Open-Air Hotel & Nature Camping
nestled in the majestic mountains of Central Portugal
Welcome to Uxa ParaÃso
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 ParaÃso 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. ​
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.
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.
Comfort
Destination Uxa ParaÃso
Uxa ParaÃso 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.
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.
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.
Experience the authentic vibe of a Portuguese village with its medieval castle.
Don't miss out on its medieval fair, every May!
[3 km]
Explore the former capital of Portugal, famous for its iconic university, tranquil botanic garden and unique Fado music.
[30 km]
Visit the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a stunning architecture and rich history.
[60 km]
Wander around these villages, famous for their distinctive architecture made from schist stones.
Here is a photo of Talasnal.
[30 km]
Step back in time and explore the most preserved Roman ruins in Portugal, including the remains of mosaics, baths and houses.
[13 km]
Enjoy an adventurous nature escape as you progress from tree to tree through rope bridges, nets, jumps and slides.
[6 km]
Spend a day at the beach in Figueira da Foz, where you can try surfing or simply relax by the ocean.
[55 km]
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]
Indulge in Turkish bath, sauna, jacuzzi, indoor pool and massages for the ultimate relaxation at a local spa in Penela.
[4 km]
Pack your picnic and head out for a refreshing day of kayaking downstream on the River Mondego.
[42 km]
Be prepared to get dirty as you explore the underground world of the Soprador do Carvalho cave in Penela.
[8 km]
Embark on the GR26, a 198 km looped trail that passes through Uxa ParaÃso thanks to the scenic Terras de Sicó Wine Route.
[0 km]
Immerse yourself in the authentic Portuguese atmosphere by visiting local markets. In Penela, it's every Thursday morning!
[3 to 30 km]
Visit a local cheese factory to purchase the region's traditional cheeses or dig into one of their delicious cheesy dishes.
[7 km]
Taste the unique flavors of local Portuguese wines, Terras da Sicó, in a traditional olive oil press setting.
[3 km]
The story behind Uxa
Uxa ParaÃso 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.​
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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 ParaÃso 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 ParaÃso, 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 ParaÃso" in the maps directions for the easiest route to our open-air hotel and camping site.