• Algarve Coast
  • Portugal

Journey of the Heart: A Yoga Retreat in Portugal to Reclaim the Joy

September 11–17, 2022

SOLD OUT! Contact us if you would like to be added to the waiting list

Travel with Laura Jane Mellencamp to the Algarve Coast in beautiful southern Portugal. The soft sand beaches and perfect sun-kissed climate offer a haven for renewal and nourishment of your total wellbeing. Be absorbed in this historic setting while sharing the region's gourmet food, hiking the beaches and hills, and partaking in the morning and afternoon yoga and meditations.

This is an opportunity to learn deeper healing tools for health and to expand the possibility of living a life of vibrant and joyous wellbeing. Unplug from the stresses that have been accumulating and leap into an adventure of a lifetime. This retreat is for the soul and to nourish the heart.

The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal, famous for being blessed with nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine each year. With cool Atlantic waters and an eastern mountain border blocking out hot, dry winds from the north, growing conditions for fresh, flavorful fruits, vegetables, and herbs are excellent. Lagos is known for its wide and endless beaches, Mediterranean climate, safety, and fresh seafood cuisine.

While on your retreat you will also have the opportunity to take part in adventure activities and wonderful excursions. Some of the possible options include:

  • Explore the pristine beaches peppered along the coast

  • Bike along the cobbled streets of Lagos or down to a local beach

  • Surfing

  • Scuba diving

  • Golfing

  • Fishing

  • Horseback riding

  • And more!

*Price of some activities are not included in tuition .


An Unforgettable Yoga Experience with Laura Jane Mellencamp

Using the practice of meditation, Laura Jane has designed this week to support you in exploring the tools of stilling the mind and embracing your authentic self. The yoga classes will blend the disciplines of vinyasa flow with a strong emphasis on pranayama and meditation to still the roaming mind, calm the system, and live in a state of balance.. They will cover the fundamental principles underlying the therapeutic application of yoga and how to incorporate these principles into your practice. Work to dissolve old blockages, unravel samskaras, and create new pathways to vibrant health and happiness. The end result will be one of the most incredible, unforgettable yoga experiences you will ever have.


This week is a perfect balance between rest and play. Laura has discovered through leading and attending many retreats that traveling together and saying yes to life and its opportunities in the moment create lasting friendships and a gratitude for life’s abundance that will last forever.

This yoga retreat is for all ages and all life experiences. Private yoga sessions will also be available.

It is perfect for all levels of practitioners, yoga teachers, and bodywork therapists.


Sample Daily Schedule*

(Optional to meet each student’s needs)
• Early morning hike and meditation
• Breakfast
• In-depth yoga practice with Laura Jane
• Lunch
• Free time to explore this beautiful and healing environment
• Late practice includes asana, chanting, sutra study and meditation
• Dinner
• Evening shared sanga

*Schedule is subject to change.


Reviews of Laura's Previous Retreats



  • Everything was so natural, like windows meant to overlook the snow covered mountains, but cozy and warm both in our cabins and lodge. Ideally located for a retreat and meals were created by an delightful chef. Laura Jane led us with just the amount of yoga and activity to keep it still a relaxing retreat.
    — MARLA


  • The Icelandic Yoga Retreat was magical. The lodgings were cozy and clean, the yoga room was beautiful (especially at night!), amenities were perfect (sauna, hot tub under the stars, expert masseuse), and we were treated to three expertly and lovingly prepared meals a day by our dedicated chef. The twice daily yoga practice was accessible to all levels and Laura Jane made a point of teaching the whole of yoga, not just the physical practice. We had a wonderful group of human beings and it was a pleasure spending time with each one.
    — JULIE DRAHO


  • I am so excited to attend my third retreat with Laura Jane and this amazing community of yogis. There is a reason so many of us keep coming back year after year. Beyond the incredible resort we are staying at (and "incredible" doesn't do it justice), Laura Jane creates such a warm and welcoming atmosphere in which to explore your yoga practice regardless of where you are at in your life. The twice daily practices and daily sutra study, combined with the beauty of the Baja peninsula and the phenomenal food, make this a retreat everyone should experience!
    — CATHY CHRISTOFF


  • A trip to Greece had been on my “bucket list” for many years. The experience with Laura Jane in Amorgos was beautiful, peaceful, and exceeded my expectations about visiting Greece! We practiced well thought out yoga classes twice a day, and still had plenty of time for outings on the island, or time to relax by the pool. The group was a true sangha, community, of friendly open people. Old friends reconnected, and new friends were made by each yogi. I feel confident about traveling with Laura Jane!
    — KAY GILMORE


  • I try to never miss Laura Jane's wonderful yoga retreats! They are the one time of the year that is just about me. I don't have to take care of anyone or anything other than myself. The combination of yoga, healthy food, journaling, quiet time, a wonderful guide and amazing friends is just what I need to regenerate for the year ahead. Not to mention that Prana Delmar is a real jem!
    — KANDICE HENNING


  • I am so excited to attend my third retreat with Laura Jane and this amazing community of yogis. There is a reason so many of us keep coming back year after year. Beyond the incredible resort we are staying at (and "incredible" doesn't do it justice), Laura Jane creates such a warm and welcoming atmosphere in which to explore your yoga practice regardless of where you are at in your life. The twice daily practices and daily sutra study, combined with the beauty of the Baja peninsula and the phenomenal food, make this a retreat everyone should experience!
    — CATHY CHRISTOFF

Accomodatations

Located in Lagos on the Algarve coast, this unique family-run boutique hotel has breath-taking panoramic ocean views and is the oldest operating property in the area. Allow yourself to unwind in our comfortable hotel that combines traditional charm and modern luxury, nestled amongst idyllic surroundings. 

Sink into one of our beautifully decorated rooms, each named after one of the gorgeous local beaches. This is a place that soothes the soul and rejuvenates the spirit, making you feel at home instantly. From our lovingly-tended Italian garden to the outdoor yoga shala overlooking rolling hills, each space offers the opportunity to appreciate the tranquility of Southern Portugal. It is a calm oasis in a busy world. Buffet brunch and afternoon tea with cake is served daily along with local fare including fresh-baked bread, eggs, and wine.


Investment

Starting March 2, save $200 on full-price (shared only) until June 1.

  • Shared Accomodations—$2595 USD (Full Price $2895)
  • Single Accomodations – $3095 USD

The cost of the retreat includes:

  • 6 nights accommodations

  • 3 meals per day (excluding one dinner) starting with dinner on the first night and ending with breakfast on the last day

  • Group Ground Transportation to/from Faro Airport to Retreat Center

  • Daily yoga practices

  • Personal retreat time (having time to nap, explore, walk, read, and just be)

The retreat does not include:

  • Airfare to Faro International Airport (FAO) in Faro, Portugal

  • Alcoholic beverages & personal purchases

  • Spa treatments

  • Optional excursions

  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)

  • Gratuities


Register

Paying your initial deposit of $350 will lock in your tuition rate and hold your space for the trip. A non-refundable $35 Payment Processing Fee will be added to the tuition rate upon registration.

Laura is planning this trip in conjunction with True Nature Travels, a holistic, educational travel company that provides planning, support and guidance for the trip. More information about our Iceland retreat including things to do, sites to see, how to book your flight for the best price possible and getting to Faro Airport, plus all booking/payments are handled on the True Nature Travel website.

Sign Up with No Risk! In response to COVID-19, True Nature is offering a temporary exception to their cancellation policy. When you sign up for any 2022 or 2023 retreat, your deposit is fully transferable. There is no cancellation fee if you transfer to another trip or put your deposit ($350) on hold for a future trip until the final payment date.*

We want to make sure everyone feels safe to travel and we are here to help and support you throughout this journey.

*This offer is valid for any new registrations prior to 108 days before the retreat date.


Interested, but need some questions answered before you can commit?