Catalonia Countryside Farming at Sant Miquel de Tudela

Family bonds and traditional techniques form the foundation for this off-grid farm dedicated to producing naturally grown olives, almonds, and herbs in the Spanish countryside.

By Tom Oder
Updated on July 21, 2022
article image
by Virginie Buu-Hoi Stewart and Héloïse Buu-Hoi

Escape to Sant Miquel de Tudela, an off-grid Spanish farm on the Catalonia countryside with naturally grown olives, almonds, and herbs.

PrintThis article is also in audio form for your listening enjoyment. Scroll down just a bit to find the recording.

Parisian-born Virginie Buu-Hoi Stewart counts herself fortunate to have fulfilled her life’s goal of traveling overseas and living in major cities. And who could blame her if she pinched herself to make sure she wasn’t dreaming while in Vietnam, London, the United States, and South Africa? Never in her wildest dreams, though, did she think her ultimate destination would be Sant Miquel de Tudela, an off-grid Spanish farm in a remote part of the country.

In 2017, Virginie and her husband, James, took over her mother’s 6-hectare olive, almond, and herb farm in Catalonia, Spain. The property also includes the ruins of a 12th-century village and church. Although initially unsure what to expect, Virginie says the transition led to an unexpected passion for the land. “Who would’ve thought that a real Parisian like me would be willing to trade in her high heels, makeup, and suit for a pair of old jeans and boots to become a farmer?” she says.

Virginie, James, and their dog, Winston, in front of Cal Tonillo

A Course to the Catalonia Countryside

Comments (0) Join others in the discussion!
    Online Store Logo
    Need Help? Call 1-800-234-3368