OFFGRID EXPERIENCE
Living in a van is more than just traveling — it’s an alternative way of life. Being constantly on the road naturally connects you with like-minded people who have chosen unique, intentional ways of living. Check out our previous post to learn how to make the most of your adventure while preserving the true spirit of vanlife, here. Quite often, travelers passing through breathtaking landscapes discover a special place far from civilization and decide to settle there.
Along our vanlife journey, we’ve met many inspiring people who created their own off-grid havens around the world. We’d love to share some of these special places with you. If any of them spark your curiosity and you’d like to visit, feel free to contact us.
Eco House – Ericeira Area, Portugal
This unique roundhouse is built using locally sourced and recycled materials, including clay taken directly from the land. Surrounded by Atlantic forest and a lush garden overlooking a peaceful valley, it offers a true eco-living experience. The nearest beach is just a 15-minute walk away, close to the surf town of Ericeira.
You’ll share the land with two cats, chickens, and a small community of people who dream of turning this valley into a protected natural reserve. Plants and trees are cultivated on site, and rainwater is harvested directly from the buildings. By staying here, you actively support tree planting and sustainable development.
Guests sleep in a spacious open-plan roundhouse that remains airy and cool even during hot summer days. The accommodation is ideal for 1–4 people and features two beds with mosquito nets, along with plenty of blankets for cozy, quiet nights.
You can prepare your own meals or enjoy home-cooked food prepared by your hosts. Meals are wholesome, seasonal, organic, and mostly sourced from the garden or local producers. Activities include learning about trees, gardening, landscaping, and sustainable living. Hiking tours are also available, showcasing stunning routes from Ericeira to Sintra.
If you’re looking for inspiration for a simpler, more conscious way of life, this place will truly resonate with you.
Witches Mountain Camp – Tindaya Area, Fuerteventura
Just below the legendary Mountain of the Witches — Tindaya — lies an oasis that provides its residents with everything they need. Fertile soil supports banana and papaya trees, while the sounds of chickens and goats fill the air. Guests can enjoy fresh eggs and goat’s milk straight from the land.
The spacious terrain accommodates guests in various styles of eco accommodation — from bungalows built in traditional Canarian volcanic stone architecture to tipi-style tents inspired by indigenous cultures.
This location is also known for hosting unique gatherings. One of the most special is the annual women’s event “Witches’ Sabbat” — Witches x Waves — held alongside artistic Bajah workshops, combining creativity, nature, and community.
Indonesian Coastal Glamour Camping – Sumba, Indonesia
Discover an untouched paradise in rural Indonesia on the island of Sumba. This exceptional off-grid camping experience blends dense jungle landscapes with crystal-clear turquoise waters, endless white sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and powerful reef waves.
The camp sits at the heart of a 2-kilometer beachfront property. All infrastructure is designed with ecological solutions to blend seamlessly into the surrounding nature. Rainwater is used for bathrooms and kitchens, while methane digesters provide gas, eliminating the need for propane or butane.
Accommodation is available for up to 14 guests in 7 thoughtfully designed tents, each set up with either a king-size bed or two single beds. At the center of the camp, a communal kitchen tent serves as both a social hub and dining area.
As there are no shops or restaurants nearby, an experienced Indonesian chef prepares delicious traditional breakfasts, lunches, and dinners — all included in the stay. Meals feature locally sourced vegetables, fresh fish, and homemade buns, offering an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine.
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