Varzea Viva - Permaculture

Varzea da Gonçala consists of 8 hectares of hill and meadow land, nestling amongst the hills of the western Algarve, bordered by the Cerca river, 12km from the Atlantic Coast and 6km from Aljezur.

Our home is an evolving permaculture project, inspired by Bill Mollison's ethics and principles.


We host a variety of courses, workshops and events, covering such topics as - permaculture, growing organic food and related subjects, ethnic music, natural-material building and self-sufficiency in its many aspects.

We offer Permaculture Holidays for those who wish to come here and learn something of what is invoved in sustainable living, while enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the West Coast of the Algarve.

We also especially cater for families, and offer Eco-Family Retreats - details of which are posted on the page on this site.

Whilst staying here we have available Portuguese farmhouse cottages available to rent, built from traditional rammed-earth walls, as well as offering camping facilities.

Our vision is of a 'happening' educational and cultural centre, increasingly self-sufficient in food and energy, in a productive native ecosystem.

And our ethos? .... harmony with nature based on practical action. Like nature, the Varzea is constantly changing and developing.

Individuals, groups and families arriving by arrangement, can always expect a friendly welcoming atmosphere and a relaxing space.

Please browse our site for details of forthcoming events, and join our mailing list to receive updated information.