Deep in Central Portugal’s countryside, within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Vinha da Manta offers a unique glamping experience that seamlessly blends luxury with nature. This exclusive eco-lodge, set on 34 acres of pristine terraced land overlooking the Mondego Valley, provides guests with an intimate retreat far from conventional tourism.
The property features nine luxury canvas lodges, each positioned on private terraces to ensure complete seclusion. With its own natural springs, organic gardens, and biologically purified swimming pool, Vinha da Manta delivers sustainable luxury while maintaining an unwavering commitment to environmental consciousness and authentic Portuguese hospitality.
Their story
Vinha da Manta was founded in 2012 by Jacqueline and Menno, a Dutch couple who moved to Portugal with their three children seeking a new interpretation of life. After successful corporate careers—Menno as a transportation director and Jacqueline as an IT consultant—they pursued their shared passion for hospitality and created something extraordinary.
Located in Central Portugal’s countryside, their eco-lodge combines luxury glamping with sustainable practices. They personally welcome guests to their canvas lodges, serving organic meals from their own gardens while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. Their eco-conscious retreat features a natural pool, solar lighting, and local materials, blending luxury with sustainability. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The retreat uses local sustainable wood and natural-toned furnishings that blend with the landscape.
- Construction methods respect the terraced landscape, with each canvas lodge positioned to maximize privacy while minimizing land disturbance.
- The property features a revolutionary biological swimming pool, purified entirely by plants without chemicals, providing water quality superior to municipal supplies.
- All water sources come from natural springs on the 34-acre estate, eliminating dependence on external water systems.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The property harnesses renewable solar energy with soft solar lighting systems to minimize light pollution while maintaining guest comfort. Their analogue kitchen relies on wood-fired cooking, including a Rayburn range and outdoor oven, minimizing electricity use.
- The lodge maximizes natural resources with spring-fed water systems eliminating energy-intensive water treatment processes.
- The lodges use local materials and are positioned to maximize natural light and airflow, minimizing the need for lighting and cooling.
Pioneer in waste management
- All organic waste from the restaurant and vegetable garden is composted on-site, creating nutrient-rich soil for their organic farming operations.
- The lodge emphasizes recycling across all facilities, with designated containers throughout the property for proper waste segregation.
- Guests receive clear guidance on proper waste sorting across the lodges, restaurant, and pool areas.
- Daily waste is collected, and the estate cuts single-use items by sourcing locally and growing organic produce.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The estate cultivates its own organic vegetables for their restaurant, ensuring guests enjoy fresh, healthy food harvested directly from the land. Their fruit trees, vines, figs, and olives are all grown organically.
- Drinking water comes from natural springs, and the pool is purified with plants instead of chemicals.
- The owners prioritize local, sustainable products like honey, cheese, eggs, and milk—combining eco-friendly values with luxury stays.
Actively protects nature and community
- The retreat fosters environmental education through hands-on experiences with organic farming, natural water systems and wildlife observation. Guests participate in seasonal fruit picking, learn about sustainable wine production and engage with traditional Portuguese agricultural practices that have preserved this 5000-year-old cultural landscape for future generations.
Most Popular Activities Near Vinha da Manta
- Horseback riding adventures through Serra da Estrela mountains for experienced riders.
- Hiking trails in Parque Natural da Serra de Estrela with ancient Roman paths.
- Swimming in pristine Mondego River canyon with natural rock formations.
- Wine tasting tours in renowned Dao region and nearby Douro Valley.
- Cultural explorations of 12 medieval historical villages in the region.
- Organic farm-to-table dining experiences with vegetables from on-site gardens.
- Wood-fired pizza nights and three-course meals at communal dining tables.
- Wellness programs including yoga sessions in dedicated 100m² studio space.
- Canoeing adventures down Mondego River with family-friendly guided trips.
- Photography workshops and creative retreats in Mediterranean countryside setting.
- Wildlife spotting opportunities for eagles, wild boars, kingfishers, and otters.
READ ON – Portugal Islands You Can Actually Visit
Best Time To Visit Vinha da Manta
- The best time to visit Vinha da Manta is from late spring to early autumn, particularly between May and September, when the Mediterranean climate provides ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
- During peak season (July and August), guests enjoy the warmest weather perfect for swimming in the natural biological pool, hiking in Serra da Estrela Natural Park, and horseback riding through the mountain trails.
- The spring months of May and June offer pleasant temperatures with blooming fruit trees including olive, almond, peach, cherry, and figs available for picking when in season.
- September remains excellent with comfortable weather for exploring the 12 medieval historical villages nearby or canoeing on the Mondego River.