As an eco retreat centre, the accommodation options have been created in harmony with the nature surrounding them. Most of the accommodation options are Eco Pods - every nature lover's dream. You’ll sleep in close proximity with nature from the comfort of a cozy bed. They were designed and built by Rory, the owner, who took inspiration from sacred geometry.

Tetra-Pods - Inspired by the simplest 3D shape found in nature - the Tetrahedron. The walls reach 6 meters high to a clear top, and they have a large window with amazing views, all withbdoubke beds.

Tri-Pods - Named for their triangular shape, each has a small deck out front to admire the views of the pool and sweeping tree tops, available with doublke beds and two with 2 single beds.

Alta-Pods - Four more uniquely shaped pods with stunning views over the valley will be ready for your retreat by Spring 2024.

Penta-pods - Four pods with single beds. These pentagonal shaped structures have a small window and a door that rolls up so you can admire the view from bed, or lounge on the large private deck.

A note about sustainability & eco tourism:

Eco Pods do not have electicity, but do have a small solar lamp. The Granite Room and the Cabin have electricity and are located very near the communal bathrooms.

We have 3 showers sustainably heated by solar power or a wood stove. In addition there are 2 cold water outdoor showers.

We have both flushing toilets and dry compost toilets. Bathrooms are all shared.

Pricing

Penta-Pods (single bed) £1050pp

TriPods/TetraPods/AltaPods with double beds single occupancy £1150pp

Shared Tri-Pod with two single beds (booked together) £1000pp

Shared Tri/Tetra/Alta Pod with double bed £1000pp

This includes:

Accommodation for 5 nights.

2 yoga workshops per day.

Brunch and dinner each day.

Not included:

Travel to the retreat venue

Massages

Insurance

Extra info: Flights will need to be taken to Porto and shared taxis can be organised by the venue. Please email for further information.

There are two shalas to choose from: the indoor yoga shala with natural and calm vibes is heated for cooler days and has panoramic views out over the valley. With stunning views of the pool and soothing sounds of the river, the outdoor shala is a super peaceful spot to relax. There's plenty of equipment for a workout or Meditation.

Proposed Schedule

Arrive on 20th in time for an evening yoga practice around 5.30pm before dinner at 7.00pm. a

Then the schedule will be as follows:

Herbal teas, fruit

7:30am to 8:30am

Hatha flow class + meditation (2hrs)

8:30am to 10:30am

Buffet brunch

10:30am to 11:30am

Treatments, free time to hang out at the pool or go hiking

11:30am to 5:00pm

Evening practice (workshop, restorative, meditation or breathwork, kirtan) (90 mins)

5:00pm to 6:30pm

Dinner

19:00pm

James discovered living life through yoga almost 20 years ago and has been teaching for the past decade. He sees yoga less as a ‘work out’ and more of a ‘work in’, utilising the physical practice to journey within and bring balance and harmony to the whole ‘bodymind’. James’s teaching style is focused but compassionate and non dogmatic. He draws on a variety of styles, including traditional hatha, vinyasa flow and yin, incorporating the body, mind and breath into a meditative flow.

James's teaching begins on the mat but it is his aim that students will incorporate what they experience and learn in their everyday life; embodying yoga in their thoughts, communications and actions. In addition to his Yoga Alliance EYRT 500 certification James has completed his advanced Yin certification with Norman Blair and his 200 hr certification in kirtan leadership with Nikki Slade. His path of yoga has also been enriched with the study and practice of Buddhism, including Vipassana, Tibetan Mahayana and Zen, including a month long study at Kopan Monastery in Nepal. He has taught on several teacher trainings and currently co leads the 200hr YTTC for East of Eden.

As well as being a guide for others he also reminds himself that he is a lifelong student of yoga; like an instrument requires regular tuning to provide a harmonious sound.

Natural Swimming Pool

Our swimming pool is kept clear and chemical-free using a sand filter, UV filter, and diverse aquatic plants. The pool looks down from it's edge to the valley and surrounding woodland

Communal Spaces

For a break from nature's elements, we have cozy communal dining spaces and chill-out areas. Grab a cup of tea, a good book, and cuddle up with one of the cats.

Hot Tub & Sauna

Our eco hot tub is heated by both wood-fire and solar power. Our hobbit-style sauna is also heated by wood-fire, and near enough to the pool to cool down in between sessions.

Explore the Area

The Serra da Estrela region is rich in ancient history, culture and natural beauty.

Rent a mountain bike to venture on the Dolmen Mystery Tour to explore clues left on the earth by our ancestors 6000 years ago.

At our doorstep is the Mondego River. A peaceful way to pass a hot afternoon is paddling on one of our Stand Up Paddle Boards along the Mondego Valley.