A Spectacular August Affair: Uniting Hearts at Vinagra Village
Greetings from Vinagra Village! It's the end of August the sky has turned overcast, and the temperature has dipped with the arrival of clouds. While it may seem like the seasons are shifting, the reality remains unchanged – there's been no sudden transformation. Rainfall isn't anticipated until late September. This summer has proven challenging for our Merino sheep flock due to meager pastures, characterized by dry, nutrient-deficient grass and scarce water sources, our ponds are almost dry.
Amongst this scene, Jose Firmino, our steadfast foreman, traverses the paddock. His gaze is fixed on the herd, his attention carefully grazing each sheep. The previous night, a unknown dog running wild posed a threat to our flock resulting in the loss of two sheep. Vigilance, coupled with the depth of his experience, is pivotal in caring for all the creatures nurtured at Vinagra Village in the traditional manner. Hence, the weight of sadness hangs heavier on him in these moments.
Our sheep are raised in a free-range, organic environment moving from paddock to paddock every single day, feeding on the natural bounty of our pastures. They contribute to our regenerative farming practices, helping us maintain a balanced ecosystem while providing high-quality organic meat renowned for its exceptional taste. Our sheep aren't birthed in bulk numbers. While contemporary methods might suggest synchronizing births for optimal financial gains during Easter and Christmas lamb sales, we've upheld a different approach. With our modest flock of 70 sheep, now numbering 68. Jose Firmino has been a companion to every creature born, raised, and bred at Vinagra Village.
"We've been fortunate," he remarks, casting his eyes over the resting animals. "When they strayed from the paddock, they could have ventured into the patch garden – consuming the cabbages, tomatoes, courgette leaves, and lettuces."
At our farm, we take pride in our array of high-quality, organic products that truly capture the essence of Alentejo. When people choose our farm products they know they are not only enjoying high quality, organic produce but also supporting sustainable farming practices.
The main event of August was the wedding a reservation made 18 month ago.
The dining room was set in the barn adorned for a night of revelry. Stands adorned with smoked ham and delightful Alentejo charcuterie beckoned guests to indulge ina culinary journey. The farm, embelished with nature's own decorations, provided an idyllic backdrop for this joyous occasion. The vibrant colours of the season seemed to join in the festivities, creating a picturesque canvas for the couple's journey into matrimony. The vows exchanged were more than mere promises; they were pledges whispered to the earth, the sky, and the very soul of the farm itself. As the day transitioned into twilight, the farm underwent a transformation. Twinkling fairy lights adorned every tree, creating a magical realm where dreams seemed to come to life. A dance floor, situated beneath the open sky, bore witness to tender moments
Yet we were very nervous because for the past 14 month we have dedicated ourselves to the phase 2 of Vinagra Village farm: the visionary Vinagra Village Eco farm resort. This place invites all to reconnect with nature, learn, discover and disconnect from the city life.
This phase comprises the work in the clubhouse with 6 ensuite bedrooms along with the construction of an Eco bungalow on stilts gracefully poised over the pond.
Our newly introduced phase was put to the test with this wedding, hosting 125 people, fourteen of them staying in our newly six bedroom and bungalow. All guests were from the UK. Bride and groom were delighted to have taken the decision to marry in the sun kissed Alentejo where Vinagra Village is located. We are happy to have almost finished this new phase, affirming that our vision of an enchanting haven for all can become a reality.
