Rebecca Illing, the owner of the historic Paço da Glória estate in Portugal, is transforming her family’s property into a unique guesthouse experience focused on grief support and end-of-life conversations. The gothic mansion turned guesthouse, surrounded by lush cork oak woodland, has been in Illing’s family for 21 years and recently underwent renovations to cater to a new kind of guest.
Illing, who is an end-of-life doula, is using her expertise to create a space where people can come together to discuss grief, loss, and the mysteries of life. The property now features nine guest rooms, a yoga deck, and an indoor pool, all designed to provide a peaceful and reflective environment for guests.
To kick off this new chapter for Paço da Glória, Illing hosted a nostalgic-themed dinner for friends and locals, including artists, winemakers, and mental health practitioners. The evening was filled with heartfelt conversations, shared memories, and delicious food sourced from the property’s garden.
As the estate continues to evolve into a hub for grief literacy and support, Illing plans to host more events, including a bereavement retreat for young families named Camp Alex, in honor of her late brother. Through these gatherings, Illing hopes to create a space where people can connect, learn, and find solace in each other’s company.
Paço da Glória is not just a guesthouse; it’s a place where conversations about life and death can flourish, where memories are shared, and where healing can begin. Illing’s vision for the estate is a testament to the power of community and connection in times of grief.
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