Xintara Retreat Center

A slower rhythm among Sintra’s gardens

Portugal Sintra paid

Sintra’s garden-framed countryside sets the scene at Xintara, where retreats take place across two quintas, Sao Bento and Maltava. Days may begin with yoga or Pilates, then continue over a continental breakfast prepared by a private chef. Between sessions, the grounds invite a slower pace: wander among flowering gardens and olive trees, pause in a centuries-old chapel, or sit by an outdoor fireplace. The blend of movement, shared meals and quiet corners gives the property a relaxed, house-like feel rather than the formality of a purpose-built retreat campus. Historic Sintra is only a short distance away, while the rural setting offers room to step back from its bustle. Xintara is a paid retreat experience, with specific prices depending on the retreat. Ask the host about the schedule, meals and what is included before booking.

Highlights

Two quintas, Sao Bento and Maltava, form the retreat setting
A centuries-old chapel offers a quiet place to pause
Flowering gardens and olive groves surround the grounds
Continental breakfasts are prepared by a private chef

Good for

yoga practitionersPilates practitionersnature loversvisitors drawn to historic settingsbeginners

Setting

The retreat spans two quintas in the countryside near Sintra, with flowering gardens and olive groves shaping a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere. A centuries-old chapel and an outdoor fireplace add distinctive places to pause between activities.

A typical day

Mornings may include yoga or Pilates, followed by a continental breakfast prepared by a private chef. The rest of the day can be spent among the gardens and olive groves, in the chapel, or relaxing by the outdoor fireplace. Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm it with the center.

Accommodation

Retreats take place across the Sao Bento and Maltava quintas. Room types, occupancy and lodging arrangements vary or are not detailed here, so confirm your accommodation with the host before booking.

What to bring

Pack comfortable clothes for yoga or Pilates and layers for time outdoors. Sintra averages 15.6°C annually, with wetter conditions common in January, March and November, so a light waterproof layer is useful.

Website xintara.co.uk

How to get there

The quintas are in the countryside near Sintra. Check the exact address and arrival instructions with the center before travelling.

Nearest airport: Cascais Airport (CAT) (9 km)

Cascais Airport (CAT) is approximately 9 km from the center. A taxi may be an option; ask Xintara about recommended transfers and the best route to your retreat.

Nearest city: Cascais

Languages

English

How to book

Contact Xintara through xintara.co.uk to ask about retreat dates and make a reservation.

Pricing

Retreats are paid, but specific rates are not stated here. Ask the center for the price and what is included for your dates.

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

Visit Xintara Retreat Center website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Aug, Jul, Jun

Avoid: Mar, Jan, Nov

Sintra has a mild annual average temperature of 15.6°C. Summer months, especially June through August, are warmest and driest, while January, March and November tend to be wetter; bring layers and rain protection if visiting in those months.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What does a day at Xintara typically include?

Yoga or Pilates and a chef-prepared continental breakfast are part of the retreat experience. Ask the host about the schedule for your dates.

Can beginners join the yoga or Pilates sessions?

Ask the center directly about the level and suitability of sessions for your experience.

How do I book a retreat at Xintara?

Contact the center through its website at xintara.co.uk to ask about dates and reservations.

What meals are served during a retreat?

A continental breakfast prepared by a private chef is described. Ask the host what other meals are included and whether dietary needs can be accommodated.

What is the accommodation like?

Retreats are held across two quintas, Sao Bento and Maltava. Contact the center to confirm room arrangements for your chosen retreat.