Spring Wellbeing
'Wabi-Sabi' Retreat
11-15 of April in Zambujeira do Mar, Alentejo, Portugal
This is the healthy holiday you've been looking for.
limited spaces left
This retreat is a deeply human, transformative journey that brings together yoga, breath, psychology, journaling, nature, and the wisdom of Wabi-Sabi.
You’ll be in one of the most special places we know, Monte da Orada, a nature sanctuary in a beautiful green valley near the ocean in Costa Vicentina, Portugal.
If you’ve been carrying too much, moving too fast, or simply need a good rest, this is your moment to pause. To reconnect with what really matters. To come back to yourself. This retreat was created for real life, real people, and real change.
You’ll be guided by experienced facilitators through daily wellbeing practices that restore the body, clear the mind, and soften the heart. You’ll be supported by the myGuidebook, the signature book we’ve created with practices and reflections to guide you through the retreat—and you’ll take it home as a tool to keep growing. There is space for silence, laughter, insight, and rest. Every part of this retreat is designed to guide you to reconnect with yourself and empower you.
Whether you’re looking for a pause, healing, clarity, inspiration, or just a meaningful experience, this retreat is for you.
Come as you are. Enjoy your holiday, have an incredible time. Leave with wellbeing tools, peace, and a grounded sense of self that stays with you long after the retreat ends.
Your Wellbeing Retreat Journey, Step by Step
Grounded in the Wabi-Sabi philosophy, this retreat honours your perfectly imperfect self and creates space for transformation that feels natural, lasting, and alive. Here, you’ll pause, rest, turn inward, receive individual sessions, embrace spiritual practices, and reconnect with your heart and breath. The April Spring Retreat is the natural evolution of myalfazema, shaped by many years of experience, hundreds of guests, and everything we’ve learned along the way.
Please note that this retreat is not a substitute for medical or psychological advice, evaluation, or treatment. Each participant is responsible for ensuring that they are fit and adequately prepared to participate in the retreat.
In a tranquil, green valley just 15 minutes from the ocean.
monte orada, zambujeira do mar
A spiritual eco-retreat nestled in the heart of a nature sanctuary on Portugal's Southwest Atlantic Coast, in Costa Vicentina. Legend has it that the sacred waters of the valley attract pilgrims who come to worship and contemplate in this serene, spiritual environment.
Spread across 70 hectares of nearly untouched land and wildlife, and just 15 minutes away from some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, this authentic Portuguese countryside home offers the perfect getaway for those seeking tranquillity, deep connection, and transformation. Each room is thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and authentic experience, blending traditional Portuguese charm with modern amenities.
Guided by Experienced Facilitators
With years of collaboration and a deep passion for their work, Leonor and Claudia bring their experience as facilitators to guide you with care and authenticity. Their grounded presence and lived journeys create a space where you can show up exactly as you are — supported, safe, and seen. Guests often share how their different skills complement each other, coming together to offer a truly holistic retreat experience.
Leonor Pinheiro, Psychology Wellbeing Guide
Leonor is the founder of myalfazema and a facilitator devoted to inner work, emotional awareness, and grounded transformation. Her work weaves together science and spirituality, structure and intuition. Clients describe Leonor’s sessions as deeply supportive and attuned, leaving with greater clarity and confidence, having released emotional blocks, feeling calmer, and reconnected with themselves in a meaningful way.
She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Amsterdam, specialising in Social Psychology, with studies in emotion, motivation, and behaviour change. She continues to explore how we create meaning in our lives, and how through that process, we come home to ourselves and contribute to society.
Claudia Sousa Santos, Yoga & Meditation Teacher
Claudia teaches yoga and meditation in a way that is both empowering and deeply intuitive and human, guiding you back to your body, breath and inner strength. Everyone always loves her classes. All levels feel that her teachings meet them exactly where they are, and they grow from them spiritually, mentally and physically. Her classes are thoughtful, intentional, and deeply rooted in anatomy, mindfulness, and compassion.
With over 16 years of experience as both a yoga teacher and physiotherapist, and a background in dance and gymnastics, Claudia brings a truly holistic lens to her teaching. Her dedication led her to become a lead assistant in the Teacher Training Program at the Manu School of Yoga.
Watch video here
Food is a highlight
Chef Orada
Imagine sitting down to a meal that feels not just nourishing, but truly delicious.
At Orada, every dish is crafted with care, love, and deep respect for the body, mind, and local traditions. A majority of the greens are grown onsite using organic methods, and the meals are inspired by Ayurvedic principles, ensuring a balance that supports both body and mind.
Orada’s cookbook is considered one of the best recipe books for retreat menus available today, a testament to the culinary expertise of their chefs.
Everything that’s included:
- 4 nights, all-inclusive, in Monte da Orada, a soul spiritual retreat center
- 3 daily plant-based meals, inspired by Ayurveda and delicious Orada Cookbook
- 2 x 1:1 psychology wellbeing individual sessions with Leonor
- Daily Yoga Asana Classes
- Yoga Nidra
- Meditation
- Talk | Wabi-Sabi & Yoga
- Journaling Workshop
- The myGuidebook to support your journey – Psychology, Wabi-Sabi, Spirituality, and more
- Sauna & Bio Pool & beautiful trekkings – and a sky full of stars!
- 20€ of your registration fee will be donated to an institution that promotes wellbeing.
- Yoga equipment (mats, straps, blocks, bolsters, blankets etc)
- And everything else that will flow into this experience…!
Your investment goes beyond just joining
Curated with love, this retreat is an investment that goes beyond just joining. It's an investment in your health, happiness, and future.
Want to see more of the rooms? Just reach out!
You can book directly with us via bank transfer (just reach out using the form below) or use online payment by clicking the button.
Shared Dorm Room
A great choice for solo retreaters seeking comfort and affordability. You’ll share with 3-4 other retreaters.
890€ PER PERSON
Private Group Room with Bathroom
Last 1 available
Bringing someone with you? This option is often shared by couples, friends, or family (2-4 people). You’ll have a private space with your own bathroom and either a double bed or single beds.
940€ PER PERSON
Private Room with Shared Bathroom
Last 1 available
Your own cozy room in the main house, with a bathroom shared with the room next door.
1190€ PER PERSON
Ensuite Private Room
Last 3 available
Your own private room (double bed) with an ensuite bathroom, Choose between a room in the main house with an indoor bathroom or a nature bungalow.
1390€ PER PERSON
Something extra special:
The Premium Casita
Only 1 available
How do you even put this space into words? It’s just… wow.
This fully private hideaway is tucked into nature, offering views over the valley and a deep sense of seclusion while still close to the main areas.
Inside, you’ll find a cozy double bed. Just outside, your own private area with a hammock, a table, and a swing chair.
Step into your private open-air bathroom, complete with a hot-water bathtub and everything you need to truly unwind.
This space is for those seeking an extra-premium stay. A rare opportunity to be immersed in nature while enjoying comfortable, modern amenities. Ideal for one or two guests and entirely yours.
1650€ for 1 person (+720€ for an additional guest)
The Tree House
Fully Booked
This is for anyone who has ever dreamt of staying in a tree house. This is that dream coming to life.
Nadege stayed here two years and said, “I asked for this adventure, and it was epic.” Sean who was here last year, our tree man, loved the immersive experience too.
A unique escape for the adventurous soul, this charming hideaway is tucked away in nature and offers complete privacy, comfort, and thoughtful touches throughout.
You’ll have your own bathroom (dowstairs outside) and a peaceful space to rest, complete with a cozy bed inside and a hammock just outside, surrounded by trees and stillness.
1450€ for 1 person
Not sure which room is best for your needs or vibe? Reach out to Leonor, we’ll help you choose what fits your heart (and your budget) best.
Some more testimonials
The story behind this retreat
Wabi-Sabi. Nothing is Forever. Nothing is Perfect. Nothing is Complete.
The inspiration for this retreat came from countless moments and conversations shared with our precious guests. While exploring their dreams and wishes, a common theme would always emerge: a desire for a calmer, more content life. Stress came up again and again. It was affecting sleep, energy, eating habits, even the immune system. They just wanted to feel better, in a way that felt natural and lasting. They were seeking for a better way to navigate life and the world.
By some form of chance (or not), it's been a while since I began exploring Wabi-Sabi: the Japanese philosophy that offers a transformative shift in perspective from the modern world’s obsession with perfection. Rather it embraces imperfections as sources of wisdom and meaning. It encourages us to appreciate the blessings in our daily lives and celebrate things as they are, rather than longing for an idealized version of reality. It offered a perspective that softened me and helped me stop chasing an ideal version of life. It also echoed what I was seeing in others. This longing for acceptance, authenticity, and space to just be.
It quickly became clear to me that this, together with Yoga and Psychology, may hold the key to these challenges. Not to fix ourselves, but to reconnect with who we already are and live better.
With all of this in mind, we curated this retreat with great care and love. We knew Monte da Orada was the right place. A sanctuary that holds space for presence, nature, and deep inner quiet.
This experience is here to guide you in resting, reflecting, and returning home to yourself. And to offer wellbeing tools that can stay with you long after you leave so you fly solo.
This is now the fourth edition of this concept, brought back because guests consistently share how much they love it and how deeply it transforms the way they live their lives.
Looking for a place to rest, grow and have fun during your spring? This is it!
Simply provide your details below to get more info, secure your spot, or get a gift voucher. Leo will guide you every step of the way.
Please check if you got a confirmation email that your message was sent. If not, please contact us directly at leonor@myalfazema.com.
Looking forward to talking to you!
Why you will love this retreat
Don't just take our word for it. The people who’ve been here often describe it as one of the most powerful experiences of their lives. Not because of something flashy or grandiose, but because it’s real. They describe it as a deeply human and holistic retreat. A place that brings together the lightness of spring with the depth of inner work, guided by experienced facilitators and shared with a group that feels like it was meant to come together. Many people arrive carrying grief, burnout, life transitions, or hopes for change. You'll leave feeling lighter, clearer and more grounded. You'll leave with new friendships, practical tools, and a renewed sense of self that stays with you long after the retreat ends. Over the past years, myalfazema has become a trusted wellbeing place for people from all over the world. This retreat honors your perfectly imperfect self and creates space for fun, love and transformation that feels natural, lasting, and alive.
FAQs
Please let us know if you do not find what you are looking for.
Our team is here to help you.
Payment plan:
- Your spot will be confirmed after payment of a 200€ deposit
- The remaining amount is to be settled until one month after the deposit has been paid
- We can adjust the payment plan according to your needs. If needed, we can divide the payment into 3 or more installments. Please contact us so we can discuss your options
Payment options
- Bank transfer
- Online payment - Stripe
- Mbway (Portuguese)
Rest assured, transportation won't stand in the way of your dream holiday retreat in Portugal. Last years, all guests arrived from all over the world. Orada is one of Portugal's most renowned retreat centers, with visitors coming year-round to experience this beautiful haven. this beautiful haven.
- Before the retreat begins, we’ll create a WhatsApp group for all participants to coordinate logistics and share rides. Guests have found this incredibly helpful, especially for arranging shared Ubers.
- If you're coming by car, there's a private parking area where you can leave your vehicle.
Additional transport information:
- From Lisbon (2.5 hours), you can take a FlixBus to Zambujeira do Mar, which takes about 2.5 hours. Prices range from €4 to €15, depending on the time and day. Zambujeira do Mar is a lovely coastal town, so this option gives you the chance to see a gem of the Portuguese coast. From there, you can take a 15-minute taxi to Orada Retreat Center.
- From Faro (1.5 hours), the easiest way is to take a cab, Uber, or Bolt directly to Orada. Another option is to take a train to Santa Clara-Sabóia and then a taxi to the center. If you choose this, we recommend pre-booking your taxi with us at least 3 days in advance.
From both Lisbon and Faro airports, we can organize airport transfers for you. The price will depend on the number of participants requesting this option. However, in the past two years, all guests preferred using public transportation and sharing Ubers, as it was more convenient.
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Please be aware that transportation is not included in the retreat package. While we strive to offer accurate and current information, public transportation details such as schedules and prices are subject to change by transport providers. Thank you for your understanding!
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What's your next step?
The first thing to do is to secure your spot in this epic summer retreat before it's all booked up. Don't miss out like many guests who no longer could secure a spot in our last retreat! Once you've secured your spot, go ahead and book your flight or other transportation. Let's embark on this journey together 🙂
11 April: Room Check-in from 4pm. The retreat is set to begin at 5.30 pm.
15 April: The retreat wraps up by noon leaving you with a heart full of memories and a soul ready to flourish.
No worries! We’ll be sending out a questionnaire to learn more about your allergies.
However, if you have any major or life-threatening allergies, please let us know before signing up so we can confirm that we can accommodate them.
This is one of the most frequently asked questions we receive, and the answer is: 'Absolutely, yes!'
You are more than welcome to join us if you have never stepped on a yoga mat before, have never done a yoga class, have only just begun your practice, or even if you have been practicing for years and want to deepen your knowledge. Classes are adapted to all levels.
Yes!
We’ll share with you some contacts of recommended therapists so you can add a massage to your retreat experience.
Note: Massages are not included in the myalfazema pack.
Please check our T&C to know all the details about the cancellation policy. By enrolling in a myalfazema retreat, you are automatically agreeing to the terms and conditions.
https://myalfazema.com/terms/
Another reason we host so many retreats at Monte da Orada is its location. Monte da Orada is nestled in the woods and about 15 minutes from the coast, so there’s natural shade and airflow. As an eco-retreat center, there’s no air conditioning in the rooms (AC is available in the yoga shala). Weather varies, but it often feels pleasantly warm during the day and tends to cool down in the evenings.
It is your responsibility to organize suitable travel and health insurance. myalfazema will not hold liable if your failure to arrange suitable insurance coverage leaves you exposed, medically, financially, or otherwise. myalfazema and its partners are not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses incurred by participants before, during or after the retreat.
The first thing to do is to secure your spot in this epic spring retreat before it's all booked up. Don't miss out like many guests who no longer could secure a spot in our last retreat! Once you've secured your spot, go ahead and book your flight or other transportation. Let's embark on this journey together 🙂
A retreat is not - and will never be - a magic potion for happiness. This one however, promises to be an eye-opening step in your wellbeing journey of growth towards a PEACEFUL life.