Casa Shanti

Old stone, space to pause

Portugal Igreja Nova paid

At Penedo do Lexim, the retreat’s sense of place begins with stone: old Portuguese houses, once reduced to ruins, have been rebuilt using their original masonry. The result is a setting with visible ties to local history rather than a purpose-made, anonymous retreat complex. Casa Shanti sits near Mafra, around 30 minutes from Lisbon, with regional beaches about 14 kilometres away, so a stay can pair quiet time inland with an excursion to the coast. The center hosts paid retreats, but its meditation tradition, daily format and lodging details depend on the particular programme. Check the retreat description before booking, especially if you have a preferred style of practice or particular accommodation needs. Come for the tactile architecture and a pause from city life, and use the website to confirm dates, practical details and what each retreat includes.

Highlights

Formerly ruined stone houses rebuilt with their original masonry
Historic Portuguese architecture made part of the retreat setting
A visible connection to the buildings’ past rather than a new-build atmosphere

Good for

history and architecture enthusiastsretreat travelersnature loversvisitors wanting a break from Lisbon

Setting

At Penedo do Lexim near Mafra, Casa Shanti occupies historic stone houses reconstructed with their original masonry. The buildings give the retreat a grounded, lived-in character, with a sense of local history in the fabric of the place. Lisbon is around 30 minutes away, and regional beaches are about 14 kilometres from the center.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by retreat, so ask Casa Shanti about session times, meals and free periods before booking. The retreat’s tradition and schedule can differ by programme, and no fixed rhythm should be assumed.

Accommodation

Accommodation details depend on the retreat. Ask the host about room types, occupancy and what is included before booking.

What to bring

The annual average temperature is 15.6°C, with warmer, drier summers and cooler, wetter winter months. Pack adaptable layers and a waterproof outer layer for winter or spring visits, and ask the host whether your retreat calls for particular practice clothing.

Website casa-shanti.com

How to get there

Casa Shanti is at Penedo do Lexim near Mafra, around 30 minutes from Lisbon by car. Confirm the route and arrival arrangements with the host before travelling.

Nearest airport: Cascais Airport (CAT) (22 km)

Cascais Airport (CAT) is approximately 22 km from Casa Shanti. A taxi or rental car is an option to investigate; confirm the route and any pickup arrangements with the host.

Nearest city: Cascais

Languages

English

How to book

Contact Casa Shanti through its website to ask about dates and reservations.

Pricing

Retreats are paid, but rates and inclusions depend on the programme. Check with Casa Shanti for current prices.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Casa Shanti website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Aug, Jun, Jul

Avoid: Mar, Jan, Dec

The annual average temperature is 15.6°C. June to August are the warmest and driest months, while December to March are cooler and wetter, so pack layers and plan for rain outside summer.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How can I get to Casa Shanti from Lisbon?

The center is at Penedo do Lexim near Mafra, around 30 minutes from Lisbon by car. Confirm the best route and transport arrangements with the host.

Are Casa Shanti retreats suitable for beginners?

Suitability depends on the individual retreat. Ask the host which programmes welcome first-time participants.

What should I pack for a stay?

Bring adaptable layers, as the area has mild average temperatures but cooler, wetter months and warmer, drier summers. Check with the host about any clothing needed for your retreat activities.

Are meals and accommodation included in the retreat price?

Inclusions vary by programme. Ask Casa Shanti about meals, room arrangements and the current price for your chosen dates.

How do I reserve a place?

Contact Casa Shanti through its website to confirm dates and reservation steps.