paiva river retreat

Paiva River, 2019

As found

Proposal

Paiva River is a tributary of Douro and UNESCO’s World Heritage Douro Valley Wine region. Flowing through steep granitic canyons, the relatively unspoiled Paiva Valley has quietly become a burgeoning nature tourism area, made notable by the Paiva Walkways.

oitoo was commissioned to design a small touristic unit in this setting, a plot overlooking a river arm, surrounded by forest: an exclusive retreat.

The topography is demanding. Perched over the river, the 10-bedroom unit is conceived as a compound, a small “castle keep”, with retaining walls tying together several volumes that constitute the programme.

The “main house” is the centre of the composition: a welcoming area and the destination Restaurant, the first thing you notice upon arriving onto the site, from above. It is built over the remains of a former dwelling, as a foundational gesture. All bedroom units surround it in such a way that ensures their privacy, spotless views and the best relation with the existing terrain.

Below, by the river, a relaxing swimming pool awaits those who prefer not to try the reinvigorating, but often rough, waters.