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Saturday 20th to 27th September 2025 (7 nights / 8 days)
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!
Let’s speak about your practice during the week in Portugal…
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.
Our multi-skilled host, Catherine, invites us on certain mornings of the week for a grounding Qigong practice – an art she has practised and taught for years. Roy Jenzen’s approach, called ‘Internal Intent’, has inspired her work.
This session is designed to blend with the Earthing theme of the week and the other practices offered by Laurent. Being early in the morning will set the tone for the rest of the day’s focus and work.
These sessions are suitable for all abilities, and everyone is welcome.
What is Qigong?
Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice dating back over 4,000 years, combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intention to cultivate and balance the body’s vital energy, or “Qi”.
This gentle yet powerful practice is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and martial arts. This very special and unique Qigong journey is about self-discovery and rejuvenation.
It offers myriad benefits, from stress reduction and enhanced mental clarity to improved balance, flexibility, and overall vitality. Qigong is a holistic wellness practice suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Experience the harmonious flow of energy with Qigong and revitalise your body and mind.
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.
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.
7:00 – 8:00 am:Optional Qi Gong class on certain days (at no extra cost).
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 prior notice.
Arrival and departure days differ from this schedule.
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.
Quinta Galegas offers three types of accommodation:
1. Main House accommodation features luxury house rooms with large ensuite bathrooms, all meticulously and individually decorated by owner Catherine and interior designer Sarah Thomas. There is one Kingsize bedroom with a separate private bathroom next to it.
Both twin and double rooms are available.
2. Lakeside bedrooms with shared bathrooms.
These cosy rooms are spacious and comfortable, located in a separate building with its own patio overlooking the garden and natural pool.
Twin and double rooms are available.
3. Guests can opt for Orange Grove Glamping for a unique and adventurous stay.
Tucked away in the field adjacent to the main house, this experience allows you to sleep under the stars in luxurious bell tents.
Furnished with comfortable single or twin beds, fly screen mesh doors and windows, and solar lighting, these spacious tents offer a one-of-a-kind camping experience with stunning views over the Vouga Valley.
The grove features onsite bathroom facilities and a kitchen area where guests can help themselves with tea, coffee, and freshly squeezed orange juice from oranges picked straight from the trees.
Situated within the beautiful grounds of Quinta Galegas, guests have full access to all amenities.
Overall, Quinta Galegas provides a range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget.
Luxury tents with Double or twin beds. Shared Bathroom.
SOLD OUT
Based on 2 people sharing:
£845.00/ per person * (£945.00)
Single occupancy:
£1,045 / per person* (£1,145.00)
Double or twin beds with shared bathrooms facing the natural pool.
SOLD OUT
Based on 2 people sharing:
£1,095/ per person * (£1,195.00)
Single occupancy:
£1,295 / per person* (£1,395.00)
Luxury house bedroom with private separate bathroom next door.
SOLD OUT
Based on 2 people sharing:
£1,245/ per person * (£1,345.00)
Single occupancy:
£1,445 / per person* (£1,545.00)
Luxury house bedroom with ensuite bathroom.
SOLD OUT
Based on 2 people sharing:
£1,295/ per person * (£1,395.00)
Single occupancy:
£1,495 / per person* (£1,595.00)
During your stay at Quinta Galegas, you will be offered a selection of vegetarian meals based on organic produce.
Products are sourced from the farmhouses’ gardens and chicken coops and from local farmers.
The kitchen also offers specially tailored dishes for attendees with dietary requests and allergies.
Between your classes, you’re free to join exciting local activities. We’re here to assist with the arrangements.
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.
If you want to read more about the organisers, meet Yogalaurent Retreats team ›
Quinta Galegas, has a professional and dedicated staff committed to making your stay as comfortable and pleasurable as possible.
EARLY BIRD OFFER
£100 off
per person,
booking before 31st December 2024
BOOK HERE
Double Occupancy: £845.00 / per person.
Single Occupancy: £1.045 / per person.
Double Occupancy: £1,095.00 / per person.
Single Occupancy: £1,295 / per person.
Double Occupancy: £1,245 / per person.
Single Occupancy: £1,445 / per person.
Double Occupancy: £1,295 / per person.
Single Occupancy: £1,495 / per person.
OR
The grove features onsite bathroom facilities and a kitchen area where guests can help themselves with tea, coffee, and freshly squeezed orange juice from oranges picked straight from the trees.
Features of the Tents:
Spacious and comfortable bedrooms located in a separate building with its own patio overlooking the garden and natural pool.
Twin and double rooms are available.
Features of the Tents:
Luxury house rooms located on the first floor of the main house.
Features :
The luxury house rooms are located on the first floor of the main house.
Features :
Every room is ensuite with a balcony or terrace with views down the valley to the sea.
Each room is individually furnished and has a desk, ample cupboard space, a separate bathroom, air-conditioning and heating.
Single, double and triple accommodation is offered.
Every room is ensuite with either a balcony or terrace with views to the tropical gardens.
Each room is individually furnished and has a desk, ample cupboard space, a separate bathroom, air-conditioning and heating.
Single, double and triple accommodation is offered
Enjoy the benefits of a private courtyard or terrace, separate sitting-room and open fireplace.
The luxury suites are decorated to the highest standard of Tigmi style.
Features of the unique Suites:
Intimate and quirky in their design, they are decorated with locally woven cushions, covers and wall hangings, and stocked with specially made bath, shower and body products.
Located in both the old and new areas of the venue, these Rooms feature handcrafted Berber furnishings over flock wallpaper.
Features of the Berber Rooms:
