A Terra

Secluded Portuguese eco-glamping, set beside a sparkling lake in the refreshing ‘slow lane' of life.

Found amongst invigorating woodland on the south-western coast of Alentejo, Portugal, A Terra (meaning "the Earth") invites you to return to nature in the relaxing comfort of a family-friendly, wildlife steeped eco-glamping site surrounded by lush, fruit tree-lined grassland.

Part working farm, part picturesque gardens, the site represents the very best of natural living, with its clear invitation to put down that laptop and turn off the phone for a while. All you need to do now is make your accommodation selection from three Rajasthani tents, two tips and two yurts.  

All accommodation is slightly elevated on wood or slate platforms to ensure maximum comfort, and each individually styled option comes complete with electric lighting and sockets, a large bedroom and living area featuring plenty of storage space, and a private furnished terrace that's perfect for catching that early morning sunrise!  

Inside, you'll find colourfully patterned, individually tailored tent linings, along with handmade furnishings crafted from natural wood - and of course, a cosy double bed dressed in fresh linen, downy duvets and soft pillows (the tipis come complete with additional single beds). Three tents house a private bathroom, while the remaining five boast shared access to the wood-and-bamboo toilets and shower area, where you can shower under the stars with solar-heated water!

Hungry? You'll soon find you're spoilt for choice with dining options, with an on-site chef creating mouthwatering evening meals from homegrown and organic produce.  Otherwise, how about a sizzling barbecue or wood-fired pizza freshly prepared in the communal kitchen area? There's plenty of room to enjoy your feasting in the adjoining reception and lounge area if you're feeling sociable - and on sunny days why not take your seats on the lawn instead, and enjoy the refreshing country views?  

You'll also find a bar and shop onsite, from which you can purchase essentials alongside lovingly crafted handmade products.  While you browse, why not let the kids loose in the play area, complete with swings and slides? For an extra treat, the site's ‘Open Farm' allows children to learn about, and come into friendly contact with, the local farm animals - not to mention helping to pick all those delicious fruits and vegetables.

Once you've explored the site, claim your place at the nearby freshwater lake, complete with its own private beach furnished with sun loungers! The perfect spot for swimming, you'll also find water floats, games and a kayak for the adventurous amongst your group.  

With the site just 6km away from wild and glorious coastline, complete with renowned surfing beaches, you can learn to kayak or surf in comfort, with all equipment available to hire.

Meanwhile, for those who prefer relaxing, yoga lessons are held regularly on site, along with horse riding lessons (featuring trails that lead you through the breathtaking landscape). For the slightly more energetic - and competitive - the volleyball pitch is a great way to make new friends!

Visit the local towns to soak up plenty of culture and enjoy sumptuous Portuguese cuisine, before returning to A Terra and regaling your new-found friends with tales of your day. With so much to do, see and feel all around you, there will be plenty to say!

Things to note

Prices are inclusive of breakfast, smoking should be outside of all accommodation only, fires are strictly forbidden, no vehicles on site, parking is in an allocated area only, minimum booking 2 nights April-June and October, 5 nights July-September.