Eco Experience for Children at Quinta da Carlota

We live in a time when teaching children to respect and care for nature is no longer just desirable –  it’s essential. At Quinta da Carlota, we believe that love for the Earth is born from direct contact, from real-life experiences with hands in the soil and feet on the ground. That’s why our farm is not just a place to rest; it’s also a space for learning, discovery, and connection with the natural world.

Learning by doing: nature as a classroom

Whether walking along the farm’s trails, visiting the animals, or helping to harvest fruit in the orchard, children learn naturally and joyfully. Every corner of Quinta da Carlota is an opportunity to explore: How does a carrot grow? What do chickens eat? Where do the delicious strawberries – that inspired one of our room names – come from? No rush, no screens, no artificial distractions – here, learning happens at nature’s pace.

 

The value of the land and of hard work

Helping in the garden or visiting the greenhouse gives children a hands-on understanding of how food grows and the effort involved in producing each fruit or vegetable. By picking, smelling and tasting the produce they helped grow, children develop a deep respect for farming and the generosity of the Earth.

 

Animals that teach empathy

At Quinta da Carlota, turkeys, chickens, cats, and other species are part of everyday life. Observing animals, understanding their behavior and caring for them teaches children responsibility, empathy, and respect for all living beings. For many, this may be their first real contact with rural life — a moment that often leaves a lasting impression.

 

Quality time as a family

Our mission is simple: to help families reconnect with each other and with nature. Parents become children again, kids discover new worlds, and everyone finds authentic time together.

From walks through the pine forest and farm activities to quiet moments under the trees, Quinta da Carlota becomes an educational refuge, where we nurture not only the soil, but also the values that matter for the future.

 

Why is it important to teach children to love the Earth?

Because teaching children to love the Earth is planting the seed of a more conscious, balanced, and sustainable tomorrow. And it all starts with real experiences, like the ones Quinta da Carlota offers every family who visits us.