10 Picturesque Yoga Retreats in Portugal (2024)
Are you thinking of going on a yoga retreat in Portugal? Great idea! This beautiful country has become one of the world’s best yoga travel destinations in recent years.
And no wonder – Portugal is one of the most enchanting countries in Europe with stunning scenery, historic cities, and a thriving yoga, surf and wellness scene.
Whether you’d like to combine a yoga retreat with exploring charming cities, surfing, hiking, wine tasting, or simply relaxing, there’s a diverse range of incredible yoga retreats in Portugal to choose from.
In this article, I’ll give you my recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Portugal, explain why it’s such a great yoga destination and help you plan your next rejuvenating getaway.
Pin this image!
Reasons to choose Portugal for a Yoga Retreat
Portugal has become one of the most popular yoga and wellness destinations in Europe, and for good reason. Here are some reasons why I think Portugal is the perfect place for a yoga retreat:
- Stunning Natural Scenery: From rugged coastlines to rolling hills and beautiful beaches, Portugal’s wild and natural beauty provides a refreshing and inspirational backdrop for yoga practice.
- Mild Climate: With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Portugal boasts a mild and sunny climate perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Rich History: Portugal is steeped in history, with charming cities and villages, medieval castles, and ancient ruins making it the perfect destination for combining a yoga retreat with cultural experiences.
- Diversity of Activities: Portugal’s retreats offer a wide range of activities to complement your yoga practice. From surfing and hiking to wine tasting and city tours, there’s something for everyone.
- Affordability: Compared to other European countries, Portugal offers great value for money. You can find budget-friendly yoga retreats without compromising on quality or experience.
- Delicious Cuisine: Portugal is known for its delicious and healthy cuisine, with an abundance of fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables and traditional dishes to nourish your body during your retreat.
Best Destinations for Yoga Retreats in Portugal
There’s no shortage of stunning beaches, natural beauty, and charming cities that make ideal places to practice yoga in Portugal.
Whether you seek a beachside retreat or want to experience off grid eco living, here are some of the best destinations for yoga retreats in Portugal:
The Algarve: This region in southern Portugal boasts stunning beach resorts, golf courses and a laid back lifestyle – perfect for fun and sunshine filled surf and yoga holidays. Popular resort towns like Lagos, Faro and Albufeira have lively nightlife, or head to Aljezur and the mountains of Monchique to get off the beaten track.
Lisbon: Portugal’s historic capital city is a unique and enchanting place to explore with cobbled streets, old yellow trams and picturesque viewpoints. While you won’t find many yoga retreats in Lisbon city itself there’s plenty of options nearby, like Sintra and Cascais just 30 minutes away, which make it easy to combine relaxation and sightseeing.
Cascais: A charming seaside resort town just outside Lisbon offering interesting architecture, a citadel, marina, beaches, surfing and galleries.
Sintra: Nestled in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park on the outskirts of Lisbon, Sintra is home to some of Portugal’s most iconic and colourful palaces and castles.
Ericeira: A quaint fishing village 1 hour north of Lisbon with a thriving yoga, wellness and surf scene. Home to Europe’s only world surf reserve and known as Portugal’s surfing capital, there are plenty of surf and yoga retreats in Ericeira.
Peniche: An authentic fishing town on the Atlantic coast offering a fortress, pristine beaches, world-class waves, yoga and surf camps.
Porto: A beautiful, historic city overlooking the Douro River in northern Portugal, known for its Port wine. The Porto District boasts some great surf beaches, natural parks and the Douro Valley.
Castelo Branco: Aremote, inland area of central Portugal home to several off-grid communities. Some offer yoga and meditation retreats and courses in permaculture and natural building methods – ideal if you’re interested in experiencing eco-friendly living.
Madeira: A lush island in the Atlantic Ocean known for its wine and dramatic mountain scenery. Madeira is the perfect place for a yoga and hiking retreat where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views, beaches and picturesque fishing villages.
The Azores: A group of nine small Portuguese islands in the Atlantic Ocean that offer breathtaking volcanic landscapes, hot springs, lakes, waterfalls and a real escape from the rest of the world.
The Best Yoga Retreats in Portugal
Here is my pick of the best retreats in Portugal – from yoga and meditation, to surfing, hiking, relaxing and more.
- Yoga and Meditation Retreats
- 4Elements Retreat, near Lisbon
- Shamballah Retreat, Sintra
- Om Academy Mind Spa, Porto
- Yoga and Relaxation Retreats
- Happiness Safari, Algarve
- Moka Surfhouse, Ericeira
- Yoga and Surf Retreats
- Salty Pelican, Cascais
- Star Pine Lodge, Sintra
- Yoga and Nature Retreats
- Go Trails, Madeira
- Zee Barn, Ericeira
- Bron Yoor Rust Geluk, Algarve
Yoga and Meditation Retreats
4Elements Retreat, near Lisbon
If you’d like to combine a yoga holiday with exploring some of the historic cities and beaches near Lisbon then this could be the best Portugal retreat for you.
With this 7 day retreat in Santa Cruz, just a short drive from Lisbon, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in a week of yoga and meditation while also experiencing the nature, culture and attractions of Portugal.
Highlights
- Twice daily Hatha and Yin yoga classes
- Excursions, guided walks and wine tasting
- Homegrown vegetarian food
The retreat takes place on a farm, providing a peaceful and natural environment for yoga practice. Yoga classes are suitable for all levels, whether you’re a beginner or have been practicing for years.
Accommodation is provided in a private, en-suite room for 6 nights. Airport transfer is also included to make your travel experience hassle-free.
The included excursions are what make this yoga retreat really stand out, with guided walks, local wine tasting, and a trip to see picturesque Óbidos and Nazaré, home to the biggest waves in the world all part of the package.
- 7 days / 6 nights
- Prices from approx. US$1,164 / €1,049 / £923
Shamballah Retreats, Sintra
If you’re looking for a retreat in Portugal that focuses on yoga, meditation and fitness, Shamballah Retreats in Sintra is the perfect choice.
Set in the heart of UNESCO listed Sintra National Park, you’ll have access to beautiful nature walks, stunning coastal views and Portugal’s most famous colorful castles and palaces.
Highlights
- 10 yoga classes
- 5 guided meditations
- Easy access to Sintra National Park
This 6-day retreat includes daily Hatha yoga classes as well as Pilates and other relaxation and stretching classes, massage treatments, and delicious vegetarian meals.
You’ll stay in private, comfortable and luxurious accommodation with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. The retreat center offers additional activities at an extra cost such as forest therapy, sound journeys, guided walks, and voice therapy to enhance your experience.
Each day begins with a rejuvenating yoga session followed by a stroll along the stunning coastline or exploring the cultural landscape of Sintra. Delicious and healthy vegetarian meals made from fresh local ingredients are served every day.
With a focus on restoring, healing and harmonizing the body and mind, this retreat will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated among some of Portugal’s most beautiful scenery.
- 6 days / 5 nights
- Prices from approx. US$1,220 / €1,100 / £968
Om Academy Mind Spa, Porto
If you’re looking for a yoga and detox retreat in Portugal that offers a unified approach to mind, body and soul then check out this 4 day retreat in Porto.
Highlights
- 3 daily yoga sessions
- 2 daily meditations
- 1 hour daily lecture or discussion
- Sound bath and one additional therapy
- 5 daily detox drinks
Located near the river in Porto, and just a short walk from the coast, the Om Academy is an oasis of calm at the center of this historic city.
There’s a comprehensive schedule with up to three daily yoga sessions in different styles, including hot yoga and aerial yoga. Then there’s twice daily meditations and an hour of discussion on wellness.
A regular supply of healthy detox drinks are provided instead of meals, with the goal of helping you purify your body and promote longevity to stimulate greater serenity and self-satisfaction.
The nearby 4-star hotels HF Ipanema Porto and HF Fenix Porto will provide comfortable accommodation during the retreat, and are just a few minutes walk from Om Academy.
This retreat is great for anyone who wants to enjoy a lot of yoga, wellness activities and spa treatments but doesn’t have time for a longer retreat. You’ll come away feeling healthy, refreshed and revitalized after just four days.
- 4 days / 3 nights
- Prices from approx. US$832 / €750 / £660
Yoga and Relaxation Retreats
Happiness Safari, Algarve
If you’re hunting for a transformational luxury yoga retreat in the Algarve with a healthy splash of luxury and relaxation then Happiness Safari near Silves offers just that.
Highlights
- Luxurious accommodation at Moodz resort
- Fantastic spa facilities
- Daily meditation and yoga class
- Workshops, clinics and ceremonies
Staying on a luxury private resort with a small group of guests you’ll have access to an exclusive spa which offers saunas, massage, jacuzzi, ice baths and a swimming pool. There’s plenty of room to lounge around in and it’s all topped off with a beautiful nature view.
The yoga classes are mostly Hot Yoga, also known as Bikram style, so you’ll be getting a good workout each morning before brunch, and then have time to relax or explore before the evening activities.
Workshops and spiritual ceremonies are held each evening and cover interesting yoga topics like embodiment, connection and laughter therapy. The sound bath and cacao ceremony on the third evening are particularly powerful.
Most of the luxurious lodges and villas are shared accommodation, but single rooms are available in limited number and couples can book a private room together.
- 7 days / 6 nights
- Prices from approx. US$1,663 / €1,499 / £1,319
Moka Surfhouse, Ericeira
If you’ve ever dreamed of practicing yoga in a yurt then head to Moka Surfhouse and Yoga Retreat!
Perched on a hilltop just outside the charming surf town of Ericeira only 1 hour from Lisbon this stylish Portugal retreat has a laid-back and welcoming vibe.
Highlights:
- Daily yoga and meditation classes held in a Mongolian yurt
- Healthy breakfast, vegetarian dinner and transfers into town
- 1 relaxing massage
You’ll stay in comfy shared or private rooms in a large Portuguese villa with gardens and ocean views. On the property you’ll find a 66-square meter traditional Mongolian yurt where the twice- daily yoga classes, lessons and workshops take place.
Multiple styles of yoga are offered, from energetic Ashtanga yoga and Vinyasa flow yoga to relaxing restorative yoga sessions with Yoga Nidra. All yoga sessions include meditation and pranayama. One massage is included in the price and they also offer surf lessons and equipment hire.
Wholesome breakfasts, sociable group dinners, and open-air movie nights are held in their beautiful garden. Free bike hire and daily transfers into Ericeira are also included for when you want to explore the town.
- 6 days / 5 nights
- Prices from approx. US$504 / €454 / £400
Yoga and Surf Retreats
Salty Pelican, Cascais
If you’re after a short, affordable yoga and surf retreat check out Salty Pelican – they are renowned for their fun retreats in Portugal and Sri Lanka.
In Portugal Salty Pelican have retreat centres in Peniche, Ericiera, and Cascais, and offer both short 4-day getaways and 8-day retreats.
Highlights:
- Unlimited yoga and meditation classes (Hatha and Yin yoga)
- 1 surf lesson and unlimited surf board rental
- 1 relaxing massage
- Healthy breakfast buffet
If you’re keen to try out surfing for the first time then this yoga and surf retreat is a great choice as it includes 1 professional surf lesson and unlimited surf board rental – so you can keep practicing what you’ve learned in your free time.
As well as yoga and surfing lessons, Salty Pelican organizes other activities, including massages, SUP yoga, guided meditation, hikes, rock climbing trips and group dinner nights. This retreat is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation and is a great option for solo travelers.
You’ll stay in a luxury lodge only 700m from the beach and, whether you choose the shared or private room option, you can enjoy the swimming pool, sociable lounge areas and a daily healthy breakfast buffet.
- 4 days / 3 nights
- Prices from approx. US$387/ €349 / £307
Star Pine Lodge, near Sintra
If you’re looking for a longer, but still budget-friendly, yoga and surf holiday in Portugal check out Star Pine Lodge near Praia Grande beach and the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
Highlights
- Daily surf and yoga lessons
- Set in the beautiful national park surrounded by nature
- Range of additional activities on offer, including kite surfing and mountain biking
Their affordable packages include accommodation, daily breakfast and lunch, transport to and from the surf spots, surfing lessons with equipment included, as well as evening yoga sessions.
The experienced and friendly instructors will guide you through each daily surf lesson and tailor it to your level. This retreat is perfect for beginner surfers as well as those looking to improve their skills.
The yoga classes are taught in Vinyasa flow yoga style, focusing on connecting breath with movement to create a natural flowing sequence. A perfect compliment to surfing.
The Lodge itself offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to meet like-minded travelers and settle in from the very first moment. There’s options for shared or private rooms and all include access to the pool, yoga and fitness area, garden, chill-out-lounge, and a communal kitchen.
- 5 days / 4 nights
- Prices from approx. US$422 / €380 / £334
Yoga and Nature Retreats
Go Trails, Madeira Island
If you love yoga and exploring dramatic landscapes then this is the Portugal retreat for you! Go Trail runs an amazing 6 day hiking and yoga holiday on the beautiful island of Madeira.
This is a unique experience that combines daily hikes to discover the island with relaxing hatha yoga sessions to unwind. You’ll get to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Laurissilva Forest, ancient irrigation canals known as Levadas, and breathtaking viewpoint peaks.
Highlights:
- Remote island location
- 3 long hiking tours into nature
- 3 Hatha yoga classes
- Airport transfer from Funchal
The hiking program is adaptable for all fitness levels so anyone physically active can join in. You’ll have the company of certified and experienced local mountain guides who will show you the hidden gems of the island.
After a day of exploring, you’ll stay in a hotel in the charming city of Funchal in a private single or twin room, and enjoy a delicious breakfast served each morning to fuel your adventures.
- 6 days / 5 nights
- Prices from approx. US$1098 / €990 / £871
Zee Barn, near Ericeira
If you want to connect with nature and experience off-grid eco-living on a permaculture farm then head to Zee Barn in Encarnacao.
Just north of Ericeira in the Lisboa region of Portugal, Zee Barn is in a quiet rural area surrounded by green fields, and yet it is just 2km from the coast and only an hour’s drive from the capital city.
Highlights
- Permaculture workshop
- 90 minute daily meditation, pranayama and sound healing
- Daily Hatha / Vinyasa yoga class
The included permaculture workshop is a theoretical and practical walkthrough of the basic principles of environmentally healthy land management. You’ll get your hands dirty once you’ve mastered the understanding behind Zee Barns guiding principles.
Choose between sleeping in a barn, cabin or geodesic dome tent for total immersion in this unique off-grid yoga retreat. Brunch and dinner are served daily, offering a mix of raw, vegan and macrobiotic goodness straight from the farm.
- 4 days / 3 nights
- Prices from approx. US$521 / €470 / £414
Bron Yoor Rust Geluk, Algarve
For animal lovers and equine enthusiasts, this 6 day yoga retreat in the Algarve combines daily yoga and meditation with horse riding and horse therapy.
The retreat is held close to Aljezur in the south of Portugal on a large plot surrounded by nature and beaches are just 5km away.
Highlights
- Horse therapy and riding lessons
- Vijnana style yoga
- Meals included
Your daily activities include meditation, yoga, breathwork and nature walks. There’s a session of horse therapy included, which helps you to learn about yourself by spending time with their majestic animals. Extra horse riding lessons and outriding are on offer also.
Teepees in the forest make up the shared accommodation, and there’s a few private cabins available for those who want their own space. These are all basic but comfortable and add another dimension to this already exciting yoga retreat.
- 6 days / 5 nights
- Prices from approx. US$666 / €600 / £528
How to Choose a Portugal Yoga Retreat
The huge variety of retreats and beautiful locations can make it hard to choose between all the amazing yoga retreats in Portugal. Here’s some of the most important things to consider and tips to help you decide:
- Type of Retreat: There are many different types of retreat available, offering different styles of yoga and additional activities, so your first step should be to decide which type of retreat you’d prefer. Do you want to focus purely on yoga, or would you like to experience meditation, surfing, hiking, wine tasting, or other activities too? Next, consider the style of yoga taught and your experience level to find the right retreat for you. You’ll find everything from beginner-friendly and relaxing Hatha and Yin yoga retreats, to advanced intensive Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga teacher training retreats, so whatever you’re into you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
- Location: Portugal has so many beautiful locations to choose from, so you should consider what kind of experience you’re looking for. Do you want a beach retreat, mountain retreat or somewhere in the countryside or forests? Or would you prefer to be close to a city like Lisbon so you can also explore all it has to offer? Each location offers different activities and scenery, so think about what appeals to you the most.
- Accommodation and Facilities: Another important factor to consider is the type of accommodation and facilities offered at the retreat. Do you prefer a private room or are you happy to share a dorm? Would you like to experience outdoor yoga sessions or practice in an open-air yoga shala (studio) with a view? Is having a swimming pool, sauna or spa treatments important to you? Make sure the retreat offers everything you need and want in terms of comfort and amenities.
- Food and Dietary Needs: Most retreats offer healthy, vegetarian or vegan meals as part of their package. If not, check if there is a kitchen or local restaurants nearby and budget accordingly. If you have any specific dietary requirements or preferences, be sure to check if the retreat can accommodate them. Also, be aware that some retreats may not serve alcohol or meat so check with the organizer first so you know what to expect.
- Instructors and Teaching Style: The instructors at a yoga retreat can make or break your experience, so it’s important to research their qualifications and teaching style. Are they certified and experienced teachers? What kind of yoga do they specialize in and do they include meditation sessions? Do they provide a supportive and nurturing environment for beginners, or do they focus more on experienced yogis? Read reviews and reach out to the retreat organizers if you have any questions.
- Excursions and Activities: Besides yoga classes, many retreats offer additional activities and excursions such as hiking, surfing, cooking classes, wine tasting, or sightseeing. These can be a great way to connect with nature and explore the local culture. However, if you are looking for a more focused yoga experience, make sure there is enough time dedicated to practice and relaxation instead of constant outings.
- Duration and Cost: Retreats can vary from just a weekend to several weeks, so consider how much time you have and what fits your budget. Yoga retreats in Portugal range from budget-friendly to luxury, so decide on a price point that works for you. Remember to check what’s included and what isn’t and factor in additional costs such as transportation to the retreat center and any extra activities or treatments. Sometimes all-inclusive yoga retreats offer a better experience and can end up being better value for money. Keep in mind that retreats sometimes offer early bird discounts or payment plans, so book early if you’re looking to save some money.
- Reviews: Reading reviews from previous participants on unbiased websites like bookyogaretreats.com and bookretreats.com can give you important insights into what the retreat is really like, how good the yoga teaching is, and any potential downsides or things to be aware of. Consider both positive and negative reviews to make an informed decision. You can also reach out to the retreat organizers with any specific questions or concerns you may have before booking.
Conclusion: Portugal Yoga Retreats
With a winning combination of beautiful cities, stunning nature, great weather and diverse range of adventurous activities on offer, it’s no wonder that yoga retreats in Portugal have become so popular in recent years.
Whether you are simply looking for a relaxing yoga holiday in beautiful surroundings, or to combine yoga with sightseeing and other activities like surfing, hiking and wine tasting, a retreat is such a great way to experience the beauty and charm of Portugal.
And with such a diverse range of retreats, you’re sure to find the perfect experience for you. Whichever retreat you choose, I hope you will be as enchanted by this wondrous and enigmatic country as I am!
* This post may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase through links on our site we may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products that we love and genuinely use ourselves. All prices stated are correct on the date of publishing, but can be subject to change.
© loveyogalovetravel.com 2022-2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to loveyogalovetravel.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
