A mere 45 minutes south of Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, lies a hidden retreat that seems to exist in a different dimension of time. Casas na Ferraria stretches across a 130-hectare natural reserve where eucalyptus and cork oaks weave a backdrop of timeless peace. This sanctuary, defined by three meticulously restored houses and two dedicated yoga spaces, seamlessly blends Portugal's rich heritage with a gentle commitment to sustainability and well-being.

Drawing visitors away from the city's relentless rhythm and into nature's embrace, Casas na Ferraria offers a warmth that lingers long after departure. Every corner, from the weathered stone walls to the ancient wooden beams, carries a story of care and history—a narrative of thoughtful preservation and renewal.

Alexandra de Campos Godinho : Photo courtesy of Casas na Ferraria

A HERITAGE REBORN

This elegant sanctuary owes its existence to Alexandra de Campos Godinho, a Belgian nutritherapist and art historian, and her husband Alexandre, a Portuguese architect whose boyhood summers unfolded on this very land. "Casas na Ferraria is a family heritage, passed down since the early 20th century," Alexandra shares, her words rich with memory and appreciation.

Together, they have breathed new life into an old farmstead, creating a haven of understated luxury where reclaimed wood and natural clay create spaces of profound serenity. The yoga spaces settle naturally into the landscape, a testament to their reverence for nature, design, and holistic well-being.

"Casas na Ferraria is a unique retreat space nestled in a 130-hectare natural reserve, just 45 minutes south of Lisbon. It is a sanctuary where quiet luxury, nature, and well-being come together. With three beautifully designed houses, two dedicated yoga spaces, and an emphasis on sustainability and regenerative living, we offer a harmonious blend of comfort, exclusivity, and tranquility."
— Alexandra de Campos Godinho, Owner

THE ESSENCE OF SLOW LIVING

Inside Casas na Ferraria, the philosophy of slow living takes root and flourishes. The houses remain naturally cool through the summer months and comfortably warm in winter, their thoughtfully selected materials and gentle light creating spaces that invite guests to linger. Each room offers a cozy retreat, perfect for settling in with a book, while the yoga spaces foster both calm and connection.

"Together, we combined our passion for well-being, nature, architecture, and sustainability," Alexandra reflects. The result is a place where the past flows effortlessly into the present, where heritage and innovation dance in harmonious balance.

The retreat calls to a thoughtful mix of visitors—wellness seekers, retreat facilitators, and those who appreciate a slower pace of life. The houses welcome both solo travelers and small groups, while the expansive grounds offer ample space for yoga practice or quiet contemplation. Near Lisbon yet worlds away, the landscape unfurls with forest breezes and soothing views, a peaceful nook that feels far removed from urban intensity yet remains conveniently accessible.

PRESERVATION MEETS INNOVATION

Reviving Casas na Ferraria demanded both patience and skill, blending sustainable materials with respect for the property's roots while weaving in thoughtful modern comforts. "One of the main challenges has been balancing preservation with innovation," Alexandra acknowledges with characteristic thoughtfulness.

"Together, we combined our passion for well-being, nature, architecture, and sustainability to restore the property with deep respect for Portuguese heritage. Every detail has been carefully thought out to preserve its authenticity while integrating modern comforts, creating a space where guests can reconnect with themselves and the surrounding landscape."
— Alexandra de Campos Godinho, Owner

The reward for this careful approach is evident in the experiences of guests who depart with memories of tranquil mornings and a renewed sense of well-being—a quiet triumph of vision and craftsmanship that honors the land's history while creating spaces for present-day renewal.

Casas na Ferraria carries a Portuguese simplicity that endures and transcends. Sunlight spills across clay walls and wooden beams, complemented by minimal yet thoughtful amenities that honor the property's heritage. It stands as a versatile space, ready for individual retreats or intimate gatherings, with whispers of future wellness enhancements and sustainable growth that will preserve its essential spirit.

EXPLORING THE WILD FRINGE OF LISBON

The countryside surrounding Casas na Ferraria offers gentle splendor at every turn. Nearby, Lagoa de Albufeira tempts with paddleboarding opportunities, Cape Espichel Monastery provides ocean vistas steeped in history, and Arrábida Natural Park dazzles with dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.

"It is a place to disconnect from the digital world and embrace slow living," Alexandra says with quiet conviction. The forest paths and local flavors create lasting impressions that remain long after departure—memories of a place where time seemed to move at a more intentional pace.

BEYOND ACCOMMODATION: A JOURNEY OF RECONNECTION

Casas na Ferraria offers more than a simple getaway; it provides an opportunity to breathe deeply and reconnect with essential rhythms. Set near Lisbon's wilder periphery, it marries solitude with connection, nature with thoughtful design, creating a space where guests can rediscover simpler pleasures.

"Casas na Ferraria is more than a place to stay—it is a transformational experience. We encourage our guests to disconnect from the digital world, embrace slow living, and immerse themselves in nature, creativity, and meaningful human connection."
— Alexandra de Campos Godinho, Owner

For inspiration, Alexandra looks to three places that echo through Casas na Ferraria's design philosophy: Mama Farm, with its family warmth and sustainable ethos; Casa no Tempo from Silent Living, admired for its architectural grace and natural integration; and Vincent Van Duysen's houses, where simplicity meets elegance—influences that gently shape the essence of this remarkable Portuguese retreat.

Whether wandering the trails that crisscross the property or settling into the calm of its thoughtfully designed rooms, visitors to Casas na Ferraria find themselves pausing, breathing more deeply, and connecting more authentically—an experience of restoration that continues to resonate long after departure.