Location and Atmosphere

What is up with Portugal? It seems like everyone wants to travel there, move there, live there nowadays! Come explore the colourful, chilled-out Portuguese way of life with us at this yoga retreat at this unique, sustainable venue. Sip an abatanado (espresso to you and me) and watch the world go by at a street-side cafe. Explore beautiful beaches, paddle board along coastal rivers and if you’re lucky spot a dolphin on the horizon. And most importantly, get to know yourself better while you slow down and soak in the natural beauty of our home base in Portugal’s southern “Algarve” region.

Rural Escapes Portugal provides an inviting atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views of the mountains. The property features charming, eco-friendly accommodations designed to make you feel at home in the surrounding nature while providing all the amenities you need for a restful stay. From cozy, communal spaces to tranquil gardens, you’ll find plenty of spots to unwind, reflect, and connect with fellow participants.

The retreat location is strategically positioned for easy access to Monchique, a charming typically Portuguese town. The town itself boasts cobbled streets, traditional Portuguese houses, and stunning views over the surrounding hills and coastline. You’ll discover local shops, quaint cafés, and markets where you can experience authentic Portuguese culture.

Daily Schedule

Each day of the retreat is thoughtfully structured to provide a balanced mix of yoga, adventure, and relaxation. Mornings typically start with a sunrise meditation and then an invigorating yoga session led by Carrie. Carrie’s classes are designed thoughtfully to awaken and energize both body and mind, while weaving in mythology and the philosophical “off-the-mat” principles of yoga along the way. Carrie’s classes are trauma-informed with lots of options for beginners and experienced yogis alike! She does her best to make every practice inclusive and keep everyone engaged and learning throughout the week!

After a wholesome breakfast prepared by Zach, the midday schedule will include either an adventurous hike, beach day, or town exploration, or a special workshop on mindfulness, Ayurveda, or yoga for recovery. These interactive sessions offer practical insights that you can integrate into your daily life long after the retreat ends.

Afternoons are designed for relaxation and self-exploration. You might enjoy a leisurely walk in the surrounding hills, spend time at the pool, or engage in one of the optional additional activities offered.

Evenings culminate in yin or restorative yoga sessions, and then a chance to share experiences with fellow participants over a delicious dinner. Each meal is a celebration of local ingredients, reflecting our commitment to wellness and nourishment throughout your stay. More about the food below…

What activities are included in this Portugal yoga retreat?

This Portugal yoga retreat will have lots of included activities, along with optional add-on adventures. What’s included:

• Mount Fóia highest point in  Southern Portugal – a hike (5 miles, 1000 feet of elevation gain)
• Beach day at a popular nearby beach in the Algarve region
• Sea cave kayaking tour
• Half-day town exploration in Monchique
• Daily or twice-daily yoga & mindfulness practices
• Special Summer Solstice ceremony, other special workshops
• Plenty of time to relax at Rural Escapes Portugal, hike around the area, or relax by the pool
• Optional additional activities:
• Surf lesson
• Massage or treatment
• Additional town or beach trips

To book

For more details and to book visit  Bigger Life Adventures website

https://www.biggerlifeadventures.com/product/monchique-portugal-europe-summer-solstice-yoga-retreat/

Join us for five days of self-discovery, connection with others, and a deep re-connection with your heart, soul, and inner being. Immerse yourself in the healing practice of yoga and Social Psychology, coupled with the vibration of crystal bowls, gongs and the didgeridoo as you relax into and embrace the boundless presence within. This retreat is designed to guide you toward profound inner peace in the tranquil heart of the Monchique Mountains, where nature’s serenity surrounds and embraces you.

Schedule

Day 1

We begin with a welcome circle, connecting our souls through mindfulness practices, followed by a healthy, delicious, and nutritious dinner. A complimentary shuttle from Faro airport is available on this day for your convenience. Please contact us about the flight transfer before booking your flight.

Day 2

We start the day with hatha yoga, combining meditation, pranayama, asanas, and a soothing gong meditation. Afterwards, we gather together to enjoy a deliciously nutritious brunch. In the afternoon, Maria leads a therapeutic group session, and in the evening João offers a calming sound healing experience.

Day 3

On this day, we begin with a beautiful sound yoga practice, blending mantras, mudras, kundalini yoga, and gentle breathwork. The soothing sounds of the Gong and Didgeridoo will leave you feeling calm and rejuvenated.

In the afternoon, Maria will guide a psychodrama session, followed by a transformative evening featuring a Cacao ceremony, Ecstatic Dance, and Sound Healing—an unforgettable experience.

Day 4

Our fourth day begins with yoga and gong meditation, followed by a delicious brunch.

In the afternoon, João leads a Puja Sound Healing session using the Gong, crystal bowls, shamanic instruments, and light language activation. These transformative practices help you reconnect with your true self and inner purpose, opening your heart to greater abundance and love.

Day 5

Start your day with Sound Yoga and a delightful brunch.

In the afternoon, reconnect with your essence through Art Therapy led by Maria. As the evening unfolds, prepare for a profound experience: João, Jean-Jacques, and Vanessa will perform a seven-and-a-half-hour Gong Puja while you sleep. This immersive sound journey will impact you on a deep, subconscious level, reaching beyond what you can consciously observe.

Day 6

We wake up early after the regenerative Gong Puja, allowing you to watch a sunrise or take some time to integrate all activations of this week.

We get together for our final brunch and end this magical retreat in a sharing circle. For those needing an airport transfer we will leave Rural Escapes after 12 noon.

Meet the Facilitators

João Rafael Viana
Sound Healing / Gong Bath / Meditation

João a certified holistic therapist from Portugal, his mission is to spread love, peace, and light to all he encounters. His spiritual journey began in his childhood, when his mother introduced him to the world of energy and healing. At the age of twelve, João discovered Reiki, which sparked a deep and lifelong passion for holistic healing.

João embarked on a six-month pilgrimage through South America, where he encountered the ancient practice of Crystalline Sound healing. This modality initially came to him as a whisper during meditation, has become his calling.

Today, João integrates the wisdom gained from his travels, continuous study, and meditation into his therapeutic practices. Specialising in Crystalline Sound healing, which he offers to individuals and groups within the Algarve.

Maria Jose
Social Psychologist / Yoga Instructor

Maria shares her elder wisdom and uses creative approaches to help you awaken to a deeper awareness. She will guide you in processing internal challenges and unconscious patterns with compassion, facilitating the release of old structures that no longer serve your growth. This process opens the way for a more loving and liberated connection with all aspects of your life, including relationships, your profession, habits, and your soul’s path.

Costs: €850 per person (all incl.)

Includes: Shared accommodation, all meals, all sessions, and airport pick-up and drop-off.

Continue reading “Multidimensional Sound Healing with Social Psychology Retreat”

Location and Atmosphere

What is up with Portugal? It seems like everyone wants to travel there, move there, live there nowadays! Come explore the colourful, chilled-out Portuguese way of life with us at this yoga retreat at this unique, sustainable venue. Sip an abatanado (espresso to you and me) and watch the world go by at a street-side cafe. Explore beautiful beaches, paddle board along coastal rivers and if you’re lucky spot a dolphin on the horizon. And most importantly, get to know yourself better while you slow down and soak in the natural beauty of our home base in Portugal’s southern “Algarve” region.

Rural Escapes Portugal provides an inviting atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views of the mountains. The property features charming, eco-friendly accommodations designed to make you feel at home in the surrounding nature while providing all the amenities you need for a restful stay. From cozy, communal spaces to tranquil gardens, you’ll find plenty of spots to unwind, reflect, and connect with fellow participants.

The retreat location is strategically positioned for easy access to Monchique, a charming typically Portuguese town. The town itself boasts cobbled streets, traditional Portuguese houses, and stunning views over the surrounding hills and coastline. You’ll discover local shops, quaint cafés, and markets where you can experience authentic Portuguese culture.

Daily Schedule

Each day of the retreat is thoughtfully structured to provide a balanced mix of yoga, adventure, and relaxation. Mornings typically start with a sunrise meditation and then an invigorating yoga session led by Carrie. Carrie’s classes are designed thoughtfully to awaken and energize both body and mind, while weaving in mythology and the philosophical “off-the-mat” principles of yoga along the way. Carrie’s classes are trauma-informed with lots of options for beginners and experienced yogis alike! She does her best to make every practice inclusive and keep everyone engaged and learning throughout the week!

After a wholesome breakfast prepared by Zach, the midday schedule will include either an adventurous hike, beach day, or town exploration, or a special workshop on mindfulness, Ayurveda, or yoga for recovery. These interactive sessions offer practical insights that you can integrate into your daily life long after the retreat ends.

Afternoons are designed for relaxation and self-exploration. You might enjoy a leisurely walk in the surrounding hills, spend time at the pool, or engage in one of the optional additional activities offered.

Evenings culminate in yin or restorative yoga sessions, and then a chance to share experiences with fellow participants over a delicious dinner. Each meal is a celebration of local ingredients, reflecting our commitment to wellness and nourishment throughout your stay. More about the food below…

What activities are included in this Portugal yoga retreat?

This Portugal yoga retreat will have lots of included activities, along with optional add-on adventures. What’s included:

• Mount Fóia highest point in  Southern Portugal – a hike (5 miles, 1000 feet of elevation gain)
• Beach day at a popular nearby beach in the Algarve region
• Sea cave kayaking tour
• Half-day town exploration in Monchique
• Daily or twice-daily yoga & mindfulness practices
• Special Summer Solstice ceremony, other special workshops
• Plenty of time to relax at Rural Escapes Portugal, hike around the area, or relax by the pool
• Optional additional activities:
• Surf lesson
• Massage or treatment
• Additional town or beach trips

To book

For more details and to book visit  Bigger Life Adventures website

Portugal Summer Solstice Yoga & Adventure Retreat!

The Retreat

When was the last time you allowed yourself to play and truly have fun? It’s so easy to lose sight of joy as we get caught up in our endless to-do lists and the demands of daily life. At this retreat immersed in nature in the mountains of southern Portugal, we will create a nurturing space where you can slow down and reconnect with your inner child’s natural creative spirit.

Together we will explore any blocks that may come up as you re-ignite your playfulness. Through guided sharing circles, creative activities, gentle yoga, breathwork, meditation and sound healing, we will embark on a journey of playfulness and healing.

Absolutely no art experience is necessary just a willingness to be vulnerable and open to allow the process to flow through. Creativity is a natural and Divine given form of expression open to everyone.

There will be plenty of opportunity to relax, hang out in a hammock, swim in the pool, read a book, journal and immerse yourself in nature.

This is your time to prioritise yourself, listen to the whispers of your inner child, and bring more balance, creativity, and joy into your life. Let’s come together to heal, grow, and play.

Who is this retreat for?

This retreat is designed for anyone ready to dive deep into their inner healing recognising that true healing comes when we face, feel and transcend our shadows, thus unburdening and setting free our vibrant inner-child.

During this retreat, you will be guided to explore and release the blocks that prevent you from experiencing true fun and connection. This transforming process will not only enhance your personal well-being but will also positively impact how you relate to others—whether in love partnerships, family, friends or within your broader community.

Meet the Facilitators

Camilla Bergman Retreat facilitator

Camilla is a highly experienced yoga teacher, retreat facilitator, and project manager with a background in playwork and education. She began her career leading art sessions for children and teens in inner-city London and later facilitated magazine design workshops for young adults and intergenerational art projects for council run facilities and schools in London.

Now based in Portugal, she co-owns Rural Escapes Portugal, a retreat and holiday centre she and her husband built as a sanctuary for healing and transformation. With over 12 years of teaching experience, Camilla specialises in Hatha and Kundalini yoga, with a focus on supporting those in recovery. She has trained extensively with renowned experts, including Nikki Myers (Y12SR – Yoga of 12-Step Recovery), Carolyn Cowan (Mastering the Addictive Personality), and Durga Leela (Yoga of Recovery), as well as Trauma-Sensitive Yoga. Her studies with master sound healer Don Conreaux further enrich her holistic approach.

In recovery since 1999, Camilla draws on her personal journey to create safe, inclusive spaces for healing. She has taught yoga in diverse settings, from Lewes Prison to Brighton University, Virgin Active, and Cascade Recovery Centre. Since 2014, she has led retreats in Tenerife and Portugal and continues to teach at Rural Escapes Portugal, Point-O Rehab Centre, and online through bu-evolution and private classes.

Blending yoga, art, and holistic healing, Camilla’s work offers a deeply transformative experience.

Jan Buis – breathwork practitioner

Jan spent much of his life searching for truth and shedding the protective masks that many wear to navigate struggle. His journey of self-discovery led him to sacred medicines, breathwork, and sound healing, which provided profound insights and lessons.

Deeply influenced by A Course in Miracles and Advaita Vedanta, Jan believes that true happiness comes from within by uncovering and releasing inner blocks. His work is rooted in this non-dual perspective, guiding others to find authentic joy through deep inner exploration.

With a background as a trained group facilitator, specialising in addiction recovery, and an experienced social worker, Jan connects with people on a heart level. As a professional musician, he incorporates sound healing and pineal-toning into his practice. He is also a Certified Breathwork Practitioner (Global Professional Breathwork Alliance), using breath as a powerful tool for transformation.

Through breathwork, sacred medicines, and sound healing, Jan helps others release what no longer serves them and step into a more fulfilled, authentic life.

Daily Schedule example

• 8-9.15am  Gentle yoga
• 9.30-10.30 Light breakfast
• 11-1.15pm Daily creative play
• 1.30-2.30pm Lunch
• 2.30-5.45pm Free time and on two days we will include activities such as breath-work and a walk in the mountains. You will be encouraged to use this time reflectively. Sketching and writing tasks may be given.
• 6-7pm Dinner
• 7.30-9pm Sharing circle focusing on a topic followed by a restorative grounding practice.

The price is 800€ for shared accommodation or 900€ for single. We require a 100€ deposit to hold your place. The deposit is non refundable. The full amount needs to be paid by  3 April, 2025.

There are options to stay at Rural Escapes Portugal for longer after the retreat has ended, please feel free to enquire about this.

For enquiries and bookings please email Camilla directly at info@ruralescapesportugal.com or send a WhatsApp message directly to Camilla +447786527686.

For enquiries and bookings please email Camilla directly at info@ruralescapesportugal.com or send a WhatsApp message directly to Camilla +447786527686.

Let’s create a Phoenix moment!

Rebirth 2025 is a deep dive into your personal healing journey.

Ashley offers individually crafted practices that will give you insight, perspective, healing and an opportunity to re-imagine the next phase within the game of your life.

Increase your connection to the rhythm of nature. A heartbeat completely in time, in-tune and Divinely orientated towards personal and collective evolution. A return to balance and harmony. Whispers can be heard either by effort or by grace. Tune in to hear it.

Gift yourself 6 days of deep immersion as you submerge yourself in nature and reconnect with her natural flow in this stunning off-grid retreat centre in its own private mountain valley.

There will be plenty of time to relax and explore the landscape, to be still and alone in nature or together with the group. Time to read, time to rest, swing in the hammock, swim in the pool. From a place of stillness and relaxation insights spring forth and natural flow is restored.

THE YOGA

Two sessions per day – one to uplift and activate and one to integrate and contemplate

Integrated Kundalini Yoga practices can induce over time altered states of consciousness and higher states.. As a practice that brings balance to the nervous and glandular system, it is a powerful tool to increase one’s sense of vitality and ability to heal. Learning to work with the energy of the kundalini is learning how to restore the natural power of your whole mind-body system. Sessions are suitable for all.

Morning sessions will focus on dynamic practice and transformation, working with the body in specific and healing ways using a powerful combination of posture, pranayama (breath), music, mantra and meditation to bring into balance the hormonal system, mood and emotions. Strengthen the entire body and nervous system. Create inner vitality. Cultivate the ability to completely relax. All of which foster expanded states of consciousness, awareness and healing.

Early evening sessions will focus on rejuvenation and relaxation, using meditation, yoga nidra and sound baths. Guided meditation practices with the rejuvenating practice of Yoga Nidra enable a state of deepest relaxation and conscious awareness to be realised, supporting the body and mind to fully reboot and recharge. 

On our last evening together we will celebrate the closing of the retreat with a Cacao Ceremony. Cacao is known as one of the foods of the Gods, it is a powerful but soft feminine plant medicine. The spirit of which brings a subtle opening of the heart to welcome more love in and release fears that may be blocking us from thriving and living a life full of joy and bliss.

For accommodation and location information visit ruralescapesportugal.com

Overview

• Airport transfers to and from Faro airport to the retreat (flights not included)
• 5 nights accommodation
• All food and snacks while on retreat
• Twice daily Yoga
• Day out at the beach
• Manifestation Meditations & Rituals
• Swimming pool on site
• Dawn walk through the forest to a secret swimming lake
• Guided journaling / mindful creativity sessions
• Cacao Ceremony
• Plenty of free time to Play / Explore / Relax
• Optional massage healing treatments

Price

Please note these prices are in euros.

Shared accommodation is €1050 (Special Early-Bird price before May 1st €950)
Single accommodation is €1350 (Special Early-Bird price before May 1st €1250)
Instalment payment plan is possible please contact Ashley for details

About Ashley

We are delighted to welcome Ashley Jones again to Rural Escapes Portugal, bringing her wealth of experience as a Kundalini yoga teacher, teacher trainer, and life coach. Based in London, she teaches at renowned studios such as TriYoga and Yoga Home London, while also co-teaching 200-hour teacher training courses and retreats in Portugal, Morocco and Italy. With a deep passion for self-inquiry and transformation, her teaching integrates powerful Kundalini techniques, mindfulness, and spiritual wisdom to help students access their true potential.

Her journey into yoga was sparked by a profound realization that true happiness comes from within. This led her to explore various disciplines, including A Course in Miracles, Tantra, Kabbalah, and the works of Marianne Williamson and Eckhart Tolle. Through her classes, she creates a space for deep inner connection, guiding students to move beyond self-imposed limitations and embrace a more authentic, empowered life. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to Kundalini yoga, her sessions will inspire, uplift, and support you on your journey of self-discovery.