Sleep Series No.11
Esmée , Helder Farm Studios
Esmée Brandwijk is the co-founder of Helder Farm Studios, a rustic farmstay in the south of Portugal.
You're based in the South Alentejo — how does that shape the rhythm of your days?
We definitely live with the seasons and the land. In summer the days become longer and so do our workdays. In winter there's more time to slow down and turn inwards. But whatever the season, we're outside most of the day. Whether it's hot summer sunshine or rainy winter weather, there's always something on the land that needs tending.
Tell us about Helder Farm — what was the feeling behind starting it?
We both wanted a life closer to nature. Living in the city, we craved more space and wanted to spend more time outdoors. We also wanted to create a place where people could escape their daily lives for a while and find some stillness to reconnect with themselves. What we see during our retreats, but also with guests staying at the farm, is that many people are longing for genuine connection, but it's often hard to find in our busy lives. We're happy that we can create a space where that happens naturally.
You made a huge leap — from Amsterdam to building something from scratch in rural Portugal. What did you have to unlearn to live this way?
I think city life is all about constantly moving and getting things done. Here the pace is completely different and much slower. You really have to go with the flow and accept that some things simply take time. Otherwise, it's easy to become frustrated.
What does the land give you that city life couldn't?
Space. Space in the literal sense, but also mental space. Space to think, to grow, to be creative and simply to breathe.
Are you growing your own food, foraging, cooking differently here?
We grow food in our vegetable garden and it's very special to see tiny seeds grow into vegetables that eventually end up on your plate. It makes you appreciate food in a completely different way. We naturally cook with the seasons. Summer is all about fresh tomatoes, salads and herbs from the garden, while winter calls for slow-cooked meals and warming stews.
How do you manage to switch off from work when your work and home are the same place?
That's something we're still learning. The days are full and there's always something to do, improve or take care of. Sometimes it's hard not to see all the things that still need doing. We try to plan proper days off where we step away from work and simply relax.
How do you find time to balance running the farm with keeping space for your own creativity and inspiration?
Finding that balance has definitely been a learning process. After spending almost three years renovating, it was all about going, going, going. Now that the business is becoming more established, we're slowly finding space again for the things that inspire us. Sometimes that's a day in Lisbon, sometimes a short trip abroad, just to experience new places and come home full of fresh ideas.
What does your evening ritual look like — how do you transition from the energy of the day into something quieter?
Because we start our days early, we also like to finish work relatively early so we can enjoy the evening. We cook dinner together, walk the dogs during sunset, water the plants in the garden or greenhouse and then end the day in bed with a cup of tea and a good book.
How are you sleeping? Does living so close to the land affect how you wind down at night?
That's such a good question. I was actually a very bad sleeper when I lived in the Netherlands. Ever since I was a child, I often struggled with stress and anxiety at night. Since moving here, I've hardly experienced that anymore, which has been a huge change for me. Living somewhere so quiet, surrounded by nature, has definitely helped me slow down.
What does rest mean to you beyond just sleep?
A lot. Living and working on a farm is physically demanding. Besides that, we also enjoy going to the gym, walking, swimming and surfing. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that our bodies also need proper rest. It's easy to keep going, but rest is just as important as being active.
How do you curate a calm, relaxing environment — both for your guests and for yourself?
I think the farm naturally creates that feeling. It's incredibly quiet here and there's a sense of stillness that's hard to describe until you experience it. We also love connecting with our guests, especially over morning coffee. For ourselves, it's equally important to have a private space where we can retreat and recharge.
What objects or corners of the farm bring you the most joy?
We live in a nine-metre yurt on the hill overlooking the property and that's definitely our safe place where we can fully relax. Recently, we also built a small plunge pool with a deck and sauna, which has become one of our favourite spots. And honestly, just spending time in the vegetable garden always has a calming effect on me.
What does a perfect weekend morning look like at Helder Farm?
We love going for a sunrise swim in the ocean, grabbing a coffee at a local café and then returning to the farm for breakfast and some time with the animals. The best weekends are the slow ones, where there's no rush. We might spend a little time in the garden, but without a schedule. Everything feels very unhurried.
Is there a season in the Alentejo that is your favourite, and if so why?
Spring is definitely my favourite season. Everything is still beautifully green, the wildflowers are in bloom and the temperatures are warm without being too hot. The whole landscape feels incredibly alive.
Do you have any non-negotiables at bedtime — things you always reach for or always avoid?
We try not to spend too much time on our phones before bed, although I have to admit that doesn't always work out. I do try to read for a little while and always enjoy ending the day with a cup of tea.
How does what you wear to bed factor into how you rest?
I think comfort is the most important thing. After long days spent outside, it's nice to change into something soft and comfortable that signals the day is over. It's a small ritual, but it definitely helps me unwind and get ready for a good night's sleep.
Discover Helder Farm Studio and follow Esmée on Instagram here.
Esmée wears the Classic Pyjama in Sky Blue Stripe.
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Images shot by Esmée. Images and text cannot be used or shared without permission.