BLOG: FARM UPDATES
03.09.25 - OUR FIRST ANIMALS
We are delighted to share that Quinta Filippa has welcomed its very first animals to the farm. Five ducks have made their home in our ponds, filling the space with movement and life. Pedro and Paula were purchased during a Casal novo festa, while the three black ones, a species known as Pato Turco, were a gift from the father of Ivo, our farm manager and neighbour. Since their arrival, they have bonded beautifully and now spend their days swimming, exploring, and staying close together. Their presence marks the beginning of a new chapter for the farm!
20.08.25 - AROMATIC GARDEN
Tucked into the heart of Quinta Filippa, the Aromatic Garden brings together fragrance, texture, and flavour to enrich our guest experience. This cultivated space is home to over 25 herbs and plants, many of which were grown from cuttings in the Quinta’s own greenhouse. Guests can discover a variety of mint, from pineapple and chocolate to Moroccan and orange, along with lavender, lemon thyme, cascading rosemary, sage, and wild thyme, which gently scents the paths underfoot. Culinary essentials like basil, parsley, coriander, oregano, and chives grow in abundance. The garden also features rhubarb, incense plant, and white-flowered lavender and rosemary. It is a living source for the kitchen and for connection to the land.
24.07.25 - A GARDEN IN BLOOM
The tropical garden is taking shape. Since 2024 the land has been reimagined, with each section planned by color, scent, bloom time, and texture. Recent plantings include Brugmansias, lavender, Nandinas, hydrangeas, rosemary, Abelia triflora, bamboo, and citrus trees placed near the house to support both the kitchen and natural insect balance. Herb beds feature companion species for culinary use and pest control. To protect the soil and support long-term health, bark mulch has been layered over biodegradable plastic to suppress weeds without chemicals. This layer will be removed as plants establish. More than 10,000 trees and plants now contribute to a landscape created for year-round beauty. Native and exotic species coexist. Some support pollinators, others offer shade or color, and many are simply planted for the joy they bring. Mike’s vision is a living and evolving garden, abundant and free-flowing. Each path and planting invites guests to explore, pause, and experience nature.
09.06.25 - STARTING A TURTLE SANCTUARY
We are welcoming 80 turtles into a protected 2,500 m² sanctuary, thoughtfully designed with ponds, shallow wetlands, and mud pools that reflect their natural habitat. Species include the Florida ornate, Hieroglyphic, Chinese stripe-necked, and Razor-backed musk turtles, all microchipped and health-checked in partnership with Faunawatch. This enclosed habitat includes safe basking zones, quiet spaces to rest, and clean water filtered through natural systems. It has been created as a long-term refuge where turtles can thrive under observation, with annual health visits and continued collaboration with Faunawatch. Educational signs around the sanctuary invite visitors to learn more about these species and reflect on the role of wetlands in supporting life. In May 2026, another 80 turtles will arrive, expanding this safe and balanced ecosystem. Thank you to Faunawatch and all who made this sanctuary possible.