loader image

Return to Radiance

Yoga & Arts Retreat
SEP. 28th - OCT. 3rd 2025

Veda Wellness Retreats promotes deep healing and personal growth by merging ancient wisdom with modern insights from neurobiology and social science.

Their holistic approach integrates yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, breathwork, nutrition, and emotional well-being to cultivate vitality, confidence, and independence.

Key retreat locations include Casa Palmela in Portugal, set within the serene Arrábida Nature Park, and Benediktushof in Germany, a former monastery offering spiritual and intellectual exploration.

Programs span 5 to 14 days and may include private home sessions.

With a growing global presence, Veda Wellness Retreats delivers immersive, transformative experiences that support lasting holistic well-being and meaningful self-discovery.

VEDA WELLNESS RETREATS

Among their key retreat locations is Casa Palmela in Portugal, a serene haven in the heart of Arrábida Nature Park, offering an immersive wellness experience surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Another notable venue is Benediktushof in Holzkirchen, Germany, a former Benedictine monastery turned spiritual centre, hosting courses in philosophy, theology, psychology, and natural sciences.

Veda Wellness Retreats also organizes programs different corners of the globe, with retreats ranging from 5 to 14 days, including private sessions at participants’ homes. Continuously expanding, Veda Wellness Retreats provides transformative experiences that promote holistic well-being worldwide.

PROGRAM

• Daily Yoga & Meditation
Awaken body and mind with guided practices for balance and inner peace.

• One on One sessions
Personal guidance to deepen yoga practices & health knowledge.

• Sunrise Practices
Begin each day with revitalizing yoga and meditation as the sun rises over the Nature Park.

• Creative Painting Sessions
Explore your artistic side through guided and free-flow painting experiences.

• Art in Nature
Connect with the stunning landscapes of Arrábida while painting in the open air.

• Farm-to-Table Culinary Experience
Savor nourishing, locally – sourced meals that celebrate Portuguese flavours.

• Wellness & Tranquility
Rejuvenate in serene surroundings, with access to wellness facilities and outdoor activities.

• Like-Minded Community
Share the journey with a supportive group of creative, conscious individuals.

Retreat Prices

Early Bird (Valid until june 30th)
€3.370,00/pp – Twin/Double Occupancy (VAT included)
€3.560,00/pp – Single Occupancy (VAT included)

Regular Prices (Valid from 1st of July)
€3.550,00/pp – Twin/Double Occupancy (VAT included)
€3.750,00/pp – Single Occupancy (VAT included)

REGISTRATIONS

Includes
5 nights accommodation
Daily wellness meals (b/f, lunch & dinner)
Pre-arrival assessment
Yoga consultation
4 half days of painting with different techniques and materials
Tile painting workshop
Daily yoga and meditation sessions
Tea ceremony and meditation in the nature park
Possible massages throughout the stay (extra)

Terms & Conditions
A 30% deposit is needed to secure participation in the retreat;
The remaining 70% balance is due 60 days before the retreat begins;
For cancellations made between 60 and 45 days prior to the retreat, a 50% penalty applies; the remaining balance will be refunded;
For cancellations within 45 days of the retreat start date, a 100% penalty applies, and no balance will be refunded;
The organization reserves the right to cancel the retreat no later than 21 days before the start date. In such cases, the deposit will either be transferred to a future retreat or refunded.

Contact details for reservations and inquiries:
retreats@ouh.pt
+351 969 298 381

Fill out the form and let us assist in clearing any questions you might have. We’re here to help!

    Retreat and Workshop Experts

    Therese Skovgaard Poulsen

    Yoga Teachings & Lay Scholar of classical Yoga Philosophy

    Therese has led numerous yoga workshops and retreats as well as “train the trainers” programs globally.

    See more

    Thérèse Skovgaard Poulsen is a Sanskrit Scholar from Columbia University in New York, where she also completed her medical training to become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM).

    Also a renowned wellness expert, yoga instructor, and holistic health practitioner with nearly three decades of experience. As the founder of Veda Wellness Retreats, she has dedicated her career to promoting well-being through an integrative approach that blends ancient wisdom with modern science.

    Thérèse is a certified Ashtanga Yoga teacher with extensive training in Shiatsu and Swedish massage techniques.

    She has also studied Chinese medicine and other complementary therapeutic practices, shaping her holistic approach. With a passion for transformation, she designs programs that guide individuals toward greater self-awareness and balance.

    Veda Wellness Retreats offers immersive experiences in serene locations such as Bali, Greece, India, Portugal, and Japan. These retreats integrate yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, breathwork, nutrition, and emotional healing, empowering participants to achieve lasting lifestyle changes. Retreats are hosted in inspiring environments like Benediktushof in Holzkirchen, Germany – a former Benedictine monastery turned spiritual centre.

    Committed to fostering independence and resilience, Thérèse continues to expand Veda Wellness Retreats, bringing holistic healing to a global audience. Her work stands as a testament to integrative wellness, helping individuals reconnect with themselves and cultivate a harmonious, healthy lifestyle.

    Davina Stephens

    Artist

    Davina has held numerous solo exhibitions around the world, including in Indonesia, New Zealand, Australia, and Italy

    See more

    Davina Stephens was born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1968, is a distinguished artist known for her vibrant and culturally rich works.

    Raised in Australia, Bali, and India, Davina was exposed to diverse artistic influences from an early age. After graduating from Woodstock School in the Himalayas in 1987, she studied textile design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.

    Though formally trained, Davina is largely self-taught, and her unique artistic style blends elements of cartography, biology, and intricate storytelling. Her works are known for their bold colours and deep narratives, reflecting the environments and cultures she’s been immersed in.

    Davina has held numerous solo exhibitions around the world, including in Indonesia, New Zealand, Australia, and Italy. In recent years, Davina has explored contemporar y issues such as global warming and social inequality through her art.

    In addition to her artistic pursuits, Davina is an avid kitesurfer, surfer, and diver. These activities allow her to connect with nature, and often inspire her work. She continues to split her time between Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and the Pacific, drawing on the beauty and diversity of these regions to influence her evolving body of work.

    Dr. Kukku Ramesh

    Ayurvedic Doctor
    Kerala, India

    Dr. Kukku Ramesh’s passion for the science of Ayurveda enables him to anticipate, identify, and ensure that clients’ needs are met in the best possible way.

    See more
    Dr. Kukku Ramesh
    Ayurvedic Doctor – B.A.M.S.

    Born and raised in Kerala, the cradle of Ayurveda in India, Dr. Kukku earned his degree in Ayurveda from Ayurveda Medical College in Kerala, India. During his studies, he had the opportunity to interact with many practitioners of authentic Ayurveda.

    He also completed a Spa Management course at the Ananda Spa Institute, where he refined his Ayurvedic diagnostic methods, including pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pareeksha).

    Dr. Kukku began his career in 2009 at Kempinski Palace in Bangalore as an Ayurvedic Doctor, reporting to the Spa Manager. In 2011, he moved to Intercontinental Lalit Resort & Spa in Goa as an Ayurvedic Doctor and Spa Assistant Manager. In 2013, Dr. Kukku started an international career in the Maldives as an Ayurvedic Doctor and Spa Assistant Manager. Currently, he is in Austria, managing the Ayurveda team at the Larimar Hotel Therme & Spa.

    His passion for the science of Ayurveda allows him to anticipate, identify, and ensure that clients’ needs are met in the best possible way.

    Dra. Kavitha Shyamala

    Médica Ayurvédica
    Kerala, Índia

    Nos últimos anos, a Dra. Kavitha criou diferentes tratamentos inovadores para atender a diversas demandas (relaxamento e desintoxicação).

    Saiba mais sobre Dr. Kavitha Shyamala
    Dr. Kavitha ShyamalaMédica Ayurvédica – B.A.M.S.

    Nascida e criada em Kerala, o berço da Ayurveda na Índia, a Dra. Kavitha recebeu o seu diploma em Ayurveda no Ayurveda Medical College em Kerala, Índia. Durante os seus estudos, teve a oportunidade de interagir com muitos médicos que praticam a Ayurveda autêntica.

    Com mais de 12 anos de experiência, a Dra. Kavitha dá consultas Ayurvédicas e holísticas, utilizando métodos como Nadi pareeksha (diagnóstico de pulso), iridologia e diagnóstico da língua. Ela também é especialista em treinar sessões de yoga e meditação, oferecendo tratamentos personalizados de Ayurveda de acordo com as necessidades dos pacientes. Ao longo dos últimos anos, a Dra. Kavitha desenvolveu diferentes tratamentos inovadores para atender à procura, incluindo Relaxamento e Desintoxicação.

    Além disso, é especialista em dieta Ayurvédica e recomendações de estilo de vida, bem como yoga clínico para vários problemas de saúde. A Dra. Kavitha cria menus de dieta personalizados em Ayurveda para os hóspedes, dá aulas de culinária Ayurvédica e realiza palestras sobre Ayurveda e yoga.

    Atualmente, a Dra. Kavitha Shyamala reside na Áustria e trabalhou anteriormente no Four Seasons Maldives.

    Renjith Kurup

    Ayurvedic Therapist
    Kerala, Índia

    Renjith Kurup develops his own therapies, applying the best techniques tailored to the needs of each patient.

    See more
    Renjith Kurup
    Ayurvedic Therapist

    Born and raised in Kerala, the cradle of Ayurveda in India, Renjith earned his diploma in Ayurvedic therapies, reflexology, Pancha Karma specialization, and Reiki mastery in Kerala, India. During his studies, he had the opportunity to interact with many practitioners of authentic Ayurveda.

    Renjith began his career in Kerala and later moved to Europe, starting in Slovenia as an Ayurvedic therapist.

    Since 2015, he has been living in Austria, where he continues to work as an Ayurvedic therapist, specializing in reflexology and Reiki. He has developed his own therapies, applying the best techniques tailored to each patient.

    Shaju Balan 

    Ayurvedic Therapist
    Kerala, Índia

    Shaju Balan had the opportunity to interact with many practitioners of authentic Ayurveda during his studies.

    See more
    Shaju Balan
    Ayurvedic Therapist

    Born and raised in Kerala, the cradle of Ayurveda in India, Shaju earned his diploma in Ayurvedic therapies, specializing in Pancha Karma, from Kerala, India. During his studies, he had the opportunity to interact with many practitioners of authentic Ayurveda.

    Shaju began his career in Kerala and later moved to Europe as an Ayurvedic therapist in Hungary.

    Since 2022, he has been living in Slovakia, working as an Ayurvedic therapist. He has developed his own therapeutic methods and, since 2019, has been applying personalized techniques for each patient.

    YOGA & ARTS

    Veda Wellness Retreats invites you to a transformative Yoga & Arts Retreat at Hotel Casa Palmela, in the heart of Arrábida Nature Park, Portugal.

    Designed to reset body and mind, this retreat focuses on daily yoga, meditation, and breathwork, complemented by artistic expression in a serene environment. Begin each day with revitalizing sunrise practices and receive personal guidance in one-on-one sessions. Explore creativity through painting inspired by nature, while nourishing yourself with farm-to-table meals. Enjoy the tranquillity of a luxurious setting with access to wellness facilities and outdoor activities, connecting with a like-minded community.

    More than a retreat, this is a space to breathe, restore, and reconnect with yourself.

    THE EXPERIENCE

    Well-being for Rejuvenation Restore balance through daily yoga, breathwork, and meditation, embraced by the serenity of nature.

    Nature Walks & Outdoor Healing Explore peaceful trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let Arrábida’s landscape revitalize your energy.

    Creative Expression Through Art Engage in guided art sessions that inspire creativity, self-expression, and mindfulness – no experience needed.

    Nourishment from the Land At Veda Wellness Retreats, food is both medicine and joy. Enjoy nourishing farm-to-table meals made from fresh, seasonal ingredients that honour tradition and well-being.

    Conscious Living Every element of your retreat is infused with mindfulness and respect for nature. From sustainable practices to the tranquil setting of Casa Palmela, experience a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you.

    Daily ritual and more information here (PDF)

    The more you are motivated by love, the more fearless and free your actions will be.

    Dalai Lama