Silent Retreat Portugal 2026
4 - 9 May, 2026, Portugal
Reconnect with your true self at our Silent Meditation Retreat in the serene mountains of Monchique, Algarve.
Time to Reconnect With Your True Self & Nature
Silent meditation retreats have been a common practice since ancient times, allowing us to enter deep states of meditation that are often inaccessible amidst the busyness and responsibilities of daily life.
Read More
By reducing sensory input and practicing self-observation over an extended period, we create the space to heal on a profound level, gain deeper insight into who we truly are, and find clarity about what truly matters in life.
We are excited to announce this opportunity to join us on a silent retreat in the Algarve, Portugal. During these days, we will embark on a deep journey together through meditation — completely silent, without eye contact or screens. We will let go of words and doing, and come together from sunrise to sunset, exploring our inner world in shared silence and contemplation.
The Karuna Retreat Centre
A Sanctuary for Inner Transformation
The Karuna Retreat Centre is tucked away in the mountains of Monchique, South Portugal. This is a meditation center with a truly special energy. With wide views over the Algarve coast and a spacious wooden hall for practice, it offers the peace and simplicity needed for deep inner work.
Read More
The land was chosen by an Indian yogi who completed a 3-year, 3-month, and 3-day retreat here — after which he built the centre. Since then, it has remained a place dedicated to silence, presence, and transformation.
What’s Included
- Full daily retreat program: meditation, gentle yoga, Qigong, pranayama, and guided sessions
- Talks on meditation, self-reflection, and inner work
- Three wholesome, nourishing meals per day
- Access to indoor and outdoor spaces for relaxation and reflection
- Support from experienced facilitators: Michaël Bijker & Thomas Mathias
- Opportunity for journaling and asking questions in writing
Optional Upgrades
- Private room (limited availability) – additional €500
What’s Not Included
- Travel to Portugal (flights, taxis, etc.)
- Personal expenses outside the retreat
- Optional activities or excursions not part of the program
Journey
- Some prior meditation experience or completion of the Awakening Meditation Course before the retreat
- Regular or daily meditation practice (or commitment to start before the retreat)
- Comfort with early mornings, silence, and a focused daily rhythm
- Openness to personal reflection, inner work, and group exercises (on first and last day)
- Willingness to abstain from alcohol, cigarettes, and other intoxicants during the retreat
- Commitment to attend the full program and all sessions
- Emotional stability and mental readiness for a full meditation schedule
- If experiencing significant psychological issues, consult a professional before joining
- Morning, afternoon, and sunset meditation sessions
- Gentle yoga, Qigong, and pranayama practices
- Guided meditation and meditation teachings
- Mindful meals and silent breaks for journaling, walking meditation, and reflection
- Optional community integration on the first and final days
- Reflection exercises and journaling to deepen self-awareness
- Deepened meditation practice and inner stillness
- Clarity on personal priorities and life direction
- Heightened self-awareness and self-understanding
- Tools for ongoing mindfulness and meditation in daily life
- Connection with like-minded community members
- Physical and mental harmonization through gentle movement and breathing
- A transformative, immersive experience of silence and presence
- Some prior meditation experience or completion of the Awakening Meditation Course before the retreat
- Regular or daily meditation practice (or commitment to start before the retreat)
- Comfort with early mornings, silence, and a focused daily rhythm
- Openness to personal reflection, inner work, and group exercises (on first and last day)
- Willingness to abstain from alcohol, cigarettes, and other intoxicants during the retreat
- Commitment to attend the full program and all sessions
- Emotional stability and mental readiness for a full meditation schedule
- If experiencing significant psychological issues, consult a professional before joining
- Morning, afternoon, and sunset meditation sessions
- Gentle yoga, Qigong, and pranayama practices
- Guided meditation and meditation teachings
- Mindful meals and silent breaks for journaling, walking meditation, and reflection
- Optional community integration on the first and final days
- Reflection exercises and journaling to deepen self-awareness
- Deepened meditation practice and inner stillness
- Clarity on personal priorities and life direction
- Heightened self-awareness and self-understanding
- Tools for ongoing mindfulness and meditation in daily life
- Connection with like-minded community members
- Physical and mental harmonization through gentle movement and breathing
- A transformative, immersive experience of silence and presence
Schedule
| Time | Activity |
| 07:00 – 07:30 | Morning Meditation |
| 07:30 – 09:30 | Gentle Yoga, Qigong, Pranayama & Guided Meditation |
| 09:30 – 11:00 | Mindful Breakfast |
| 11:00 – 12:00 | Talk & Meditation Teachings |
| 12:00 – 13:00 | Guided Meditation |
| 13:00 – 15:30 | Mindful Lunch & Silent Break (rest, walking meditation, journaling) |
| 15:30 – 16:30 | Meditation |
| 16:30 – 17:00 | Tea Break |
| 17:00 – 18:00 | Sunset Meditation |
| 18:30 – 20:00 | Mindful Dinner |
| 20:30 – 21:00 | Meditation / Yoga Nidra |
Notes:
- The first day includes a short ceremony to hand in phones, books, and laptops.
- Silence is observed throughout the day except during facilitator guidance.
- Final days gradually reopen the silence for mindful connection and integration.
Travel & Getting There
Location: Karuna Meditation Retreat Centre, Monchique, Portugal – a secluded sanctuary in the forested hills.
- Faro Airport (FAO): Approx. 1 hour by car
- Lisbon Airport (LIS): Approx. 3.5 – 4 hours by car
- By Car: Most flexible option, especially if exploring before or after the retreat
- Shared Taxi / Shuttle: We can connect participants interested in ride-sharing
- Public Transport: Buses from Faro or Lisbon to Monchique or Portimão; we provide support for travel planning
- Arrive on the first day before the opening ceremony
- Depart after the closing session on the last day
- Note: If you’re coming from abroad, we recommend arriving in Portugal 1–2 days early to rest, settle in, and begin your transition into the retreat space with ease.
Accommodation
- Karuna Meditation Retreat Centre, Monchique, Portugal – nestled in forested hills with panoramic views and peaceful surroundings
- Same-gender shared rooms (double or triple occupancy)
- Private rooms available on request (limited availability, optional upgrade)
- Spacious indoor and outdoor areas for relaxation, reflection, or quiet time
- Simple, comfortable, and serene environment designed for meditation and inner work
- Secluded, quiet, and surrounded by nature, ideal for stepping away from daily life
- Spaces for journaling, walking meditation, and personal contemplation
Food
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
- Style: Simple, wholesome, and nourishing dishes
- Support your meditation and inner work
- Keep you grounded, light, and steady throughout the retreat
- Meals are vegetarian-friendly and prepared with care
- Focus is on providing exactly what your body needs without distractions
Meet Your Teachers
Michaël Bijker
A Mission to Spread Knowledge, Well-Being, and Wisdom
Yogalap founder Michaël Bijker has been improving the mental and physical well-being of tens of thousands of people worldwide, from all genders, backgrounds, and walks of life.
Professional member of:
Message from Your Teacher
“Everyone has a wonderful power within. A power to observe, heal and manifest. When one has truly felt this source within, one will live one’s life in the service of others, because that is the true purpose of our life. We are all one and connected in spirit.”
– Michaël Bijker
Thomas Mathias
- International yoga teacher, coach, and meditation guide
- Experienced in silent retreats, co-living programs, and private mentorships
- Known for grounding presence and insightful talks
- Combines ancient traditions with modern science to inspire deep transformation
Together: Michaël and Thomas provide guidance, support, and a safe container for deep meditation, reflection, and inner growth throughout the retreat.
Listen from our Participants
- Deep Inner Transformation: Experience profound self-discovery and clarity about what truly matters in life.
- Enhanced Meditation Practice: Learn techniques and practices to deepen your mindfulness and focus.
- Mental & Emotional Clarity: Reduce stress, overthinking, and mental clutter for a calmer mind.
- Physical & Energetic Balance: Gentle yoga, Qigong, and pranayama harmonize your body and energy.
- Connection with Nature: Reconnect with the natural environment and find inner peace.
- Supportive Community: Share intentions and reflections with like-minded participants (in integration sessions).
- Tools for Daily Life: Gain skills and insights to continue meditation and mindfulness practices after the retreat.
- Safe, Nurturing Environment: Guidance from experienced facilitators for a supportive, structured, and safe journey.
Retreat Dates, Booking & Special Offer
- Reserve your spot with a €400 down payment.
- Receive confirmation and retreat preparation details.
- Pay the remaining balance one month before the retreat.
If you have previously joined any of our instructor courses, you are eligible for a 10% discount:
- Shared Room: €890 → €801
- Private Room: €1390 → €1,251
We have 5–6 silent retreats planned this year at the Karuna Meditation Retreat Centre, Monchique, Algarve:
- 4 – 9 May 2026
- 15 – 20 June 2026
- 10 – 15 July 2026
- 5 – 10 September 2026
- 10 – 15 October 2026
- (Dates subject to availability)
- The down payment (€400) is non-refundable, but it can be transferred to another course or retreat within 12 months.
- If you cancel more than 30 days before the start of the immersion, any additional payments made (beyond the down payment) will be refunded.
- If you cancel less than 30 days before the immersion, no refund is available, as preparations and bookings will already be in place.
- Any changes to bookings (such as transferring your spot to another date or person) will include a €40 administration fee.
Moments From the Retreat
Reserve early as spaces are limited to 30 participants per retreat!
FAQs
Yes, some meditation experience is required. If you are newer to meditation, you can prepare by completing the Awakening Meditation Course or by establishing a regular practice before the retreat.
Yes. The retreat is held in silence from sunrise to sunset. There is no talking, eye contact, or use of phones or screens. The only spoken guidance comes from the facilitators during scheduled sessions.
No. All phones, books, and laptops are handed in on the first day to support a deep and undistracted retreat experience.
You can write your questions and place them in a basket. The facilitators will address them during the morning talks.
No. The program is gentle and accessible. Yoga, Qigong, and breathing practices are suitable for most levels and are designed to support meditation, not strain the body.
Participants stay in same-gender shared rooms (double or triple). Private rooms are very limited and available as an optional upgrade.
Simple, nourishing, and wholesome meals are provided daily. The food is designed to support clarity, grounding, and inner work.
No. Participants are expected to attend the full retreat from start to finish to maintain the integrity of the group experience.
The retreat is intended for emotionally stable participants. If you are experiencing significant psychological challenges, we recommend consulting a mental health professional or contacting us before applying.
The retreat is held in English.
The retreat is limited to 30 participants to ensure a supportive and intimate experience.
Need More information About Retreat?
Do you need more information about the Silent Retreat or something else? We are happy to answer your questions.
Silent Retreat Dates & Prices
4 – 9 May 2026
Shared Room – €890
Private Room – €1390
Or
- Free cancellation available
- No booking or credit card fees