’s cozy cushions aided my endurance, but bougainvillea petals danced on the breeze, countering my solitude.
The day, now a distant memory, had been unusually warm for late March.
Alone at Quinta da Marka, I relished the solitude.
Despite the daytime warmth, the night embraced a pleasant chill.
The clear sky unveiled constellations, barely obscured by the moonlight. In the corner of my vision, dim lights hinted at the living room’s stillness.
Perhaps I should have turned off all the lights, but the distant dots of light, like Quinta Nova, lingered.
Quinta do Crasto, hidden behind me, remained unseen from the balcony, existing as a reassuring presence.
I pondered dimming the room lights, now imagining the beauty of the enveloping darkness.
The living room’s sparse lighting only hinted at its traditional, comforting decor.
Nestled into the cushioned haven, my eyes grew heavy, embracing the weight of impending sleep.
Earlier that day, upon reaching Quinta Nova with the complete group of guests, I yielded my room to accommodate an unexpected last-minute guest at Quinta Nova. Consequently, I arranged to stay at Quinta da Marka for the subsequent two nights.
Quinta Nova’s allure is undeniable. However, the isolation and possibility for some peace of mind, made Quinta da Marka an ideal alternative.
The day had unfolded spectacularly, with seamless walks, guided tours, and a lively dinner marked by passionate conversations.
Despite the usual and natural demands, positive customers, moderate weather, and flawless details marked the rare and harmonious alignment of stars.
Resisting thoughts of the upcoming day, I yearned only to drift into slumber beneath the stars’ watchful gaze.
Are you ready to join me on one of these tours?
Carpe diem.
David Monteiro
