where the spirit runs free

Transcription

1 where the spirit runs free It s rare to find a project which offers so much, and so I was delighted to accept the invitation to be an ambassador for this impressive new development. Firstly, there s the wonderful location, on the Silver Coast, one of Portugal s most beautiful and unspoilt regions, and only a short drive from Lisbon, a fascinating city, steeped in history. Then the site itself, which will offer a truly exclusive and luxurious atmosphere, and where the range of villas has been designed to respect the finest Portuguese tradition. Finally, of course, the fantastic Equestrian Centre, which bears my signature and about which I m really excited. I invite you to discover Quintas de Óbidos - Country Club, and I m sure you will be as impressed as I am. Jessica Kürten World number one lady showjumper 79 outstanding luxury villas in a 140 acre (57 ha) natural lakeland setting

2 a special place awaits YOU Flight times from Europe s main cities: Amsterdam - 2h 50 min Dublin - 2h 40 min Frankfurt - 2h 55 min London - 2h 30 min Madrid - 1h Paris - 2h 20 min Berlengas Islands Peniche Óbidos Lagoon Óbidos A15 Caldas da Rainha A dramatic coastline of breathtaking beaches, magnificent natural landscape and a wonderful mild climate all year round, make Portugal s Silver Coast one of Europe s more inviting holiday destinations. A8 A1 And being located only 45 minutes drive from Lisbon, less than three hours flying time from the main European cities, it s easy to enjoy it. Sintra Cascais Lisbon

3 Shaped by the past, with an eye to the future A fascinating and historic city, Lisbon s rich past has left its mark. The ancient Alfama district, with its tight jumble of houses and maze of narrow streets, contrasts with the imposing avenues and grand architectural vision of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, during which time the city was largely rebuilt following the earthquake of The more recent rejuvenation of the eastern part of the city, following Expo 98, has resulted in the creation of an exciting and modern lifestyle along the banks of the River Tagus. Whilst keeping pace with the present, offering sophisticated shopping and vibrant night life, this is a city which, with its hidden alleyways, traditional cafés and yellow trams, shows echoes of the past, allowing moments of quiet reflection and an opportunity to relax over a coffee and watch the world go by.

4 a rich store of natural delights For those who appreciate peace and tranquillity, the refreshingly unspoilt Silver Coast provides a wealth of delights. From the miles of wide, golden beaches, gentle green landscape, dotted with ancient windmills and abounding in flora and fauna, to the rugged and sparsely populated Berlengas Islands, this enchanting place is calling you to come and discover its natural splendour.

5 A town of kings and queens Visiting this ancient walled town of Óbidos, with its distinctive white houses trimmed with touches of blue or ochre, is to make a journey back in time. Long associated with the Kings and Queens of Portugal, in 1221 Óbidos was the royal wedding gift of D. Afonso II to D. Urraca, a tradition which was continued when it was also the gift, in 1281, of D. Dinis to the Queen Santa Isabel. In 1441 D. Afonso V married D. Isabel in the church of Santa Maria, the town s main church. During the seventeenth century, the town was home to the painter, Josefa de Óbidos, who was remarkably successful for a woman of her time, receiving many important commissions. A few remaining examples of her work can be seen today in a museum next to the main church. Óbidos is recognised as an important national treasure and care has been taken to restore and preserve its ancient walls and monuments, whilst the castle now serves as a charming Pousada Hotel.

6 Traditions shaped by nature s bounty The region s maritime connections and fertile soil have helped to create a fine gastronomic tradition, with particular emphasis on fresh fish and seafood. The presence of convents and monasteries has left a rich legacy of desserts and cakes, each being particular to its own town, such as bean cakes from Torres Vedras, pastry cakes from Peniche or the quaintly named little kisses from Caldas da Rainha. With a tradition stretching back centuries, this is also one of Portugal s largest wine producing areas (Estremadura), known for some excellent full-bodied reds and fresh, light whites which are a perfect complement to the region s seafood specialities. Ceramic handicrafts are another feature of this area, whilst the town of Peniche is renowned for the manufacture of bobbin lace.

7 give full range to your game For the golfer, the area offers a wide diversity of courses within easy distance, all providing a wonderful golfing experience and bringing a whole new dimension to your game. The magnificent views and bracing sea breezes, combined with the long hours of sunshine and balmy climate, make playing here a pleasure, at any time of the year. The two nearest golf courses are the par 72 Bom Sucesso, a championship course designed by Donald Steel, and the renowned Praia D El Rey, a true Links Course designed by the respected American course architect, Cabell B. Robinson. Rated thirteenth best course in Europe by Golf World magazine and nº1 in Portugal, Praia D El Rey has established a reputation amongst golfers as a major golfing destination Praia D El Rey 9 Oitavos 4 2 Bom Sucesso 10 Quinta da Marinha 3 Golden Eagle 11 Estoril 5 4 Vimeiro 12 Lisbon Sports Club 5 Campo Real 13 Aroeira 1 & Lisbon Belas Clube de Campo Penha Longa Quinta da Beloura Ribagolfe 1 & 2 Santo Estêvão

8 give free reign to your imagination With its extensive coastline, the region is, not surprisingly, a haven for fans of a wide variety of sports and leisure including sailing, surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, fishing and horseriding, whilst the Lagoa de Óbidos (Óbidos Lagoon) is also a magnificent location for practice of watersports. The countryside also lends itself to some superb walks, with over 74 miles (120km) of signposted trails for nature lovers, many fascinating architectural monuments, including medieval churches, monasteries and ancient castles, and numerous sites of archaeological importance, as well as being home to one of the largest known collection of dinosaur footprints and fossils in Europe.

9 a celebration of unrestrained luxury Exclusive and secluded, Quintas de Óbidos seeks to redefine lakeside living and to set new standards for quality and luxury. With the masterplan conceived by the world s leading resort planners WATG (Wimberly, Allison, Tong and Goo), the residents of this very private customhome community will enjoy the privileges of an exclusive Country Club, the world class Jessica Kürten signature Equestrian Centre and exceptional wide open spaces in a magnificent lakeside setting. Only 79 superb villas, each set in one and quarter a acre (5,200 m2) of their own gardens and grounds, are available. With a construction area of no less than 4,500 sq ft (425 m2), all 16 styles of villa were designed with respect for the finest Portuguese architectural tradition. For the discerning few, this development is destined to be the benchmark for stylish living in Portugal.

10 Main gate Equestrian Centre Country Club Bom-Sucesso Golf Course Helipad

11 architects CASTELLO-BRANCO The designation Quintas evokes the idea of groups of varying size buildings with traces of both popular and erudite styles of architecture. The image and architectural concepts shown grew out of this and other presuppositions in which more traditional components are combined with contemporary elements. The differing volumes presented by the houses reflect the nature of their individual use, meanwhile maintaining strong links with and offering ample opening onto the gardens. The exteriors show different treatments, in keeping with the nature of the adjacent space. The porches relate to the entrances, the lounges, the dining rooms and the kitchens; the pergolas adjoining the bedroom areas, the pools and the gardens form a link with the leisure and recreational rooms.

12 architects GUEDES AMORIM & CONCEIÇÃO COSTA The topography of the site presents an undulating terrain which is more pronounced in some areas than others. Therefore the various plots all offer a great number of options in relation to the possibilities of orientation and footprint of the houses; this is really a challenge. Opting for an architecture clearly rooted in a traditional Portuguese style is well expressed in the four designs.

13 architects ginestal machado & ALEXANDRE REGADO The option for an architecture close to a traditional Portuguese vernacular constituted a real challenge, making it necessary to adopt an language which would adapt itself not only to the architectural heritage and regional landscape, but also to the characteristics of the development itself. The proposal seeks therefore to be faithful to the characteristics of traditional architecture, whilst having regard for the link between interior and exterior spaces and the design brief. An image was created which relates to the past, recreating a classic ambience, but having regard to the concept of contemporary organization of the spaces, in a close relationship between high standards of quality and the surrounding environment.

14 architects miguel saraiva & COSTA LIMA Confronting the challenge of developing a project of such high quality, it was vital to find a language which would incorporate the traditional architecture within the elements of a contemporary construction. The aim was also to integrate the architecture into the natural formation of the terrain, seeking always to minimize the impact of the construction in the landscape. The principal characteristics of the houses are: extremely generous floor areas, layouts which emphasise the interior/exterior relationship, be it through the views or by access to the patios and leisure spaces and, not least, a great emphasis on high build quality.

15 be yourself, naturally As a resident of Quintas de Óbidos, you will enjoy outstanding privacy. Each villa will feature extensive gardens creating an atmosphere of tranquillity and exclusivity, with exceptional landscaping, including century old olive trees, umbrella pine trees and jacarandas. Expanses of water, in the form of a series of biological lakes covering an area of approximately seven and a half acres (3 hectares), will further enhance the landscape, whilst also creating a habitat for a diverse range of indigenous fauna. A network of paths will offer a pleasant diversion for walkers and cyclists, providing a link to the Country Club, the Equestrian Centre and the Helipad area.

16 time to indulge yourself The magnificent Country Club at Quintas de Óbidos will be an exciting focal point for the resort. Boasting a wide range of amenities the emphasis is on style, comfort and attention to detail, combined with a level of service aimed at meeting the needs of the most discerning. So whether savouring the tantalizing aroma of the Coffee Shop, dining in the fabulous restaurant, or simply pampering yourself in the lavishly appointed Spa, you will discover a place which aspires to the finest in good living. Residents of Quintas de Óbidos will have access to a range of sport and leisure facilities, providing ample opportunity to both relax and stay in great shape. Amenities include two swimming pools (one heated) and two tennis courts, as well as a sports pitch and a children s play area. Extensive walking and biking trails which weave their way through the lakes provide a wonderfully relaxing environment in which to unwind, whilst enjoying the delights of this splendid development.

17 THE Jessica Kürten SIGNATURE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE Jessica Kürten (née Chesney) was born in Cullybacky, Northern Ireland in After twice becoming Irish Champion, she turned professional and is today the world s number one lady showjumper. Married since 1994 to Eckard Kürten, she and her husband are based in Hünxe, Germany, from where she pursues a career which combines international showjumping with success as a television personality. Jessica Kürten has agreed to become involved with Quintas de Óbidos - Country Club as an ambassador and a consultant, where her knowledge and experience will be invaluable in helping this development to become a centre for excellence and a reference in Portugal. The Club s facilities will include: VIP lounge International competition standard showjumping and dressage arenas Indoor school Paddocks Lounging circle Competition stabling Parking for transporters and cars Tack shop Farrier

18 time to break away Designed to meet stringent international standards, the spectacular Equestrian Centre at Quintas de Óbidos will provide a level of service and a range of facilities for riders of all ages and abilities, as well as being a superb venue for a wide variety of equestrian events, including international competitions. The Equestrian Centre at Quintas de Óbidos has been meticulously planned by Jessica Kürten to meet the demands of the most discerning and experienced rider, as well as providing teaching at all levels of ability. Provision for the care and wellbeing of your horse has been thoroughly considered, through a fulltime professional team as well as state-of-theart facilities for the care and training of each horse.

19 Quintas de Óbidos - Investimentos Turísticos e Imobiliários, SA Rua Oliveira Monteiro, Porto. Portugal. Tel Fax geral@quintasdeobidos.pt