Description

Learn to Live with the Land – Naturally & Sustainably

April 17-21, 2026

Are you curious about living more sustainably or going fully off-grid?

Thinking about buying some land or have bought some and dont know where to start, Start here.

join us for an immersive 4-day workshop dedicated to empowering you with the skills and knowledge to live in harmony with the land and thrive in an off-grid lifestyle. Set in a beautiful natural environment we’ll take care of all your needs as you enjoy a hands-on introduction to off-grid living – real, raw, and inspiring.

What You’ll Learn:

Gain practical skills and expert guidance on everything you need to know about off-grid living.

Solar Power:

  • Choosing the right solar setup for your needs
  • Where to purchase solar for the fraction of the costs
  • Understanding your power consumption
  • DIY installation basics

Water Storage & Use:

  • Borehole/water-mine/well/rainwater – discussing the best options
  • Filtering and storing water

Natural Building:

  • Building with what’s on the land
  • Mud building techniques
  • How to build a compost toilet

Starting your own vegetable garden:

  • Starting a basic yet productive garden
  • Companion planting and crop rotation for seasonal food production
  • Soil health, composting options, and watering systems
  • How to build a simple polytunnel

 

Food & Accommodation is  all included:

  • Meals: Delicious, nourishing vegetarian meals included
  • Accommodation: Rustic, shared rooms in cabins
  • Extras: Optional yoga and enjoy full access to the on-site pool

Who Is This Workshop For?

This retreat is ideal for anyone interested in:

  • Sustainable living
  • Homesteading or starting an off-grid property
  • Building with natural materials

  • Creating a deeper connection with the earth

  • Having a friend to call for help and advice after this workshop

No prior experience needed — just an open mind and a willingness to get your hands dirty.

To book

This workshop is for 4 days and includes 4 nights shared accommodation and all meals for 500€ all inclusive.

To book you will need to secure your place with a 100€ deposit, the total to be paid by 1st February, 2026.

Getting here

The closest town to us is Monchique, and the nearest international airport is Faro. We can arrange a pick-up and return shuttle from the airport (shared costs with other participants) depending on your arrival time or alternatively you can get a taxi or Uber.  We can also arrange a pickup from Monchique. Portimao has a train station and there are buses that go from Portimao to Monchique. Please contact Ellis for more information +447767795999.

More about the facilitator

Ellis is the co-owner of Rural Escapes Portugal, a small off-grid glamping retreat nestled in the heart of the Serra de Monchique. When he purchased the land in 2014, it was completely untouched—just two old ruins and wild nature. Since then, Ellis has restored one of the mud ruins and built a passive house using natural clay. He’s also designed and installed a reliable solar power and water system that now supports the retreat.

Together with his wife Camilla—a yoga teacher and passionate cook—they love hosting guests and sharing their peaceful, sustainable lifestyle. Their retreat has earned glowing 5-star reviews on both Google and Airbnb.

With years of hands-on experience, Ellis is a go-to source for off-grid living advice in the Monchique area, often helping others who are on a similar path.