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Casa das Flores

Live in a sensitive area of protected beauty

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The Surroundings

Peace and tranquility, with access to modern conveniences

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  • Central Portugal location

Casa das Flores resides in the countryside within the tiny village of Carregã, which is located in the Penela area/municipality. The location is ideally situated, just 20 minutes south of the major city Coimbra, with Penela and Espinhal close-by for everyday needs. The coast is a 1-hour drive away, and there is an abundance of local beauty spots and attractions, such as river beaches and waterfalls, a short drive away. 

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Distances:

Lisbon <2hr drive

Porto <1.5hr drive

Coimbra 20 min drive

Penela 4km

Espinhal village 3.5km

Coast <1hr drive

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  • The Sicó mountain region and project

Located within a special region, as highlighted in the Sicó Protected Landscape Classification Project. This property benefits from the long-term benefits and protection of a large conservation project, aiming to reduce negative environmental impact and preserve the rare and precious natural resources of the area. Various strategies are receiving funding and support, to further these aims and to continually enhance the quality of life of its inhabitants. Read more below.

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  • A growing community

Over the last 5 years, a large expat community has grown in the area. People from all over the world have been attracted to the area, for various reasons. The location feels peaceful, with a slower pace of life, less inhabitants and without the over-stimulation or disturbance that modern life can bring. â€‹

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Interest in alternative education has risen rapidly in the last few year and many are attracted to the two alternative schools in the area, as well as an alternative lifestyle - The Waterfall Valley school in Espinhal, and Cerejeiras school in Rabaçal.

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Various community projects, events and activities have been set up in the area, with a vibrant community feel. A great place to start finding local friends is to go to the monthly Glocal market in Espinhal, or to join the local Telegram group.

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  • Flora and fauna

The abundance of flora and fauna in the area needs to be seen to be appreciated. As highlighted by the Sico project, the area is very diverse and has become home to many different species of flora and fauna. For more information, see here and here.

Information about the Sicó Project

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The Sico mountains are a mountainous region formed by tectonic events that occurred in limestone formations. Penela, is one of the highest points, giving rise to spectacular views and an elevated perspective of the region. Summits extend to 300m high.

The Sico mountain area has been identified for its uniqueness, rarity, scientific, ecological, social and scenic value. A huge research project has initiated conservation measures to sustain natural resources and prevent degradation of the area. This property benefits from being located within this sensitive area, as the Sico project endeavours to prevent damaging modern practices, such as the use of chemical in the waterways, and to ultimately safeguard quality of life. “To promote harmonious interaction between human beings and nature.” Aiming to conserve, protect and sustain enjoyment of this territory.

Actions being taken by the Sico project:

  • Protection and cultivation of local flora, fauna, the natural and cultural environment, mineral, forestry, hydro/wind and aquatic resources. Various groups are currently working together to support the vision, such as the Portuguese Butterfly Association, a catalogue of species of the local flora and fauna is being developed, and there are plans to promote and educate locally about medicinal plants.

 

  • There are various initiatives in place to support the growth of nature-based tourism, to include outdoor/sustainable leisure/cultural/social activities, which will naturally increase opportunities for rural business.

 

  • There is increasing support for immigrants/visitors to the area, including new business ventures.

 

  • Local movement to focus on soil regeneration and the clearing of waterways.

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  • Investment to resurrect the landscape, i.e. old rural paths, trails, waterways (levadas), historical villages and rural centers.

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  • Strict controls on preventing advertising messages and forestry/mining activity.

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  • Creation of a thermal spring destination.

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  • Sao Simao Archeological Site - An important and fascinating Roman excavation project, only a short walk from the property. 

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  • Wetland/fertile environment. The property benefits from a unique wetland microclimate, with rich and fertile clay soil, which retains moisture and nutrients.


Sico project documentation: www.cm-alvaiazere.pt/cmalvaiazere/uploads/document/file/152/1.pdf

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