Algarve Surf Camp: Yoga & Surf Retreat on Portugal's Wild West Coast

Russo Surfcamp sits right behind Vale Figueiras beach, a wide, sandy bay with consistent waves that work for all levels. The camp itself is a collection of rooms and shared spaces, with a surf school, a yoga deck, a small farm and biological garden, and a kitchen where Tininha — Rui's mum — cooks meals for guests as if they were family. The vibe is relaxed and communal: you eat together, surf together, and hang out on the terrace in the evenings.

Surf coaching is the core of the week. The head coach is Luis Marreiros, a local from Vale Figueiras who has been teaching here since the camp opened in 2003 and is certified with FPS and IPDJ. He's known for pushing intermediates in rough conditions while keeping things fun. Hannah, an Australian who competed for Western Australia as a junior, takes the beginners and beginner-intermediates — her classes are structured and kids love her. Egor, ISA-qualified and a member of the Russian national team, works with intermediates and speaks English, Russian, and Portuguese. You'll usually get two surf sessions a day, with theory sessions on the beach and video analysis when conditions allow.

Yoga is included and taught by Lauren, who is RYT 500 certified with 24 years of practice and 16 years of teaching. She specialises in Surf Yoga, Vinyasa Flow, Yin, and SUP yoga, and her classes are designed to complement surfing — lots of stretching for shoulders, hips, and lower back. All levels are welcome, and mats are provided.

Beyond surfing and yoga, there's a lot going on if you want it. The team organises beach volleyball, skate sessions, fishing trips (the staff are keen fishermen and often bring back fresh fish for dinner), and bike rides. There's also a beach cleaning activity that guests can join. The camp grows some of its own fruit and vegetables, which end up in the kitchen.

Evenings are social. Maria tends the bar, Rui fires up the Saturday night BBQ, and people play music, chat, and sometimes party. It's a family atmosphere — many guests return year after year, and the staff treat everyone like friends. The camp is also suitable for solo travellers, couples, and families; there are teen camps in summer, but adults of all ages are welcome year-round.

What's included

- 7 nights accommodation in shared or private rooms - Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner (except one dinner) - Daily surf sessions with certified coaches - Surfboard and wetsuit rental - Daily yoga classes - Surf theory and video analysis - Saturday night BBQ - Free Wi-Fi in common areas - Use of camp facilities (bar, terrace, yoga deck)

What's not included

- Flights to/from Faro - Airport transfers (can be arranged for an extra fee) - Travel insurance - One dinner at a local restaurant - Personal expenses (drinks, souvenirs) - Optional activities (fishing trips, extra excursions)