Embark on an extraordinary culinary odyssey with Figs on the Funcho in our cooking holiday, 'Portugal's Spice Route and Beyond,' recognized by The Times newspaper as one of Joanna Booth’s "20 of the Best Spring Mini-Breaks in Portugal." 

Immerse yourself in a fusion of history, culture, and gastronomy that shaped Portugal's remarkable legacy. Inspired by the Spice Route and Portuguese Discoveries, indulge in iconic dishes like Bacalhau and Cataplana. 

Delve into the melding of Indian and Portuguese flavours, explore Mozambique's culinary influences, and savour the tastes of Brazil and Macau. Join us for a celebration of Portugal's global influence on the world's palate.

A culinary adventure inspired by the historic Spice Route and the Portuguese Discoveries of the 15th and 16th centuries during our cooking holiday. Immerse yourself in mastering seafood vegetarian recipes while enjoying the finest Portuguese wines. 

Explore the fusion of Indian and Portuguese flavours, reflecting Portugal's deep connections with Goa. Indulge in Mozambique's diverse culinary influences, featuring rich curries and seafood delicacies. 

Conclude your journey with the tastes of Brazil and Macau, former Portuguese colonies, adding a global flair to your palate. 

Figs on the Funcho, crowned by LuxLife's Hospitality Award as "Algarve's Most Idyllic Riverside Retreat 2023", offers breath-taking country views that will undoubtedly leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings, let the stunning landscapes inspire you, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our home-from-home, The River House, is the perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking modern comfort, privacy, and peace. This renovated 100-year-old farmhouse riverside property boasts an infinity swimming pool, 5 large bedrooms, and can accommodate up to 10 people with the option of single or double beds. 

In addition to the villa, The River House also offers the option of staying in our two luxurious safari tents in the garden with stunning river views. Each tent can accommodate up to 2 guests, providing a unique and immersive nature experience. So, whether you choose to stay in the villa or one of our safari tents, you're sure to have an unforgettable and restorative getaway.

"The sunsets and sunrises were a joy, the vegetarian meals a delicious revelation. I've ordered my first-ever veggie cookbook to continue the benefits of 'Fig's' healthy delicious meals" - Judith

“Oh and did I mention the food and the 'to die for' homemade granola??!!! You’re in for an amazing treat” – Milu

"Graham is the Mushroom Whisperer" - Sam, Barcelona

“The vegetarian meals a delicious revelation. I’ve ordered my first-ever veggie cookbook to continue the benefits of ‘Fig’s’ healthy delicious meals” – Judith Dawson

“So surprised at the vegetarian food. Every meal was delicious.” – Dave Russel

“A great evening with great vegetarian food cooked and prepared by Graham and Cheryl who were wonderful hosts.” – Rob Thorne

• Your appetite :-)
• Your swimming costume to enjoy the pool and watersports on the dam. Please Note: Check water levels in advance for optimal water sport experiences during dry periods in the Algarve.
• Something warm to relax in at night.  
• Sun hat and suitable footwear (trainers) for walking to explore different paths and also if you plan to visit the historical town nearby, during free time, as the cobbled roads can be slippery.
• Mosquito repellent.
• Yoga enthusiasts can make use of available mats for their stretching needs.

Check-in from 16h00. Guests are requested to arrive before 21h00; otherwise, arrival should be scheduled for the following morning.

Check-out will be after the 09h00 breakfast.

We'll pick you up at Faro airport at 3pm, if you've opted for a different route, we'll warmly welcome you at the riverside villa from 3pm.

For those arriving by train, disembark at Messines-Alte train station and choose a quick 5-minute taxi ride to reach the villa. This is an excellent choice for those who prefer to avoid an internal flight and instead savour a scenic journey through the countryside.

If you're flying into Faro airport, you have two options: either take the train to Messines-Alte and select a 5-minute taxi ride to the villa or opt for a 45-minute airport taxi transfer directly to the villa.

Follow the Google map directions for those travelling by car.

The terms and conditions including the cancellation policy can be found here  Retreat Terms and Conditions - Figs On The Funcho

Once a guest has paid the deposit for the holiday or event then it is deemed that they have accepted these Terms and Conditions

We'll pick you up from the agreed-upon location or, if you've opted for a different route, we'll warmly welcome you at the riverside villa. Take your time settling into your accommodation, surrounded by peace and tranquillity. Join us for welcome drinks at 18h30 on the waterfront deck, offering a chance to meet your group and relish the sunset. Weather permitting, dinner will be served outdoors, featuring a local Portuguese Seafood dish that showcases the bounty of the sea and the culinary prowess of Portugal. After dinner, savour a cheese platter with port beneath the carob trees. Later, retreat to your beautiful rooms to unwind before the first full day of your Algarve experience holiday. Guests are requested to arrive before 21h00; otherwise, arrival should be scheduled for the following morning.

Start the day with a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and a typical Portuguese breakfast. Then, embark on a visit to the local market, where you'll immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Portuguese cuisine. Back at the villa, partake in crafting the renowned Algarve Cataplana dish and other regional specialties, accompanied by fine wines.

17h00 Embark on a seafood expedition through Portugal's rich culinary legacy in our workshop, journey through 'Portugal's Gastronomic Heritage - Seafood Cooking Workshop’, where you will learn to cook and enjoy Portuguese dishes such as Cataplana, Seafood Rice, and Bacalhau com Natas.

Delve into the intricate flavours and history behind these iconic dishes: from the fragrant seafood-infused rice to the creamy delight of Bacalhau Com Natas, each dish offers a tantalising glimpse into Portugal's coastal bounty and cultural diversity. 

Follow in the footsteps of explorer Bartolomeu Dias as we delve into African cuisine, focusing on South Africa and Mozambique. Learn to prepare a traditional South African dish with a vegetarian twist, complemented by Peri-Peri kebabs and other African delights.

Embark on a culinary journey inspired by Vasco da Gama's historic sea voyage to India - Indulge in a symphony of Portuguese flavours during brunch, featuring dishes like Tomatolada stew, Pastéis de Bacalhau, and Mozambique scrambled eggs. Enjoy a leisurely countryside walk or unwind at the venue before diving into the creation of Eastern delights during the afternoon cooking class. Reunite in the evening to savour the flavours of our culinary creations from the East.

11h00 A Brunch Workshop of Portuguese Delights Along the Spice Route" invites you to embark on a culinary journey inspired by Vasco da Gama's historic sea voyage to India. Indulge in a symphony of Portuguese flavours during brunch, featuring iconic dishes such as Tomatolada stew, Pastéis de Bacalhau, Portuguese French Toast, and Mozambique Veggie Samoosa - Chamuças de Batata. 

Experience the rich tapestry of flavours brought back by the Portuguese adventurers, paired perfectly with a glass of wine to complement the culinary creations. 

Vasco da Gama in Asia" invites you to embark on a culinary voyage reminiscent of Vasco da Gama's historic expedition to Asia. 

Immerse yourself in a day filled with vibrant flavours and cultural fusion where in the late afternoon cooking workshop you'll master the art of Eastern delicacies such as Goan Prawn Curry with Coconut (Ambot Tik), Vegetable Vindaloo, and Vegan Macanese Minchi. Conclude your journey by savouring the exquisite flavours of your culinary creations from both the West and the East, celebrating the rich heritage of the Spice Route.

After our final wholesome breakfast, we will pack up and say our goodbyes before returning home.