Frequently asked questions
How far is the nearest restaurant?
To taste the authentic Portuguese cuisine, you should visit the nearby fishing village of Olhão. Here, you will find several local restaurants. A recommendation is Casa Do Carmo, 2 km away, and Gunther’s restaurant, 3 km away. Olhão is only a 7-minute drive by car and 20 minutes by bike.
How far is the sea?
The sea is about 5 km from Seeds of Silence as the crow flies. If you want to enjoy the sea and the beach, we recommend visiting these beaches: Ilha de Faro, Praia do Barril, Ilha Deserta, Ilha Culatra, Ilha Farol, or Ilha Armona. They are about a 20 to 45-minute drive from Seeds of Silence. You can also take the bike to the beach (see FAQ about the e-bike to the beach).
Can you request an Uber? And what is the price to the nearest village?
Yes, you can order an Uber. A ride to the nearest village, Olhão, costs about 6 to 8 euros.
What is the difference between breakfast and the brunch buffet?
The breakfast is the brunch buffet. As a guest at Seeds of Silence, you can enjoy our freshly baked bread, homemade granola, freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, cake, local cheeses, fresh jam, and much more from 10:00 to 11:30. We always choose natural, healthy, and organic products, and everything is freshly prepared with love by our own team.
What is the difference between breakfast and the brunch buffet?
The breakfast is the brunch buffet. As a guest at Seeds of Silence, you can enjoy our freshly baked bread, homemade granola, freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, cake, local cheeses, fresh jam, and much more from 10:00 to 11:30. We always choose natural, healthy, and organic products, and everything is freshly prepared with love by our own team.
How many guests join a retreat at Seeds of Silence?
How many guests join a retreat at Seeds of Silence depends on the retreat you choose. On a Small Group Retreat, you travel through the retreat with a fixed group of no more than six guests, arriving and leaving on the same days. This small size keeps the atmosphere calm and intimate, and gives Cindy time for genuine personal attention.
A Personalised All-Inclusive Retreat, on the other hand, is one you book on your own, or together with someone you bring along. You choose your own dates, while sharing the yoga hotel and daily sessions with other guests who come and go.
Can I easily get to the beach with an e-bike?
Yes, you can. Cycling in Portugal is fairly safe, but keep in mind that there are no dedicated bike paths along the roads. The nature reserve Ria Formosa does have a beautifully laid-out bike path without traffic, making it a wonderful place to cycle. In 25 minutes, you can reach Praia Cavacos on an e-bike. Another 20 minutes further, you’ll find Fuseta, a lovely beach with cozy bars and restaurants. Follow the designated bike route for another 35 to 40 minutes to reach Praia Barril. So, there are plenty of options for a pleasant day at the beach with the e-bike.
Is Portugal expensive?
No, traveling in Portugal is very affordable. For example, dining out is quite inexpensive.
Tip: Bring enough cash, as credit card payments are not very common.
Why should I do a retreat?
A retreat is your opportunity to step away from the chaos of daily life and create a space for intentional reflection. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with what truly matters. With focused practices and firm support, you’ll find a safe environment to explore your inner self.
Please go with what no longer serves you and gain clarity on who you’d like to become. By striking a balance between shared experiences and solitude, you will rediscover your inner compass and initiate a powerful transformation.
At Seeds of Silence, our retreats are designed to empower you on your journey. Join us for a retreat in the beautiful Algarve region of Portugal and experience the profound impact of mindful practice and movement. Embrace this opportunity to elevate your soul.
Where is Seeds of Silence?
Seeds of Silence is 5 km from Olhão in the Algarve, in southern Portugal. It lies in quiet, green surroundings close to the Ria Formosa nature park, about a 15-minute drive from Faro and Faro Airport.
How do I get from Faro Airport to Seeds of Silence?
Faro Airport is the nearest airport, about a 15-minute drive from Seeds of Silence. An airport transfer is not included as standard, but a taxi can be arranged on request.
Do I need a rental car?
Not necessarily. Seeds of Silence is close to Olhão, and several places in the area can be reached by taxi or e-bike. A rental car can give you extra freedom if you want to see more of the Algarve during your stay.
Can I eat vegan, gluten-free or lactose-free?
Yes. The Seeds of Silence kitchen caters for different dietary preferences and needs, including vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free food and allergies. Let us know about any specific allergies or dietary needs in advance.
Which treatments can I add?
At Seeds of Silence you can add optional treatments and individual guidance, such as a holistic massage, private coaching, reiki, hypnosis, healing, family constellations or shiatsu. These are paid separately. You can book them during a retreat, but also as a hotel guest without a retreat. Hotel guests can book individual classes too.
What should I bring to a retreat?
Very little. Seeds of Silence provides all class equipment: yoga mats, bolsters, cushions, blankets, blocks and eye masks. Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, hand cream, hand soap, beach and pool towels, bathrobes and a hairdryer are also provided. Mainly bring comfortable clothes you can move freely in, swimwear, clothes for your free time and a refillable water bottle.