Portugal Yoga Retreat

Gaula, Madeira, Portugal

September 21-27, 2026

We’re going back to Madeira! This will be our second year in a row on the majestic Island of Madeira - and we can’t wait to share it with you. Join us for a 7 day all inclusive stay filled with exciting excursions, cultural immersion, and yoga surrounded by the vibrant culture and incredible landscapes of the island of Madeira, often called the Pearl of the Atlantic. Nestled between dramatic cliffs and the sparkling sea, Madeira offers the perfect setting for a week of movement, nature, connection, & bliss. We’ll enjoy a sunrise hike to the famous Stairway to Heaven, explore local cuisine from our private chef and a dinners out at some of the most beloved restaurants on the island, ride gondolas above the city, experience Madeira’s iconic toboggan ride through the streets, and head out on a sunset whale & dolphin watching catamaran ride—all included in your stay.

Each day offers a rhythm of movement and stillness—morning vinyasa yoga to awaken and energize, evening yin or restorative yoga to soften and unwind. We’ll offer daily guided meditations, sound baths, yoga nidra, and heartfelt discussion circles that support a deeper connection to your yoga practice and yourself. At the heart of it all is community. Our retreats are about sharing space, stories, and laughter—about feeling supported, seen, and free to be exactly who you are. Come solo or with a friend. All practices and excursions are optional, so you can curate your own experience.

The Retreat

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The Property

Our retreat home is tucked into the cliffside in the charming village of Gaula, overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean. With multiple accommodation options—from private rooms to shared twin rooms—every space offers stunning sea views, access to a beautiful pool, and our own private steps down to the ocean.

The home’s expansive terraces offer breathtaking ocean views and plenty of space for our daily yoga practices. We’ll provide mats and props, but if you have a favorite mat you’d like to bring, feel free to pack it. In case of rain, we’ll clear a cozy indoor space to serve as our backup yoga shala.

There are also several common areas to relax and connect, both indoors and out—whether you’re reading, journaling, or simply soaking in the incredible view and peaceful surroundings.

  • We’ll have the entire property to ourselves, made up of four connected but independent apartments. Each includes its own kitchen and bathroom, and many of the bedrooms have ensuite baths for added comfort and privacy. Private and shared accommodations available.

  • The food in Madeira is truly a highlight and staple of the experience we’ll taste the local vibrant local flavors, markets, and restaurants. Most of our meals will be prepared on our retreat home by our private chef, as well as a few nights out to eat at a few of Madeira’s most famous and beloved restaurants in idyllic locations, overlooking the water or in the heart of the capital city of Funchal.

  • To get there, you’ll fly into Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) in Funchal, Madeira’s only airport and just a 10-minute drive from our retreat home. Airfare and airport transfers are not included, but all transportation for excursions during the retreat is included and provided by our trusted local drivers.

    • Additional hiking and excursions

    • Additional spa treatments: traditional & Ayurvedic massage (*must be reserved ahead of time)

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What’s Included?

  • 6 nights/7 days luxury accommodations

  • delicious, healthy meals prepared by both our private chef and at 2 dinners at popular Madeiran restaurants

  • daily yoga, meditations, and workshops

  • one traditional or Ayurvedic massage

  • welcoming and closing ceremony

  • boat tour & whale watching

  • Pico do Arieiro “Stairway to Heaven” hike

  • day trip to Funchal with Cable Car ride & Monte Toboggan ride

  • day trip to Madeira’s natural swimming pools at Seixal Beach & Porto Moniz

  • one full sound bath journey

  • transportation to & from all excursions

  • welcome gift

NOT INCLUDED:

  • flights

  • transportation to and from the airport

  • alcoholic beverages

  • additional excursions

Daily Schedule

    • arrivals & settling in

    • welcome ceremony & intention setting circle

    • slow flow & grounding meditation

    • welcome dinner on the terrace

    • relax & unwind

    • morning vinyasa yoga

    • breakfast at the villa

    • relax by the pool or explore downtown Santa Cruz, just a 10 minute walk away

    • lunch at the villa prepared by our chef

    • head into the gondala ride over the city up to the Monte peak

    • wicker toboggan ride from the peak all the way down - one of Madeira’s most famous attractions

    • out to dinner in Funchal at one of Madeira’s famed Michelin star restaurants, Casal da Penha

    • evening relaxation meditation & sound healing

    • morning vinyasa yoga & meditation

    • breakfast at the villa

    • japa mala workshop: make your own authentic mediation beads using ethically sourced Balinese Rudraksa beads & stones

    • lunch at the villa

    • free time for massages, hiking, swimming, or relaxing

    • early dinner at the villa

    • sunset boat tour with whale & dolphin watching, swimming, & incredible views of the island

    • evening sound healing journey

    • morning vinyasa yoga & meditation

    • breakfast at villa

    • out to lunch in Sao Vicente overlooking the ocean

    • day trip to Madeira’s famed Seixal Beach & Porto Moniz with natural swimming pools, black sand, & waterfalls

    • hips & heart flow flow yoga

    • loving kindness meditation & ceremonial cacao circle

    • dinner on the terrace

    • sunrise hike up into the mountains of Pico do Arieiro, commonly referred to as the “Stairway to Heaven

    • packed breakfast to enjoy for a picnic at the summit

    • late morning slow flow vinyasa yoga

    • lunch at the villa

    • free time for massages, laying by the pool, or exploring in town

    • evening reincarnation & past life regression meditation workshop

    • dinner at the villa

    • sunset yin yoga & sound healing

    • morning vinyasa yoga & chakra meditation

    • breakfast at the villa

    • group journaling & reflection workshop

    • open ended day: we’ll decide our excursion for the day as a group :)

    • evening restorative yoga

    • head to historic Old Funchal to explore before dinner

    • last dinner at Madeira’s beloved Restaurante do Forte with an incredible view of the water

    • morning vinyasa yoga

    • last breakfast prepared by our private chef

    • closing ceremony!

    • pack up & goodbyes

Your Hosts

  • Julia Morrison

    Julia, founder of Wave Yoga Retreats, teaches many styles of yoga, from hot power vinyasa to meditation and yin yoga. Julia’s passion lies in curating every detail of the retreat experience, ever in awe of the magic that unfolds in an immersive setting amidst shared intention. Julia’s teaching style involves creative sequencing with a focus on the union of the mind and body through the breath. Julia trained with Megan Mulrine of the Niantic Yoga Studio at Yogatrotter Academy and continues to study yogic philosophy with her. Julia currently teaches at Niantic Yoga and Soul Sweat Yoga Studios.

  • Megan Mulrine

    Megan, founder of Yogatrotter Academy and owner of the Niantic Yoga Studio, is thrilled to partner with Julia and Wave Yoga Retreats to offer yoga retreats all over the world. Megan has been leading yoga teacher trainings in Bali, Indonesia since 2016, specializing in teaching the philosophy of yoga and weaving spirituality and the stories of the gods and goddesses into her classes.

What People Are Saying

  • "I am still processing all I experienced in Madeira. Portugal with Wave Yoga Retreats. Every tiny detail was planned to perfection. Practicing yoga overlooking the magnificent ocean below, fantastic excursions spending time in nature, eating delicious food prepared with love, shopping in quaint towns, and being treated with a massage. The most magical thing is how Julia and Megan made each of us feel so welcome, cared about and set the tone for deep connections between us all. I only knew them both, yet left having cherished moments and laughs with so many of the participants. You could not be in better hands or receive more joy with anyone else. Forever grateful for this magical trip! 🩷"

    - Attendee, Madeira 2025

  • "Life changing. I even had a couple people tell me my energy is different, I'm more confident. And it's absolutely true, taking a trip like that by myself and experiencing that. Being in such a supportive non judgemental group, it was beautiful it really changed me.”

    - Attendee, Madeira 2025

  • "This retreat felt like living in a dreamscape. It was a week marked by self empowerment, nature, culture, precious time to reconnect with yourself and connect with others as well. I never imagined myself on a yoga retreat before this experience. I am so incredibly happy with this retreat; I cannot wait to sign up for more! Cannot recommend Wave Yoga Retreats enough! Words actually cannot capture how amazing it was.”

    - Attendee, Madeira 2025

  • "Taking this trip was a life-changing experience. If you're ready to commit to yourself for personal growth and expansion you will not be disappointed. Taking that journey was one of the biggest forms of self-love I could gift myself. Thank you for everything!! ♥️”

    - Attendee, Madeira 2025

  • "My getaway with Wave Yoga Retreats was my very first yoga retreat. It set the bar high for any other retreat I could possibly partake in the future. I went to Madeira Island, Portugal and our retreat was the perfect balance of spiritual, self improvement and cultural immersion. Julia and Megan went above and beyond with planning this retreat. Their attention to detail and the love they poured into each experience was felt. I came back to the states with such immense gratitude for my experience. Thank you Wave Yoga Retreats for such an incredible experience!"

    - Attendee, Madeira 2025

  • "A truly life changing and blissful experience, connecting with so many beautiful souls in paradise. I've never felt more seen, heard, held, and loved. I'm beyond grateful for this opportunity, and the experiences I had in Nicaragua that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Thank you for hosting such an amazing retreat. Forever grateful to Wave Yoga and all of the loving people that made this trip absolutely perfect."

    - Melissa, Nicaragua 2024

  • "The energy, the views, and the amazing people made it a trip to remember forever. Grateful for the opportunity to be alongside such inspiring women who pour their hearts into creating a space for peace, wellness, and connection. Truly a week to remember."

    - Devyn, Nicaragua 2024

  • "Julia and Holly created the perfect yoga retreat environment! This was my first time going on a yoga retreat and I left feeling more grounded and stronger. They chose such an amazing location and I can't wait to retreat with Wave again!"

    - Attendee, Nicaragua 2024

  • "Wave Yoga Retreats exceeded expectations. The leaders were organized but not rigid. They did an amazing job catering to the fluctuating days and everyone's needs. I think I can speak for everyone who attended that the retreat was incredibly playful and joyful and deep when it needed to be. There was so much group flow and so much of that was because of Julia and Holly."

    - Attendee, Nicaragua 2024

  • "My retreat with Wave Yoga in Nicaragua was nothing short of magical! Every class was beautifully curated and each instructor brought their own unique style. The retreat center was a peaceful sanctuary, and the excursions immersed us in the breathtaking beauty of Nicaragua. I left feeling renewed, grounded, and filled with gratitude. Wave Yoga Retreats is truly an experience for the soul, and I can’t wait to join another one of their journeys. Highly recommend!'

    - Attendee, Nicaragua 2024

  • "Wave Yoga Retreats really knows how to host a perfect yoga retreat! I went to Nicaragua with them in 2024 at Still Salty Escape and absolutely loved it! They offered a wide variety of yoga classes and workshops that helped to deepen my practice. The food was healthy and delicious, I learned how to surf, but the best part was making so many new friends! I will definitely go on another retreat with Wave Yoga Retreats in the future!"

    - Nicaragua 2024

  • "I highly recommend Wave Yoga Retreats if you are looking for a thoughtfully planned and beautifully executed trip with kind and whole hearted people. The experience was beyond the typical yoga retreat and truly dove in to all elements of being in community with each other in such an enchanting setting. I look forward to traveling again with Wave."

    - Attendee, Madeira 2025

  • "What an incredible week.. can't believe how fast it went. Megan and Julia you guys are magical human beings!! Thank you for all that you did to put that together. How lucky we are!"

    - Gabby, Madeira 2025

  • "I met the sweetest ladies with fantastic attitudes. A joy to be around. I appreciate each and everyone one of you. The acceptance for me was incredible. I wish you all the very best in life. To Megan and Julia ❤️ You deserve the highest praise."

    - Attendee, Madeira 2025

  • "This was the most thoughtfully put together experience, and every detail was perfect, from the beautiful welcome area at arrival to the intentional schedule that allowed us to truly experience the island of Madeira, to the wisdom and guidance given to deepen our yoga practice and really explore ourselves through it, to choosing Andrea as our chef. This retreat exceeded my expectations in all ways. It was pure magic."

    - Brenda, Madeira 2025

  • "Absolutely life changing! This retreat was everything and more. Relaxation, beautiful location, amazing food, and amazing people. I left feeling restored and energized, with so many new friends. Julia and Monica are incredible, I couldn’t recommend a retreat with them more. Can’t wait to book another!!"

    -Evan, Stowe 2025

  • "When you sign up for a retreat with Wave Yoga, you have given yourself a true gift. You arrive and immediately feel welcomed and appreciated. The classes, workshops and experiences offered are all so thoughtfully planned. The accommodations are stellar and you literally feel so pampered and cared about. You will meet other like minded people who may be very different ages and backgrounds, yet in a short time together you will find common bonds and friendship. Only problem may be that you will have to leave at the end! Cannot recommend Julia and her co-leaders enough! Sign up now- you will never regret it."

    -Attendee, Stowe 2025

  • "I can not say thank you enough for such a powerful and transformative experience. I came into the retreat not knowing what to expect, and left with a new outlook on life. The space that these women created was welcoming, safe and inclusive. If you’re looking for a well planned and extremely well thought out retreat, or just simply a relaxing vacation then I can not recommend Wave Yoga Retreats more highly. The knowledge that the hosts brought along with the attention to detail was unmatched. One of the most unforgettable weekends, I can not wait to join on another adventure."

    - Attendee, Stowe 2025

  • "Julia and Monica created an unforgettable retreat experience. Each day featured creative yoga flows, powerful meditations, beautiful meals, and ample time to just be. By the end, my heart was full of gratitude, love, and peace. Wave Yoga Retreats rejuvenated my mind, body, and soul."

    - Attendee, Stowe 2025

If you feel your heart pulling you toward this retreat but aren't quite ready to commit, we’d love to answer any questions or set up a call to chat!

FAQs

  • Rooms will be ready by 3pm on September 21, and our welcome ceremony will begin at 4pm. Checkout on September 27th is at 11am.

    If you arrive early on the 21st you are welcome to drop your bags and use the pool and common areas.

  • Our retreats are for everyone - from yoga beginners to experienced practitioners and teachers. We aim to provide a diverse experience that will meet you exactly where you are.

    Whether you are looking for power yoga, slow stretches, or a more spiritually based practice, there is something for everyone.

  • All deposits and payment installments are 100% non-refundable. Please be sure at time of booking or you will forego all costs associated. Travel insurance is highly encouraged.

    • Passport valid for at least 6 months after travel (no visa required for US citizens)

    • Credit or debit card and a small amount of cash in USD or Costa Rican colones

    • Travel insurance details (highly recommended)

    • Reusable water bottle

    • Phone charger and personal electronics (Costa Rica uses Type A/B plugs, same as the U.S.)

    • Lightweight, breathable clothing for hot, humid weather

    • Comfortable clothes for yoga and movement

    • Swimsuits

    • Rash guard or swim shirt

    • Flip-flops or sandals

    • Comfortable shoes for walking or light hiking

    • Light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings

    • Waterproof bag or dry sack for beach and surf days (optional)

    • Hat and sunglasses

    • Sunscreen

    • Bug spray

    • Yoga mat (optional — mats will be provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer)

    • Personal toiletries

    • Any medications or health items

    • Book, journal, or something to help you unwind

  • ABSOLUTELY. Wave retreats are the perfect place for solo travelers. You’ll meet and connect with a group of like minded people, and find lasting friendships along the way. We’ll make a WhatsApp group before the trip, where we’ll all introduce ourselves, connect with roommates if booking shared rooms, and potentially plan to travel together if you’d like!

  • Totally! We love having couples on our retreats. We’d love to have your partner join any yoga classes they want to, but they can also just hang out, join for meals and excursions, and make the trip their own!

    Couples can book individually at the shared room price, and have a private room for the two of them.

  • If you’re thinking about extending your trip, there are plenty of beautiful ways to explore more of Costa Rica before or after the retreat. If you'd like to arrive early or stay longer at Azul Hotel & Retreat, you're welcome to book extra nights directly and let them know you’re part of the Wave Yoga Retreat.

  • On our retreats, we embrace a spirit of balance, mindfulness, and respect for ourselves and one another. While there is a bar on site and guests are welcome to enjoy a drink during their stay, we kindly ask that alcohol be consumed in moderation and with intention. Our primary focus is on yoga, rest, and wellness — and as such, we encourage everyone to be mindful of how alcohol can affect your body, your practice, and the shared experience of the group. We ask that all guests indulge responsibly and remain considerate of others at all times. Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM. After this time, we ask that noise be kept to a minimum, especially in shared villas and common areas. Please be respectful of your roommates and fellow guests who may be resting or seeking solitude. Let’s co-create a peaceful and rejuvenating environment for everyone.

  • We have a scholarship program to help make our experiences accessible. We have one scholarship available on each of our retreats. If cost is a significant barrier for you, or if the currency of your home country coverts unfavorably into USD, send us an email and we’ll reach out with details on how to apply.