Ellis is the co-owner of Rural Escapes Portugal, a small off-grid glamping retreat set in the heart of the Serra de Monchique. When he bought the land in 2014, it was completely untouched, with only two old ruins surrounded by wild nature. Since then, he has carefully restored one of the mud ruins and built a passive house using natural clay, creating a space that feels both grounded and thoughtfully designed.
He also created and installed a dependable solar power and water system that now sustains the retreat, reflecting the practical, sustainable approach at the core of daily life there. Together with his wife Camilla, a yoga teacher and passionate cook, Ellis enjoys welcoming guests and sharing their peaceful way of living. Their retreat has received excellent 5-star reviews on both Google and Airbnb.
With years of hands-on experience, Ellis is a trusted guide for off-grid living in the Monchique area and often supports others who are following a similar path.