Zen & Zest: A Yoga
& Culinary Experience
Where yoga, mindfulness, and gourmet cuisine come together in one breathtaking setting
May 24-31, 2026
Sintra, Portugal
Set your senses free
In May 2026, BLYS Out Retreats will return to magical Sintra, Portugal, and the extraordinary estate Quinta da Bella Vista!
Located on Rua Barbosa du Bocage, a picturesque road connecting Sintra's iconic palaces, Quinta da Bella Vista is steeped in literary history. Once the private home of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the famed British author of "Sherlock Holmes," the sprawling grounds feature two swimming pools, lush gardens, an organic farm, and amenities such as heated floors, fireplaces, and an infrared sauna.
Rejuvenate your body and soul with daily yoga classes, thoughtfully planned excursions, cooking lessons by a world-class chef, and elevated farm-to-table cuisine. Immerse yourself in nature, relaxation, and culinary excellence for the ultimate wellness experience!
Registration for this experience is now live!
Your home away from home
Included in the price
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7-night stay at a one-of-a-kind, private 5-star estate
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Transportation to and from the airport, as well as to all group activities
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Daily breakfast, 2 lunches & 4 dinners
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Daily yoga classes in a restored Victorian Era greenhouse led by Julie Nogueira and Brett Stratton
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Two on-site cooking lessons with local Chef Erica Klein
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A day trip and guided tour of the capital city of Lisbon
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A day trip to the coastal village and surfing town of Ericeira
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Other cultural experiences & surprise touches
Not included
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Airfare
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Meals not highlighted above
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Beer, wine and alcohol (offered for an additional price)
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Optional activities (i.e., spa treatments, surfing lessons)
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Gratuity for the drivers and estate staff
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Travel visa & fees
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Travel insurance
Sample daily itinerary
7:30 am
Start off the day with a vinyasa yoga practice in the grounds' restored Victorian greenhouse that offers expansive views.
9:00 am
Enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast of eggs, fruit, yogurt, a selection of meats and cheeses, and the most delicious homemade croissants you'll ever taste.
10:30 am
Head to the center of the UNESCO World Heritage village of Sintra and tour the stunning grounds of Quinta da Regaleira.
1:00 pm
Continue exploring Sintra, shop, and enjoy a leisurely lunch al fresco.
3:30 pm
Return to Quinta da Bella Vista for a dip in the heated infinity pool at The Palacio, or sneak in an afternoon "sesta."
5:30 pm
It's time for cooking (and tasting) with Chef Erica in one of the most spectacular kitchens you'll have the pleasure of getting your hands dirty in!
7:30 pm
We'll come together for a hearty and healthful dinner as the sun sets over the hillside.
9:00 pm
Conclude your day wrapped in a comfy blanket by the fire pit as we settle in for an outdoor movie in The Garden Theater.
Rates
Quinta da Bella Vista is comprised of 15 luxurious suites across three residences — the Palacio, Casa Comporta, and the Villas.
Click here to view descriptions and photos of each of the suites.
Click here to view a description and photos of the Teepee Bunk Room.
THE VILLAS
The Teepee Bunk Room, A - $4,299
The Teepee Bunk Room, B - $4,299
The Little Prince Suite - $6,199
The Safari Suite - occupied
The Lavender Suite - occupied
The Jasmine Suite - occupied
The Monserrate Suite - occupied
The Shambala Suite - occupied
The Explorer Suite - occupied
THE COMPORTA
The Ocean Mist Suite - occupied
The Sea Breeze Suite - occupied
THE PALACIO
The Orient Suite - occupied
Sherlock's Suite - occupied
The Garden Suite - occupied
The Heritage Suite - occupied
The Royal Suite - occupied
Add a plus one = $2599
Payment Structure
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$500 non-refundable deposit = due at the time of registration
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50% of the balance = due September 15, 2025
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100% of the balance = due January 15, 2026
A 3% processing fee will be added to the 2nd and 3rd payments if paying by credit card (a fee will NOT be added to the non-refundable deposit) If paying by check, make out to: Blue Lotus Yoga Studio, 119 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis, MD 21403
The Fine Print
Rates include the aforementioned number of meals and activities with the exception of optional excursions that will be available for an additional cost. We intend to use the vendors outlined in the itinerary. While we do our best to adhere to the itinerary, traveling anywhere requires flexibility, and changes to specific interactions and other activities may occur, particularly if specified vendors or activities become unavailable. In addition, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and changes to timetables and transport routes, which can happen with little notice. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary. Each day we will update you on the program and keep you informed throughout the trip. Please note that while unlikely, hotels and restaurants, while confirmed, are also subject to change due for unforeseen circumstances. Airfare is not included in the total, and attendees are responsible for booking their own flights.
Cancellation Policy
Due to our financial obligations to the hotel and other vendors the following cancellation policy will apply:
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If canceling 90+ days prior to the trip, clients will receive 75% of the balance not including the deposit
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If canceling 30-89 days prior to the trip, clients will receive 50% of the balance not including the deposit
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All cancellations made less than 30 days prior to the trip are non-refundable