Portugal: Wellness treatments and where to find them
We asked Turismo de Portugal to recommend the best wellbeing travel options from north to south.
WHERE: Porto, Minho, Geres
WHAT: thermal spas
WHEN TO GO: Winter
“Porto is on everyone’s lips at the moment, and a soak reviving hot waters of its city-centre thermal spas would be appropriate during the colder months. With its reserve of naturally heated volcanic water – known to boost circulation to the body’s organs and muscles – the north region of Portugal has 18 thermal spas to choose from. If your client would prefer to get out of the city, there’s the beach-side thermal spa baths at Minho, or thermal spa retreats set within the mountains of Geres.”
WHERE:Centro de Portugal
WHAT: rural retreats
WHEN TO GO: Autumn
“Portugal’s historic central region is full of rivers and bodies of water surrounded by natural beauty – perfect for wellness retreats that restore body and mind. The colourful town of Aveiro is within easy reach of salt water ponds, where you can learn a new skill – such as standup paddle boarding or kitesurfing – and there are a number of of tranquil yoga retreats nearby. This part of the country is beautiful during the autumn, and an excellent option for those who’d rather unwind by enjoying physical activity, rather than sunbathing.”
WHERE:The Algarve
WHAT: medical and beauty treatments
WHEN TO GO: Spring
“The Algarve is home to some world-class medical clinics and spas with programmes that help guests achieve a healthy weight, deal with stress or take part in a detox. What’s more, each spring, Algarve Spa Week takes places, where high-end spa hotels offer sizeable discounts on their treatments, so it’s a great time to suggest the Algarve to clients.”
WHERE:Madeira/Porto Santo
WHAT: thalassotherapy
WHEN TO GO: Summer
“The islands of Madeira and Porto Santo are famous for their thalassotherapy centres, where seafront spas make use of the mineral-rice sea water, and treat a range of ailments, including arthritis. Clients should consider travelling to these islands during the summer to enjoy open-air treatments in the spas’ outdoor saltwater pools.”
Connections Wellbeing in Portugal will take place from October 29-November 1 at the Macdonald Monchique Resort and Spa. To enquire about attending, please contact Micaela on micaela@weareconnections.com