A medieval village is being restored to its former glory in an area of central Portugal - pathways have been meticulously restored, 52 units have been made available and 45 additional buy-to-let retirement cottages are set to be created using local stone.

The village, Povoa Dao, is the only one of its kind in Portugal to be restored to its former self. Parts of the village date as far back as Roman times.

The development is being marketed to investors as a perfect way to immerse themselves in the culture of Portugal. It also offers various sporting facilities, including hiking and walking, tennis, boating, fishing and swimming. Swimming and tennis facilities are located on site.

Investors are being enticed by the location of the development which sits 45 minutes from the coast, and close to mountains, thermal spas, and an 18-hole golf course at Golf Montebelo. 

According to Vitor Catarino, the president of the project's developers Catarino Group, "The restoration of the cottages has been meticulous, paying very close attention to recreating the authenticity of the village." 

The development will, he adds "Compliment its natural surroundings, while providing home owners with all the modern comforts they would expect from a lifestyle investment."

Eventually there will be a management team on site to further promote the resorts development  to overseas tourists - good news for those looking for a rental income. 

Povoa Dao is located around an hour's drive from Porto's airport, while Portugal's capital Lisbon is a couple of hours drive away. 

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Article first published 24 June 2008