Moinhos Velhos

Yoga, detox, and space to reset

Portugal Bensafrim donation

Yoga and juice-detox retreats shape the experience at Moinhos Velhos, where the program has been running for more than 30 years. Set in a quiet Algarve valley among crystal-rich hills, the center gives guests room to step back from everyday routines and focus on wellbeing. Yoga is the named practice, while retreats also bring physical, mental, and emotional health into the picture. On site, a yoga studio, pool, sauna, and kitchen support a stay that can include time to practise, rest, or swim. Dietary options listed include vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, Ayurvedic, organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free choices. The center runs by donation, so ask about the contribution expected for your dates and what it covers. Its rural setting is still within reach of Lagos, with free pickup from the town and transfers from Faro available by arrangement.

Highlights

More than 30 years of yoga and juice-detox retreats
On-site yoga studio, pool, and sauna
Dietary options ranging from Ayurvedic to gluten-free and nut-free
Free pickup from Lagos

Good for

Yoga practitionersWellness retreat guestsBeginnersVegan and vegetarian travelersNature lovers

Setting

The retreat sits in a peaceful valley amid the Algarve’s crystal-rich hills. Its rural feel gives the days a welcome pause from town life, while Lagos is close enough for a practical connection to transport and other services.

The practice

Yoga is the named practice at Moinhos Velhos, alongside retreats centered on juice detox and wellbeing. If you are new to yoga, expect movement and guided instruction, but the style, pace, and class level depend on the retreat. Ask the center which sessions are included and whether they suit your experience.

A typical day

The rhythm depends on the retreat you book: yoga and detox are central, but start times, meal arrangements, free periods, and evening activities vary. Confirm the schedule before booking.

Accommodation

Ask the host about room types, occupancy, and what is included in a stay.

What to bring

Pack comfortable clothes for yoga and light layers for cooler periods. The annual average temperature is 17.7°C; summer is warm and relatively dry, while January, March, and December are among the wettest months, so bring rain protection if visiting then.

Address R. Moinhos Velhos, 8600 Bensafrim, Portugal

How to get there

The address is R. Moinhos Velhos, 8600 Bensafrim. The center is about 14 km from Lagos, with free pickup from town; transfers from Faro can be arranged in advance.

Nearest airport: Portimão Airport (PRM) (13 km)

Portimão Airport is the nearest airport, approximately 13 km from the center. Transfers are mentioned from Faro, so ask the center about getting to Moinhos Velhos from Portimão.

Nearest city: Portimão

Public transport: From Faro Airport, buses run to Lagos, and a taxi-train combination via Faro station is another option; arrange the free Lagos pickup with the center.

Languages

English

How to book

Contact the center directly to confirm dates and reserve your place.

Pricing

Retreats run by donation, with no fixed fee stated. Confirm the suggested contribution and what it includes with the center.

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Jun, Aug, Jul

Avoid: Mar, Jan, Dec

The Algarve has a mild annual average temperature of 17.7°C. June, July, and August are the warmest and driest months, while December, January, and March tend to be cooler and wetter, making a light rain layer useful outside summer.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Does Moinhos Velhos follow a set daily schedule?

The daily rhythm varies by retreat. Ask the center for the schedule for your dates, including yoga sessions and meal times.

Can beginners join the yoga retreats?

Yoga is part of the program, but class levels can vary. Ask the center whether a particular retreat is suitable for your experience.

What food options can the center accommodate?

Listed options include vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, Ayurvedic, organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free. Confirm which meals are included and how to share dietary needs when booking.

How do I get to Moinhos Velhos from Lagos or Faro?

The center is about 14 km from Lagos and offers free pickup there. Transfers from Faro can be arranged; confirm the service and fare for your arrival.

How do I reserve a retreat?

Contact the center directly to check dates and make a reservation.