Profile information
Host rating
85 %
Last replied
13 May 2023
Feedback
-
Email verified
Details
Description
Kristin and Richard moved here from Dartmoor in the south west of England in 2010 and have been blessed with the opportunity to restore the farm and create a magical life here. We have loved every minute of it.
We have created a paradise, planted hundreds of trees, an extensive organic garden and recently a greenhouse bursting with vegetation. We have water from our own spring and both solar and hydro electricity. Our chickens supply us with a constant source of protein and we have fruit in abundance for olives to peaches and apples, lemons, apricots, quince, kiwi and many more. All our produce is for our own consumption. We are not a business.
We are both artists and musicians and like to combine work on the farm with our art and music and share our passions with others We have art studios and an off grid recording studio.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Farmstay help
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We offer the opportunity to learn about organic growing, self sustainability and all the many aspects off living an off grid life in the mountains of Portugal. The local community is thriving with people from many different nations all striving to live an alternative lifestyle and there are usually plenty of events, markets, concerts, parties etc where volunteers can meet up with the larger community.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
Our beautiful farmhouse is set in 3 hectares of woodland, olive groves, vineyards and fruit orchards with magical gardens, waterfalls and streams. We are in the process of restoring this beautiful place (the farm having been abandoned for fifty years) to be as self sufficient as possible by growing as much as we can using organic methods and permaculture. We need help with a variety of tasks, from maintaining the extensive vegetable garden, weeding, mulching, pruning trees, clearing, cutting and burning to more experienced projects, carpentry, building skills making a new barn and creating paths and steps. We have been blessed to have the fortune to be able to restore this stunning farm and our aim is to bring back this magical place to its original state. Its a lot of projects so we really appreciate people here who want also to enjoy, and take part in this vision and be willing and prepared to help. We ask our volunteers to do tasks for 5 hours a day. We do projects on five days with two days off at the weekends. The times of the tasks will vary depending on the weather. For instance, in the summer when it can be very hot we like to start early and avoid the middle of the day.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Portuguese: Intermediate
Swedish: Intermediate
Accommodation
A beautiful, two bedroom cottage was finished last year for the use of our guests and volunteers. It has breathtaking views of the mountains and is fully equipped with kitchen, bathroom, lounge and dining area. There is also a washing machine. The cottage runs on solar power. Bedding and towels are provided, but bring your own towel for swimming.
There are eggs from our chickens and veggies and fruits from the garden. We like to provide a meal on your first night and provide all the provisions you need for your stay although we sometimes have shared meals in the main house all together. We do projects five hours a day for five days a week and weekends free.
What else ...
There is a great pool and river beach only a short walk through the woods where you can chill out after helping on the farm! In the village of Benfeita there is also bar and cafe, a tennis court, shop and a post office. Just a short walk away are the stunning waterfalls of Fraga da Pena as well as lots of beautiful walks up in the mountains and river valleys. You may also choose to relax in one of our hammocks and take in the breath taking views. Our three very friendly cats will be available to provide lessons in relaxation. We are both, artists and musicians so we welcome anyone to bring along their guitars or other instruments .
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
