Hillside Sanctuary is not just seeking researchers - it is the research site. An 11.4-hectare living laboratory in the Algarve hills where traditional wisdom meets scientific inquiry.
Active operations include aloe vera cultivation, beekeeping, water management across 3 dams and 2 springs, a 3+ hectare cork oak montado, and a community tractor services programme supporting local smallholders. Our guest booking system captures satisfaction data, NPS scores, and community partner visit records - creating a rich dataset for social and economic research.
Research Collaborations
10 oportunidades ativas para parcerias académicas e institucionais.
Cultivo e Processamento de Aloé Mediterrânico
Sistemas de Agricultura Inteligente para a Água
Corredores de Polinizadores e Ecologia de Apiários
Economia do Turismo Rural Inclusivo
Gestão Regenerativa de Solos e Terrenos
Dinâmica do Ecossistema de Sobreiro
Transição Energética Rural
Agricultura Tradicional e Apoio Comunitário
Turismo de Bem-estar e Restauro
Despovoamento Rural e Resiliência Comunitária
What we offer
Field Access
Diverse landscapes - cork oak forest, cultivation areas, water systems, experimental zones. GPS mapping and historical data.
Accommodation
Comfortable on-site accommodation with reliable internet, meeting spaces, and kitchen access for extended fieldwork stays.
Data & Networks
Weather, soil, biodiversity and economic data. Introductions to our 46 community partners and regional institutions.
Partnerships & Connections
We collaborate with the University of Algarve, work with CCDR Algarve on rural development studies, and serve as a research site along the Via Algarviana trail system.
Ready to collaborate?
Whether you're a graduate student, an established researcher, or an institution - we'd love to explore partnership possibilities.