Rooted in Sustainability: How The Retreat is redefining responsible tourism
Set against the dramatic landscapes of Santo Antão, The Retreat has built its reputation on a deep respect for nature and community. Nestled in the tranquil valley of Pinhão, this unique hospitality destination demonstrates how thoughtful tourism can protect the environment while delivering an exceptional guest experience.
Sustainability is not treated as an add-on, but as a guiding principle that shapes every decision, from how the land is cared for to how guests are welcomed into the rhythm of island life.
Sustainability isn’t just a policy – it’s our foundation
Our journey began with a commitment to preserve the rugged beauty of our island while providing a high-quality hospitality experience. Winning the Green Tourism Silver Award in October 2025 was a proud milestone that validated our efforts to integrate eco-friendly practices into every aspect of our business.
Key Sustainability Actions:
Organic Gardens: We maintain extensive organic gardens that provide fresh, local produce for our guests, reducing our “food miles” to zero for many ingredients.
Environmental Policy: We have implemented a rigorous environmental policy designed to minimize waste and conserve the precious water resources of our mountainous region.
Community Integration: By operating in Pinhão, we support the local economy and encourage guests to engage with the natural heritage of the island in a respectful, low-impact way.
Preserving Natural Beauty: Our property is designed to blend into the terraced landscape of Santo Antão, ensuring that our presence enhances rather than detracts from the environment.
Why It Matters
We believe that tourism in Cabo Verde must be sustainable to survive. By sharing our story, we hope to inspire other small businesses in the Atlantic islands and beyond to see that environmental stewardship and business success go hand-in-hand.
