Monte da Moita Nova is 200km south of Lisbon, and 80km north of Lagos, close to Cabo Sardão.
A 5-10 minute walk brings you to the Atlantic cliffs from which the local beach is accessible down a flight of steps. Further north the coast has many small bays which you can climb down to, and for those who enjoy walking the vast sand dunes invite your exploration. Fascinating geological formations, and a rich variety of flora and fauna give this coastline a unique character. As well as the storks who nest on the cliffs, many other species of birds can be observed ; the presence of shy mammals like the fox, badger and otter most often signaled by their tracks in the sand.
To see the wild flowers in all their glory, best to come between April and June.
Moita Nova - an eco-holiday destination.
The principle of sustainability is an essential part of our holiday concept.
Abundant drinking water comes from our own well. Solar collectors heat domestic water, supplemented by a gas boiler on less sunny days.
Waste water is treated by natural methods and all cleaning materials are eco-friendly. Most of our firewood comes from our own trees.
From 2008 our electricity will come from Solar panels linked to and effectively stored in the national grid.
Our swimming pool is heated by solar energy, and purified without chlorine.
Riding: The horses
For riders we have 6 horses: 4 arabs, one Lusitana and one pony.Three of the arabs were born here.
Our horses are exceptionally well treated, well trained and reliable. Ute Gerhardt is a highly qualified and experienced riding teacher who has over 20 years experience. She has trained with various experts; her style is influenced by Phillipe Karl and Bea Borelle, and the ideas of Sally Swift are an integral part of her lessons. But she learned the most from the horses themselves.
The riding
The extensive dunes spread out behind the stables, offering long rides on horseback.
The hacks are not only suitable for experienced riders, for after only 4 or 5 lessons a beginner can go out, accompanied, on one of our calmer horses .For our smallest horse fans there are childrens lessons on longe, and lead rides.
Riding lessons are organized individually, depending on the pupil´s needs, and may take place in the arena or out on rides.
Location: The surrounding area
The village of Cavaleiro is only 5-10 minutes on foot , and has shops, cafes and a restaurant. Larger seaside towns with good beaches, shops and restaurants are Almograve, at 8km , Zambujeira at 12km, and Vila Nova de Milfontes at 18 km.
About 20km inland lies the attractive and well-kept town of Odemira, administrative centre for this area, and typically alentejan in character.
Due to its location, between Lisbon and the Algarve, Moita Nova offers day-trip access to many places of interest, for example the hills of Monchique, Sagres, the most southwesterly point of Europe, Evora, World heritage site, Silves, once the Moorish capital of the Algarve, Santiago with its Roman ruins, and Beja, regional capital.
We know our surrounding area well, and will be happy to give you advice.
