Forest bathing guide finds his calling in Serra da Malcata

This profile, part of the Quem Fica series, follows Tiago, who left coastal life to guide shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, in Serra da Malcata, part of the Grande Vale do Côa. He describes helping visitors, from curious newcomers to families and elderly groups, slow down and reconnect with their senses in the forest. The piece links his practice to the broader philosophy of rewilding and to growing recognition that contact with nature has therapeutic value, citing Mata do Buçaco's July certification as the Iberian Peninsula's first Therapeutic Forest. Tiago's guiding, alongside other small local projects, forms part of the wider Rede Côa Selvagem network.