Vegan-oriented animal sanctuary and sustainable farm
Viana do Castelo
ABOUT US
Quinta das Águias is a vegan-oriented animal sanctuary and sustainable farm where humans and non-humans live with respect and compassion. Volunteering here is more than helping with tasks — it's an experience of connection, learning, and daily life in nature.
We welcome people who want to support animals, live simply, and be part of a meaningful project.
Besides the many animals that live at the farm, Quinta das Águias is also home to Joep and Ivone, who started this project twenty years ago, as well as other volunteers that might be here for the moment. Madalena also works at the sanctuary and helps manage the everyday life and is responsible for the volunteers.
VOLUNTEER TASKS
Depending on your interests and the needs of the farm, you may help with:
-Feeding and caring for animals
-Cleaning shelters and spending time with them so they trust humans
-Gardening, planting, weeding, and harvesting
-Farm maintenance and eco-building projects
-Fencing, land care, tree planting
-Occasional help in the kitchen (vegan cooking project)
You’ll always have guidance and support from a team member.
ACCOMODATION
-Shared room (up to 4 people)
-Shared bathroom
-Access to a shared kitchen
-Access to WiFi
Surrounded by nature, quiet, and fresh air.
It’s a simple and peaceful space, ideal for those who appreciate a natural lifestyle.
MEALS
Meals are self-catered.
You can use the kitchen and we often share seasonal fruits and vegetables from the farm. We will take you to the supermarket with us so you can choose what other food you would like to have with you.
We are a vegan sanctuary in principle — no one will control what you cook, but we ask for respect toward the animals and values of the project.
HOURS & STAY
-Around 5 hours per day, 5 days a week
-Minimum stay: 3 weeks to 1 month
-Priority for long stays (up to 6 months), as deeper connections and learning happen with time
Your rest time is respected and we aim for a balanced routine.
TRANSPORT & ACCESS
We are in a very rural area with no public transport nearby.
To support volunteers:
We pick you up and drop you off at the nearest bus station when you arrive and leave.
We can also take you to the supermarket when needed.
Lifts to nearby places are possible when it fits our schedule.
Having your own car is helpful but not essential if you enjoy nature and a quiet lifestyle.
WHO FITS HERE
This experience is ideal for volunteers who are:
-Respectful and compassionate toward animals
-Comfortable with outdoor and hands-on work
-Independent but community-oriented
-Open to simple, rural living
-Patient, calm, and connected to nature
WHY VOLUNTEER WITH US
At Quinta das Águias, you don’t just help — you become part of the daily rhythm of a place built on care and coexistence. The bonds you build with the animals, the land, and the team leave a lasting impact.
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Learning opportunities
Vegetable farming
Grain farming
Aromatic or medicinal plants, teas
Seed saving or production
Vegetable or fruit preservation
Food justice / sovereignty
Methods or systems
Biological pest control
Permaculture
Regenerative agriculture
Host type
Nonprofit / Community
Former WWOOFer
5
Hectares
|
12.4
Acres
Quinta
Member since 2025
Languages spoken:
Dutch, English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Response rate: 92%
Response time: typically within 1 day
Viana do Castelo
Paredes de Coura/Ponte de Lima
Reviews
Dana
Germany
•
May 2026
To volunteer at Quinta das Águias was one of the best experiences I have ever had. The emotions in this place are so intense. I deeply experienced bonding and grounding with nature, the animals, and the people at quinta. The heart of the farm are Ivone and Joep, who truly live and feel the message of being in harmony with all living beings. With their open hearts, the Quinta team makes you feel at home, even on busy days. Madalena cares for the volunteers with much love and is always there for any questions and concerns. I learned that there is no constancy when you work with animals. It taught me to be open, prepared for any situation, and not to plan everything. As Joep always said, "There is a routine, but then there is no routine." But when you love animals, it doesn't feel like work at all, and with the other volunteers you have company and lots of funny situations. Thank you for everything!
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