A Farmhouse Restored with Intention and Care

Six years ago I purchased a ticket to travel to Caracas to say goodbye to my father. He passed away before I had the chance to get there. Instead I decided to go and see an abandoned but charming farmhouse that was for sale in South Portugal. He’d been very excited about my desire to restore a house there. I'd like to think he was proud of me! That trip shifted my life story. I embarked on a journey of highs and lows, creativity, frustrations, and at times, even despair...

Cova do Coração is a miracle. Cova do Coração is that farmhouse. Most importantly, the space has been imbued with yoga philosophy and spirituality. Every floor tile is hand made one at the time by a local artisan, Señor Goveia, and we used natural limewash paint on the walls. My wonderful gardeners, my partner Steve and I have, and continue to, cultivate our portion of the hillside into a peaceful haven.

The yoga platform overlooks the verdant surrounding hills. The new spacious swimming pool provides respite during sunny afternoons. The retreat itself is situated in the midst of wild countryside, in a tiny traditional Portuguese hamlet. Our few neighbours include local farmers, who gather the abundant lemons, oranges, figs, and olives that grow in the landscape. Other pastimes within walking distance include a serene river (which does dry up during the hottest months!), in which you can float around, and plenty of meandering hill paths to hike.