Quinta Camarena

Cam, Vera and the team have created a wonderful, welcoming oasis in a beautiful part of Alentejo. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel really welcome, on arrival Marco greeted us like friends and anticipated our needs excellently. Our rooms were clean, well decorated and the bed was super comfy (and enough pillows!) Their ethos of sustainability and working with local partners really demonstrates all the region has to offer. Rafa's dinners were exceptional (and he's a lovely guy too) and the breakfast from Maria each day was so tasty. We had two yoga instructors during our stay, completely different but both very welcoming, friendly and dedicated. My husband took surfing lessons arranged by Vera and Cam and he loved everything minute of it. We learnt a lot about the region from Vera and got see some beautiful beaches. The area of Alentejo, much overlooked has a lot to offer without the trappings of established tourism: beautiful beaches, stunning countryside, great food, wine and company. What I really think sets Vera and Cam apart is not just the obvious love and passion for what they have created but their dedication to the town of Cercal and their neighbours supporting each other in creating opportunity for all. It's a really special place.

It was a wonderful experience! We spent a weekend surrounded by nature, in a peaceful, welcoming environment full of good energy. Cam and Vera are an extremely kind and thoughtful couple, they truly made us feel at home from the very first moment. The yoga space is beautiful and filled with a sense of calm. The food was another highlight: very healthy, made with natural and flavorful ingredients, many of which came directly from their own garden! You can really feel the care in every detail. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing escape to recharge and reconnect with nature.

I cannot recommend this magical place enough. The retreat met—and truly went beyond—all of my expectations. It was an authentic and heartfelt experience, where everything was offered with generosity and intention, and always with the freedom to engage as much or as little as I liked. Waking up to morning yoga in the gentle spring light of this beautiful corner of Alentejo, walking through dappled forest paths to a serene practice space surrounded by trees and birdsong... it felt like a dream. The yoga was led by teachers deeply connected to their practice, offering it in such a kind, gentle, and inclusive way that I always felt supported to meet the class at my own pace. Breakfasts were a daily highlight—healthy, delicious, abundant meals full of love. Fresh juices, cakes, coffee, fruits, cereals… everything prepared and shared with so much care. And the evening meals—wow. Shared around the table, they were truly 5-star experiences, lovingly cooked by Raffel and Dona Maria. Every dish struck that perfect balance between delicious and deeply nourishing. You could taste the care in every bite, and the joy of gathering together made it even more special. The days were filled with unforgettable experiences: horseback riding through rolling hills, magical hikes along the coast with dips in the Atlantic, joyful dinners out, and so much laughter—deep, belly laughter. All of it set in the warmth and comfort of Quinta Camarena, surrounded by the infectious enthusiasm of Vera, Cam, Marco, and their wonderful team. This place is something truly special. If you're considering coming—do it. It's an experience you'll carry with you long after you leave.