Reformer Pilates Retreat Portugal
Algarve, Portugal
9–16 October 2027
You are invited to join me at a beautiful country house nestled in the hills of the Algarve, in southern Portugal. Surrounded by wild nature and bathed in natural light, it is a space designed for reconnection, calm, and inspiration.
Located just 20 mins from Faro Airport, you’ll experience breathtaking spaces for daily reformer Pilates classes and a whole range of optional day trips to make the most of your visit to Portugal.
The villa is completely secluded, with stunning modern interiors, wide sunny terraces and heated infinity saltwater swimming pool with Bali beds.
Throughout the garden you will find secret spots to relax and meditate as well as indoor and outdoor studios for both reformer and mat Pilates classes.
The villa is also conveniently located for those wishing to get out and explore the area with Loulé city center 5 min drive away and the nearest beach just 15 min by car.
What’s included:
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Movement
Every day will include a reformer Pilates class and a mat Pilates class. The reformer classes are held in small groups of 6 to 8 and all classes are suitable for beginners through to those more experienced.
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Nutrition
Our private chef will curate a vegetarian menu of Mediterranean flavours that will both nourish your body and delight your taste buds. There is access to tea, coffee and water throughout your stay and wine is available with dinner.
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Venue
The villa is completely secluded, with stunning modern interiors, wide sunny terraces and heated infinity saltwater swimming pool with Bali beds. There are multiple places to enjoy your meals and relax.
Rooms from £1,200 to £2,400
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Alfarroba & Oliveira
One Double King Size bed, for single occupancy or 2 guests sharing the same bed. Private walk-in shower room. Living room, kitchenette and private patio with jacuzzi. £2,400 single occupancy or £1,700 shared.
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Lavanda
A serene suite with King Size bed, suitable for one or two people. Private walk-in shower room and private patio with direct access to the garden. £1900 single occupancy £1500 shared.
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Tomilho
A cosy suite with Queen Size bed, suitable for one or two people. Private walk-in shower room with Japanese soaking tub. Direct access to the garden. £1900 single occupancy £1500 shared.
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Amendoa & Medronho
Spacious suites with a king-size bed that can be converted into two single beds. Private walk-in shower room and private terrace. £1,600 per person. Bookable as an individual willing to share or for two friends.
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Malva, Alecrim, Figo & Esteva
Spacious suites with twin beds. Private walk-in shower room and direct access to the garden £1,500 per person. Bookable as an individual willing to share or for two friends.
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Slavia
Twin, Triple or Quadruple room. Private walk-in shower room and direct access to the small garden. £1,200 per person. Bookable by individuals who want to make new friends as well as groups.
Your host: Rachel Garwood-Gowers
After 25 years of working in colleges and universities, I was feeling exhausted and worn out after the pandemic. The long hours, back-to-back meetings and high stress took a heavy toll on my mental health. So, I decided to take a break, gave up my job, bought a camper van and set off on a 3,000 mile journey with my dog Edmund. The trip was an incredible experience. It taught me how to find joy in the simple things, how to overcome problems, and how, even in my 50s, I could take on new challenges.
When I returned, I decided to turn my passion into my life, I trained to become a Pilates Instructor. I wanted people to experience that feeling of stepping away from the world, and dedicating some time for themselves, like I had on my journey. I also knew I wanted to start developing Retreats where there was more time to focus on the mind and body connection and where new experiences and memories could be made.
I’ve helped hundreds of people improve their mobility, alignment and strength already. I could never have found a more satisfying job. I am qualified to Level 3 in Mat Pilates and hold a further certificate in Reformer Pilates, awarded by Active IQ and I am insured through FitPro.
“Rachel is fab, she explains everything so clearly and makes each class suitable for all levels and abilities. I recommend Pilates (and Rachel) to everyone!” — Lucy Jobson
Included in your price:
Your group will have sole use of this really special retreat space and is only open to 18 people. Included in your price is:
Daily Reformer and Mat Pilates Classes
All meals
Swimming/beach towels
Fully equipped studio: mats, blocks, cushions
High-end toiletries from the Portuguese brand 8950
Tea, coffee and water throughout the day
Full use of outdoor spaces
Swimming pool
Access to exercise space outside of workshops
Transfer to and from airport if recommended flight is taken
Not included:
Flights: from UK to Faro
Travel Insurance
Any optional excursions or onsite well being activities
Massage is available onsite and trips out could include Loule market or the beaches of Praia da Marinha. There are many hiking opportunities nearby and the opportunity to visit Ria Formosa by boat could be organised subject to minimum numbers.
How to book
There are just 18 places available and your space can be secured for £150 with a further 50% of the total price payable 12 months before the retreat and the final payment in April 2027.