There are many wonderful things to do and see during your stay in Portugal. While you are at your Yoga and Meditation Retreat at Shamballah, you can take the opportunity to explore some of Portugal’s gems.
Whether you want to slow your pace down and connect with nature, or get your blood flowing with some exciting activities, there’s something for everyone. Sintra’s cultural landscape, classified by UNESCO as world heritage will definitely nourish your senses and imagination.
Here are 10 things you can do while in Portugal at your yoga retreat.
1. Explore historical places
Pena Palace
Pena Palace is the main monument in Sintra and both of these impressive constructions sit at top of the hill. The gardens of the Palace will take you on a journey to a fairytale.
The hike from the top of the hill to the historical centre is great too, passing by other interesting villas on the way. Make sure you bring your camera when visiting this historic site to take advantage of the views.
Quinta da Regaleira
Regaleira is considered one of the best monuments in Sintra. The owner that built this property belonged to the masonry and throughout the whole estate there are symbols allusive to this order as well as to other mythical figures. It has an impressive initiatic well that leads to underground tunnels that explore beautiful parts of the gardens. A must see! After you visit Quinta da Regaleira, you can stroll around the historical centre where you will find more to discover..
Capuchos Convent and the Monserrate Palace
This convent is very special, from the St Francis of Assisi order it has simple architecture that is completely integrated with the surrounding environment. Monks were living and and engaging in meditation practice here for 300 years, and you can sense the buddha field — the place just invites contemplation.
From here there is a beautiful hike through the forest to Monserrate. This is just a 30-40 min walk and it is good to take your phone with GPS just to be sure you don’t divert deeper into the forest. Monserrate Palace is a popular attraction, the details on the decoration will impress you and the gardens are nothing short of amazing! To walk to Monserrate it will take around 50 minutes to an hour to complete from Sintra.
2. Enjoy the Beaches and Learn to Surf
What better way to relax than connecting with the ocean at the beach? At a surf retreat in Portugal, you can enjoy some relaxation, soak up some sun, or try your hand at surfing.
Beach Relaxation
Unwind amidst the soothing sounds of the ocean waves and the soft caress of the sea breeze. Our beaches offer a tranquil escape where you can lounge under the sun, read a book, or simply let your thoughts drift away.
Learning to Surf
Yoga and Surf are great complements and the joy of riding waves is a great experience for those who like a more active time and close contact with the Ocean. Consider exploring our Surf and Yoga Retreat for a perfect blend of rejuvenating yoga practices and exhilarating surf sessions. Perfect for all levels, you can learn to surf with the help of our certified instructors.
3. Join Creative Workshops
Spend some time aligning with your more creative side. If you’re new to painting or pottery, consider attending introductory classes. These sessions provide a foundational understanding of techniques, materials, and styles, making your workshop experience more enjoyable and productive.
Sintra’s artistic community often embraces a variety of techniques and styles. Use this opportunity to head into the city and explore different approaches to painting and pottery under the guidance of experienced instructors.
4. Treat Yourself to a Spa Treatment
Massage is one of the most ancient forms of healing used by humans. It helps to relax the body and mind. In deep relaxation healing can happen. There are different massage styles you can choose while at Shamballah Retreats, from ayurvedic to zenshiatsu massage, aromatherapy and reiki.
5. Do a Digital Detox
A digital detox is a perfect complement to your yoga retreat journey, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate mindfully, making the most of your experience. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding the retreat centre. Take leisurely walks, practice yoga outdoors, or simply sit in quiet contemplation amidst lush greenery and serene landscapes.
6. Discover Local Cuisine
If you want to venture into the heart of Sintra or the neighbouring towns, you’ll be met with a range of mouthwatering dishes and local cuisine. Delight in vegetarian versions of traditional Portuguese dishes, such as hearty soups, stews, and fresh seafood alternatives like grilled vegetables or plant-based seafood.
At Shamballah Retreat we also offer 3 delicious vegetarian meals a day, providing you with the nourishment you need to complete your meditation or yoga journey.
7. Connect with Nature: Join in Hiking Clubs
Whether you prefer solo trails along secluded beaches or adventurous hikes starting from Cabo da Roca, there are endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s splendour and rejuvenate your spirit.
Solo Trails
Our venue is just a 10 minute walk to the beautiful coastline. The closest beach can be accessed through many steps that take you from the top of the cliff all the way to this secluded and wild beach, when it is low tide you can walk along the beach to the other end praia do magoito.
Hiking from Cabo da Roca
A great hike to do when visiting this site is to start near Cabo da Roca and end up at Praia Grande, where the footprints are. This coastal trek takes around 2 hours and offers stunning views along the way. Visitors are often reminded that everything is temporary and that there is a bigger picture that our small minds sometimes fail to grasp.
This Cape is the most western point of continental Europe and many people come here to appreciate its spectacular views and coastal scenery. Right next to it you can find Praia da Ursa. In order to access this wonderful beach you need to follow some fisherman’s trails down the hill but once you get down you understand that the effort is well worth it. Explore our Guided Walks for more information.
8. Participate in a Sound Journey
Guided by skilled practitioners and surrounded by resonant tones from diverse instruments, these sessions create a harmonious soundscape that soothes the senses and opens pathways to spiritual and emotional healing.
TaKeTiNa, sound journey and awakened voice
TaKeTiNa is a tool that works with rhythm, by adding different rhythms to the circle we work with different parts of the brain and body taking us to a meditative space. Sound journey is also an inner journey where the different instruments transport us to many landscapes around the world. The awakened voice is a holistic group voice therapy where we explore our voices through improvisation and toning.Healing sound bath
Experience the transformative power of a healing sound bath led by Winga, a seasoned Tonal Alchemist. In this immersive session, participants lay back and surrender to waves of intentional sound and frequencies crafted to nourish the body, mind, and soul. Winga weaves a tapestry of tribal sounds using instruments such as the didgeridoo, hang drum, flutes, tuning forks, and gongs, guiding listeners on a profound journey through sonic landscapes reminiscent of the jungle’s rhythms. The harmonics and layered tones create a deeply relaxing and magical atmosphere, fostering inner healing and spiritual rejuvenation.
9. Dive into Adventure with Scuba Diving
For the adventurers, you can experience scuba diving just off the coast of Sintra. Dive into the beautiful Atlantic Ocean and immersive yourself in the world below the waves. Along the Portugal coast, you can explore sunken wrecks and thriving marine life. Why not head below the waves while you’re in Portugal and try scuba diving?
10. Relax and Rejuvenate
At Shamballah Retreats you have the opportunity to talk and receive guidance from a meditation master during our meditation retreats. Our meditation master has vast knowledge about health and life in general, and the wisdom he shares with us can be a great help to guide us on this walk on earth.
Your Journey Starts Here, Book a Retreat Today
From guided walks to practising yoga or even learning to surf, there’s activities for everyone to do while at Shamballah Retreats! Whether you’re keen to explore the surrounding landscape and attractions, or centre yourself in some place quiet to just relax, Portugal offers some beautiful opportunities.
Ready to embark on your journey of self-discovery and relaxation at Shamballah Retreat? Book your retreat today and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Portugal.