Soul journey
Return to the wisdom beneath the noise
In the quiet hills of South Alentejo, Soul Journey creates space for women to reconnect with their bodies, instincts and inner lives. Its retreats weave together energy medicine, family constellation work, shamanic practice and encounters with horses, with sessions grounded in the surrounding landscape. The horse herd lives at Crystal Forest, a short minibus ride from Pachawa Retreat Center, where guests can also find a yoga shala, outdoor exercise deck, pool and open spaces among cork oak and cistus. Vegetarian food is an option, and the center has a restaurant, kitchen and coffee and tea facilities. Soul Journey is less about following a set meditation tradition than exploring several approaches to personal and embodied practice. The work runs by donation; ask the host how contributions apply to the retreat you have in mind. Faro and Lisbon airports are both reachable by road, with arrival details shared after booking.
Highlights
- Horse-assisted work with a herd based at nearby Crystal Forest
- Family constellation sessions alongside energy medicine and shamanic practice
- A yoga shala, outdoor exercise deck and pool on the grounds
- Open landscape framed by cork oak and cistus
Good for
Setting
Pachawa Retreat Center sits amid the cork oak, cistus and open countryside of South Alentejo. Its outdoor spaces, yoga shala, exercise deck and pool make room for both group practice and time outside; the horse herd is at nearby Crystal Forest, a short minibus ride away.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm it with the center. Programs may bring together energy medicine, family constellation work, shamanic practice and time with horses, with the surrounding grounds offering space to pause between sessions.
Accommodation
Lodging details are not outlined here. Ask the host about room types, availability and what is included for your chosen retreat.
What to bring
Pack comfortable clothes for movement and time outdoors, along with walking shoes and layers for cooler days. The annual average temperature is 16.6°C; summer is warm and dry, while January, March and November tend to be wetter, so a light rain layer is useful outside the driest months.
How to get there
Faro and Lisbon airports are both reachable by road, and train and bus connections are available from both cities. Local taxis and pick-ups from nearby train or bus stops may be possible; detailed arrival instructions are sent after booking.
Nearest airport: Portimão Airport (PRM) (63 km)
Portimão Airport (PRM) is approximately 63 km from the center. Confirm onward transport arrangements with Soul Journey before travelling.
Nearest city: Portimão
Public transport: Train and bus connections run from Faro and Lisbon, with local taxi or pick-up options from nearby stops.
Contact Soul Journey directly to ask about dates and reserve your place.
Soul Journey runs by donation, with no fixed fee stated. Ask the host how contributions work for your chosen retreat.
Climate
Climate Zone: Temperate
Best Months: Aug, Jun, Jul
Avoid: Mar, Jan, Nov
The area averages 16.6°C over the year, with the warmest, driest conditions generally in June through August. January, March and November are among the wetter months, while winter is cooler, so the season makes a difference to outdoor time.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What does a typical day at Soul Journey look like?
The rhythm varies by retreat. Ask the host for the schedule of the dates you are considering.
Do I need experience with these practices to attend?
The work brings together several approaches, including energy medicine, family constellation work, shamanic practice and horse encounters. Ask the center whether a specific retreat has prerequisites.
Can the center cater for vegetarian guests?
Vegetarian food is listed as a dietary option, and the venue has a restaurant and kitchen. Ask the host what meals are included in your retreat.
How do I book a retreat?
Contact Soul Journey directly to ask about dates, availability and reservations.
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