Location & Travel Information
Planning your journey to The Alchemy Within - Retreat 2026
in beautiful Lagos, Portugal?
We've compiled some helpful travel information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable arrival.
From airport options to local transport, here's what you need to know
to get here and get around.
Getting here...
What's the easiest way to travel to Lagos, Portugal for the retreat?
The closest airport is Faro Airport, located approximately a 1-hour drive from Lagos. The journey takes you along a modern motorway, offering scenic views of the coast and the traditional Portuguese landscape, including farms, orange groves, and the Monchique Mountains.
Once I arrive in the region (like at Faro Airport), how do I get to Quinta de Lagos?
Uber is a popular and reasonably priced option. Taxis are available but are more expensive. A taxi to the airport one way will cost around €100; an Uber will cost around €60.
We can recommend a number of Transfer companies who are excellent and local.
Included in your Retreat Price will be one group transfer from Faro Airport on the Friday & one group transfer on the Tuesday morning back to Faro Airport - outside of those group two transfers you will need to arrange your own private connections.
Are there any public transport options from Faro Airport?
Yes, a bus (coach) is available from the airport to Lagos bus terminus for approximately €17.50 one way. The journey takes around 3 hours. From the terminus, an Uber to Quinta de Lagos will cost around €5 and take about 5 minutes. The train is also an option, but services may be subject to strikes.
Can you help with airport transfers?
Yes, transfers from Faro Airport cost between €35 for a shared transfer and around €60 one way for a private Uber. We can assist you with booking a transfer or arranging a group collection if you are arriving with others.
Reality Check:
Booking flights further in advance, is usually the best way to get a 'deal 'on your flight.
Flying from Dublin?
Ryanair and Aerlingus fly to Faro Airport in September.
Flights are not part of the Retreat program so factor that into your holiday. Should you need to cancel for any reason bear that in mind.
What is the area around Quinta de Lagos like?
Quinta de Lagos is situated in a peaceful farming area on the outskirts of Lagos town. It's a tranquil setting perfect for a retreat.
What is Lagos like as travel destination?
Lagos is a beautiful, traditional town with numerous churches, tiled buildings, cafes, beaches, and a vibrant expat community. While many people speak English, we recommend learning basic Portuguese phrases like "Thank you" (Obrigado/Obrigada) and "Hello" (Olá).
There are multiple walks along the coast/beach line not far from our Quinta if you are one for long breath taking walks and scenery.
How far is the closest beach?
The closest beach, Porto de Mos, is about a 30-minute walk or a short Uber ride (around €5 and 5 minutes). We also have Batata Beach, Meia Praia, and Dona Ana Praia nearby.
What should I pack for the retreat?
Pack sunscreen, a sun hat, insect repellent, lip balm, flip-flops, a swimsuit, any necessary medication, and some warm clothes for the evenings or when the Lagos wind picks up.
Bring comfortable clothes for our activities and suitable training attire for the outdoor gym if you wish to train.
Walking shoes are recommended.
A beanie and a light shawl are useful for both sunny and chilly conditions.
I like to wear something comfy for walking around inside the villa - like comfy socks -for in the evening.
We recommend bringing a notebook & pen for jotting down information, thoughts, dreams, experiences too.
Weather - what should I expect?
The good news is September is usually warm and sunny but not too hot.
July and August are the hotter months and have been into the late 30's and even early 40's in 2025.
Evenings, can be warm but with that Lagos breeze - bring something warm for evening strolls.
As a result September can be a busy time - although school holidays are over so the vibe is calm and relaxed .
Of course, whilst September is known for it's excellent weather here in the Algarve, we shall have to wait and see.
Your Journey to Serenity Starts Here
We hope this information helps you plan your trip to The Alchemy Within - Retreat 2026. We can't wait to welcome you to Lagos and provide a transformative retreat experience. Safe travels!