Ethical Accommodation Lisbon, Portugal - Responsible tourism, ecoaccomodation, sustainable holidays/places to stay

ecofriendly yurt holidays

description: Come and stay in our romantic Mongolian yurt, nestled in the mountains of central Portugal, about one hour inland from the ancient university town of Coimbra. Its self-contained and fully furnished, set in our smallholding of terraced land, which we manage organically. Olives, vines and fruit trees surround the yurt; our own spring provides the water; and energy is solar powered. Whether you’re looking for a lazy rural retreat, or an active holiday in the hills, there’s no better way to get back to nature without foregoing any creature comforts.

Staying in the yurt

The yurt sleeps two – there’s a double bed – although children’s beds can also be arranged.
There’s plenty of space to hang your clothes, rugs on the floor and a chaise longue for relaxing.
A welcoming bottle of wine is on chill for you on your arrival and a selection of cooled drinks are always available in the yurt. Derek mixes a fantastic Caiparinha (a delicious Brazilian rum cocktail).
Outside the yurt is your own private bathroom, with hot shower, sink, and ecological loo.
The yurt has reading lights and a power point sufficient for a laptop.
The yurt stands on a wooden platform beside a chestnut tree, providing all-day shade (hammocks and loungers provided).
We live just a few minutes walk away if you need us for anything. We have lived in Portugal since 2001 and enjoy our hectare of terraced land with our two children, Theo 6 and Ella 3, the chickens, the dog and the cat.
A substantial continental breakfast is included, using local produce wherever possible. It’s served next to your yurt under a chestnut tree. Packed lunches and home-cooked evening meals are also available, with advance notice.

frequently asked questions:

Q. What is a yurt?

A. It’s a large circular tent on a wooden frame, originally used by Mongolian nomads. Ours is a spacious 5metres in diameter.

Q. It’s camping then?

A. In a way, though ours is more like a hotel room in style and comfort. Think of it as glamorous camping – or “glamping”!

Q. Will I get cold and wet?

A. No, it gets pretty hot in central Portugal in summer. In any case there is a cosy bed and warm bedding if required, and the yurt is fully waterproof.

Q. What if I need any help or information?

A. We live within walking distance – just come and find us. We know the surroundings well, and can recommend trips and activities. Also information on local attractions is left in the yurt for you.

Q. Will I need a car?

A. Yes, sorry public transport is very limited in these parts, and you’ll need a car to see any of the surroundings. However we welcome cyclists and motorcyclists.

local attractions: The nearest village is ten minutes walk away, and has a café and a very small shop. The two closest towns, Arganil and Gois, are a twenty-minute drive away, and each has a supermarket, a weekly market and several cafés and restaurants. The closest airport is Porto, two and a half hours’ drive from here.

There are several natural river beaches close by, perfect for swimming and relaxing. You can walk off the property and into the hills, or drive a short way to access fine mountain walks, abandoned hill villages, country restaurants, lakes and reservoirs.

We can put you in touch with local operators offering horse-riding, mountain-biking, water sports and other activities. Or there are many cultural and historic destinations within an hours drive, from Roman ruins to medieval castles.

prices and bookings:

€65 per night for two people, including breakfast. Individuals call for availability.

Children under 3, free

Children between 3 and 12 an extra €10 each.

We are open from April to September.

contact details: please do not hesitate to contact us if you want any more information.

Call Derek or Hannah on 00-35-1-235208562

website: www.yurtholidayportugal.com

email : info@yurtholidayportugal.com

if you are traveling somewhere remote, or to a country with an unstable political climate, please check the travel advice section first