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Our passion for the island is combined with our commitment to ensure its sustainability.

Commitment to the essence of the territory and the community.

Abrigo da Cascata is placed in an authentic and unique environment. The Fajãs de São Jorge, recognized by UNESCO as a Natural Biosphere Reserve, have strengthened our commitment to environmental preservation and the development of the local community.

Our activities are aligned with these 7 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

  • SDG 3 – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
  • SDG 8 – Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
  • SDG 12 – Ensure sustainable production and consumption patterns.
  • SDG 13 – Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
  • SDG 14 – Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.
  • SDG 15 – Protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation, and halt biodiversity loss.
  • SDG 17 – Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

To learn more about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals estabelecidos pela ONU, explore a página THE 17 GOALS | Sustainable Development.

Personal Development Retreats

Abrigo da Cascata has proudly achieved Level 5 of the MIOSOTIS Azores Award, granted by the Regional Directorate of the Environment and the Regional Directorate of Tourism, in recognition of its dedication to sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.
The criteria assessed include waste management, water conservation, energy usage, biodiversity, local development, environmental management, and information dissemination.
The symbol for this award is the flower of one of the Azores' endemic plants, Myosotis maritima – commonly known as the forget-me-not, which can be found across all the islands.
At this establishment, waste and energy consumption are carefully tracked and analysed. If you're interested, you can request the environmental dossier at reception.
We hope your stay in the Azores will be as unforgettable as the name of this flower.

The Sustainability Handbook of the Azores is an initiative by the Government of the Azores aimed at strengthening the sustainable development of the entire territory. It supports the adoption of the principles outlined in the 2030 Agenda, ensuring an inclusive and comprehensive approach across various sectors of society. The Handbook is fully aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, playing a key role in their implementation within the Azores. This initiative contributes to building a fairer, more dignified, inclusive, and sustainable world.
In 2021, the Abrigo da Cascata – Country Houses project signed the Sustainability Handbook of the Azores, joining this pioneering effort to accelerate the integration of the SDGs into its sustainable development policies. For more information, visit the website at PRINCIPLE – Azores – On the road to sustainability (azores.gov.pt)
The Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris borealis) is considered one of the main biological treasures of São Jorge. This seabird nests and rests on the coastal cliffs and islets, often seen near the accommodation. Known for its unique call, as natural as the sound of sea waves, the shearwater is a delightful presence, especially at sunset. Its calls can surprise guests and even create amusing moments, making for memorable experiences.

Every year, the Government of the Azores promotes the SOS Cory's Shearwater Campaign through the Regional Directorate for Maritime Affairs, with support from the Regional Directorate for the Environment. The initiative is also assisted by institutional partners such as the Island Natural Parks and Azorina, SA.

The campaign’s main goal is to raise awareness about the preservation of this protected species, encouraging the involvement of locals, visitors, and organizations in rescuing juvenile shearwaters found near roads and surrounding areas. Remarkably, some juvenile shearwaters rescued in the Azores over 7 years ago have already returned to the archipelago to make and raise their own young.

Abrigo da Cascata – Country House is proud to support the SOS Cory's Shearwater Campaign, which runs annually from October 15 to November 15, coinciding with the juvenile shearwaters’ first flight to the ocean. During this period, there is a higher risk of collisions and run-overs, so it is vital to avoid disturbing, obstructing, or destroying their habitats and nesting sites. It is also important not to capture or feed the birds.

For more information about the SOS Shearwater Campaign, please visit the website: https://www.azores.gov.pt/Gra/dram-soscagarro/