6 Day Wellness, Yoga & Life Coaching Retreat in Sintra, Portugal

The retreat takes place in a traditional Portuguese house in the Sintra Natural Park, near the village of Azenhas do Mar. Patricia and Zarqa have run retreats here for years, and guests consistently comment on the relaxed atmosphere and how welcoming the space feels. The day begins with a vigorous vinyasa flow in a converted barn, then moves into breakfast, meditation, and the day's personal coaching session. The coaching is what sets this retreat apart – it's practical, direct work with an experienced coach who helps you articulate what you actually want and what's standing in the way.

Guests here tend to be in some kind of transition – between jobs, relationships, or versions of themselves – and the small group size means conversation over dinner gets real quickly. The hosts are both deeply experienced: Patricia has taught bodywork and yoga for over twenty years, and Zarqa's background includes six years living in a meditation school and two decades working with spiritual master Tony Samara. Their combined skill set means the yoga and meditation are taught with real depth, not just run through as a routine.

The coastline around the house is spectacular. The cliff-top views alone would make the trip worth it, but there are also wild beaches below and the enchanting village of Azenhas do Mar just two kilometres away. On free afternoons guests walk the coastal paths, explore nearby Sintra, or simply sit in the garden. There is also a jacuzzi at the house, and one of the bedrooms can be used for treatments – three therapeutic massages are included in the week.

What makes this retreat different is the integration of the body and mind work – the yoga prepares your nervous system for the coaching, and the coaching gives direction to the energy the yoga creates. By the end of the week, guests have discovered not only what needs to change but how to make it happen, with a realistic plan to take home.

What's included

- 5 nights accommodation in a traditional Portuguese house in the Sintra Natural Park - 5 healthy buffet breakfasts and 5 buffet-style dinners - 4 healthy lunch packages to take away each day - 10 yoga classes (morning and evening sessions) - 8 guided meditation sessions with Zarqa - 1 active meditation or sound journey session - 1-hour private life coaching consultation (video call or in person) - 3 therapeutic massage treatments (Ayurvedic, ZenShiatsu, and one additional treatment) - Spring water, teas, and sugar-free snacks - Free parking - WiFi in communal areas - Use of the mini-gym, jacuzzi, and garden

What's not included

- Flights to Lisbon - Travel insurance - Visa fees if applicable - Airport transfers (available at 50€ per one-way trip, shared up to 4 people) - Additional activities not listed in the itinerary (e.g. surf lessons, forest therapy) - Additional massage treatments beyond the three included - Alcoholic drinks (not available at the house) - Personal expenses and souvenirs