Loural Ecovillage

Loural Ecovillage is a vibrant intentional community and retreat centre nestled in the village of Aldeia Velha, Colmeal, in the Góis municipality of central Portugal. Operating as a registered tourism establishment, it brings together people committed to sustainable and regenerative ways of living. The ecovillage is guided by a holistic vision that weaves together ecology, permaculture, collective intelligence, arts, alternative pedagogies, and training in integrative medicine and therapies. At its heart, Loural Ecovillage is working towards food and energy self-sufficiency, integrating permaculture principles into its land management and daily practices. The project hosts a school of integrative medicine and therapy, offering structured training programmes alongside immersive retreat experiences for individuals seeking personal growth, healing, and connection with nature. Retreats at Loural span a variety of formats — from semi-silent retreats combining nature, the cosmos, and self-inquiry, to movement-based and body-awareness workshops. The community actively welcomes WWOOFers and volunteers who wish to contribute to the land and community life. The ecovillage's ethos centres on the idea of 'Relier' — to connect — reflecting its commitment to bridging people, nature, and sustainable practices. Participants and visitors come from across Europe and beyond, drawn by the combination of natural surroundings, community spirit, and a rich programme of personal and collective development activities. Loural Ecovillage is registered as Loural Ecovillage Portugal, Lda, and holds multiple tourist establishment registrations, underscoring its role as both a living community and a destination for transformative experiences in the Portuguese countryside.