Quinta das Faíscas

PERMACULTURE AND PONIES

Manure, Composting Worm, and Plant Sales.
Trails and Camping with Horses
Caravan and Camping on the Quinta

Quinta das Faíscas is situated near Fornos de Algodres in north-central Portugal, surrounded by nature and history. We are constantly developing the quinta to produce in more abundance and in a more natural and sustainable way, to reduce the resources we use, to create a comfortable and welcoming space that we can share with others, and to provide us with an ethical and equitable income. We love to explore the stunning landscapes and special sites that surround us, particularly on horseback, and to share these special places with you.

HORSE MANURE

Horse manure - fresh off the field or rotted - order a pickup load to be delivered to your land.

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COMPOST WORMS

"Red Wrigglers" - compost your kitchen scraps, breed worms for the garden or to feed your poultry!

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COMFREY PLANTS

Comfrey - essential for any organic / permaculture garden! Non-invasive "Bocking 14" variety.

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HOURLY TRAILS

Discover the stunning landscapes and views surrounding the quinta. One to three hour trails.

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PICNIC TRAILS

Add a picnic stop (allow an extra hour) to your trail. Picnic provided and special diets can be catered for.

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WALKING TRAILS

Discover the joy of walking alongside an equine companion in beautiful surroundings.

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OVERNIGHT CAMPS

An afternoon trail, an overnight camp, followed by a morning trail. Dinner and breakfast included.

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Gorgeous setting, beautiful ponies, fun & knowledgeable host. Quinta das Faíscas is a wonderful place to hang hang with horses, take time for yourself and recharge. The walking, with or without the ponies, is stunning.
Emma: Walking Trail

The 1 hour ride we went on yesterday was so lovely. The horses were happy, keen, and calm. We began with a little meditation before getting in the saddle, to connect with our companions. We rode through a tranquil village, and then onto a track that I had never been on before... I have lived here nearly 2 years! There is so much to discover in this area. I could feel the history on this ancient path, that would have been an important route, before tarmac and cars. It was like stepping back in time. It felt so natural to share a historical route on horseback. The views were jaw-droppingly beautiful. Bel had a comfortable trot with ease uphill, great fun to feel his strength. These horses are well loved and well taken care of physically, mentally and emotionally. Because of this, I too have been nurtured by the horses.
Lorna

meeting Sophie was an amazing experience. we went on a wonderful walk with the horses around her area. the connection between the horses and us was new and interesting. walking side by side with big animals, feeling together and challanged, was respectful and lovely. we also did a constellation with the horses. this was one of the most interesting, unexpected and emotional experiances that we had. this is intuitive deep work with ourselves and the horses. we asked a question or raised a topic and through colored cones and specific placements we were able to map out a guide to our topic. very powerful and energetic work. it has a powerful effect, we recomend it to all! thank you sophie for being you and taking care of the horses😍
Rina & Lirane

I'm new to horses. I'm not sure how they behave or how I'm meant to behave with them. I am sure though that they look awfully big, especially when you're close up. Trepidation? Heck yes!! However, that was before we set off for our walk. Sophie showed me what to do, how to lead my horse, how to turn him around when he drew in front of me, and we practiced before setting out. Now I love Mac. He's very cheeky but after one walk I feel bonded in a way and he seems to respond to me. I also feel so much more confident about going out again, walking or maybe riding. Happy xxx
Judith

I went with my friend to ride a horse for our first time and , Sophie , Lorna and Rui were all very nice and helpful, and made our journey with Mac, Bel and Dollar the best. A adventure I will never forget, going to bring my friends again here for sure ! Beautiful scenery !! Thanks again ❤️
Lina Gagnon

My first ever riding lesson with Sophie was great! Even though Big Dave (the horse!) was huge to me and I was out of my comfort zone I felt completely safe with Sophie. She knew exactly what I needed, was encouraging and made the experience fun! Her love and experience with horses shines through and I would totally recommend a lesson with her, whatever your level.
Hanna West: The Green Team Gardening | The Green Team Gardening

I think it is great the awareness that is generated for people and I believe is great to move away from the horse being objectified as a thing.
Antoinette: Equine Assisted Training | VENUE HIRE

Great venue - great horses - great people. And conquered my fear of horses (almost).
Michael: Equine Assisted Training

What a peaceful place to be for horses and humans. Had a great time there.
Axel Ferreira: Certified Equine Osteopath

Quinta das Faíscas

COMFREY (Symphytum officinale)

We grow and sell the Bocking 14 variety of comfrey. Find out more about its many amazing uses.

CONSOLDA (SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE)

Cultivamos e vendemos a variedade de confrei Bocking 14 (consolda - symphitum officinale), uma planta incrível com muitos usos. Conhence esta planta maravilhosa!

PR02: Rota dos Miradouros

8km circular walking trail that passes right by the quinta. Along the route you will discover the ancient mountainside village of Algodres with its viewpoints and surrounding tracks through the pine forest.

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Quinta do Cochel

Our favourite restaurant! Lovely setting, friendly staff, and great food. Prato do Dia (Dish of the Day) available Monday to Saturday which includes 3 courses, drinks and coffee for 9 euros. Closed on Tuesdays.

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Fornos de Algodres

Our local town, 5km from the quinta. Here you will find all amenities - supermarkets, local shops, bakeries, café/restaurants, petrol station, etc. The town is known for its Serra da Estrela cheese, Dão wine, and local specialities made with nettles!

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Pre-historic sites

There are several pre-historic sites locally, many within walking distance of the quinta. We offer trail rides or walks with the horses to discover the nearest ones, or we can provide you with a picnic lunch if you'd like to visit them all with your car/bike.

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Geocaching

Have you heard of Geocaching? It's a fun way to discover special places often only known to locals. "Join the world´s largest treasure hunt" - use the geocaching app on your phone to find the hidden caches and log your visits!

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Praia Fluvial Ponte de Juncais

River Beach with lifeguard, adult and child swimming pools, bar, children's library, picnic tables, toilets & showers, and canoe hire. 3 restaurants within walking distance (including our favourite, Quinta do Cochel).