Azenhas do Mar, Portugal September 25 - 30, 2026
Evolve Retreats was created to support you in cultivating greater clarity and fulfillment in your life. In the rhythm of everyday routines, it’s easy to lose touch with what truly matters. Our retreats offer space to reconnect with what lights you up and rediscover your sense of purpose through embodied yoga, practices that extend beyond the mat, nature-immersed adventures, intentional rest, and meaningful connections that turn into lifelong friendships and memories.
Each day of the retreat is centered around a theme, creating the opportunity to reflect, explore, and discover real growth throughout our time together. This structure helps you reconnect with your yoga, with what lights you up and lean into your purpose.
Intentional Themes
Community Connection
Where connection and self-discovery come together, giving space to connect with others while diving into your own journey. Relationships and shared experiences are a core part of the retreat, offering support and inspiration along the way.
Thoughtful Facilitation
Guided Growth
Our retreats are guided with intention, weaving embodied yoga practices with workshops, expansive ceremonies, local adventures, and restful moments. From stunning venues to carefully designed schedules, travel guidance, and pre-retreat community connection, every detail is considered so you can arrive feeling supported and present.
We celebrate the possibilities of life and encourage you to lean into your aliveness! Evolve Yoga Retreats offers an encouraging space to explore who you are and who you are yet to become.
Inspiring? Absolutely.
Transformational? Without a doubt.
Fun? Always.
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Your stay will be at Casa das Arribas, a stunning coastal estate originally built in the 1940s as a family home by renowned Portuguese architect Raul Lino. Thoughtfully renovated, the property blends modern comfort with the timeless charm of its original structure, honouring its natural beauty and architectural heritage.
The house is divided into spacious, private apartments, each offering one to two bedrooms, a full ensuite bathroom, a living area, and a kitchen space. Most apartments also include a private outdoor patio. (Scroll down page to view apartment options).
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We will have exclusive use of the entire property, allowing for a truly intimate and immersive experience. The venue features a private pool, a beautiful ocean-view yoga studio with glass doors that open to sunset views and an upper deck, a mini spa with a hot tub, cold plunge pool, and sauna, an outdoor tennis court, and an outdoor gym.
Additional amenities include a thoughtfully stocked honesty pantry for any on-the-go essentials, a cozy dining and lounge space, and expansive gardens that invite rest, reflection, and connection with nature.
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Our private chef will prepare thoughtfully nourishing meals, with a menu that ranges from vegetarian to pescatarian and can accommodate all dietary allergies and preferences.
With each apartment offering a full kitchen, the on-site honesty pantry, and so much of the surrounding area to explore, we’ve intentionally chosen to include two meals per day. This allows for greater flexibility in the schedule, giving you the freedom to explore local cafés, seaside towns, or enjoy a relaxed meal at your own pace while still feeling fully nourished and supported throughout the retreat.
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Daily morning and evening yoga practices: Mikaela leads a 1.5-hour “Magic Morning” Vinyasa flow that blends yoga philosophy, breathwork, meditation, and journaling, each day centered around a soul-stirring theme that carries through the rest of the day. In the evening, wind down with 75-minute sessions ranging from Yin and gentle Vinyasa to Restorative Yoga and Yin + Yoga.
Yoga props on site: Mats, blocks, blankets, straps, cushions, bolsters.
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Return to the foundations with a strong focus on alignment, breath, and meditation. Release what you think you know and step into your practice with a fresh, beginner’s mindset! Lots of hands on assists, partner assists and group discussion throughout.
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Mikaela will lead a 45-minute afternoon Pilates class (with resistance bands) designed to activate deep muscle groups, synchronize movement with breath, and energize the entire body!
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We are so excited to have Maarja, a dear friend and past Evolve Retreat guest, guide us through a traditional tea ceremony. This beautiful practice is centered on mindfulness, presence, and connection, inviting everyone to slow down, savour each moment, and fully engage with the ritual of tea.
Having Maarja lead this experience is truly special. Her warmth, intention, and deep understanding of the ceremony create a space where each sip becomes a moment of reflection, grounding, and shared connection.
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Experience a hands-on Portuguese cooking class, preparing authentic dishes with local ingredients while learning the culture and flavours of Portugal.
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Sound Healing:
A holistic method that uses the power of sound frequencies and vibrations to promote deep presence and connection with self on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level.
This practice often includes meditative experiences where sound is used to induce relaxation, enhance mental focus, and create a peaceful state of being.
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We’ll spend the afternoon at either Praia de São Julião or Praia da Foz do Lizandro, both stunning coastal spots with swimmable waters, scenic hiking trails, and gorgeous beaches. You can enjoy surf lessons (at your own expense), explore the area on foot, or relax and savour fresh bites at the local beachside restaurants.
We will also have the opportunity to spend an afternoon at the nearby beach: Praia das Azenhas do Mar (seen in the photo to the right)!
Your Evolve Retreat Includes:
Our Location:
We are so excited to welcome you to our first ever European Evolve Retreat in Azenhas do Mar, Portugal! Perched above the ocean, this coastal village offers sweeping views, the soothing sound of waves, and sun-filled days that invite you to soften and slow down.
While feeling quiet and tucked away, this location remains close to Lisbon (only a 45 min. drive away), the magical castles of Sintra, and the laid-back surf culture of Ericeira. It is a place where nature, culture, and connection meet.
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Please note that travel to Portugal (your flights) and travel to the retreat venue (shuttle or uber) is not included in the retreat cost. We recommend flying into Lisbon, which is only a 45-minute drive from the retreat. It’s easy to arrange an Uber or private shuttle to the venue. We’re happy to assist with pre-travel planning and can help coordinate with other guests arriving around the same time for a potential carpool.
Check in: 4:00pm
Check out: 11:00am
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We can help arrange for additional activities such as:
- Massages
- Surf lessons with local instructors
- E-bike excursions
- Wine tasting at a local vineyard
- Hiking along the coast or in the mystic hills of Sintra
- Rock climbing
- Sightseeing: Breathtaking castles in Sintra
- Permaculture workshops at a local farm
Not Included:
Reminder:
Retreat venue check in: 3:00pm
Retreat venue check out: 12:00pm
Apartments are equipped with everything you need:
1 bathrobe per guest
Towels and beach towels
Hair dryer, locally made organic toiletries
Kitchen equipment
Kitchen basics (organic olive oil, sea salt etc.)
Dishes, wine and water glasses, cutlery
Honesty Pantry: beverages, snacks, small items to purchase via ipad
Free high-speed wifi (250M/50M), TV
Shared washing machine and dryer on the property
Safe with number code
Perched high above the Atlantic Ocean, our retreat venue offers a collection of unique, apartment-style accommodations within a beautifully restored home. Each space is designed to feel both grounding and expansive, and includes one or two bedrooms, a spacious ensuite bathroom, and a full kitchen and living area. Thoughtful design weaves modern comfort with contemporary style, honouring the history of the original buildings, some dating back to the 1940s.
Accommodation Options
Ocean Saloon (Shared | 2 Guests)
The Ocean Saloon is the largest apartment on the property, shared among four guests. The primary bedroom, available for retreat guests, comfortably accommodates two people with a king bed or two XL twins. It features an ocean-facing patio, fireplace, work desk, ample closet space, and a spacious shared ensuite with a shower and deep soaker tub. The smaller bedroom is reserved for Mikaela, the retreat facilitator, and Mama Sue, the retreat assistant.The kitchen and living area act as the central gathering space for meals and meaningful connection.
Pool House Premium (Shared | 2 Guests)
The Pool House is a private, standalone home located across the pool, offering extra space and privacy. Designed for two guests, it features a king bed or two XL twins within a stunning open-concept layout. A subtle two-step elevation spans the width of the space, gently separating the living and dining area from the raised sleeping area. This house also includes a full ensuite bathroom, wooden soaker tub, closet space, a fully equipped kitchen and living space, south-facing ocean views, and a private terrace.
Garden Cabana (Shared | 2 Guests)
The Garden Cabana is a cozy, open-concept mini house extending from the main home, ideal for two guests. It features a queen bed or two twins, a comfortable living space with a sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a fireplace. The Cabana also includes a full ensuite bathroom with a shower and tub, along with a private terrace offering both garden and ocean views.
North Casita (Shared | 2 Guests)
The North Casita extends from the main house, offering a cozy and private retreat. Ideal for two guests, it features a queen bed or two twins, a fully equipped kitchen, a living area with a sofa bed and fireplace, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, and a private terrace overlooking the garden.
East Duplex (Shared | 2 Guests)
The East Duplex is a unique section of the house transformed into its own private oasis. Perfect for two guests, the upper level features a spacious bedroom with a queen bed or two twins, closet space and a full bathroom with a shower and tub. The main level offers a cozy living area and a fully equipped kitchen, with sliding doors that open onto a private terrace. Original exposed brick walls and a floating staircase add character, making this space a dream to wake up to.
South Wing (Shared | 2 Guests)
The South Wing is a spacious apartment attached to the main house, ideal for two guests. The ocean-facing bedroom features a queen bed or two twins, closet space, and an ensuite bathroom with a shower and tub. The fully equipped kitchen opens to a living area with a pull-out sofa, corner fireplace, and original terracotta tile floors. Sliding doors connect the living space to the pool area and a shared patio, creating a bright and welcoming space.
Piso Alto (Shared or Private | 2 - 4 Guests)
Pisto Alto is located on the upper level of the main house and is a spacious apartment designed for 2-4 guests. It features two private bedrooms, each of which can be arranged as a queen bed (private) or two twins (shared), complete with closet space. The bedrooms share a large ensuite bathroom with a shower and tub. The apartment also includes a shared living area with a fully equipped kitchen. While Pisto Alto does not have a private terrace, all guests are welcome to enjoy the large poolside patio and surrounding outdoor spaces.
Example Schedule
What a day on Evolve Retreat in Portugal looks like:
Our signature Evolve practice, blending Vinyasa flow, yoga philosophy, Pranayama breath + energy techniques, meditation, and guided journaling. Each session is thoughtfully designed with a daily theme that weaves through the practice and sets the tone for the rest of the day.7:30am - 9:00am | Magic MorningThis is your sacred quiet time after morning practice. Choose your own rhythm: journal on the rooftop, bask in the sunshine, stroll along the property or cliffs, refresh in the pool or hot tub, or enjoy the sauna or cold plunge. We honour these 1.5 hours of silence as a space to recharge and reflect.9:00am - 10:30am | Silent PracticeThis time is dedicated to experiences that complement the day’s themes. Some examples: relax by the pool, explore the nearby town, afternoon tea ceremony, Pilates class, a cooking class, or a full day of adventure (surfing, hanging out at the beach, or hiking along the stunning coastline near Ericeira).
12:00pm - 5:00pmWe gather around a long table in the Ocean Saloon to enjoy a locally sourced brunch prepared by our private chef.10:30am | BrunchWe gather again in the Ocean Saloon for a lovely long table dinner.5:30pm | DinnerOur 75-minute evening practices rotate between Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and Yoga Nidra, offering a sacred space to slow down, recharge, and nurture your nervous system. These practices are an invitation to deeply listen, allowing you to integrate the day’s theme and carry its insights with you into the evening.7:30pm - 8:45pm | Easeful Evening
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We are dedicated to making Evolve Retreats a welcoming space for everyone, whether you’re a solo traveler or coming with a friend, whether you’re a seasoned yogi or completely new to the practice. Our aim is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and inspiring experience for those who want to delve into “living yoga” both on the mat and in everyday life. We practice movement (asana), meditation (dhyāna), breathwork (pranayama), guided journaling (svadhyaya), and come together for group circles and ceremonies. We also embrace fun and adventure through curated group activities and excursions, connecting with the local community and the natural beauty of our surroundings.
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Expect hot days this time of year in Portugal, with refreshingly cool mornings and evenings. Especially being right on the coastline, packing layers will be key! Think long sleeves, t-shirts, tank tops, cozy hoodies, and activewear that’s comfortable for both movement and working up a sweat. Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and sandals for those more relaxed moments.
A small backpack and water bottle is good to have for offsite adventures.
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If the standard payment option of a non-refundable deposit followed by a later balance payment doesn’t suit your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact Mikaela directly (mikmillyoga@gmail.com). She would be happy to discuss the possibility of setting up a customized payment plan that better aligns with your preferences.