To help you make the most of your stay, we've compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions.

​

​

ABOUT MONTE DA ORADA​

​

What is Monte Orada?

Monte da Orada is an ancient sanctuary in Alentejo, Southwest Portugal, dedicated to conscious nutrition, meditation, yoga, and nature connection.

​​

What is its history?

Dating back to the 12th century, Monte Orada was the "Sanctuary of Our Lady of Orada," a significant stop en route to Monchique and Algarve, renowned for its sacred water source.

 

Who are the owners?

The owners of Monte da Orada are Juliana Estevez and David Rafael.

They co-founded Orada with the vision of creating a regenerative, off-grid sanctuary that supports conscious living, spiritual retreats, and eco-sustainability. Their mission was to blend sacred land, traditional Portuguese elements, and modern retreat needs into one cohesive experience rooted in nature, community, and healing.
 

Who is the Monte da Orada Team?

Monte da Orada is run by a dedicated, hands-on international team of around 12 staff members. While most of the team is focused on delivering high-quality, nourishing meals from our kitchen, every member plays a role in creating a smooth and supportive retreat experience, from behind-the-scenes logistics to guest-facing support. Our team comes from diverse backgrounds, including Portuguese, Brazilian, Italian, and French cultures, bringing warmth, professionalism, and care to everything we do.

​

ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES 

​

What activities are available?

- On-site: Biopool swimming, sauna, nature walk.
- With Reservation: Yoga, meditation, ice bath, massages, sound healing, ecstatic dance, martial arts (Qi Gong, Tai Chi), walking meditation, personal photoshoot, bonfire gatherings, pizza evenings.
- Nearby: Surfing, stand-up paddle, hiking (Rota Vicentina), horse riding, boat trips, kayaking.
- Beaches: Alterinhos, Odeceixe, Vila Nova Milfontes, Arrifana, Machados, Amália.

 

Can a trip to the beach be organized?

Yes, e.g., a return trip to Amalia Beach costs approximately €10 per person, subject to availability.

​

Can we go for hikes or walks around Monte Orada?
Yes, the property is surrounded by trails and beautiful nature perfect for hiking, meditation walks, or simply exploring. We encourage guests to enjoy the land respectfully and stay within accessible areas.

​

What facilities are available?

• Meditation Temple, Panoramic Nave (120m²), Sacred Fire Amphitheater, Outdoor Shalas (Panoramic & Green Decks)

• Biopool, sauna, ice bath, massage room

• Equipment: Yoga mats, bolsters, meditation pillows, blocks, straps, TOPTRO TR21 projector, flipchart, whiteboard. Optional professional sound system (€250 flat rate).

• Instruments: Djembe, Tibetan bowls, Harmonium.

• Sound system: Professional Sound System (HK Audio Lucas 2K15), JBL speakers , Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack, RCA, mixer, adapters.​​

​

What rooms are available for retreat groups?
Here’s a full list of available accommodations and configurations:

• Suites 1–3: Twin OR double bed

• Suite 4: 1 double + 1 single

• Suite 5: Double bed

• Suite 6: Twin OR double bed

• Big House 1: Double bed

• Big House 2: Twin OR double bed

• Big House Mezzanine: Up to 5 futons

• Big House Bunk Beds: Up to 8 people

• Creek Studio: 6 single beds (includes mezzanine)

• Bungalow 1–2: 4 single beds each

• Bungalow 3–4: 2 single beds each

• Tiny House: Double bed

• Tree House (April–Sept): Double bed

• Lotus Tent (April–Sept): 3 single beds​

​

How is the ice bath organised?

We bring approx. 125kg of ice. Ice is added gradually. The ice bath holds 3 people at a time. The ideal duration per person is around 2–3 minutes, which is typical and safe for most cold immersion practices. The water remains at a suitable cold temperature for about 45min, depending on outside conditions and usage. This setup is ideal for groups up to 30 people, rotating in small groups throughout the session. Ice baths can only be organized between 10:00 and 18:00, as ice collection depends on shop opening hours.

​

ACCOMODATIONS

​

What accommodations are offered?

Rustic, eco-designed options:

• Suites with private bathrooms

• Shared dormitories

• Bungalows, studios

• Seasonal: Treehouse, Tiny House, Lotus Glamping Tent

​​

Can I stay outside of Orada or in a campervan/tent?

Yes, for groups over 25. Package: €75/day/person (includes meals, parking, showers, toilets, sauna). Campervans are accommodated, though the access road is rough for 1.5 km.
 

Can people join for meals without staying overnight at Orada?
Yes, absolutely. Friends, family members, or local guests who are not staying on-site can still enjoy meals with the group. Prices are as follows:

• Breakfast – €20

• Lunch – €20

• Dinner – €20

• Full Day Meal Package (all three meals) – €60

Note: Meal bookings must be arranged in advance to help our kitchen team plan accordingly.

​

What are check-in/check-out times?

Check-in: After 3 PM. Check-out: By 10 AM (rooms), 12 PM (property).

​

Is check-in before 3 PM or late check-out after 12 PM possible?

No, times are fixed due to year-round group bookings. Participants and facilitators must arrive after 3 PM and depart before 12 PM.

​

Can we stay before or after the retreat?

No, due to continuous bookings. Nearby options: Aterra (https://www.aterra.pt) or Valley of the Stars (https://valleyofthestars.co.uk).

 

Are hair dryers available?

Yes, each bathroom has a hair dryer.

​

ON SITE SERVICES 
 

Are staff available on-site 24/7?
No. Our team is on-site during key working hours but not 24/7. We trust our guests to enjoy the property responsibly. In case of emergency, contacts are provided.
 

Is there daily room service or cleaning?
No. For stays shorter than one week, we do not provide daily room cleaning or housekeeping. For longer stays, linen and towel changes are arranged weekly.
 

What towels are provided?
Each guest receives two towels (one body, one face). Extra towels are available upon request for an additional fee. (3 euro per towel)

​

Are toiletries provided?
We do not provide personal toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, or body lotion. We ask everyone to bring natural soap and shampoo only.

​

Is there a washing machine available for guests?

Yes, a washing machine, dryer, and outdoor clotheslines are available. (5 euro per machine)

​

Is there a first aid kit or emergency medical support on site?

A first aid kit and defibrillator are available. Nearest 24/7 first aid center: Centro de Saúde de Odemira (7630-174 Odemira).

 

FOOD & DINING

​

What food is served?

Vegetarian/vegan cuisine, energizing and thoughtfully prepared. Dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, sugar-free, etc.) accommodated with prior notice.

​

What are meal times?

• Breakfast: 8:30–9:30 AM

• Lunch: 12:00–1:00 PM

• Dinner: 6:00–7:00 PM
  Buffets open for 1 hour.

​

Can meal times be adjusted for earlier or later meals?

No, meal times are fixed to maintain team work-life balance and organizational flow.

​

Can early morning tea/coffee and fruit be arranged?

Yes, the restaurant offers a coffee machine, sparkling/still water machine, organic infusions, teas, and fruits available 24/7.

​

How can we prepare cacao for ceremonies?

A kitchen in the main house is available for heating/preparation, with equipment and plant-based milk provided by the kitchen. Cacao is sold in our shop (check availability).

​

How are allergies handled?

Notify us of serious allergies (e.g., chili, nuts) in advance; the kitchen will take precautions.

​

Are meals provided on the first and last days?

Yes, dinner is typically the first meal, and breakfast is the last. A later brunch instead of breakfast can be arranged on departure day if desired.

​

Can families staying offsite opt for meals only?

Yes, meal options:

• Breakfast: €15

• Lunch: €15

• Dinner: €20

• Day package (all meals): €50

​​

RETREATS & EVENTS

​

What are the minimum group sizes?

• Exclusive bookings: 25 participants minimum.

• Shared retreats:

  • May–Sept: 18 (Garden Mode), 14 (Forest Mode)

  • Oct–Apr: 14 (Nave Mode), 15 (Temple Mode) Smaller groups may book during shared retreat dates or under specific arrangements.

 

Can retreats be listed on your website?

Yes. Submit: retreat name, dates, leader(s), description (max 100 characters), registration link, 3 images for inclusion on our website and Instagram calendar.

​

Who manages logistics?

Laura and Jacob coordinate arrivals, setup, and daily communications.

​

Who communicates with participants?

Retreat leaders are the sole point of contact for participants to ensure consistency.

​

When are final participant numbers and room lists due?

Two weeks before arrival. Last-minute subscriptions can be adjusted.

​

Are you open to collab on social media posts or sharing retreat stories?

Yes, tag us in stories or reels, and we can repost. We prioritize diverse, engaging content.

 

INSURANCE & LIABILITY 

​

Do guests or facilitators need insurance?
Yes. Retreat facilitators are required to have adequate insurance that covers their participants in case of injury, illness, or any unforeseen events during the retreat. Monte Orada is not liable for injuries, damages, or losses during the retreat.
 

Are participants covered by Orada’s insurance?
No. All participants must be covered either by the facilitator’s insurance or their own personal travel/health insurance.
 

Do participants need to sign a waiver?
Yes. It is the facilitator’s responsibility to ensure all participants sign a liability waiver before or upon arrival, acknowledging the inherent risks of retreat activities.
 

LOCATION & TRANSPORTATION​

​

How do I get to Monte Orada?

• Airports: Lisbon (3h), Faro (2h).

• Minibus/Taxi: Direct pickup from airports or Lisbon city.

• Train: CP.pt to Santa Clara-Sabóia (2h30) + pre-booked taxi (40min).

• Bus: Rede Expressos/Flixbus (3–4h) to São Teotónio/Zambujeira + taxi (10min). Transfers can be arranged with our team.

​

Where will the taxi be waiting at airports?

• Faro: Outside airport with Orada sign.

• Lisbon: Near Vodafone shop with Orada sign.

​

Are taxi transfers available?

Yes. Approximate rates:

• Faro: €180–200

• Lisbon: €260–300 Vans (4 or 8 pax) and buses 650 euro (24 and 28 pax) available. Local taxis:

• Fatima: +351 968332 307

• Daniel: +351 968405372​​​

 

Who organizes guest transport?
Facilitators are responsible for collecting all taxi and shuttle needs from participants and forwarding them to our team at least 7 days prior to arrival for coordination.
 

Do you recommend rental cars?

Yes, for exploring the region and nearby coasts, as taxis for short trips are limited in high season.

 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

​

Is Monte Orada open year-round?

Closed annually for one month from January 15 to February 15.

​

Is reception or internet access available?

Yes, routers are available throughout the venue, mostly without passwords. Reception operates from the parking area.

Should we mention Monte Orada on our website?
Yes! Adding “Monte da Orada” and linking to www.orada.eu helps people find your retreat and helps us grow. It's a win-win.

​

Are outdoor fires allowed?

Permitted only if weather allows (no wind), prohibited mid-May to October due to fire risk. Safety briefing provided when allowed.

​

What are the policies on smoking and alcohol?

Non-smoking venue with a designated smoking area. Alcohol is discouraged and must be pre-approved. Wine is available; fees may apply for external wine.

​

Can I bring my dog to the venue?

If approved by the retreat leader, dogs are allowed. On-site: one dog and two cats. Aggressive or uncontrollable dogs are prohibited. Dogs must be leashed, are not allowed inside buildings, and owners handle their care.

​

Are babies or children allowed? pricing for children?

If approved by the retreat organizer, babies and children are welcome. No baby beds or high chairs provided, but local babysitter contacts are available.

• Children under 6: Free

• Children 6 and older: 50% of standard rate

​

​Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not allowed at Monte Orada, with the exception of the resident dog. This policy helps maintain a peaceful, allergy-conscious, and distraction-free environment for all guests.

 

Should participants bring cash?

Yes, for taxis, on-site massages and shop.​
 

Can we swim in the canal?
Swimming in the irrigation canal is at your own risk. It is not a lifeguarded area.

 

Is the dirt road suitable for all cars?
Our 1.5 km access road is rough and not recommended for low-clearance vehicles.

 

Are fires allowed year-round?
No. Outdoor fires are strictly prohibited from May 1st to October 31st due to fire risk. A safety briefing is required outside of fire season.

Can I send a delivery or package to Orada?
No, please do not send packages directly to our postal address. Contact us first if you need to receive something during your stay so we can arrange an alternative.

​

Where can we find flowers nearby?

• Florista Nelia: +351 919 111 739, 7630-629 S.Teotónio

• Florista Mimos & Cravos: +351 967 553 192, R. José Maria de Andrade, 7630-174 Odemira