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

Step into Nature at UXA Paraíso

Experience a memorable, immersive stay - ideal for unwinding and connecting with nature, with yourself and with those you love.

Nestled above a peaceful valley surrounded by lush landscapes and distant mountains, our Open-Air Hotel & Nature Camping offers a serene escape. 

Whether you are drawn to the traditional charm of camping under the stars or prefer the comfort of cozy glamping accommodations,
UXA Paraíso has something for everyone.

Sleep comfortably bedded in nature, waking up to the gentle sounds 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!

Find the Accommodation that Suits You

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

This gives you the opportunity to choose between the freedom of traditional camping, the unique appeal of cozy glamping, or the timeless charm and comfort of a holiday apartment, each offering a distinct way to experience nature and relaxation.

Classic Nature Camping

Looking for freedom and simplicity?
Bring your own gear—whether it’s a tent, van, motorhome, or caravan—and immerse yourself in nature while keeping things flexible and cost-effective.
Enjoy the outdoors your way, with the comfort of independence and the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Freedom

Immersive Glamping Getaway

Looking for an original and unforgettable stay?Immerse yourself in nature with our unique accommodations — Bell tents, Safari tents, an A-frame, or a suspended Cabin — for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
A stay that delights all ages, offering a peaceful break from the outside world — perfect for recharging in complete serenity.

Originality

Cosy Countryside Cottage

Looking for the comfort of a real home, nestled in the heart of nature?

Choose one of our countryside cottages and enjoy a warm, home-away-from-home stay that blends rustic wooden charm with modern comfort.

Relax in your own space, complete with a private bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, and a private terrace overlooking the peaceful countryside — a tranquil escape for families, couples, or anyone seeking to recharge.

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.

Essentials for Your Stay

Enjoy all the comforts you need—we have everything on-site for a relaxing stay.

At our Open-Air Hotel and Nature Camping, every facility is thoughtfully designed to blend with the natural environment, balancing comfort, convenience, and a deep connection to nature.

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

Solar-heated infinity pool​

Dive into the heart of nature in our solar-heated infinity pool — the perfect place to relax, recharge, and soak up the sunshine.

Open daily from June to September.

Bar and pool

Bar, Food & Beverages

Start your day with a buffet breakfast in our cozy bar, where you can also enjoy fresh coffee, refreshing drinks, and tasty snacks throughout the day.
Open daily from June to September. 

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Our small farm

Our goats and chickens love to be fed! Get a chance to connect with these adorable animals, bringing a little piece of farm life into your stay.

Outdoor kitchen

Outdoor kitchen

The shared outdoor kitchen has been thoughtfully designed for guests to cook and share meals while fully embracing the outdoors. 

Bathroom facilities

Bathroom facilities

Enjoy a shower with hot water powered by the sun in our bathroom facilities designed with your comfort in mind. 

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 our Charming Region

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.

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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 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

Get in touch & Find us

Our 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°02'36.8"N 8°24'46.1"W), then from there, simply follow the signs or type "Uxa Paraíso" as your destination and follow the route indicated by Google Maps.

Access is provided by a well-maintained two-kilometre dirt road.

Contact

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