ABOUT

Located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Quinta do Pisão is part of the Natura 2000 network. Once abandoned farmland, it has been transformed into a 380-hectare nature park through ecological restoration, blending sustainable forestry and farming practices. The park, managed by Cascais Ambiente, offers walking and cycling trails and hosts various events to promote sustainability. It attracts 20,000 visitors monthly, providing a recreational space while raising awareness about biodiversity and healthy living.

THE PROJECT

The project aims to restore Mediterranean broadleaf forests, meadows, and other natural habitats. Free-roaming semi-feral horses, donkeys, and reintroduced deer help manage the landscape by grazing, reducing the risk of wildfires. The park also offers organic produce for visitors, encouraging healthy eating.

Since 2007, over 1,750 volunteers have contributed to fire prevention, invasive plant control, and trail maintenance. The park has also created green jobs for local unemployed people. Quinta do Pisão’s work has been recognised by the EU for its contribution to biodiversity and local well-being.

In the next five years, a €500,000 investment will focus on planting 150 hectares of oak forest, controlling invasive species, and improving wildfire resilience. The reintroduction of species like the red squirrel and several endangered butterflies highlights the park's success in increasing biodiversity and restoring the natural landscape.