living with the land
Seasons
follow the rhythm
Spring arrives softly, with green hills, wildflowers, and mild days — perfect for walking and being outdoors.
Summers are (very) warm and dry, with long sunny days, and cool(er) evenings under a wide, star-filled sky.
Autumn brings golden light, olive harvests, and pleasant warmth, ideal for slow living and reflection.
Winter is calm and gentle; days are cooler, nights can be crisp, and rain returns to nourish the land.
Even then, there is often sunshine — and always a sense of space, quiet, and retreat.
rural life
peaceful, but not silent
The countryside is peaceful — but not silent.
You may hear birds at dawn, a tractor in the distance, or the local dogs greeting the moon. These are the sounds of life in a real Portuguese village.
There is hunting in the area, which is part of the local rural tradition in this area and takes place during specific seasons. It is a regulated practice, and one of the ways local communities have long lived in relationship with the land and its wildlife.
Nature Etiquette
doing what is right
- Dispose of rubbish responsibly — recycling and composting are greatly encouraged.
- Respect the wildlife; they were here before we were.
In return, you’ll experience the simple joy of coexisting with a living landscape.
Please ask away
Here are some answers to the most common questions about life at Chão da Mina — from the practical to the poetic. If you have other questions: please feel free to ask.
