About us

Welcome at Casas da Helena! Let me introduce myself and more important get to know my Casas da Helena.

Who is Helena?

Ola, bom dia! My name is Ellen, a Belgian woman in her fifties, married to Krist, mother of 3 and passionate about food, travelling, walks in nature and all other good things of life.

After my studies of Public Relations & Hospitality in Brussels, I started working in a 5-star luxurious business hotel at the famous Avenue Louise in Brussels. After some years, I had the opportunity to become responsible at marketing departments of several American IT Companies. During those years I organised seminars, both Benelux and EMEA conferences. When my second child was born, I decided to become a full-time mama and dedicate all of my time to my kids. When they had a good age and some maturity and independence, I decided to start my own business as an independent. I opened a Frituur, where you can eat fresh ‘frietjes’ the gold potatoes, a national pride of Belgium, homemade stew (stoofvlees and vol-au-vent), burgers and snacks.

I always loved the combination of travelling and working very much. During my years at the hotel, contacts between customers of all nationalities taught me to respect all kind of people, their religion, and their culture. Customer care & satisfaction were always my ultimate goal throughout all my jobs and career.

All these previous work experiences and life lessons led me to the decision to open my own Portuguese houses to the public. Casas da Helena (Ellen in Portuguese!) became my newest project! In addition, I have hired a local management in the person of Helena, living in Foz do Arelho, who knows very well the region and who will help me in everyday things. She is a great asset to the Casas da Helena. We hope to meet you very soon to make your stay unforgettable!

About Casas da Helena

Back in 2017, my husband and I decided to buy a property in Portugal. We scouted the Silver Coast and fell in love with 3 very old authentic houses around a lovely patio.

The long renovation started and came to an end in the 4th quarter of 2022. All paperwork has been made to finally start our guesthouse project Casas da Helena!

The houses are situated right in the middle of the little sea town of Foz do Arelho. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the sea and the Obidos Lagoon. The area has a broad range of activities to offer.

Currently 2 houses are available for accommodation.

We offer 3 rooms and 2 apartments. Each room and apartment have their own name and are modern designed with high quality finishing. Inside each accommodation there is a double bed with quality mattresses and blankets. The use of towels and sheets are included in the price. There is a standard kitchenette (sink, double cooking plate, coffee machine and microwave), a bathroom with toilet and shower, a smart TV, a desk, and a closet. All rooms have internet with high speed wi-fi.

A shared big kitchen is available and open for all guests. The kitchen overlooks the terrace with its BBQ area and is therefore the perfect place to destress and get a taste of the Portuguese lifestyle.

What’s more, Foz do Arelho is the perfect starting point to discover the beauty of the Portuguese Silvercoast. Caldas da Rainha, Obidos, Sao Martinho do Porto, Peniche, Nazaré, Alcobaca and the Berlenga Islands are all in the neighbourhood and worth to discover!