The Retreat

The lake, though close to the Algarve, is relatively unknown, with a busy day being the sight of over five boats, and in the summer the mature fruit and flower gardens lead guests down to the shore where a variety of watersports are on offer, overlooked by the lawns close to the water's edge. The winter too has its own delights with marvellous walks in the vicinity and a complete absence of traffic noise the whole year through, the latter a priceless asset in the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

 

There are a variety of speciality courses on offer, notably birdwatching, (and Nature Loving in general), Well Being (in Spring and Summer), detox retreats run by The Practice.
The whole establishment is imbued with that personal care and attention that is so often lacking in larger concerns. The centre was opened in 1987 and has slowly been built up into what it has now become, "A Paradise in Portugal".

The whole centre leads onto the lake with stunning views over one of Europe's largest and cleanest fresh water lakes. Ideal for:
• Families
• Stress relief
• Honeymoon couples
• Romantic Rendezvous
• Company Incentive Destination
• Small special interest groups
• Rental as a fully catered villa
• Film Location

The Retreat provides a flexible personalised service, which can respond to individual needs.

Location

The Retreat can be easily accessed by road. There are regular trains from Lisbon or Faro, both of which are serviced by scheduled or charter flights from most major airports. Guests can arrange their own car hire or they can be collected from the airport (Faro is 1½ hours drive away, Lisbon about two and a half). The Retreat is happy to arrange road transfers between the airport or the local railway station.

Location
• Baixo Alentejo, Portugal. As the crow flies, about 40 km from the West or South coasts.
• Two and a half hours by car from either bridge in Lisbon.
• One and a half hours by car from Faro Airport.
• By train to Santa Clara. From there, there is a collection service available which either drives all the way in through spectacular countryside or alternatively drives up to the other side of the lake for a small boat trip directly to the door.

For the active there is plenty to do. Water-skiing, sailing, canoeing and fishing are available for beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike; mountain bikes, badminton and table tennis are also on offer. For those that like to get out, by foot or bike, there is some wonderful countryside to be explored with spectacular views of the lake, offering a fascinating variety of birds and animals for the wildlife enthusiast. From hoopoes and herons to tree frogs and mongooses, each season brings its own delights.

• Walking. A vast sparsely populated countryside dotted with small Alentejan "montes" set amidst hillsides of cork trees awaits all walkers.
• Birdwatching. The Retreat runs guided birdwatching trips throughout the whole of Southern Portugal.
• Wildlife.
• Well Being. Well Being courses are run throughout the year with accredited therapists.
• Sauna. The lakeside sauna is particularly enjoyed during our Well Being weeks.
• Boating. Exploring the lake by canoe, rowing boat, sailing dinghy or small out-board.
• Swimming. The unpolluted crystal clear waters of the lake are a rare luxury.
• Mountain biking. The numerous tracks and absence of traffic provide the ultimate thrill for serious mountain bikers.
• Fishing. An excellent sport fishing opportunity.
• Cooking. The Retreat is renowned for its cuisine, and there are Cookery courses at various times throughout the year.