Nestled on Faial Island in the Azores, Quinta da Meia Eira is an eco-conscious retreat spanning 60,000 square meters of organic gardens and pastureland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This family-run agritourism lodge seamlessly blends traditional Azorean architecture with modern comfort, offering six distinctive rooms and two apartments.
The property features a sun-heated pool, homemade dining experiences, and direct access to natural walking trails leading to Morro de Castelo Branco’s protected areas. As a certified organic farm, it provides guests with fresh produce, honey, and homemade products while maintaining strong environmental and social responsibility practices.
Their story
Established in 1997 by Susana and Francisco, Quinta da Meia Eira transformed a depleted cattle ranch into a thriving organic agritourism destination. They planted over 3,000 trees, created kilometers of windbreaks, and established organic gardens and orchards based on permaculture principles.
Their commitment to sustainability extends to rainwater harvesting, solar heating, and waste recycling, while maintaining traditional Azorean architectural elements. The quinta serves as both a working organic farm and a peaceful retreat where guests can experience authentic island living. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The property features over 3,000 planted trees and shrubs, creating natural windbreaks and biodiversity corridors. Construction utilized wood from certified plantations, while furniture incorporates restored antiques.
- The eco-lodge operates with solar thermal panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and natural pool heating.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The eco-lodge demonstrates strong energy efficiency practices through its thermodynamic solar panels for water heating and state-of-the-art air conditioning systems for optimal climate control. The eco-lodge utilizes natural lighting in common areas and implements efficient aeration systems.
- Their swimming pool employs a sliding sleeve and exterior cover to maintain water temperature through greenhouse effect, minimizing energy usage.
- Flow economizers reduce water consumption, while rainwater harvesting systems support agricultural needs.
Pioneer in waste management
- Organic waste is fully repurposed on the farm for composting or animal feed, while a bio-shredder produces organic mulch material.
- The lodge practices complete waste separation and recycling, resulting in minimal non-recyclable waste.
- They maintain a strict no-disposable-dishes policy and utilize environmentally certified EU Ecolabel cleaning products.
- The eco-conscious approach extends to their laundry practices, utilizing natural air/sun drying to reduce energy consumption.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Quinta da Meia Eira operates a certified organic farm spanning 6 hectares, practicing sustainable agriculture without chemical interventions.
- The eco-lodge produces its own organic honey, jams, herbs, fruits, and vegetables, integrating permaculture concepts throughout. They maintain free-range livestock on permanent pastureland without industrial feeds. Their commitment extends to breakfast service, featuring homegrown organic ingredients and locally-sourced products.
Actively protects nature and community
- Guests can experience sustainable living through farm tours, beekeeping demonstrations, and sampling organic produce.
- The retreat actively supports local employment year-round and participates in community education initiatives, demonstrating their commitment to both environmental and social responsibility.
Most Popular Activities Near Quinta da Meia Eira
- Farm tours exploring 60,000 square meters of organic gardens and pastureland.
- Guided beekeeping experiences with honey tasting.
- Walking trails to Morro de Castelo Branco nature reserve.
- Herbal tea picking and preparation from garden herbs.
- Night viewing of Cory’s Shearwaters birds (March-October).
- Stargazing and cloud watching activities.
- Walking excursions to natural swimming pools.
- Hiking around Caldeira crater with guides.
- Cycling with complimentary bikes.
- Agricultural workshops and organic product tasting sessions.
- Exploring and relaxing on the beautiful nearby beaches.
Best Time To Visit Quinta da Meia Eira
- The best time to visit Quinta da Meia Eira is from March to October, when the weather is most favorable for enjoying the outdoor activities and natural attractions. This period offers optimal conditions for farm tours, beekeeping experiences, and observing Cory’s Shearwaters nesting along the coast.
- The summer months (June to September) are particularly pleasant for swimming in the sun-heated pool and exploring the natural pools of Castelo Branco.
- Winter visitors can still enjoy the organic farm experience and magnificent Atlantic views, though some outdoor activities may be limited due to weather conditions.