Finding Peace in Alentejo: A Visit to A Quinta Da Lage, Portugal
In the serene and vast landscapes of Alentejo, Portugal, lies a special place that will capture your heart: A Quinta Da Lage. Here, on the edge of a picturesque forest, the Dutch owner, Ferry, has been living completely off-grid for ten years. His mission? To transform dry, harsh land into fertile landscapes and promote a sustainable lifestyle.
With innovative techniques like holistic grazing, a vibrant community, and unique accommodation options, A Quinta Da Lage is a place where nature, peace, and adventure come together.
A Green Mission: What is Holistic Grazing?
Ferry has focused on holistic grazing, a regenerative farming method that restores both the soil and vegetation. With a flock of sheep as his natural allies, they graze intensely on a small piece of land for one day.
The result?
- Grazed vegetation: The sheep graze the land completely.
- Natural fertilization: While grazing, they naturally fertilize the soil.
- Rest and growth: The sheep move to a new area the next day, giving the old plot time to recover and allow new life to grow.
This approach promotes healthier soil, improves water retention, and transforms a dry landscape into a fertile oasis. Ferry’s work is clearly visible in the land: areas that were once dry and barren are now full of lush greenery. Ferry explains this process in detail in the documentary.
Staying at A Quinta Da Lage
A Quinta Da Lage is not just a place to see sustainability in action—it’s also a retreat where you can truly relax in the heart of nature. With several accommodation options, there’s something for everyone:
- Shared house: Perfect for those who want to meet others and experience the community vibe.
- Private cottage: Enjoy your own private space, surrounded by peace and nature.
- Treehouse: A favorite! This unique treehouse, built by volunteers, lets you experience nature in a magical way. For many, it’s a childhood dream come true.
- Caravan, bell tent, van, or yurt: Traveling with your own camper or van? You can easily park your vehicle on-site. Or opt for a comfortable yurt for a glamping experience.
More Than Just a Stay: Volunteering and Workshops
A Quinta Da Lage runs on the energy of volunteers who help in the garden, kitchen, or with technical and construction projects. Support with social media is also welcome. In exchange for your help, you’ll get a place to stay and enjoy delicious vegetarian meals prepared with love by the community.
In addition to volunteering, there are regular workshops and activities such as:
- Woodcarving: Unleash your creativity through woodworking.
- Sharing circles: Connect with others through open-hearted conversations in a safe space.
- Building with clay: Learn how to work with natural materials and create unique structures.
Even as a guest, you can participate in these workshops or join the community for a meal. The food is local, delicious, and always prepared with care.
The Location: Easy to Reach and Full of Adventure
A Quinta Da Lage is not only nestled in the heart of nature, but it’s also conveniently located to explore everything the region has to offer. It’s the perfect base to explore both the city and the coast.
Lisbon is just a few hours’ drive away, making it easy to take a day trip for culture, history, and gastronomy.
The west coast of Portugal is also within reach. Beautiful beaches and charming villages provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation or adventure. Vila Nova de Milfontes, for example, is a must-visit for those who want to enjoy a picturesque coastal town with lovely beaches and local markets.
Additionally, there are regular local markets in the area where you can buy organic and natural products—perfect for those interested in sustainable shopping.
