Regenerative tourism
Hope Forest
The Hope Forest is the symbolic name given to an area of approximately four hectares , located in the highest part of the Chão do Rio property, currently undergoing ecological restoration . The goal is to recover a diverse, resilient native forest adapted to the territory, composed mostly of native species .
Oaks trees predominate, including Portuguese oak and Pyrenean oak, as well as cork oak , holm oak, willow , and birch in the wetter areas. Strawberry trees , elderberry, and hawthorn are planted for the shrub layer, while the ground cover is enriched with honeysuckle . In firebreaks areas, and also with the aim of promoting biodiversity, common fig trees are planted.
A continuous effort in ecological restoration
The ecological restoration of this area—which is intended to become a biodiversity reserve —requires systematic and demanding work. The succession of wildfires and storms, combined with poor, rocky soils and long, hot, dry summers, means that, if left to its own devices, the area will evolve towards soil degradation and a reduction in species diversity, becoming dominated only by pyrophytic plants, well adapted to these conditions.
To counteract this process, various actions are carried out continuously throughout the year:
* Planting and sowing during different rainy seasons, using various techniques:
– direct sowing of acorns and other seeds collected in the lower part of the Chão do Rio;
– Planting of young, rooted trees in seedling trays, acquired or donated by partner entities such as CISE – Serra da Estrela Interpretation Centre and ANEFA – National Association of Forestry and Environmental Companies ;
– planting by cuttings , carried out from prunings of existing trees on the property.
* Fuel management , with regular control of pyrophytic species such as broom and rockrose, reducing the risk of fire.
* Control of invasive species , such as acacias.
* Formative pruning , aimed at accelerating the growth of young trees.
* Soil enrichment through the application of compost produced at Chão do Rio and manure collected from the animal stables.
* Installation of burrows (small shelters), promoting the presence of small herbivores such as rabbits and hares, which contribute to the natural management of vegetation.
* Irrigation in selected areas , with the aim of accelerating the growth of a central core capable of driving the natural regeneration of the entire forest.
A living laboratory and a learning space.
The Hope Forest has thus become a living laboratory , where different ecological restoration techniques are tested and adjusted. It is also a space for environmental education and awareness , welcoming school visits and educational activities dedicated to the importance of native forests.
Every year, this is also the theme for the Chão do Rio Open Day – A Day for the Forest , a special moment of sharing, in which the evolution of the Forest of Hope is presented, the difficulties encountered, the lessons learned, and other entities are invited to share their experiences.
Your contribution is part of the forest.
By booking your stay at Chão do Rio , you are directly contributing to the growth of the Hope Forest. If you wish to become more actively involved, you can also participate in restoration activities , such as planting acorns, or purchase a Forest of Hope Sponsorship Certificate .
Find out how you can help by visiting our reception desk.