About Vivencias
Three friends from Guimaraes building authentic rural tourism in Tras-os-Montes, Portugal. Meet the founders of Vivencias.
Our Mission
To provide authentic rural experiences that connect people to the land, traditions, and rhythms of Tras-os-Montes. We are building a rural tourism project rooted in a real place — Parada, Alfandega da Fe — at 700 metres altitude, surrounded by century-old olive groves and the Sabor Dam.
Our Values
Authenticity
Everything we offer is real — the stone houses we renovated with our own hands, the landscapes we walk every day, the traditions we live alongside our neighbours.
Rootedness
We moved from Guimaraes to Parada to live this project, not just manage it. We are part of the community we invite you to experience.
Regeneration
We believe rural tourism can help revitalise the interior of Portugal — bringing life, economy, and attention to villages that deserve to thrive.
Simplicity
The best experiences are often the simplest — a meal under the stars, the sound of sheep bells at dawn, bread baked in a wood oven.
Connection
We want every guest to leave feeling they have made a real connection — with the land, with local people, and with a slower way of living.
Care
From the way we restore old buildings to how we welcome each guest, everything is done with attention and respect.
Courage
Three 26-year-olds leaving the city to build something in one of Portugal's most remote regions takes a certain kind of faith. We believe in what we're building.
Our Vision
We want Vivencias to become the reference for integrated agrotourism in Tras-os-Montes — the only project within 50 km that combines accommodation with active agricultural experiences. Our goal is to show that the Portuguese interior is not just a place to visit, but a place worth living in.
Our Story
Vivencias was born from a shared dream of three friends from Guimaraes: Joao Miranda, Joao Costa, and Hugo Fernandes. All 26 years old, each brings something different — Joao Miranda's hospitality experience from London, Dubai, and Greece; Joao Costa's engineering and technology background; and Hugo's deep roots in agriculture and olive oil production.
2024 — Started renovating Casa do Povo with our own hands
March 2025 — Casa do Povo operational (RNAL 146355/AL)
September 2025 — Three founders relocate from Guimaraes to Parada
2026 — Casa dos Burros (T2) in preparation, 8 experiences being designed, online platform built
The Founders
Joao Miranda
Hospitality & Guest Experience
Joao Costa
Technology & Platform
Hugo Fernandes
Agriculture & Local Production