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September 15-21 | Starting at 1050Pancha Bhuta: An Exploration of the Elements
What to ExpectYou don’t need to do a teacher training to deepen your practice.
You know how grounding, empowering, and energising it is to practice. And because of that, you might have started asking questions such as
Why do we move this way?
Where do these practices come from?
What does all of this actually mean?
If you've ever considered teacher training because you wanted to understand your practice more deeply, this retreat was created for you instead
Join FOLD founder Zoe for six unforgettable days in the wild beauty of Portugal's Alentejo coast, where dynamic yoga, accessible philosophy and time in nature come together through the ancient wisdom of Pancha Bhuta, or the five elements.
You’ll leave feeling restored, educated, and empowered (without any 5am alarms, 200 hours of study, or the need to read the Yoga Sutras cover to cover).
❋ Intentional StructureWith an individual focus each day, we’ll weave philosophy and yoga history in with our movement practices; dynamic in the mornings, nurturing and restorative in the evenings.
❋ Off-grid and Eco-friendlyNestled on the edge of one of Alentejo’s most breathtaking viewpoints, Adamae Retreat Centre is off grid and eco friendly; allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the exploration of the elements.
❋ Expert FacilitationWith 15 years’ experience working in the wellness industry, Zoe will guide you through clear and compassionate classes, yoga philosophy, grounding meditations, and more.
❋ Considered CateringAll meals included - expect nourishing vegetarian breakfasts, lunches and dinners, teas, coffees and treats to support your practice.
Step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and immerse yourself in a week of movement
The RetreatDeepen Your Practice
This isn't teacher training.
There's no pressure to memorise Sanskrit, definitely no 5.30am alarms and no expectation that you'll spend hours buried in philosophy books. Just an immersive week for people who simply love yoga and want to experience it more deeply.
Each day is inspired by one of the five elements — Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Aether. Through movement, meditation, discussion and quiet moments in nature, we'll explore how these ancient ideas can enhance the way we practise, think and live today.
Expect strong morning vinyasa classes, deeply restorative evening practices, an inversion workshop, introductions to the main points of yoga philosophy, and plenty of time to simply be.
Whether you're reading in a hammock, swimming in the lake or sharing dinner beneath the stars, every part of the week is designed to leave you feeling educated and inspired.
Is this for me?This Retreat Is For You If…
You love dynamic yoga and want to understand your practice beyond the poses.
You've been curious about teacher training, but aren't looking to qualify as a teacher.
You enjoy learning, but prefer conversation to classrooms
You'd love a holiday that feels as inspiring as it is relaxing.
You're travelling alone or with a friend and are looking for genuine connection with like-minded people.
You don’t need to be able to stand on your hands or touch your toes - just curious.
How it's structuredThe Five Elements
The week unfolds through the rhythm of the five elements.
Each morning kicks off with an energising vinyasa practice inspired by the day's theme, followed by nourishing breakfasts prepared with seasonal ingredients grown on site.
Afternoons are yours to spend however you choose: surfing the Atlantic, horse riding through the countryside, swimming in fresh water lakes, enjoying a massage, exploring nearby Porto Covo, or simply doing absolutely nothing.
As dusk draws in, we'll gather again for slower movement, restorative practices, or meditation before a family-style veggie dinner.
It's a week of learning without pressure, movement without performance and rest without guilt.
Where we'll stayHome for the week
Our home is Adamãe Retreat Centre, an off-grid sanctuary nestled among the rolling hills of Portugal's Alentejo region.
You'll stay in beautifully designed glamping yurts with real beds, private decks and hammocks overlooking cork oak forests and open countryside.
Wake to birdsong instead of alarms.
Drink your morning tea watching the mist lift across the hills.
Practise surrounded by nature rather than walls.
Designed around principles of permaculture, regenerative farming and sustainability, Adamãe feels like the perfect place to explore our relationship with the natural world — and with ourselves.
Food to savour
The kitchen is the heart of the retreat.
Each day you'll enjoy vibrant vegetarian breakfasts, lunches and dinners prepared by the resident chefs using seasonal produce, much of it grown in Adamãe's own gardens.
Expect generous shared meals, endless cups of tea, excellent coffee and homemade treats — food that nourishes as much as it brings people together.
Feel inspiredYou’ll return home with…
A deeper understanding of yoga philosophy that actually makes sense.
More confidence in your movement practice.
Fresh inspiration for your time on the mat.
A calmer, clearer mind.
New friendships.
And a sense of grounding, presence, and empowerment that carries you long past the journey home
Investment
Triple Occupancy — £1,050
Double Occupancy — £1,200
Single Occupancy — £1,300
All accommodation, meals, yoga, and workshops included.
FAQs
How do I get there?Fly to Lisbon on the 15th and we'll arrange a mini bus - or you can take your own Uber or Bolt
What's Included?Your accommodation (in beautiful glamping yurts), twice daily yoga practices, three meals and tea and coffee a day, and two sound healing sessions. Flights, transfers and extra activities will be charged separately.
Can I come by myself?Of course - and you absolutely won't be the only solo traveller! You can spend as much or as little time with the group as works for you; the only goal is that you leave feeling restored and rejuvenated.
Are You Offering Payment Plans?Absolutely! Klarna is an option at check out so you can easily spread the cost.
I'm coming with a friend - can we share a yurt?Absolutely! Just drop us an email with your names.
I'm sold - how do I book?Yay! We're so excited you’re joining us. You can book right here:
You don't need to become a yoga teacher to deepen your practice.
Sometimes, all it takes is one extraordinary week.
We'd love you to join us.