About: Luz Charming Houses (simply “Luz Houses”) is not just a hotel – it’s an experience of Portuguese heritage and imagination. Conceived by owner Ana Alves as a tribute to local history, this little village-like property in Fátima features 15 pastel-colored cottages inspired by 19th-century architecture, set in a mystical forest of olive and fruit trees. Wandering its cobbled paths, one finds hidden messages on walls, an old chapel (hermitage) for reflection or intimate events, a “petting farm” corner with friendly animals, and even a secret cave candle-lit spa that feels like a sacred healing grotto. Luz Houses’ philosophy is to honor tradition while living sustainably in the present – “illuminating the soul, but also saving electricity,” as they like to say. True to that, all lighting is low-impact: warm LEDs throughout, and at night the grounds are lit just enough to see, allowing guests to marvel at the fireflies and star-filled sky (Fátima’s rural location means brilliant constellations). The village was constructed with eco-friendly materials and methods: thermal insulating bricks and thick walls keep temperatures comfortable year-round, reducing need for heating/cooling. Smart air conditioning is installed but seldom needed, and solar panels (“eco-trees”) discreetly placed among the trees provide hot water and supplement energy for the houses. Rainwater is harvested and used for irrigation, and dual-flush toilets plus low-flow taps guard against water waste. Luz Houses’ sustainability is also social and cultural. The project rejuvenated an unused piece of land into a thriving business that employs and empowers locals. They formed partnerships with local bakers, beekeepers and artisans: the daily breakfast features still-warm bread from a nearby wood-fired oven, homemade jams and sheep’s cheese, while the on-site grocery sells jams, pottery and toys handmade in the region. Every detail, from vintage decor to traditional games like spinning tops and marble play areas, invites guests to step back to a simpler time and engage with Portuguese culture in a hands-on way. Workshops are offered in things like baking convent pastries or crafting wreaths from olive leaves, depending on the season. Well-being: In addition to the enchanting cave spa (where signature massages use local olive oil and lavender), there’s a yoga platform under an oak tree and an honesty bar by the heated outdoor pool – encouraging communal relaxation. Guests often speak of a “dreamlike tranquility” on the grounds, enhanced by the gentle soundscape of birds and distant monastery chants at night. Impact: Luz Houses proves that luxury and lore can intertwine sustainably. It has achieved Green Key certification and is a proud member of Regenerative Travel. By insulating well and using passive design, it maintains very low energy usage without sacrificing comfort. Composting and recycling are second nature on-site (they even have adorable recycling bins painted with fairy-tale motifs to encourage participation). The hotel actively educates guests – gently encouraging them to recycle, turn off lights, refill water jugs, and “follow our small ecological footprints” during their stay. Many guests leave not only rested, but inspired by how Luz Houses operates: with love, creativity, and respect for both heritage and environment. It’s a place where each tree “keeps a secret” and each sustainable choice tells a story – of a brighter, kinder way of traveling.