Saturday 20th to 27th September 2025 (7 nights / 8 days)
The Earthing Retreat
Grounding Yoga and Somatic movements, QiGong, Breathwork and Relaxation for Wellness.
Viseu, Portugal.
Overview
September… our focus revolves around the concept of earthing and returning ‘home’!
Nestled in the tranquil and lush Ribeiradio district, just one hour from Porto in northern Portugal, Quinta Galegas provides an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and reconnection with nature, making it the ideal destination following a hectic summer.
Owned by Catherine Thomas, a respected herbalist, acupuncturist, and Qigong teacher deeply committed to the principles of Mother Earth, this rural sanctuary encourages guests to slow down and rediscover their roots.
Upon our initial visit to Quinta Galegas, as we journeyed alongside the river Vouga towards the property, a sense of anticipation washed over me. It was as though at the end of that winding road, I knew that a truly extraordinary place awaited, accompanied by equally remarkable individuals.
The feeling of resonance was immediate and undeniable, assuring me that Catherine and I would together deliver an unparalleled experience, one that could not be replicated elsewhere.
I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you to this extraordinary space, where we can forge a profound connection with the Earth and each other!
Need more information about this retreat?
Book a call or Zoom meeting with Jose ›
The Program
The Earthing Program:
Moving, Breathing, Meditating, Grounding and QiGong
The end of summer is upon us, and autumn is approaching. Though the days remain warm, there’s a noticeable change in the air. The intensity of the hot summer days is fading and signalling it’s time to unwind and reconnect with the earth to rejuvenate after the excitement of the past months.
The shifting weather, transformations in nature, and the return to our preservation routine prompt us to ground ourselves, slow down, and contemplate.
Opting for a rural setting and lifestyle underscores the direct and authentic connection with the wise and grounding earth, the richness of nature, and the harmony among all elements. It’s akin to coming home to a nurturing place we already know and love, where we feel safe and content to rest.
Choosing Portugal and Quinta Galegas as the setting for this meditative, grounding, and calming retreat was a thoughtful decision.
The house, gardens, and natural pool all encourage us to slow down and find rest. A combination of practices and activities, including Qigong, Somatics, Yoga, breathwork, and deep relaxation, along with opportunities to engage with nature through activities like hiking, wild swimming, and herbal workshops, are crafted to help us reconnect with our true selves and let go.
Join us for the perfect end to summer and prepare your spirit and soul for the colder months ahead.
Early morning QiGong class with Catherine Thomas
For the first time on a Yogalaurent retreat, you can experience another style of movement and meditation: QiGong.
Laurent has observed that incorporating QiGong alongside yoga and somatics creates optimal conditions for more profound relaxation and grounding, more manageable stress and anxiety relief, and improved sleep.
QiGong integrates breath, movement, and intention to harmonise the body and mind. Conscious breathing enhances the flow of Qi (vital energy), while grounding techniques promote stability and connection to the Earth’s energy.
Practising QiGong in the early morning is the best time because it enhances vitality, energises the body, and promotes mental clarity. It also boosts circulation and sets a positive tone for the day, fostering discipline and self-care.
You will be prepared for the rest of the day and create the ideal conditions for other activities.
Catherine Thomas has years of experience teaching QiGong in the UK and Portugal – she is also an acupuncturist, herbalist, and our host at Quinta Galegas.
This early morning session is recommended but not mandatory.
The themed morning workshop
The daily two-hour themed morning workshops combine various yoga methods, including Scaravelli-inspired yoga, grounding techniques, somatic and mindful yoga, breathwork, and meditation. This diverse range of practices offers an excellent opportunity to improve your practice at your own pace, achieve your goals, and adapt to any ailments or health conditions.
Breathwork is crucial during transitional periods such as the end of summer. Breathing techniques provide essential support through changes and transformations, fostering calmness, readiness, and reconnection with oneself.
Other practices help us release and open our senses to the new season. Our earthing and grounding yoga practice enables us to embrace it with open arms and subtlety. Laurent’s expertise ensures accessibility for all through tailored variations and accommodations.
The peaceful evening session
Evening sessions are dedicated to calming, meditative inward practices and are about having a more profound pause!
After the day’s activities, Laurent leads a 90-minute calming and restorative yoga session, incorporating somatic exercises and movements to release tension and promote deep relaxation.
Additionally, there is dedicated time for breathing exercises, meditation techniques, and various relaxation methods to complement the gentle bodywork.
Laurent’s extensive repertoire of work and techniques instils a profound sense of physical, mental, and emotional peace and rejuvenation. This program is ideal for those grappling with fatigue and seeking stress relief. In the face of life’s challenges, this retreat provides essential support and offers well-deserved moments of blissful relaxation.
Daily Schedule
8:00 – 9:30 am: Pre-Yoga: Tea, coffee, fruits, toast, etc.
9:30 – 12:00 pm: Morning Workshop – Yoga, Breathwork and Meditation.
12:30 – 1:30 pm: Brunch
1:30 – 6:00 pm: Free time
6:00 – 7:30 pm: Evening Workshop – Mindful and Somatic Yoga, Breathwork and Meditation techniques.
8:00 pm: Dinner.
Note: There will be one day with a free afternoon and evening during the week.
This schedule is subject to change without previous notice.
Highlights
Timeless Countryside
Quinta Galegas, a beautifully restored 18th-century country house in Portugal’s Beiras region, offers an ideal escape to reconnect with nature. Surrounded by five acres of lush countryside, including citrus-scented orange groves and centuries-old olive trees, this historic venue provides a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
You can cool off in the natural swimming pool or enjoy time in the spacious yoga studio with its inviting wooden floors. For those seeking something different, luxurious bell tents with comfortable beds offer a unique option to sleep under canvas. Quinta Galegas is a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the simplicity of life.
Food & Gastronomy
During this retreat, you’ll enjoy fresh, wholesome vegetarian meals made with organic produce. Much of the food is sourced directly from the farmhouse’s gardens, chicken coops, and local farmers, ensuring each dish is full of flavour and nourishment.
Our kitchen happily caters to dietary requests and allergies, offering specially tailored options so that every guest can savour delicious meals throughout their stay.
Qigong Sessions
With Catherine Thomas guiding you, the Qigong sessions are a chance to gently release tension, improve your energy flow, and feel more at ease in your body. Through simple, flowing movements and mindful breathing, you’ll experience a sense of calm and connection, perfect for balancing both mind and body.
No matter your experience, these sessions are designed to meet you where you are. You’ll leave each session feeling lighter, more centred, and ready to fully enjoy the rest of your retreat.
Accommodation & Prices
3 Tents Left
Orange Grove Glamping
Luxury tents with Double or twin beds. Shared Bathroom.
Double Occupancy (Two People Sharing):
£945.00 – Per Person
Single Occupancy:
£1,045.00 – Per Person
Sold Out
Lakeside Rooms
Double or twin beds with shared bathrooms facing the natural pool.
Double Occupancy (Two People Sharing):
£1,195.00 – Per Person
Single Occupancy:
£1,395.00 – Per Person
Sold Out
Kingsize Rooms
One Luxury house bedroom with private separate bathroom next door.
Double Occupancy (Two People Sharing):
£1,345.00 – Per Person
Single Occupancy:
£1,545.00 – Per Person
Sold Out
Kingsize Premium Rooms
Luxury house bedroom with ensuite bathroom.
Double Occupancy (Two People Sharing):
£1,395.00 – Per Person
Single Occupancy:
£1,595.00 – Per Person
What is Unique about this venue?
This retreat will take place at Quinta Galegas, a lovingly restored 18th-century country house, where every nook whispers tales of bygone eras.
Tucked away in the idyllic embrace of a river valley in the enchanting Beiras region of Portugal, this rural sanctuary beckons, promising a respite from the bustle of modern life.
This beautiful place is set in five acres of verdant land, where you can lose yourself amidst the citrus-scented orange groves, or find solace beneath the ancient olive trees that have witnessed centuries pass by.
And when the sun’s embrace becomes too inviting to resist, dip into the refreshing waters of the natural swimming pool.
On the lower floor of the house, there’s a large yoga studio with wooden flooring that I fell in love with at first sight, and I’m sure you will too.
Each room in this house is beautifully decorated and the relaxation is guaranteed. But there’s more…
This place also offers an option to sleep under canvas in their luxurious bell tents equipped with fly screen mesh doors and windows, solar lighting and very comfortable beds.
At Quinta Galegas, every moment is an invitation to unwind, to reconnect with nature, and to rediscover the simple joys of life.
What's Included
What's Included
- Six dayly morning 2.5-hour Workshops
- Six 1.5-hour Evening Sessions.
- Early Morning Qigong Session with Catherine Thomas.
- Use of the yoga sala, equipment and facilities.
- Full board accommodation and taxes
- 6 brunchs, 7 vegetarian dinners & a daily light breakfast.
- Herbal teas & drinking water.
What's Not Included
- Optional activities.
- One to one yoga classes.
- Massages and other treatments.
- Flights and transfers.
- Travel insurance.
Gallery
View Gallery ›
Optional Activities
Between your classes, you’re free to join exciting local activities. We’re here to assist with the arrangements.
- Massages and Therapies.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful landscapes and trails around the Vouga River.
- Explore the City of Aveiro, distinguished by its canals navigated by colorful boats (barcos moliceiros).
- We recommend reserving a couple of days before or after the retreat to stay in Porto (one of our favourite cities).
Travel Information
How to travel to Portugal and Quinta Galegas?
To give you freedom, flights and transfers to the venue are not included in the price. However, we are happy to help you planning your trip and recommend the best itineraries.
The closest airport is Porto-Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport.
There are 13 non-stop flights per day from London, 2 from Manchester and 1 from Birmingham.
Porto airport has a direct connection with almost every main European city.
Check-in time: from 3:30 pm.
Check-out time: before 10:30 am.
Who is taking care of your stay?
Laurent Roure: Founder and senior yoga teacher, Laurent has 30 years practising and teaching yoga, breathwork, meditation and somatic under his belt.
Jose Souto: PR/Marketing, IT and Travel Expert. Jose is an experienced traveler always available to answer questions concerning flights, transfers, visas, advertising, deposits and payments. He can also help you to decide what outdoor activities and excursions you might like to book for your trip.
Catherine Thomas, a respected herbalist, acupuncturist, and Qigong teacher deeply committed to the principles of Mother Earth, this rural sanctuary encourages guests to slow down and rediscover their roots.
Quinta Galegas, has a dedicated staff committed to making your stay as comfortable and pleasurable as possible.
The Earthing Retreat
Viseu, Portugal • Saturday 20th to 27th September 2025 • 7 Nights.
Book with 25% deposit.
FROM £895.00/pp
