Wellness Escape: Slow Down with Yoga, Lake Swims & Farm-to-Table Food in Portugal

Mornings at Cucumbi start slowly. You can sleep in, take a walk through the cork trees, or swim in the lake before gathering for an 8:30 am practice. This session blends meditation, journaling, pranayama, and a dynamic open-level Vinyasa Flow and Power Yoga, ending with a long Savasana. The timing is deliberate—you get to experience the soft pink morning light that makes the farm feel magical. After practice, a generous brunch buffet is served at 10:30 am, featuring fresh juices, sourdough bread, eggs from the farm's chickens, and local cheeses.

Afternoons are for slowing down further. A late-afternoon session focuses inward with Yin yoga, myo-fascial release, restorative poses, meditation, and breath work. Before that, light snacks are laid out to refuel. As the sun sets, you can enjoy an aperitif or glass of wine by the pool or the lake—the practice schedule is timed so you won't miss it. Around 7:30 pm, a three-course farm-to-table dinner is served in the restaurant, indoors or out, depending on the temperature. The food is wholesome, colorful, and much of it comes from Cucumbi's own vegetable garden.

What makes this retreat different from a standard yoga holiday is the setting. Cucumbi is a working farm with 112 hectares of rolling hills, several lakes, two hiking trails (3-5 km), and a dedicated yoga deck. You have free run of the property: bikes, stand-up paddle boards, and canoes are all included. The farmhouse itself has a saltwater pool, a communal kitchen with an honesty bar, a small shop, and a beautiful restaurant. It's a place where the energy is calm and the surroundings are stunning—guests often say they don't want to leave.

Lisa and her co-host Naza are known for making everyone feel welcome. They've run over 100 retreats and 20+ teacher trainings since 2013, and their expertise shows in the careful sequencing of the program. There are also surprise workshops with guest facilitators, all in line with the retreat's focus on rest and renewal. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or joining with a partner who doesn't practice, the flexible schedule and warm atmosphere make it easy to find your own rhythm.

What's included

- 6 days, 5 nights accommodation at Cucumbi Farm - Access to the entire 112-hectare property: lakes, hiking trails, saltwater pool, and indoor/outdoor spaces - Daily 2-hour morning Vinyasa practice - Daily afternoon session (Yin / Breathwork / Dance) - Daily generous brunch buffet - Daily three-course farm-to-table dinner - Hearty afternoon snack - Water, tea, and coffee served throughout the day - Free use of bikes, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards - Free parking - Wi-Fi

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Lunches (brunch replaces lunch) - Additional treatments and activities not in the itinerary