The Healing Journey
Recall Your True Nature
PortugalThe RetreatBird Exclusive
Book through RetreatBird and these come included — on us.
About this retreat
Why this retreat
Your retreat is shaped according to your needs — allowing a balance of guided activities, personal sessions, and time for integration. Rather than using a closed format, fixed in advance, we orient ourselves to the uniqueness of each retreat and individual.
Highlights
- Personal therapies in bodywork, kinesiology, and energy-based therapies
- Healing experiences with horses and other therapy animals
- Nature immersion
- Frequent group meditations, inner journeys and activations
- Creative expression
- Regular visits to nature and nearby sites
- Living in a sustainable community
What's included
- 27 nights accommodation
- Delicious vegetarian lunch 5 days a week
- Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day
- Nature Immersion
- Group integration and initiation
- Daily guided meditations
- 3 personal therapy sessions
- 1 personal therapy session with the support of animals
- 1 group session with therapy animals
- Additional therapies upon request
- Group excursions to local sites
- Community lifestyle immersion
- Free access to art materials
- Wifi connection
- Parking
- Luggage storage
Not included
We'll confirm exactly what's not included for your dates — just ask.
A day at the retreat
- Morning meditation10:00
- Lunch13:00
- Personal therapy sessions15:00 - 17:00
- Rest or recreation19:00
Accommodation
We offer accommodation at private wooden houses immersed in nature. The houses are very cozy and offer a stunning view. We also offer a private en-suite room in the main house, for those looking for easier access and more comfort and amenities (including wifi). All rooms have their own shower bathroom. The wooden houses have their own private kitchenette, too.
Optional upgrades
Upgrades and extras can be added to any booking — ask us what's available.
Food
We have a shared lunch on weekdays, and offer breakfast and dinner ingredients for self-catering. Our ingredients are wholesome, mostly vegan, with vegetarian options, we are also mostly gluten-free. We can cater to other dietary restrictions or needs.
Location
Quinta Giovanna, Sitio de Franqueira 309L, 8300-019 Silves
You will stay in a peaceful rural setting in the Algarve region, between Silves and Messines, surrounded by gardens, wildlife, and expansive views toward the ocean. The sanctuary is located close to beautiful beaches, local villages, markets, waterfalls, and walking trails, offering opportunities for both solitude and exploration.
From Faro, you can take a train to Silves or Messines. From there, an Uber or Bolt taxi to our place costs ~ 7-10 €. We also travel regularly between these towns and can often pick you up, if you let us know in advance. An Uber or Bolt directly from Faro airport to our place costs ~ 35-40 €.
About the retreat leader
Embodiment Guide · Space Holder · Founder of Ninho do Guarda-Rios I believe that our deepest wisdom already lives within us. Sometimes we simply need the right conditions to slow down, listen, and remember. My journey began through contemporary dance, improvisation, and design, and gradually evolved into a lifelong exploration of embodiment, authenticity, consciousness, and our relationship with the living world. Over the past twenty years, I have immersed myself in bodywork, nervous system regulation, aquatic therapies, intuitive touch, shamanic practice, multidimensional approaches, meditation, and the art of deep listening. Since childhood, I have also experienced a natural connection with animals, whose presence continues to guide and inspire my work. Today, these are not separate practices. They have become one way of being. I don't follow a fixed method or offer a formula. Every session, retreat, or immersion is a unique encounter, shaped by presence, deep listening, and what naturally wants to emerge. My role is to hold a safe, grounded, and heart-centred space where people can reconnect with their bodies, their truth, and their own inner intelligence. At the heart of everything I do is a devotion to regeneration. Not only the regeneration of land and ecosystems, but the regeneration of the relationship between humans and the living world. I believe that when we restore this relationship, something profound begins to heal naturally. This vision has grown into several living projects. Ninho do Guarda-Rios is a regenerative home where nature, simplicity, and presence invite a different way of living. TOTEM explores authentic relationships between humans and animals, recognising them as conscious beings, teachers, and companions. The Human Garden is an ongoing exploration of how we grow as human beings through embodiment, community, creativity, and connection with nature. Together, these projects share one intention: To create spaces where people can slow down, breathe, remember who they are, and rediscover a sense of belonging with themselves, with others, and with all living beings. If my work has a purpose, it is simply this: To help create the conditions where authenticity can be embodied, where life can be felt more deeply, and where each person can follow their own organic path with greater trust, coherence, and presence.
Getting there
- Nearest airport
- Faro airport
Cancellation & policies
If paid fully in advance at the time of booking, a 50% refund of the remaining balance is available up to the day before your retreat start date.
Minimum age 10
Packages & dates
Meet the team
I walk the path of life with an open heart, curiosity, and trust in the wisdom that lives within each of us. I love holding space with presence, compassion, and authenticity, where others are invited to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and feel safe and supported on their unique journey of self-discovery.
I feel strongly connected to the frequency of the child's energy, embodying unconditional love for humanity. My strongest gifts are to open and bring you back to your heart and to help you remember who you are on your deepest levels.
Within a living environment and sustainable community, growth and personal development can unfold naturally and spontaneously. As a therapist, I’m here to support this process when needed, through a holistic and personal approach.
Your retreat leader
Portugal
Frequently asked questions
How many days is The Healing Journey?
The Healing Journey runs for 28 days in Silves, Faro / Algarve, Portugal. Exact arrival and departure dates are confirmed with the retreat leader when you book.
Where does The Healing Journey take place?
This retreat takes place in Silves, Faro / Algarve, Portugal. The retreat leader shares full directions and travel guidance once your booking is confirmed.
How much does The Healing Journey cost?
Prices start from EUR 3,300 per person, with a EUR 900 deposit to reserve your spot. Your final rate depends on the package, dates, and group size you choose — the retreat leader confirms the exact total before you pay anything.
What's included in The Healing Journey?
Your stay covers 27 nights accommodation, delicious vegetarian lunch 5 days a week, water, tea, coffee served throughout the day, nature immersion, and more. The retreat leader confirms the full list of inclusions, meals, and any optional extras after you book.
How do I book The Healing Journey?
Send a booking request with your preferred dates and number of guests — no payment is taken upfront. The retreat leader reviews availability and confirms final pricing with you directly, with no RetreatBird booking fees.
Can I cancel my booking?
If paid fully in advance at the time of booking, a 50% refund of the remaining balance is available up to the day before your retreat start date.
Who leads The Healing Journey?
The Healing Journey is led by Healing Circle Sanctuary, based in Portugal.