Catarina was incredibly helpful when our taxi driver couldn't find her address, and very welcoming when we arrived. The self-contained apartment is a beautifully converted stone building set in a large and very well maintained private garden next to her family's house. There is a lovely porch area and outdoor seating, and the apartment itself spotlessly clean and well-maintained. The whole place has been very thoughtfully and tastefully decorated. It is plain and simple yet has an extremely welcoming atmosphere. At the same time, the apartment itself has a feel of privacy. Cats roam the garden and chickens peck amongst the flowers and lawns.

The efficient Porto metro (with lines direct to the airport, Matosinhos and the historic centre) is just a few minutes walk away. The neighbourhood, with public housing, nearby shops and a local sports stadium, is not somewhere tourists usually venture, and initially might seem a bit daunting, but we loved it all the more for its everyday qualities.
The real surprise, once one passes through the electronic gates (the place is extremely secure), is what an oasis this is, with its mature trees, floral borders (there's even a herb garden behind the apartment), its large lawn and hedges. We really didn't want to leave, and were sad only to stay a single night.

Catarina provided her own excellent local info map and directions, and was extremely personable. The apartment has everything one might need for a quiet stay. Just being here is a pleasure. It would be a great base either for a holiday trip or a working visit to Porto. We would definitely stay here again.