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. 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.
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.
A Profound Experience.
This is what people say:
A program to Support Inner Wisdom & Transformation
Unlike other silent retreats that are more rigorous and exclude movement or pranayama, this retreat includes gentle movement and breathing sessions to open and harmonize the system in support of your meditation journey.
We offer a light, accessible schedule, suitable for most people. A gentle way into profound meditation.
While the retreat may be an inner journey, we emphasize community and integration before and after the retreat. Coming together to process and reflect on our experiences.
Silent Meditation Retreat Schedule
07:00 - 7:30 Meditation
07:30 - 9:30 Gentle Yoga Asana & Qigong for all levels, 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 (time for 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
On the first day, we gather as a group to share our intentions and prepare for the journey ahead. In a short ceremony, we hand in our phones, books, and laptops, creating the space to retreat from daily life and enter fully into our silent journey.
Throughout the retreat, there is no communication or eye contact with others. The only spoken words come from the facilitators during the morning sessions, which include guided practices and a daily talk on meditation to deepen your understanding.
You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions by writing them down and placing them in a basket before the morning talk. There will also be time and space for personal journaling and reflection, if you wish.
On the final days, we begin gently opening the silence, creating room for integration, mindful conversation, and connection as a group.
“The self cannot be found in books. You have to find it in yourself for yourself.”
– Ramana Maharshi –
Requisites for the silent meditation retreat Portugal
A silent retreat is a powerful experience of inner transformation. To support the depth and safety of the process, we kindly ask that participants meet the following prerequisites:
You have some prior experience with traditional Eastern meditation practices
Or you have familiarized yourself with the content of the Awakening Meditation Course
You have a regular or daily meditation practice (or begin establishing one prior to the retreat)
You feel comfortable with early mornings, silence, and a focused daily rhythm
You are open to personal reflection, inner work, and group exercises (only on day 1 and the final day)
You abstain from alcohol, cigarettes, and other intoxicants during the retreat and in the lead-up
You commit to attending the full program and all sessions
You are emotionally stable and mentally able to participate in a full schedule of meditation
If you have experienced significant psychological challenges in the past — such as psychosis or schizophrenia — or are currently navigating a vulnerable phase, we encourage you to consult with a mental health professional or reach out to us before applying. In some cases, a different kind of support may be more suitable at this time.
Accommodation
You’ll be staying at the Karuna Meditation Retreat Centre, in one of the many beautiful rooms available. The property is spacious, with plenty of indoor and outdoor areas to relax, reflect, or enjoy time alone.
Accommodation includes same-gender shared rooms (double or triple occupancy). Private rooms are very limited and available upon request.
Food
Throughout the retreat, you’ll be supported with basic, nurturing, and delicious meals. Each dish is prepared with care to help you feel grounded, light, and steady in your meditation practice.
The food is intentionally simple and wholesome, giving your body exactly what it needs while keeping the focus on stillness, clarity, and inner work.
This retreat will be guided by:
Michaël Bijker
yogalap founder Michaël Bijker has been improving the mental and physical well-being of tens of thousands of people around the world from all genders, backgrounds, and walks of life.
On the retreat Michaël will be guiding a beautiful variety of sessions to awaken your full potential.
Michaël is the founder and director of the Life Awareness Project (yogalap). With more than 100,000 students across 190+ countries, he has helped thousands of people improve their mental and physical well-being — supporting individuals of all genders, backgrounds, and walks of life to feel stronger, calmer, and more connected.
Thomas Mathias
Thomas is an international yoga teacher, coach and meditation guide. Since 2019, he has been sharing his work globally with renowned organizations and platforms, offering yoga and meditation courses, co-living experiences, silent retreats, and private mentorships. Known for his grounding presence and insightful talks, Thomas draws from a variety of ancient traditions and modern science to inspire effective spiritual practice and deep transformation.
Silent Retreat Dates & Prices
4 - 9 May 2026
Spaces for this immersion are limited to 30 people, to ensure a supportive experience.
The participation fee includes the full program, daily guidance, and shared meals throughout the immersion.
Shared Room – €890
Private Room – €1390
How to Register
Register
To register, send us an email using the button below and let us know which retreat dates you’d like to join.
Reserve your spot
Reserve your spot with a €400 down payment using the link below. Once we receive your payment, your spot is confirmed, and you’ll receive all the info you need to prepare.
Remaining balance
The remaining balance is due one month before the immersion begins.
Getting to Karuna Meditation Center Monchique - Portugal
The silent retreat takes place at Karuna Retreat Centre, a secluded meditation sanctuary nestled in the forested hills of Monchique. Surrounded by nature, panoramic views, and a deep sense of stillness, it’s an ideal place to step away from daily life and turn inward.
Closest Airport:
– Faro Airport (FAO): Approx. 1 hour by car
– Lisbon Airport (LIS): Approx. 3.5 to 4 hours by car
How to Get Here:
– By car: The most flexible option, especially if you want to explore the area before or after the retreat
– By shared taxi/shuttle: We’ll help connect participants interested in ride-sharing
– By public transport: Buses run from Faro and Lisbon to Monchique or Portimão. We can support you with travel planning if needed
– Please arrive not earlier than 16:00 and not later than 18:00 on the first day
– The retreat ends before noon on the final day
Once your spot is confirmed, you’ll receive the full address, travel tips, and a detailed packing list.
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.
Cancellation
We understand that life can be unpredictable. If something comes up and you’re no longer able to join, here’s how cancellations are handled:
The down payment is non-refundable, but 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, we’re unable to offer a refund, 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
Any changes to bookings (such as transferring your spot to another date or person) will include a €40 administration fee
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help.
Get in Touch
We would love to have you join us on this retreat. If you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can email us at info@yogalap.com or fill in the form below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.