Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
13 Jun 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 3 days
Feedback
4
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
This family project located in a 10 hectare forest where our aim is to establish an immersive hub that provides an opportunity to experience off-grid living. Our primary objective is to disseminate knowledge while fostering an environment conducive to the learning to create a space where we and our children can thrive in nature.
We dedicate ourselves to fostering a rewarding journey for ourselves and each other through active participation in the transition to off grid living. Our focus lies in implementing intelligent strategies that promote sustainable practices, aiming not only to benefit the present but also to leave a positive legacy for the next seven generations. As co-creators of landscapes and guardians of life, we actively contribute to the realization of these aspirations.
Nestled on one of our upper terraces is the Tartaruga dome, specially crafted for children aged 2 to 6 following the Montessori approach. This unique space strikes the perfect balance between indoor comfort and immersive access to nature.
For children aged 6 and above, our captivating summer activities come to life in the enchanting forest. Delight in a hands-on experience, immersing in the learning of traditional crafts and skills amidst the natural beauty of the forest and the flowing river.
We are looking forward to you joining us on this journey and helping us make this happen!
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Teaching
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Farmstay help
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We like to work with the philosophy of permaculture, so for those of you that want to get hands-on experience on a permaculture project then this is an ideal project for you to get involved with. We also have plenty of natural building projects, so if you want to gain experience in this field then we will be more than happy to share our knowledge.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
We are looking for Workawayers who bring good energy to the land and community, who take pleasure in giving and are willing to get involved in a wide range of projects to help create the vision.
The day to roles that we require help with:
The Forest Management: With over 10 hectares of land to manage there is always a lot to do. We need to keep the brush under the trees cleared, Prune branches that are unhealthy or create a potential fire risk. Keep the river cleared of debris making sure it is flowing.
Eco-Restoration: We have cleared a 4 hectare plot of eucalyptus plantation that got burnt out in the super fire of 2017. We have planted over 10 thousand trees on this area, which need to be watered and maintained.
The Natural building Projects: On the land, we always have a number of projects to achieve to move the project along to achieve our vision. These projects vary from rebuilding terrace stone walls, building structures that we need to improve the comfort of our living arrangements or are just simply for fun.
Montessori Forest Hub: We have created the Taratruga Dome for the children to be able to enjoy social interaction and learning while being in nature. We need to manage the garden for them to enjoy, monitor them to keep them safe while they are playing and enjoying the outdoor area.
The Garden: We have a no dig vegetable garden. We need to tend to the plants, water the vegetables, de-weeding and preparing the compost piles for next season's planting and finally harvesting any crops that are ready for the kitchen.
The House and Kids: With working full time at the Tartaruga Dome as well on the land both partner and I need assistance with the basic tasks around our house, which include general cleaning and tiding. Plus a few evenings during the week we would need a babysitter so we can have some children free time for ourselves.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
Portuguese: Beginner
Accommodation
We are living in a remote forest valley and as a result, we are only allowed to have temporary structures for accommodation.
We have two option for our volunteers the first option is a caravan and if this is not available, then we offer 3 meter bell tents which is great for both singles and couples.
For those of you who prefer to be more secluded and intimate with nature then you are welcome to bring your own tent and find the perfect spot in the forest.
We have hot water facilities to wash, do the dishes and shower.
Or alternatively, you can wash in the river and under a small waterfall, which is very beautiful if not a little bracing.
What else ...
The nearest village is Figueiró dos Vinhos. It is a twenty-minute cycle ride from the land (We have bikes available for use). Every Saturday there is a market and the village has banks, cafe's supermarkets, a library with free Wifi as well as great deal more.
If you like adventure activities in nature then there is a lot of forest roads that are beautiful to cycle as well as reservoirs for swimming and kayaking.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
If you are traveling in a camper or caravan then we have some really nice spots for you to park up, with great views over the valley We can cater for large vans and caravans, however as we are off grid we have no permanent plug in facilities.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Feedback (4)
Thank you… read more
Unfortunately, due to my early departure, I hadn't… read more
Photos
Feedback
Thank you… read more
Unfortunately, due to my early departure, I hadn't… read more
