Retiro Atlântico

Retiro Atlântico is a rural glamping site built around a certified organic farm on the south coast of São Jorge, in the Azores, between the sea and the forest. Hugo and Natacha opened it as the island's first glamping destination, with four traditional Mongolian yurts fitted out with everything guests need for a comfortable stay. It's run as a small family business, combining sustainable agriculture with low-impact hospitality. The land had been abandoned for generations and was overrun by eucalyptus and invasive bramble. Hugo moved there in 2012, after completing a nature guide qualification. Working stone by stone with his father, he gradually turned the property into a food forest. It now holds one of the largest collections of rare tropical and subtropical organic fruit trees in Europe. A farm-to-table breakfast is served each morning in the shared support house, using produce from the farm whenever it's available. There's also a communal kitchen where guests can cook their own meals and socialise. Guests can join guided farm tours or a yoga class, or book a nutrition and lifestyle session. From the site it's easy to reach São Jorge's fajãs, hiking trails and natural swimming spots, and to go whale watching or diving with dolphins. The cafés, restaurants and mini-market of Urzelina are nearby.