Planned Improvements

A Retreat for Artists, Creators & Innovators

Madeira Island, Portugal, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, rich winemaking heritage, and world-class hiking trails. Often referred to as the "Garden of the Atlantic," this enchanting destination is home to multiple microclimates, providing visitors with a serene escape from the demands of everyday life.

 

Nestled halfway up the mountains in the village of Santo da Serra, Quinta do Lagar began as a five-room Airbnb that quickly became a favorite among locals seeking a picturesque setting for gatherings and celebrations. As guests shared their remarkable experiences on the property, it became clear that Quinta do Lagar was meant for something greater. This realization sparked the evolution of a new vision—one that would transform the space into a creative retreat where artists, innovators, and makers could come together to inspire and be inspired.

Set amidst meticulously maintained grounds and breathtaking natural beauty, Quinta do Lagar offers guests a true retreat—an environment that provides an immediate escape from the stresses of daily life. Within this tranquil setting, creativity flourishes naturally, inspiring those who visit.

 

Recognizing its potential, the vision for Quinta do Lagar expanded to create a dedicated space where artists could share their craft and knowledge in an intimate and supportive atmosphere. Each of the guesthouse’s spacious rooms features a private bathroom and opens onto an exterior walkway, ensuring both privacy and solitude when desired. At the same time, communal areas—including a cozy common room, a fully equipped kitchen, and lush, garden-like grounds complete with a gazebo and duck pond—offer inviting spaces for connection, collaboration, and shared experiences.

Building upon its existing features, Quinta do Lagar has been reimagined as a creative retreat where artists and innovators can offer immersive experiences to a select group of patrons. Each retreat is tailored to the artist’s specialty, culminating in a public event such as an art or photography exhibition, a poetry reading, a dance recital, or a live music performance.

 

Thanks to the versatility of the space, a wide range of retreats can be hosted, including but not limited to:

 

• Art Classes – Painting, photography, sculpting, and multimedia workshops

• Yoga & Wellness Retreats – Mindfulness, meditation, and movement practices

• Cooking Classes – Featuring a wood-fired oven and traditional wood smoker

• Music Workshops & Private Concerts – Offering intimate performances and instruction

• Poetry & Creative Writing Sessions – Exploring storytelling and literary expression

• Master Gardener Intensives – Hands-on learning in sustainable gardening and landscaping

• Fitness & Nature Hikes – Guided outdoor adventures promoting health and well-being

• Couples Retreats – Led by trained moderators to foster connection and growth

Renovations to Quinta do Lagar will enhance its ability to host a wider range of activities, including updates to all guest rooms. As part of these improvements, at least one room will be made fully accessible, featuring a roll-in shower to accommodate guests with mobility needs.

 

Additional upgrades to the property will include:

 

• Expansion of the Adega – Adding a fireplace and patio to transform this beloved wine cave into an even more inviting communal gathering space, enhancing the overall ambiance of the retreat.
• Creation of a Kitchen Garden – Providing a farm-to-table experience for guests while also serving as an educational space for hands-on gardening workshops.
• Renovation of the Common Room – Designing a versatile space for lectures, classes, communal activities, and relaxation.
• Expansion of the Parking Area – Increasing capacity to accommodate more guests and event attendees.
• Acquisition of Furnishings & Equipment – Procuring essential materials to support workshops, performances, and creative experiences.

 

The guest rooms will be thoughtfully designed to reflect the owners' combined American and Portuguese heritage, with themed rooms inspired by New York, Texas, and Santa Fe or California, as well as Porto and Lisbon. A custom mural and carefully curated décor will bring each theme to life, creating a distinctive and immersive experience for guests.