Help in our small homestead and vineyard in Seia, central Portugal

Portugal

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Host rating
Feedback
183
Last activity
20/06/2021
Reply rate
100.0 %
Average reply time:
within 2 days
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Availability

2021

Min stay requested: at least 2 weeks

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Description
** Hi Guys - We will be busy in the vineyard during the months of June & July. We would like to take in a couple of volunteers to help out on the homestead during this time. The work would be helping out in the vineyard, mostly weeding, shepherding, cleaning stalls, helping with horses that sort of stuff. A reasonable level of physical fitness is needed. Accomodation in one of our two caravans. Check out our feedback for more details. We are pretty remote here on the farm so no real pandemic worries on this side. **

We are a couple - Alan (Irish) & Lara (South African) who moved to Portugal in 2011 to enjoy the "good life". On our smallholding we keep dogs, a cat, chickens, geese, sheep and two horses. Our smallholding (Quinta) has a small (non-commercial) vineyard, olive trees and rocky hillside. We have a beautiful view of the Serra d'Estrela national park where it is possible to ski when snow permits. We are currently planting trees and a vegetable garden in order to enjoy our own organic vegetables.

Our mare has a two year old foal so experience training horses would be a big plus.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
General Maintenance
UN sustainablity goals this host is trying to achieve
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What's this?
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We live on a small farm about 2 kms from the nearest village. Our three dogs are very friendly and we have a very aristocratic Siamese cat. The main town in the area - Seia - is 14 kms away. Our immediate neighbours are Portuguese speaking but there are some English speaking ex-pats in the area. We have two mountain bikes available for workawayers. There are nice walks and views in the area.
Occasionally we do archery practice and a little bit of horse riding for beginners when Sally the mare is fit.
Help
The help will be varied, mainly repairing fencing, helping with animals, weeding and planting in the garden etc. so physical fitness is needed. No shortage of things to do but also plenty of relaxation and some good Portuguese wine to drink.
Languages spoken
Afrikaans: Fluent
English: Fluent
Dutch: Fluent
Portuguese: Intermediate
Accommodation
The sleeping accomodation provided will be in one of our two caravans or in our three bedroom guest bungalow. The bungalow is very comfortable with all mod-cons including a dish-washer. Workawayers will often share a bedroom with one other person (twin beds - same sex). For caravan dwellers meals, shower and bathroom facilities will be in the bungalow. There will be a rota for cooking and cleaning the bungalow.
Our Internet connection works fine for email, skype (voice) and browsing but we have limited bandwidth so we can't allow downloading movies or watching YouTube.
What else ...
We are non-smokers but we do not object to smoking out-of-doors during the winter months. However bush fires are a serious risk here so we cannot accept smokers during the months of May to October.

Lara has a serious sea-food allergy so we do not serve fish, apart from this we cannot cater for special diets (vegan, vegetarian, glucose intolerant, lactose intolerant, Kosher, Halal, allergies etc.) as we frequently have multiple volunteers and it can get very complicated.

We do require volunteers to have health or travel insurance and we have a minimum stay of two weeks.
A little more information
- Internet access
- Limited internet access
- We have pets
- We are smokers
- Can host families
Can host digital nomads
4G connection in main house
Space for parking camper vans
Campervans welcome. Plenty of space for parking. Electricity and water supplied.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
25 hours, 5 days per week

Photos

Alan working on the Kubota digger.

Trimming the grass and wildflowers between the vines.

The new guest bungalow

Come and stay for a while in the caravan under the rainbow

The small kitchen area in the caravan.

Show all photos

The "ladies" check out their new coop.

Leading in the geese for the night

The local shepherd takes his sheep to pasture

Bluegrass evening

An evening jam session

Our first Workawayer

Feedback left by and about host (183)

These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.

Accuracy of profile:
(4.9)

Cultural exchange:
(4.8)

Communication:
(4.9)

10/05/2021

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host

I stayed with Alan and Lara for around two months I think, time flies over there. It was a great time even if lockdown started when we were there, we didn't really notice anyways. I learned a lot about vineyards and working with animals. I laughed a lot and enjoyed the games we played and activities we made, going down to the river on weekend or… read more

(Excellent )

04/04/2021

Left by host for Workawayer (Csongor)

Csongor stayed with us for about five weeks during January February 2021. He is great company, easy to get along with and pleasant to talk to. He has a good sense of humour and put up with a good deal of teasing when he was here.
He tackled every job we gave him with a smile and he and we really enjoyed the time he spent here. He got on really… read more

(Excellent )

26/02/2021

Left by Workawayer (Csongor) for host

I stayed with Alan and Lara for 5 weeks during the winter months 2021. I had an amazing time, I enjoyed every moment there! The profile is perfect, if you read it carefully you will have no surprises! I slept in the smaller caravan where I had just enough space and privacy for myself and I could use the bathroom, kitchen and living room in the… read more

(Excellent )

13/02/2021

Left by host for Workawayer (Judith & Andreas)

Andreas & Judith stayed with us for a few weeks during Jan/Feb 2020. They are a lovely couple, hardworking and easy to get along with. Andreas has useful skills and Judith worked hard at every task assigned to her.

(Excellent )

11/02/2021

Left by Workawayer (Judith & Andreas) for host

Alan and Lara gave us a very warm welcome. We slept in our own car because the guest bungalow was occupied but we could use the bathroom and living room in the main house.
We really enjoyed our time and Lara cooked for us every evening.
The jobs are assigned according to skills, but many of them are physically demanding.
The evenings together… read more

(Very good )

13/02/2021

Left by host for Workawayer (Nele)

Nele stayed with us for three weeks during January 2020. She is an intelligent and friendly young lady. She showed good commitment to the tasks assigned to her and she worked hard in the vineyard. Good mealtime conversation as well.

(Excellent )

04/02/2021

Left by Workawayer (Nele) for host

I stayed with Alan and Lara about 2 and a half weeks, in the end with also 3 other workawayers. I had a very good time at their farm, which has a beautiful view and its a nice place to enjoy portugese nature in the mean time. I have never worked on a farm before, so my first experience was very good and interesting. I learned a lot about the… read more

(Excellent )

14/11/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Neil)

Neil stayed with us for five weeks during October/November 2020. He is a very keen and skilled worker. He worked at many various jobs, but especially welding and metal working. He also built a nice new kennel for one of our dogs. He's a great character at meals, always chatty, with a passionate interest in minature railways. He likes to be kept… read more

(Excellent )

11/11/2020

Left by Workawayer (Neil) for host

Im now back home after being accepted by the hosts ive had a fantastic time there over the last five weeks doing all manor of things from Weeding the veg plot .Cutting back brambles .Mucking out the horses .Cutting vines back Welding . Making a dog house . Unblocking drains . Sharpening the chainsaw .if you want variety this is the place to learn

(Excellent )

16/08/2020

Left by Workawayer (Pablo) for host

Thank you very much for hosting me for almost three weeks!! During this time I have been able to learn many things, the work was sometimes a bit hard but it always ended with a good conversation and an incredible meal. Alan and Lara have always been very kind and generous, with a lot of stories and knowledge to share. The place is amazing, the… read more

(Excellent )

06/08/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Adolpho & Karina)

Adolpho & Karina stayed with us for about four weeks during July/August 2020. They are a very well-mannered and cheerful couple. They worked well in the vineyard and they constructed a fire prevention system around our main house using piping and sprinklers. This will prove extremely useful in the event of a future bushfire.
We got on well with… read more

(Excellent )

04/08/2020

Left by Workawayer (Adolpho & Karina) for host

We stayed in the project for two weeks helping with the vineyards and setting up a Fire Irrigation System. We learned how the vineyards business works. Also Alan and Lara were the best hosts! We had good chats in each meal sharing experiences and meaningful toughts about life.The view from that place at the sunset is amazing!

(Excellent )

15/07/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Caitriona)

Caitriona stayed a short two weeks with us in June 2020 but she made a big impact during that time. She is a bright cheerful and positive person who worked well in our vineyard and who enlivened the after-dinner conversation. She has considerable life-skills which she is happy to pass-on if requested.
It would be great to see her back here some… read more

(Excellent )

07/07/2020

Left by Workawayer (Caitriona) for host

I had the most fantastic experience with Alan and Lara at their place in June 2019.

I was welcomed so warmly to this truly amazing place. The highlights of my time there extend far beyond this list, but here are a few…

– The hosts are God's gift to WorkAway and should be used an example of how to provide the most amazing and welcoming… read more

(Excellent )

30/06/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Jeppe)

Jeppe stayed with us for about three months during Spring 2020. He's a good worker, worked hard in the vineyard. He's careful and conciencious. He got on well with the rest of the four man team we had here at the time.

(Excellent )

16/05/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Sierra)

Sierra stayed with us during March and April 2020. She is a cheerful and helpful person, very easy to get along with. She was a willing worker, she cooked, cleaned, baked delicious sourdough bread and worked hard in our vineyard and helped with the animals, horses, sheep and goats. She was well liked by the other members of the team as well, a… read more

(Very good )

06/05/2020

Left by Workawayer (Sierra) for host

I spent a little over two months at Alan and Lara’s place and had an amazing time! They are gracious hosts who welcomed me last minute onto their farm and let me stay longer than planned due to the Corona outbreak. Alan is funny, an intellect, and a great and fair boss. Lara is caring, kind, a peacemaker, and in general an amazing woman! They both… read more

(Excellent )

27/02/2020

Left by Workawayer (Riccardo) for host

Wow, it has been an amazing workaway experience, I don't know where to begin.
I spent one month and half in the farm of Alan and Lara, they are some of the most interesting people i've ever met, they are lovely.
I had different kind of works, from pruning to digging holes for the vines. I've planted some vines too and Alan gives me samurai lessons… read more

(Excellent )

08/02/2020

Left by Workawayer (hannah & Amelia) for host

Alan and Lara were an awesome first workaway experience for Amelia and I!! They were such considerate hosts and we felt welcome in their home right away. They were very accepting when I couldn't work the first two days because of an illness and helped their best to make sure I felt better right away. Lara is very sweet and her food was delicious.… read more

(Excellent )

14/01/2020

Left by Workawayer (John) for host

I don't think a workaway could have been any better. Alan and Laura were excellent hosts. The accommodation was great, the cooking was delicious, and the free wine and beer was a great touch. I also made some friends that I won't ever forget. The work was tough but Alan provides the worksite with fun energy and it gets you in great shape. Going to… read more

(Excellent )

08/12/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Lola)

Lola stayed with us for 4 weeks during October 2019. She is a lovely calm person to work with. A good worker, she tackled everything we threw at her with determination. She drove tractors, mixed concrete, exercised our horses and worked in the vineyard. Equally important for us she enured that the guest bungalow was kept clean & tidy. A great… read more

(Excellent )

06/11/2019

Left by Workawayer (Lola) for host

I spent a nice month at Alan and Lara's farm, they both are very friendly and I learned a lot about Vinyard, farm life and animals. I had the opportunity to ride their lovely horse, Sally, across a wonderful landscape.
I also met some amazing people there, the other workawayers with whom I spent so many good moments.
Thank you Alan & Lara !

(Very good )

19/07/2019

Left by Workawayer (Andre & Karla) for host

We stayed in Lara’s and Alan’s beautiful home for 2 weeks. They were very friendly. We stayed in the bungalow, which was big and comfortable with everything (and more) we needed for the day. A lots of food with a kitchen well equipped for cooking. Every morning, after breakfast, Alan would tell you the plan of the day, what to do and explain… read more

(Excellent )

04/07/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Ellen & Dustin)

Ellen & Dustin stayed with us for four weeks in Aoril/May 2019. Dustin works hard, give hin a shovel or a hoe and some clear instructions and supervision and he'll get the job done. He does have a short fuse so diplomacy is required. Ellen is a charming and intelligent girl who worked well in the vineyard. Ellen also helped around the house,… read more

(Good )

26/05/2019

Left by Workawayer (Ellen & Dustin) for host

We had an awesome stay at Alan & Lara's vineyard! The guest bungalow was great, and had everything we needed, and the cooking and recipes was very well organized. The work varies greatly day to day (weeding, bushwacking, gardening, tending to the animals, working in the vineyard), which kept every day new and interesting- as did all Alan's… read more

(Excellent )

29/05/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Mounir & Maximiliane)

Mounir & Maxi stayed with us during March 2019. They are a very nice couple, easy to get along with and very good Workawayers. Maxi helped in the vineyard and with the horses, Mounir did all sorts of work for us, bushcutting ,weeding and working in the vineyard. We were very happy with their input and the work they did.

(Excellent )

14/04/2019

Left by Workawayer (Mounir & Maximiliane) for host

We spent 4 weeks at Alan’s and Lara’s vineyard. It was our first workaway experience and couldn’t have been better! Most of the time we worked in the vineyard but we were also doing some fencing, planting and weeding in the vegetable garden and in the end we even got to do some sheparding. We really enjoyed being around all their animals,… read more

(Excellent )

31/03/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Catherine)

Camille and Catherine stayed with us for three weeks in January 2019. Camille is a charming easygoing lady with a great smile. She worked in the vineyard planting vines before she discovered her true vocation and talent as a shepherdess to our small flock of sheep. In no time she had them eating out of her hand. Cathering worked in the vineyard… read more

(Very good )

11/02/2019

Left by Workawayer (Catherine) for host

We really enjoyed our stay at Alan and Lara's vineyard. If you are searching for a place where you can meet great people, with a good structure and where you can find the best sunset in Portugal, it's the place to be ! Alan and Lara received us in their really nice guest bungalow with 4 other workawayers. Everything was nicely organized and we… read more

(Excellent )

31/03/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Frederico)

Frederico stayed with us for six weeks during Feb/March 2019. He is a quiet, thoughtful and intelligent guy. He is a very good worker, planning carefully and executing the work efficiently. He is also knowledgeable on many matters, including farming and permaculture. We'd be happy to see him back some day.

(Excellent )

20/03/2019

Left by Workawayer (Frederico) for host

Staying at Alan and Lara's farm was a great experience.
Workwise I had a very needed hands on approach to problems that are likely to come up in any farm in Portugal and Alan was happy to explain to me how he deals with them.
The work is usually interesting and never excessive.
Outside of working hours I enjoyed exploring the countriside, playing… read more

(Excellent )

27/03/2019

Left by Workawayer (David & Leanna) for host

We had the pleasure of staying with Lovely Lara and Mr Alan for 6 weeks, our time was spent doing a variety of different tasks On the vineyard and around the beautiful Quinta. You will never feel bored here between the surrounding villages, the Serra da Estela and Alan as an entertainer there is always something to keep you busy. With Alan’s wit… read more

(Excellent )

30/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (CAROLINE)

Caroline spent three weeks with us in November 2018. She's friendly and easy to get on with. She works well and is not afraid to get her hands dirty. She proved to be a great help with our horses and she drives a tractor like an expert !! What more could you want !
We were sorry to see her go and we wish her the best of luck in her new Workaway… read more

(Excellent )

27/12/2018

Left by Workawayer (CAROLINE) for host

I spent 3 weeks with Lara and Alan, a real pleasure to stay and to work with them !
They're very friendly and you feel like a family member, sharing nice evenings.

(Excellent )

07/12/2018

Left by Workawayer (Derek & Ondine) for host

My girlfriend Ondine and myself spent two weeks with Alan and Lara in November 2018. Man, did we have a great time! We have not laughed as hard as we did listening to Alans stories and re-enactments of his life's shenanigans. He certainly lived up to the Irish sense of humour. We really appreciated the structure that was given to us workawayers.… read more

(Excellent )

05/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Derek & Ondine)

It was so much fun having Derek and Ondine here for a very short couple of weeks in Novemeber 2018. Ondine is the life and soul of every party. Bright and bubbly she pepped up the team and kept us all entertained during the mealtimes. Derek is just as sociable but in addition he has some serious construction skills. He did some very useful… read more

(Excellent )

05/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Nike)

Having Nike here for three weeks in November was a blessing. She's great with horses, especially our foal Misty, patient and persistent. Misty learned a lot while she was here. She's a quiet but confident girl easy to get on and she was a popular member of our team. She worked hard at every task she was given, even shovelling wet concrete for a… read more

(Excellent )

02/12/2018

Left by Workawayer (Nike) for host

I had three really nice weeks with Alan and Lara. It was definitely the best decision to get my first workaway experience! Alan and Lara are very nice and you feel right at home.
During my stay I got the opportunity to work a lot with the horses, especially with the cheeky but friendly Misty, helping in the garden, sowing fields, helping in the… read more

(Excellent )

05/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Hugo)

Hugo stayed with us for three weeks in Oct/Nov 2018. He worked mostly at fencing and bushcutting. He's a good worker, easy to get on with and well able to tackle anything you throw at him. Also, important for us, he kept the guest bungalow clean and tidy durig his stay.
We're happy to recommend him to other hosts and he's welcome to return here.

(Excellent )

17/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Hugo) for host

Alan & Lara have a beautiful farm in a rural area. A perfect place to work & enjoy the views, the animals and the quietness. They are very willing to bring you away for a weekend trip. Had a great stay here!

(Excellent )

17/11/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Janis & Edgar)

These are two good lads. They worked hard during their time with us. Together they cleared bush, cut weeds and they cut enough firewood to last for a year or more.
They were easy to get on with and careful with the tools we gave them to use - very important for us.
No problems at all, we are happy to recommend them to other hosts.

(Excellent )

03/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Janis & Edgar) for host

We stayed for 4 weeks by Lara and Alan. It was our first host-experience on Workaway and we spent a wonderful time here! There are no doubts, it was the best host we could find for our "start" on Workaway. Lara and Alan are really nice people. The work - weeding, wine harvest, bushcutting, chain sawing, tractor driving, ... - was very interesting… read more

(Excellent )

10/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Shane) for host

This was my first workaway experience and I'm glad it was with Alan and Lara. They are very welcoming hosts and there was no issues at all with being collected or left back at the train station. I stayed at the Quinta for a total of three weeks and loved the experience. The food was gorgeous and of course the wine. The work was very varied and… read more

(Excellent )

30/10/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Tünde)

Tünde was an excellent Workawayer. She stayed a short three weeks but made a big impression. She was cheerful and positive and tackled everything we threw at her with zest. She shepherded sheep & horses, drove the small tractor, weeded, seeded etc. etc. with great gusto.
She chatted easily during mealtimes and she has a good sense of… read more

(Excellent )

28/10/2018

Left by Workawayer (Tünde) for host

Alan and Lara were the most welcoming hosts I could have wished for my first workaway experience! They are treating all of their workers so well, happy to share with us the beauty of the Portuguese rural life and let us experience the local people's cheerfulness.
The chores were well-organised and I could try myself out in a wide variety of tasks… read more

(Excellent )

13/09/2018

Left by Workawayer (Dylan) for host

I was here for 3 weeks this July and it was a wonderful first workaway experience. The view from where you stay and work is amazing and it feels like a real privilege to work in such an amazing setting in Portugal. Alan and Lara are great hosts and its clear they've done this for a very long time so know how to make you feel welcomed. The… read more

(Excellent )

20/06/2018

Left by Workawayer (Dan) for host

Alan and Lara are a wonderul couple.
Alan is a charismatic man, or else teaching you, or teasing you! Lara is so beautiful, full of empathy, she will teach you the language of the animals if you love theim. Both are brilliant and fun, i've learned and laughed a lot.
Be carefull, you'll might focus on theim and splend more time there than you've… read more

(Excellent )

20/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Frederico) for host

I spend 2 weeks with Alan and Lara and was a great experience. Alan is very wise and patient to explain what need to be done, Lara is very attentions and sweet and organize everything very well. The place is amazing, with wonderful view. I've learned a lot about the vineyard's and how the things work in a farm. The work was hard some days, but… read more

(Excellent )

15/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Peter) for host

Anastasia and I visited for over 2 weeks in March, what a fantastic experience and so many great memories!! Alan and Lara have created such a special community on their Quinta. The daily schedule and work tasks were very well organised. We were working in the vineyard, setting up sheep fencing, clearing vegetation, herding animals, treating… read more

(Excellent )

07/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Laura) for host

I spent just under a month on Alan and Lara's quinta and I couldn't recommend it highly enough. Alan and Lara are absolutely the best hosts I could have asked for - this was my first workaway experience and I loved every minute of it. I mainly worked in the vineyard, with a little bit of veggie-planting (potatoes), cooking (bread and burnt… read more

(Excellent )

30/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (YESENIA) for host

I helped at the farm for 5 weeks and it was a great experience and an adventure in my life, also learned about myself.

The tasks and jobs are various depending on the weather and what is needed, so you never get bored. I enjoyed tying the vines with other workawayers and helping with the animals, cooking together and planting vegetables.

Only… read more

(Very good )

28/03/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Natalie)

Natalie stayed for three weeks during Jan/Feb 2018. She's bright and cheerful and got on well with the other workawayers. She worked well in the vineyard while she was here.

(Excellent )

20/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Natalie) for host

I stayed with Lara and Alan for three weeks, we were a big group of eight and we all felt useful and taken care of. The work was not terribly straining but I felt like I was really helping and making a difference on their property.
Meals always entailed good conversation and wine. Alan and Lara definitely have a great set-up going for… read more

(Excellent )

28/03/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Elizabeth & Catherine)

Elizabeth and Catherine stayed with us during January & February 2018. They are both friendly, intelligent and well-educated girls. We enjoyed their company a lot. Elizabeth is quiet and focussed, a goos worker. She helped to service the tractor, repaired some broken electrical cables, drove the tractor and helped in the vineyard. Catherine helped… read more

(Excellent )

27/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Elizabeth & Catherine) for host

My sister and I had such a fabulous time staying with Alan and Lara! We spent time cutting vines, learning to ride a tractor and helped clean up the land. Some of the best moments of our stay were around the table talking, eating and drinking delicious local wine. In the evenings we would sometimes play board games or have a music night, which… read more

(Excellent )

01/03/2018

Left by Workawayer (Leonie) for host

I stayed 4 weeks at Alan and Laras' farm and I really enjoyed it! Alan explained every task he gave me very well, I got to use tools that I had never used before and all in all got a pretty good insight into life on a fatrm in Portugal. I stayed in a really nice guest bungalow with other workawayers. The view from up there was absolutely… read more

(Excellent )

12/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (David & Ruby) for host

We stayed with Alan and Lara for 2 weeks and it was awesome! They both have great stories and are really interesting people. The lifestyle is great; relaxed environment, fun work and delicious food. This was our first workaway experience and we got really lucky with Alan and Lara, for us they were perfect hosts and it felt really well organised.… read more

(Excellent )

12/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Shyloe) for host

It was an absolute pleasure staying with Alan and Lara. They are welcoming and generous. The accommodation is a lovely bungalow in thier vineyard. The work is varied and interesting. The conversation always lively and full of laughs. I would recommend them to any one. Great hosts.

Thanks for the stay guys!

(Excellent )

09/02/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Erick)

Erick & Julia make a great team. Super workawayers! They stayed with us for two short weeks during Jan/Feb 2018. During that time they helped with pruning in the vineyard, fencing and repaired a damaged wooden sheep hut and built a new one. Together they made a great carpentry team.
Also both of them play a pretty mean guitar and Julia repaired… read more

(Excellent )

07/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Erick) for host

If I could put another star to the rating of my stay and Alan and Lara, I would add two more! They are a fantastic couple, fun, interesting, happy and with amazing energy.
The place is fabulous, there is peace in the atmosphere, I felt relaxed and my partner also. We felt very much involved in Alan and Lara's life by telling us stories, jokes,… read more

(Excellent )

09/02/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Julia)

Julia & Erick make a great team. Super workawayers! They stayed with us for two short weeks during Jan/Feb 2018. During that time they helped with pruning in the vineyard, fencing and repaired a damaged wooden sheep hut and built a new one.
Also both of them play a pretty mean guitar and Julia repaired one of mine that was broken. Their humour and… read more

(Excellent )

08/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Julia) for host

Alan and Lara should be named ambassadors of the workaway scheme. It was a delight to work and live in such a well-organised, positive, peaceful and entertaining surrounding, where the balance between work and relaxation is kept so well. I very much enjoyed the meditative pruning, the fencing and carpentry work, and really appreciate the effort… read more

(Excellent )

30/12/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Michael)

Michael stayed with us for four weeks in Aug/Sep 2017. He's a great raconteur with many stories of his ship-board experiences. He worked i the vineyard and helped out with fencing and other work. He got on very well with the other workawayers and we very much enjoyed his stay.

(Excellent )

10/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host

28 days with Alan and Lara was a fantastic introduction to Workaway. Friendly, thoughtful, generous, and fun. And that wasn't just out hosts, but my fellow Workawayers too. Alan and Lara helped create an atmosphere that made us feel more of a (temporary) family than just a wonderful team. Our ages ranged from a 20ish Yorkshire lass (you know who… read more

(Excellent )

30/12/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Samuel)

Sam stayed with us for three weeks in October 2017. He's a good volunteer and a very skilled gardener. Sociable and easy to get along with. During his stay he laid a rock garden and he helped out with many other things, includig a clean-up after we were hit by a bush fire. We'd be happy to see him back someday.

(Excellent )

04/11/2017

Left by Workawayer (Samuel) for host

Alan and Lara were helpful and welcoming from the start. The accommodation is excellent with many home comforts. The work is varied and interesting . As with all farm work it can be physical but they tend to allocate work according to ability. Food is provided and Lara's cooking is excellent. It was an ideal first workaway for me. Special mention… read more

(Excellent )

17/11/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Kyla)

Kyla! O Lost One! Mother of Dragons! Mover of the Rock! Dancer Divine!

Now that you have gone our Quinta is black and desolate but the new grass grows greener where your feet have trodden. May your party spirit inspire every host you visit and create a little glow in remote Portugal.

Debate with passion, crusade with caution and keep in touch… read more

(Excellent )

02/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Kyla) for host

It has taken me some time to write this, because there is so much to say "thank you" for! Alan and Lara saved me when a mix up with different hosts left me stranded at the station where they were collecting another Workawayer. They put me up for a night, offering me a safe place to sleep, delicious meal, and help contacting my original hosts.… read more

(Excellent )

29/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Hannah) for host

This post is long overdue as I stayed at the Quinta for three weeks in August. It was one of the best experiences I have had. It is among the best decisions I have made as I not only learnt about farming and vineyards (which I had no experience with prior) I learnt a great deal about myself. The layout is great, 5 hours a day working various jobs… read more

(Very good )

08/10/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Sharren & John)

Not enough stars in the system for these guys. They were the hardest working couple we've had here I'd say. Put up lot's of fencing, laid pipelines, John poured concrete and drove our digger. We got a LOT of work done while they were here. Also they are very sociable and John is a real party and dance person. We had a lot of fun and we wish them… read more

(Excellent )

22/09/2017

Left by Workawayer (Sharren & John) for host

What can I say? We rocked up saying we'd stay as long as Alan and Lara Could use us whilst we looked for our own bit of paradise. Two and a half months later we're having a well earned break before embarking on the next phase.

Very varied work on this vinyard and farm. Great sense of achievement, they say you get out what you put in and we got a… read more

(Excellent )

08/10/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Guilherme)

Gui joined us for three weeks during August and September 2017. He's a great guy, very cheerful and positive. He got on very well with the other workawayers whole he was here. He speaks English fluently and is very knowledgeable. He worked hard while he was here, clearing bush and filling trenches. He's very welcome to come back anytime.

(Excellent )

21/09/2017

Left by Workawayer (Guilherme) for host

Alan and Lara are both very intelligent and big hearted. The routine in the farm is very organized. Some tasks may be hard, but what you get in return is worth it. I was in the farm for three weeks, and during this time I had the opportunity to learn a lot not only about farming but also about life, since the work experience, the local community… read more

(Excellent )

29/09/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Rachel )

Late cancellation. It was arranged in July that this couple would arrive on Oct 1st. Three days before their arrival date I contacted them to check on the arrival time.

Only then did they decide to inform us that they would not be coming.

(No show)

19/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Søren)

Wise beyond his years and knowledgeable beyond my expectations Søren was a fine asset to the quinta while he was here. He is also a great credit to the Danish system of education. He trashed the opposition (me!) at Trivial Pursuit and managed to remain - reasonably - modest about it. Great guy. He would have stayed longer but military duty in… read more

(Excellent )

25/07/2017

Left by Workawayer (Søren) for host

I stayed Lara and Alan for two weeks and I must give the hosts 5 stars. They were so welcoming and helpful that left nothing more to be wished for. The accommodations were top class, the food was tasty and the happy moments many. Lara is a caring woman who acts as the glue that keeps the quinta together and Alan is a wise man who shares good… read more

(Excellent )

19/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Isobel)

Isobel, 10 days was too short! Come back.
Isobel worked hard during her stay here. SHe is very pleasant and polite (as are all Kiwis) and first to jump in and lend a hand. She even contributed a little to my defeat at Trivial Pursuit during a games evening (mostly moral support). She's a lovely person and welcome back anytime.

(Excellent )

24/07/2017

Left by Workawayer (Isobel) for host

I stayed with Alan and Lara for 10 days and I had such a brilliant time! They are very welcoming and make you feel right at home on their lovely farm. I really wish I was able to stay for a longer period of time because it went by so quickly! By working only in the mornings and not on the weekends there was plenty of time to relax and explore the… read more

(Excellent )

19/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Kasia & Katarzyna)

Kassia & Katarzyna stayed with us for four weeks during April 2017. They were a great asset to the farm. Intelligent, knowledgeable, friendly and hard working. Good fun during the games evenings and always helpful around the house.
Very welcome to come back.

(Excellent )

09/06/2017

Left by Workawayer (Kasia & Katarzyna) for host

It was our first experience with workaway and we are very glad taht we started with Alan and Lara. Everything was well organized and They are both welcoming and helpful. The work was a real fun, we learned a lot! Food excellent and general atmosphere very friendly. Dinners and game nights were fun and entertaining and a great idea to bring people… read more

(Excellent )

02/05/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Dominique)

Nicky stayed with us during April 2016 together with her partner Dominic who is a pretty nifty carpenter (and my favourite workawayer ) . Nicky helped with planting olive trees and potatoes and constructing a pergola. She also cooked and helped around the house. She has a good sense of humour and is easy to get along with. We'd love to see her… read more

(Very good )

25/04/2017

Left by Workawayer (Dominique) for host

i was sure i left a feedback but as i see now, i forgot!!
so here it is :

Alan and Laras Place is absolutely stunning! for me, it was one of the best workaway experience ever. i really enjoyed the work, because no workaway place where I've been has so many different kind of jobs to do. I was cooking vegetarian meals for all of us in the first… read more

(Excellent )

19/04/2017

Left by Workawayer (Toby) for host

Alan and Lara were as generous a host as one could imagine, and I enjoyed a fantastic three weeks working on the farm and exploring the local villages and countryside. Together we concentrated on the olive trees, permaculture orchard, and grape vines; in the sunshine, with panoramic views of the Serra da Estrela, the work was a privilege. Games… read more

(Excellent )

22/03/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Kristin)

Kristin stayed with us fir three weeks in March 2017. SHe worked hard, planting vines and digging holes for olive tree using the backhoe on our small tractor. She's thoughtful and easy to get along with. Good sense of humour.
We'd like to see her again someday.

(Very good )

19/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Kristin) for host

What an awesome experience I had thanks to Alan and Lara. I had a great time and learnt so much. You will love Lara's cooking skills and Alan's crazy stories. They are both very welcoming and caring and have lots of experience with workawayers, so everything is well organized.
It is a very beautiful place, I was sad to leave.
Thanks for… read more

(Excellent )

22/03/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Max)

Four big stars for this couple. Max and Lucy are hardworking, smart, motivated and have lots of initiative. In addition they are easy to get along with and have a good sense of humour. They were only here for two weeks but they acheived a lot in that time. Planted 600 vines and helped to line a large water tank that we were constructing.
We'd… read more

(Excellent )

20/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Max) for host

Lara and Alan are great hosts, Lucy and I had a really good couple of weeks here with lots of laughs, learning, sweating, progress, good food and wine, and even a day of skiing.

Lots to do on the farm, and the work was varied: vineyard and gardening and tractors and seeds and water tanks and honking, hissing geese. It was great to mix it up to… read more

(Excellent )

03/03/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Michaël)

Michael stayed with us during January 2017. He's a great cook! He made some very tasty dishes while he was here. Also he is very helpful around the house, he keeps everything neat and tidy and is quick to help out after meals. He worked well on the farm and was a good friend to our pet sheep.
Good luck in your projects Michael.
Alan

(Very good )

05/02/2017

Left by Workawayer (Michaël) for host

I had the chance to get my first workaway experience at Alan and Lara's wonderful place in January 2017. Everything was great about it, I got to learn a lot from Alan from Pruning the vines to axe cutting and bushcutting. The farm, located on the foothills of the Sera da Estrela offers wonderful sunsets/sunrises as well as beautiful sceneries. I… read more

(Excellent )

03/03/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (FRANCISCO JORGAN)

Francisco stayed wit us for two weeks in January 2017. He's a good guy, quiet, easygoing, generally happy. He worked well with the bushcutter, doing a very neat job, and he was careful with the machine. We wish him well on his further travels.

(Very good )

29/01/2017

Left by Workawayer (FRANCISCO JORGAN) for host

Thanks to the couple Alan & Lara for the invitation, I spent two weeks at their farm, they provided me good food, space to sleep in an excellent house with a spectacular fireplace. They are very friendly and happy, I had the freedom to cook, to ride a bike and to know wonderful places in Serra da Estrela. Alan is very flexible with the job and I… read more

(Excellent )

03/03/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Verner & Juho)

Juho stayed with during January 2017. He's a big strong guy, worked hard at putting up fencing, tractor driving and other jobs on the farm. He's good company and got on well with the other Workawayers. We'd like to see him back here any time.

(Excellent )

13/02/2017

Left by Workawayer (Verner & Juho) for host

Stayed 3 weeks on their vinyard in January 2017. It is a pretty damn good place to stay! Lara and Alan are really nice hosts, bungalow was super nice. Had good food and vine with good company, throughout my stay. Thank you and see you next time!

Juho

(Very good )

02/01/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Michael)

Mike came for a month and stayed for three. This makes him one of our longest staying workawayers. He fitted right in. He did more bushcutting in three months than I've done in five years. Also drove the tractor, chainsaw, that kind of thing.
Always the first to jump up and start work after tea break, always the first to tidy up after meals. He… read more

(Excellent )

23/12/2016

Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host

It was my first Workaway experience, which was joy to Alan's ears.
All I could think while I was there was surely not all Workaway's are as amazing as this. I planned to be there for a month, ended up staying 3 months.

Alan and Lara are great hosts, Lara's obviously better ;)
Lots of different jobs to do, loved bushcutting and got to do that… read more

(Excellent )

23/12/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Vadim)

Vadim stayed with us for a month in November 2016. During that time worked hard at various jobs. He cut enough forewood to keep us warm for at least two winters, he helped with building fences and tree planting and work in the vineyard. He is a very good worker, strong, steady, conciencious and reliable. Also he was good company at mealtimes and… read more

(Excellent )

19/12/2016

Left by Workawayer (Vadim) for host

It is my strong conviction that a workawayer must visit this wonderful place and here is a whole host of reasons:
- location (the place is very beautiful: you can see mountain, valleys and, of course, a lot of trees. It also offers great opportunities for hiking.);
- communication, cultural exchange (you meet there other workawayers from… read more

(Excellent )

14/10/2016

Left by Workawayer (Samuel) for host

I had the privilege of staying with Alan and Lara for the 3 weeks in October, and my experience there was nothing short of fantastic. :)

The food was plenty, the accommodation extremely comfortable, and work challenging, but fun.

Heaps of entertaining stories and moments will be had if you get the chance of staying by these folks.

I hope… read more

(Excellent )

24/09/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Samuel)

Samuel stayed wih us for about three weeks in September 2016. He worked well fixing wire in the vineyard and sanding and varnishing a pergola on our patio. He's easy to get along with and an interesting conversationalist - also important for us. Overall he maintained the high standards set by the many Canadian workawayers who preceded him. We'd… read more

(Excellent )

24/09/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Hanni)

Hanni stayed a short week with us during August 2016. This was a hot period on the farm but, despite the heat, she worked well in the vineyard tying up vines. She was also very helpful around the house and voluntarily put in extra hours in the afternoon. She is a pleasant and friendly person who has had some interesting experiences on her… read more

(Very good )

12/09/2016

Left by Workawayer (Hanni) for host

Alan & Lara are simply amazing, warm and very welcoming. I was the only workaway during my short one week stay. despite my very lacking (or must I say none-existing) "kitchen-skill" , they made my stay very special and I left with very fond memories of the farm life and their four legged furry friends...funny enough i kind of miss the 2 grumpy… read more

(Excellent )

07/08/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Federica Maria)

Federica stayed with us for five weeks in July. She is a cheerful happy person who is prepared to work hard. It's been a while but I seem to remember that she could cook very well as well. mmm Italian spaghetti carbonara. She tackled every job wih enthusiasm and vigour. A good asset to the quinta. It's time for you to come back Federica!!

(Excellent )

24/12/2015

Left by Workawayer (Federica Maria) for host

I've spent one month here and it was my first workaway experience; It has been one of the most beautiful time I've ever had!
Alan and Lara are very polite people, he is VERY full of humour, while Lara is the angel of the house.
Thumbs up they provide workawayers with everything they can.
The accomodation is very confortable and the food is… read more

(Very good )

07/08/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Hugo)

Hugo and Laurianne stayed with us for three weeks during November & December 2015. They are a lovely couple, easy to get on with, good conversation and good workers. They have a nice positive attitude to life. They tackled every job with enthusiasm and a smile. We'd love to see them back some day.

(Excellent )

26/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Hugo) for host

Hi Alan and Lara,

We wanted to say thank you again for the amazing experience we had at your farm. We have been back from our European trip for a couple of months already but we still think and talk about our time with you all the time. We miss the peaceful atmosphere, the dogs, the great meals, the mind opening conversations and the movie… read more

(Excellent )

05/08/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Chris & Pauline)

Chris & Pauline are a first class team. They are very hardworking and their considerable experience with farmimg and homesteading was of great benefit to us novices. They are quiet, polite and very easy to get on with. We are very much looking forward to future return visits.

(Excellent )

08/07/2016

Left by Workawayer (Chris & Pauline) for host

Alan and Lara are the perfect hosts.You will be well fed, entertained and generally well looked after, in exchange you get to participate in varied and interesting tasks (while still being entertained by Alan)
Would thoroughly reccomend Horte de Rija to anyone not afraid of a bit of hard work :-)

(Excellent )

05/08/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Emma & Austin)

Emma stayed with us during April 2016 and she was one of our best Workawayers. She tackled every job cheerfully from fighting roosters while feeding the chickens to driving a tractor. Keen and positive she was a great asset while she was here. She is welcome back anytime.

(Excellent )

04/07/2016

Left by Workawayer (Emma & Austin) for host

Very late feedback, but these two deserve the highest of praise so here it is: I had among the best months of my life at this quinta and I owe it all to the hospitality, patience, and cheerful camaraderie of Alan & Lara. I will never be able to express my gratitude, but I hope these words encourage other Workawayers to help with this fulfilling… read more

(Excellent )

25/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Darren) for host

Where do I begin. What an amazing workaway experience. Alan and Lara are amazing hosts. Alan has plenty of dinnertime conversation and knowledge to say the least. Lara is a very warm person and a mean cook in the kitchen! The work was fun and well worth the early start! I'd highly recommend this to other workawayers and I hope to revisit again… read more

(Excellent )

06/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Marlie & Haley) for host

Alan and Lara are the epitome of the word host! I feel truly lucky to have chosen their farm as my first Workaway experience. They are hardworking, kind, fair, generous, and a pleasure to work for. The labour is fair, structured and wide ranging. The local scenery and the farm is beautiful. I learned something new everyday, whether it was… read more

(Excellent )

22/03/2016

Left by Workawayer (alex) for host

I helped Alan and Lara for a week and it was great fun... the help was just as they stated and after the days tasks we had plenty off time to go for walks around the place(views were amazing) and it was always fun after dinner playing games with them. I would of loved to stay longer but i couldn't... anyone thinking of going here should plan on… read more

(Excellent )

17/02/2016

Left by Workawayer (Dominic) for host

Thank you so much to the fantastic Alan and Lara for my wonderful time at there quinta. I'm sorry it has taken such along time for my feedback!
There project and hospitality is second to none. A 5 star workaway project i would recommend to everyone. A place full of interesting work and fabulous dinner time conversation.
I miss you guys so… read more

(Excellent )

26/04/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Dominic)

Actually Dominic needs some extra stars here. He stayed about three months with us and he was the workawayer who made the biggest impact on the vineyard. He built a pergola to give some shade to the house - ably assisted by another star Dave. He built blockwork cold frames for the vegetable garden. He built a drystone wall around the guest… read more

(Excellent )

10/12/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Isaak)

Isaak stayed with us for two weeks during Nov/Dec 2015. He is a friendly, intelligent young man who enjoys the social side of the workaway experience. He brightened up our mealtimes with his cheerful humour. He worked in the vineyard tying up the vines and he designed and built a small herb garden behind our guest bungalow. He loves gardening and… read more

(Very good )

06/12/2015

Left by Workawayer (Isaak) for host

This was my first experience as a workawayer, and everything was better than I'd expected. The food aas simply amazing (and there is always plenty), the work is easy, and Alan put me in charge of making a herb garden, which is my passion, and I am really greatful for that! Also, everything was well organised and clear. We were a group of… read more

(Excellent )

19/10/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Nic)

Nic spent three weeks with us in September 2015. He is a big strong guy, perfect for some of the work we were engaged in at the time (clearing large rocks from the vineyard). He worked hard and was an intelligent and incisive contributor to the dinner conversations. He got on well with us and the other members of the team. We'd like to see him… read more

(Excellent )

07/10/2015

Left by Workawayer (Nic) for host

For a first time workaway user I couldn't have chosen a better place to stay. Alan and Lara were both very welcoming, the accommodation excellent and the cooking amazing. The work was interesting and varied and with the Serra de Estrela national park nearby, 3 lovely dogs, interesting conversation and a wide range of books, DVDs and bikes… read more

(Excellent )

19/10/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Sergej)

Sergej stayed with us for three weeks in August and we were very happy with him. He is a very good worker and quiet and easy to get along with. He did a lot of hard physical labour while he was here, digging trenches and laying irrigation pipe. Also working in the vineyard. He is polite and easygoing with some interesting stories of life in… read more

(Excellent )

30/08/2015

Left by Workawayer (Sergej) for host

Do your know, how it difficult being volunteer for first time ? I suppose you don't, ofcourse if you had not this experience.And now i pretty shure-better place you won`t find. This couple are extremely kind ,generous and fair in all senses. You can meet a lot of interesting people there, you will fall in love in each animal at farm,you`ll used to… read more

(Excellent )

07/07/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (william)

William stayed with us for three weeks in June 2015. He is a good steady worker and is very helpful around the house. He helped with weeding, setting up an irrigation system for our vineyard and worked well with a bush cutter. He is thoughtful and quiet but very easy to get along with. We would be happy to see him back here in the future.

(Very good )

03/07/2015

Left by Workawayer (william) for host

My first time using workaway couldn't have been any better, Alan and Lara are some of the nicest, most genuine people I've met and they were very welcoming. The work can be extremely rewarding and I found myself wanting to help more and more. The accommodation was wonderful, and Lara is a great cook. Mealtimes were something to look forward to and… read more

(Excellent )

31/05/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Jenna & David )

David and Jenna stayed with us for four days, they would have been very welcome to stay longer but they had other commitments. During their stay they laid piping for irrigation, worked in the vegetabke garden and helped around the house. They are a pleasant and easygoing couple, interesting to talk to and hardworking. They are welcome to come back… read more

(Excellent )

24/05/2015

Left by Workawayer (Jenna & David ) for host

Alan and Laura were far better hosts then we could have imagined even after reading the heaps of "excellents" left for them by recent workawayers. Work was fun and challenging, food was delicious and plentiful, but the company of the farm was by far our favorite part. Our humble host's pat inviting dogs and curious cats made the environment… read more

(Excellent )

26/04/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Helen & Altaf)

Helen and Altaf stayed with us in March 2105. They are a great couple. Helen is organized and efficient, always the first to help in the kitchen. She worked mostly in the vegetable garden during her stay. Altaf is a good all-round handyman. He made a number of useful things during his stay. He is always willing to contribute ideas and suggestions… read more

(Excellent )

08/04/2015

Left by Workawayer (Helen & Altaf) for host

We stayed with Alan and Lara for two and a half weeks. It was a wonderful stay learning lots about the vineyard , planting and seeding and hearing all about Alan's plans for the farm. Lara is a wonderful cook and we learned some super cool new receipes which we will defo cook again! The work awayers stay in their own wee comfortable bungalow,which… read more

(Excellent )

21/03/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (David & Jane)

Dave & Jane stayed with us for six weeks during one of our busiest periods in the vineyard. They worked extremely hard on the rock picking which took up much of the time - now finished thank goodness. Also Dave drove the tractor and serviced both of our tractors. He can use all types of power tools and he helped to put up our first pergola. Jane… read more

(Excellent )

17/03/2015

Left by Workawayer (David & Jane) for host

Well..... that's our 6 weeks at Alan & Lara's finished and....... WOW what a great experience it was. Alan & Lara are great people, Tommy, Nina and the sheeps were fab too. Each day when we walked to the main house for breakfast, the stunning surroundings took our breath away. We learnt lots, hopefully gave back a few tips too. We worked and made… read more

(Excellent )

08/03/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Katie)

Katie stayed at our Quinta for three weeks in February 2015. She helped with clearing rocks from the vineyard, mucking out the barn after the geese and sheep, planting vegetables and driving our small tractor. She is a pleasant person, concerned, caring and easy to talk to. She is conciencious in her approach to work. We wish her well in her… read more

(Very good )

28/02/2015

Left by Workawayer (Katie) for host

This was my first Workaway experience and I had an incredible 3 weeks here. Alan and Lara adopt you into their fun family of sheep, geese, vines (or rocks), cats and dogs and it instantly feels like home. The work was difficult yet very rewarding and I picked up so many new skills from tractor driving, brush cutting, sheep and geese herding,… read more

(Excellent )

08/02/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Sean & Louise)

Sean and his brother Euan joined us for six weeks in Nov/Dec 2014. They are top-notch workawayers, enthusiastic, hard-working, positive and always cheerful. They did Trojan work in the vineyard pulling posts and rolling wire. Sean loves to cook and his soups especially were delicious. It was great fun working with these guys and we hope that they… read more

(Excellent )

05/01/2015

Left by Workawayer (Sean & Louise) for host

Scottish Sean here . I spent 6 weeks with Alan and Lara on my first work away. All expectations were blown out of the water . Every second was enjoyable and educational. They have an amazing piece of land that after a short period of time felt like home. The food was great and was never in short supplie .If you enjoy animals there are plenty in… read more

(Excellent )

13/12/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Sean )

Sean stayed with us for four weeks in November 2014. He proved to be a great worker always first to get stuck in to any job. He helped with the renovation of the vineyard, digging out posts & anchors and pulling vines. He was also very helpful around the house, tidying up after meals etc. He is a very easygoing guy, easy to chat to with a very… read more

(Excellent )

08/12/2014

Left by Workawayer (Sean ) for host

This was my first time workaway for 4 weeks with Alan and Lara and I never wanted it too end. Alan and Lara are two of the most interesting and nicest people I had the pleasure of meeting and spending time with. They were so welcoming into there home and farm it felt like we were one big family. The work was very rewarding, the vineyard looks… read more

(Excellent )

06/12/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Guilherme)

Guilherme visited us for four weeks in November 2014. He's a great guy, always positive and willing to help, full of ideas and enthusiasm. He was part of a team helping to renew our vineyard and the work was fairly heavy and demanding. Gui and the others tackled these jobs full on and we finished well inside the schedule. Despite the heavy work… read more

(Excellent )

05/12/2014

Left by Workawayer (Guilherme) for host

Alan and Lara have raised the bar ridiculously high for my next workaway experiences to come. The tasks and schedules were spot on. Me and the other workawayers worked not because we felt like we had to, but because we felt like we were all part of the farm a little now, and had projects of our own to complete.
Alan always has a great story to… read more

(Excellent )

26/11/2014

Left by Workawayer (Connor & Kyle ) for host

Alan and Lara were our first workaway hosts so we didn't quite know what to expect. When we got there we quickly realized that we'd have a hard time leaving. Alan and Lara's humour and generosity made them a phenomenal combination as hosts and, soon after meeting them, friends. The house situation is such that we got our own bungalow equipped with… read more

(Excellent )

04/11/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Connor & Kyle )

Connor & Kyle together with their friend Brett visited our Quinta in Portugal for three weeks in October 2014. These are positive, energetic guys who were a great asset on the farm. Together they formed the 'Trynamic Trio' who tore into the work on our vineyard. They pruned the vines, pulled posts and wires, built fencing and did some good… read more

(Excellent )

04/10/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Taya & Michael)

Info notice: Workawayer cancelled stay or there was a no show at the last minute

(No show)

24/07/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Marie Charlotte & Patrick)

Lotte and Patrick stayed a short three weeks in May 2014. They were hard workers and very helpful and knowledgeable. They are both excellent cooks and have lots of experience with vegetable gardens.
Good company and interesting conversation, we look forward to seeing them back in the winter.

(Excellent )

07/07/2014

Left by Workawayer (Marie Charlotte & Patrick) for host

Alan and Lara are such lovely and welcoming hosts. Alan has lots of interesting stories and he loves to laugh around, and Lara is perfect host and a great cook. The guestbungalow was 5 star accommodation, we have never workawayed with so much luxury. Work was always divers and interesting and Alan explained us lots of things about the terrain and… read more

(Excellent )

24/07/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Emma)

Emma stayed for a month during June 2014. She worked well with the animals and has a good sense of humour. She got on well with us and the other workawayers. Overall she was very helpful.

(Very good )

04/07/2014

Left by Workawayer (Emma) for host

I spent a month with Alan and Lara and had an excellent time. They made me feel a part of the mad house straight away! Mornings were spent gardening, looking after animals and driving the tractor around. I was able to spend my free afternoons and weekends laying in the sun and enjoying the incredible views. Lara's cooking was excellent and there… read more

(Excellent )

24/07/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Rachel & Domenico)

Rachel was very helpful while she was here. She was the first to help with the housework. She is a calm restful person not obtrusive and easy to get along with. She worked in our herb and vegetable gardens and did a good job.
She is a responsible and tidy person and welcome back here any time.

(Very good )

18/06/2014

Left by Workawayer (Rachel & Domenico) for host

This was my first Workaway experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I believe Alan and Lara receive a lot of newbies so it just shows how well recommended they are!

I stayed for three weeks in May and the time whizzed by. Alan and Lara were great hosts, from the moment they kindly picked me up at the train station until they dropped me off… read more

(Excellent )

08/06/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Katie )

Katie was a very welcome addition to our workaway team here in Horta Rija. She has a great affinity with animals and she tackled every job with enthusiasm. She is a cheerful and positive person who brightens up the day. Also she was very helpful around the house. We would be happy to have you back Katie.

(Excellent )

07/06/2014

Left by Workawayer (Katie ) for host

Firstly, I am so sorry for not leaving feedback sooner. I absolutely loved my 6 weeks with Alan and Lara! The work was always different and enjoyable, especially looking after the newborn lambs! Always plenty of time to relax! The hospitality from Alan and Lara was amazing, I felt like part of the family straight away! Lara's meals were delicious… read more

(Excellent )

21/04/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Ric)

Well Ric is from Vancouver - the rainiest city in Canada and he brought most of it with him when he came to visit. We had the wettest January for 25 years. Good job he's waterproof and likes to play in the mud!

Ric worked well at the various jobs assigned to him, clearing brush, herding sheep, assisting at carpentry and weeding in the vineyard.… read more

(Very good )

14/04/2014

Left by Workawayer (Ric) for host

I worked for 6 weeks on Alan & Lara’s vineyard farm. The first 3 weeks were cold, wet and windy but working in the vineyards, shepherding the sheep, diverting the large areas of ground water and other numerous tasks kept me warm. What really warmed me up however was Lara’s cooking – delicious meals, hot and hearty to fight against the foul weather… read more

(Excellent )

26/02/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Ellen Anita)

Well Ellen it's been kind of quiet since you left so you really should book your return trip soon before we fill up. Ellen had a short trip here but made a big impact. She is lively and entertaining and was happy to tackle the work we gave her. Mealtimes were always entertaining. She also worked hard in the vineyard pruning the grapes. She has… read more

(Very good )

19/02/2014

Left by Workawayer (Ellen Anita) for host

From the moment I arrived I felt at home. I stayed for 2 weeks but could've stayed forever! The area was beautiful and the work not too difficult so you had a chance to appreciate the views. Alan and Lara went out if their way to create a great experience and we had an Eggcellent pizza evening :) I made some wonderful friends and hopefully Alan… read more

(Excellent )

26/02/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Theresa)

Theresa stayed with us for five weeks in Nov/Dec 2013. She was a great workawayer, positive, hard working and very helpful around the house. She helped with the olive harvest and did a great job of pruning and clearing around our 100 olive trees. No small task. In addition she helped with the daily chores and general maintenance around the farm.… read more

(Excellent )

16/02/2014

Left by Workawayer (Theresa) for host

Wow, as a workaway newbie, I hit the jackpot with Lara and Alan. They are lovely, intelligent, well-read people who have led interesting lives. The food was great and the guest house was a welcome retreat from slumming in hostels as I had been doing. The work was great (exercise in the sun - though Portugal got reaaaallllly rainy soon after...)… read more

(Excellent )

20/02/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Rachael & William)

Rachael and William visited us for a short two weeks in February 2014. Great fun and an easygoing entertaining couple with a good sense of humour. They worked hard in the vineyard and tackled every job with enthusiasm. Rachael was a great asset in the kitchen, her banana/chocolate bread was a real treat and this more than compensated for her lack… read more

(Excellent )

17/02/2014

Left by Workawayer (Rachael & William) for host

You couldn't ask for better workaway hosts than Alan and Lara. Two weeks simply wasn't enough time to spend with them on their beautiful property, enjoying great food, stimulating conversation, and lots of laughter. We felt that we learned a lot about the winemaking process and vineyard work, and the work hours flew by. We were so comfortable in… read more

(Excellent )

20/02/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Matthew & Francesca)

Matt & Fran stayed with us for a little over two weeks in Jan/Feb 2014.
Mostly they helped with pruning the vines in the vineyard and other jobs around the farm. Cheerful and entertaining, they were always willing to help out around the house. Matt spent an afternoon cooking a wonderful meal for nine people (with a little help from Fran) and… read more

(Excellent )

11/02/2014

Left by Workawayer (Matthew & Francesca) for host

We were very lucky to have had the opportunity to workaway with such great hosts. The accommodation is great, with your own private bungalow with TV, kitchen and fire place. Alan and Lara are always making sure we have enough snacks and drinks stocked up as well as cooking delicious meals each night with a great variety. Very interesting… read more

(Excellent )

18/02/2014

Left by Workawayer (Robyn & Georgia) for host

Alan and Lara were our first Workaway and we could not have had a better one as they are both so friendly and welcoming of new people and ideas. We stayed with them for a month and our time there went fast, helping with the pruning in the vineyard was pleasant work, Laras food is something we will miss almost as much as Nina, Rascal, Buster, Tommy… read more

(Excellent )

03/02/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Alexandre & Isabel)

Alex and Isa have stayed with us for about four months in total now on four seperate visits. They are hard working, inventive, tidy and very pleasant to have around. Importantly for us they had previous experience working on other organic farms before joining us. Many of the ideas we are now implementing on our Quinta originated from suggestions… read more

(Excellent )

25/01/2014

Left by Workawayer (Alexandre & Isabel) for host

Early 2013, we received an invitation from Alan and Lara to go to their place for two weeks. We got along so well that we returned in June for another month... and in September for another month... and in November for another month! If that alone doesn't say it all, let us put it like this:
Excelent falls short to define our time with Alan and… read more

(Excellent )

03/02/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Sikstas)

Sikstas stayed with us for about four weeks in January 2014. He is a great worker very willing to tackle every job we gave him. He is also a very calm and easygoing character, pleasant to work with and to live with. We enjoyed his company and hearing of his experiences while travelling. He is very welcome to return here anytime. Thanks Sikstas

(Excellent )

29/01/2014

Left by Workawayer (Sikstas) for host

Alan and Lara are wonderful people, easy going and very friendly. work was interesting and diferent almost every day. We started with a hughe dog kennel where i assisted Alan who was the brains behind the operation :) Later Rob arrived and we had good fun of driving traktor while repairing the road diging holes with it for tree planting and… read more

(Excellent )

10/12/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Luis)

Luis stayed about 7 weeks at the quinta and has was a great asset. Flexible & hard-working, he was willing to tackle anything we threw at him from tractor maintenance to carpentry to harvesting the grapes. He was also great mealtime company with easy-going intelligent but inciscive conversation. He's welcome back here anytime.
Thanks Luis for… read more

(Excellent )

01/12/2013

Left by Workawayer (Luis) for host

Thanks Alan & Lara for a wonderful time. You were both great hosts. I don't know what I enjoyed more, working the harvest or sitting around the dinner table sipping wine and swapping stories. I hope all my future wine-related work is as enjoyable. Best of luck with the quinta and the many harvests to come. Cheers!

(Excellent )

10/12/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (David)

Dave paid us a short visit in November and stayed for about a week. He spent his time doing some light work mainly spraying our blackberry bushes to get them under control.
He was very pleasant and easy to get along with. We wish him success in his future Workaway adventures.

(Good )

21/11/2013

Left by Workawayer (David) for host

As a first time ‘workawayer’ and 57 to boot I can safely say that my week on Alan and Lara’s Quinta in central Portugal was a thoroughly enjoyable experience helped along by excellent food and accommodation.

Alan tailored my work to my limited experience and recently discovered ‘medical condition’.

I have to say that Alan and Louis… read more

(Excellent )

10/09/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Claudia)

Firstly: Thank you Claudia for all the help you gave us while you were here.

Claudia stayed with us in July/August 2013 and she was a big help while she was here. On arrival she was a little bit quiet and perhaps shy but she soon got into the spirit of the place. She has a good sense of humour and doesn't mind being teased a little. She is a… read more

(Excellent )

02/09/2013

Left by Workawayer (Claudia) for host

First of all: Thank you very much for 3 wonderful weeks!

It was my first time workawaying so I was a little bit nervous, but Alan and Lara made me feel welcome from the very first second on. Living and working with them was an amazing experience, made even better by the good company and good food. Lara prepared excellent meals! It's nice that… read more

(Excellent )

26/08/2013

Left by Workawayer (Jack) for host

I stayed with Alan and Lara for around three weeks in Portugal and had a wonderful time. Work on the Quinta was varied and enjoyable with a real sense of achievement when you finished a job.

Meals during my stay were absolutely brilliant and there couldn't be better people to spend a workaway experience with. I was made to feel welcome right… read more

(Excellent )

12/08/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (James)

After a few days here James already felt like one of the family. He's a great guy to have around, sociable, chatty and easy to get along with. He is also a good worker, organized, self starting and willing to tackle anything you throw at him.
We very much enjoyed our chats over the dinner table and he was a help in organizing and motivating the… read more

(Excellent )

11/08/2013

Left by Workawayer (James) for host

This was my first work away experience and to be honest I could not have asked for a better introduction. From the outset Alan & Lara make you feel very welcome.
I had the fortune of being the first person to stay in the new guest house. My stay lasted for 3 weeks.(Wish it could have been longer)
They have taken on a long term project which… read more

(Excellent )

10/08/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Barrie)

Barrie spent a very short two weeks with us, he would have been very welcome to stay longer.
He's easy to get along with and a skilled and hard worker. He fitted in very well to the small team we had going here when he arrived but I would guess that he works equally well solo. He's a self starter and doesn't require any supervision. His… read more

(Excellent )

08/08/2013

Left by Workawayer (Barrie) for host

I had a great time with Alan and Lara, Buster, Rascal, Nena and the rest of the workawayers.

Work on the quinta was varied enough that I never felt bored and the hours we worked were not too stressful. It was nice to wind down in the evenings with a beer or two and some informative chat. I know we workawayers are supposed to do it for love of… read more

(Excellent )

05/08/2013

Left by Workawayer (Dylan) for host

Oh Alan and Lara, how I wish I was back in your vineyards! I'm glad you could understand my unusual sense of self-loathing obnoxiousness, I know it's a difficult combination to handle. I enjoyed our conversations, your wonderful pets, the work, your guidance, the other workawayers, the weekend away at the Foz, the wine, the food, the bruises and… read more

(Excellent )

31/07/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Dylan)

Well, Dylan worked with us for a 2 week period in July 2013. We enjoyed his visit immensely !! He was fun from the moment his application arrived ("God's gift to Workaway Hosts") to the moment he jumped on the train to return to dreary Moscow.
He worked hard in the vineyard and other jobs and was pretty much a self-starter - no supervision… read more

(Excellent )

14/06/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Debra & Brittney)

Debra visited us for six weeks in April & May 2012. During that time we had many interesting discussions on the current state of the education system, world politics etc. Debra helped out in the vineyard pruning vines, planting trees and assisted in constructing a chicken coop and a pen for the dogs. She also likes to cook and can cook pretty good… read more

(Very good )

26/05/2013

Left by Workawayer (Debra & Brittney) for host

I stayed with Alan and Lara for just about 6 weeks and it was the perfect first Workaway experience. They immediately made me feel at home. The work was diverse and interesting; they've got so many projects and ideas there's always something new to dig into on their wonderful Quinta. Alan was very sociable and challenged me to think outside the… read more

(Excellent )

21/04/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Nick)

Nick & Isabel stayed with us for about five days on their way down to the Algarve. In that short space of time Nick built a complete set of sturdy shelving for one side of our barn. He is a dedicated and driven worker who likes to work independently and he delivers good quality work.
Isabel is a very sociable person who was willing to help out… read more

(Excellent )

16/04/2013

Left by Workawayer (Nick) for host

I spent a short time with Alan & Lara and could not have been made any more welcome. They are a very friendly and interesting couple who live in a beautiful part of Portugal. They strike the perfect balance between work and leisure and anyone choosing to spend some time here will be well looked after, they quickly make you feel at home and part of… read more

(Excellent )

08/04/2013

Left by Workawayer (Bue Christoffersen) for host

I really enjoyed staying at Alan and Lara’s lovely place. I had some great conversations with Alan and Lara and I immediately felt very welcome. The work in the vineyard was pleasant, especially because you are never working alone. My four weeks went fast and I’m already looking forward to going back someday!

(Excellent )

16/03/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Bue Christoffersen)

Bue stayed with us for 4 weeks in February/March 2013. He worked in the vineyard, pruning mainly, but also helped with a number of other jobs. He is a hard worker, sociable, easy to get along with and very reliable. He also likes to cook and bake bread and he does it very well!
We hope to see him again next year!

(Excellent )

12/03/2013

Left by Workawayer (Nina) for host

I stayed with Alan and Lara for a month and could not have been happier during my stay. They are an extremely welcoming couple and really go out of their way to make sure that their Workawayers are comfortable. They are great company to work with in the vineyard, and live in a beautiful and relaxing place. I only have positive things to say about… read more

(Excellent )

16/02/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Nina)

Pert, feisty, hard-working, cheerful and very intelligent Nina was the perfect introduction to the Workaway experience for us as new hosts. She was a real asset on our small farm and was very entertaining. She was a strict teacher during our Portuguese lessons and was a big help pruning in our unruly vineyard.
A little ray of sunshine, she… read more

(Excellent )

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