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Open-Air Hotel & Nature Camping
nestled in the majestic mountains of Central Portugal

Welcome to Uxa Paraíso

The perfect holiday to unwind and connect-

with nature, with yourself and with those you love.

Nestled in a valley surrounded by lush landscapes and mountains, our Open-air Hotel & Nature Camping offer a peaceful and relaxing escape. 

Whether you are craving the traditional charm of camping under the stars or seeking a cosy, immersive nature-experience in our thoughtfully designed accommodations, Uxa Paraíso is the ideal getaway.

You will be comfortably bedded in nature, waking up to the sound of birdsong and stunning views across our 50,000m² property.​​​

The ideal location in authentic Central Portugal, next to Coimbra. 

We are strategically located in Central Portugal, just a few kilometres away from the medieval, picturesque village of Penela.

We are 30 minutes driving from Coimbra, the old capital of Portugal, 40 minutes from Tomar which is home to the Convent of Christ, a Unesco site, and 40 minutes from the famous Portuguese beaches.

We are also surrounded by schist villages, famous for their traditional schist stones houses. â€‹

And we are open all year long!

Our accommodations

At our Open-Air Hotel and Nature Camping, we offer a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller.

Whether you seek the freedom of van life, the originality of a cosy glamping experience or the traditional charm of a holiday apartment, we have something for everyone.

Classic Nature Camping

Bring your own gear—whether it's a tent, van, motorhome, or caravan—and immerse yourself in nature while keeping things simple and cost-effective.

Freedom

Immersive Glamping Getaway

For nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable escape, you can choose from a variety of accommodations, including bell tents, lodges, an A-frame, and a suspended tiny house.

More information

Adventure

Rustic Portuguese Cottages

For those who prefer traditional comforts with a touch of local charm, our Portuguese cottages offer a mix of rustic charm and modern convenience.

More information

Comfort

Kinan

(from Google reviews)

Uxa Paraíso offers a truly enchanting escape in the heart of the forest. The natural surroundings are breathtaking, providing a serene and immersive experience in nature.

The host is a fantastic person —friendly, responsive, and always available to assist with anything you need. The tent was spotless, and the bedsheets were fresh and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay. If you're looking for a few days to reconnect with nature, this is the perfect spot.

Destination Uxa Paraíso

Uxa Paraíso is the ideal holiday destination. We have everything you need on-site for a perfect and relaxing stay.

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At our Open-Air Hotel and Nature Camping, we've designed every facility to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, combining the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and a deep connection to the surrounding environment.

Someone is diving into the infinity pool with lush green hills in the background

Soak in the beauty of nature as you relax by our solar-heated infinity pool.

Open daily from June to September, from 8 AM to 8 PM.

Free of charge.

Solar-heated infinity pool​

Additional amenities, to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible:

WIFI

Around the bar area, so you can stay connected while still embracing the outdoor atmosphere.

Parking

We offer secure and convenient free parking on-site for our guests renting one of our accommodations.

Pet-friendly

Pets are welcome for guests staying in the camping area. Dogs don't need to be leashed, allowing your furry companions to enjoy the space.

Laundry service

We propose a laundry service with a washing machine available for all of our guests to use to wash their clothes.

Medieval village of Penela and its castle

Explore the area

Whether you're an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a foodie, the Penela region has something for everyone.

Click on each activity listed below to be directed to websites that offer further information or allow you to make reservations.

White facades of Portuguese houses in Penela

Experience the authentic vibe of a Portuguese village with its medieval castle.

Don't miss out on its medieval fair, every May!

[3 km]

Coimbra by night, with its lights shimmering on the calm surface of the Mondego River

Explore the former capital of Portugal, famous for its iconic university, tranquil botanic garden and unique Fado music.

[30 km]

The interior courtyard of the Convent of Christ in Tomar, with its Templar cross fountain

Visit the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a stunning architecture and rich history.

[60 km]

A concentration of dark schist houses nestled within a lush environment in Talasnal

Wander around these villages, famous for their distinctive architecture made from schist stones. 
Here is a photo of Talasnal.

[30 km]

Floor mosaics and remains of Roman columns in the ruins of Conímbriga

Step back in time and explore the most preserved Roman ruins in Portugal, including the remains of mosaics, baths and houses.

[13 km]

A smiling man suspended in a net while tree climbing

Enjoy an adventurous nature escape as you progress from tree to tree through rope bridges, nets, jumps and slides.

[6 km]

A surfing spot on a beach in Figueira da Foz

Spend a day at the beach in Figueira da Foz, where you can try surfing or simply relax by the ocean.

[55 km]

Natural pools and waterfalls spread across different levels in a rocky, green environment

Stay cool during hot days, surrounded by refreshing natural pools in Fragas de São Simão (above) or Praia Fluvial da Louçainha.

[8 to 20 km]

Indoor pool and jacuzzi in a spa

Indulge in Turkish bath, sauna, jacuzzi, indoor pool and massages for the ultimate relaxation at a local spa in Penela. 

[4 km]

A kayak glides smoothly on the calm Montego River, surrounded by lush green hills

Pack your picnic and head out for a refreshing day of kayaking downstream on the River Mondego.

[42 km]

A man standing in a cave for speleology in Central Portugal

Be prepared to get dirty as you explore the underground world of the Soprador do Carvalho cave in Penela.

[8 km]

Trail Marker in Uxa Paraíso for the GR26 Hiking Route

Embark on the GR26, a 198 km looped trail that passes through Uxa Paraíso thanks to the scenic Terras de Sicó Wine Route.

[0 km]

A man behind his stall selling local products in an authentic Portuguese market

Immerse yourself in the authentic Portuguese atmosphere by visiting local markets. In Penela, it's every Thursday morning!

[3 to 30 km]

Artisanal cheese platter from Central Portugal

Visit a local cheese factory to purchase the region's traditional cheeses or dig into one of their delicious cheesy dishes.

[7 km]

Wine testing of local Portuguese wines in Central Portugal

Taste the unique flavors of local Portuguese wines, Terras da Sicó, in a traditional olive oil press setting.

[3 km]

Olive tree
Owner of Uxa Paraíso cuddling a goat in nature

The story behind Uxa

Uxa Paraíso is a small and intimate Open-Air Hotel and Nature Camping, run by me, Julien.

I was born and raised in France, and from a very young age, I began exploring the world on wheels with my adventurous parents. This is how my love for adventure and my passion for homes on wheels first began.​ 

​

Around 25 years ago, I bought my first van and set off on my own explorations. During my travels across Europe, I often woke up to breathtaking views in some of the most peaceful places. Those moments — opening the van door to the first light of morning and admiring the raw beauty of nature — remain among my most treasured memories.

The goal here at Uxa Paraíso is to recreate that feeling for our guests. There's something magical about waking up to this preserved nature, something that allows us to relax and connect with our surrounding environment, with ourselves and our loved ones.

​

In 2014, I bought a stunning 50,000m² property in Central Portugal to bring this vision to life.

For over 10 years, I have dedicated my time and energy to making this vision a reality, constantly exploring new ideas and projects. I designed the buildings myself — the bathroom facilities, the bar, the outdoor kitchen — as well as our accommodation units. 

And I am still working on perfecting this spacious haven, focused on tranquility, simplicity, and eco-friendly, low-tech principles

​Contact & Access

Address

Uxa Paraíso, Podentinhos 1,

3230-290 Penela, PORTUGAL

Driving directions

There are several routes to reach us, but the simplest and most convenient way is as follows:

Start by heading to this location on Google Maps (or the following GPS coordinates 40.031830, -8.403150), and from there, simply enter "Uxa Paraíso" in the maps directions for the easiest route to our open-air hotel and camping site.

Contact

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