Join us on a culinary journey that promises to delight your senses. Discover the many advantages of the Mediterranean lifestyle while savouring delectable vegetarian dishes inspired by the culinary artistry of Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage.

Our retreat not only offers a unique opportunity to participate in group food preparation and cooking but also provides insights into the health benefits of the revered Mediterranean lifestyle, known for its significance in 'Blue Zone' regions.

At Figs on the Funcho, we believe in hands-on experiences. Guests are encouraged to roll up their sleeves, participate in food preparation, and cook delicious meals together. And after all the hard work, we come together to relish a well-deserved feast, complemented by the finest Portuguese wines.

In your spare time, put on your walking shoes and stroll along peaceful riverside paths, where every step unveils wonderful vistas that that will leave you in awe.

Our retreat offers not just an opportunity to elevate your cooking skills but also a chance to forge new friendships along the way. 

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your culinary skills and immerse yourself in the Mediterranean lifestyle. Reserve your spot now for a truly unforgettable experience.

Your culinary holiday starts with the welcome dinner featuring a lavish Mediterranean Mezze Spread to a market visit that introduces you to the Mediterranean lifestyle, our mornings begin with refreshing orange juice and delightful breakfasts. 

Engage in hands-on cooking lessons, exploring the artistry of Ottolenghi-inspired recipes, followed by dinners paired with Portuguese wines. The adventure continues with a Falafel-Making Workshop, a countryside walk, and a spectacular Medley of Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage dishes. 

Day 4 promises a symphony of flavours with a Mediterranean brunch and a Moussaka cooking class. The day concludes with a heartfelt dinner celebrating the creations from the cooking class.

View all the details in the cooking itinerary section.

Figs on the Funcho, crowned by LuxLife's Hospitality Award as "Algarve's Most Idyllic Riverside Retreat 2023", offers breathtaking country views that will undoubtedly leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in the tranquility 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. The water levels may differ depending on the time of the year and drought conditions.
• 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

Settle into The River House at Figs on the Funcho before enjoying welcome drinks and dinner featuring a Mediterranean Mezze Spread.

Begin your day with a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, followed by a delightful Mediterranean-inspired breakfast that will fuel your adventures ahead. Our journey starts as we head to the local market, where we'll handpick fresh and vibrant produce.

During our market visit, we'll take a break in the town to relish a local pastry paired with aromatic coffee or drink of your choice. Upon returning to Figs on the Funcho, a light lunch awaits, accompanied by a brief culinary demonstration.

In the late afternoon, immerse yourself in our engaging cooking lessons and demonstrations, where we'll explore the art of crafting Ottolenghi-inspired recipes. 

The kitchen becomes a canvas as we prepare these delectable dishes.

As the sun sets, we gather to enjoy the fruits of our labour—a sumptuous dinner thoughtfully paired with exquisite Portuguese wines, a fitting culmination to a day filled with culinary exploration and delightful flavours.

Get ready for a day that kick-starts with a burst of vitality! We'll greet the morning with a refreshing breakfast, complete with freshly squeezed oranges—nature's energy in a glass.

Lunchtime join us for a fun Falafel-Making Workshop where you'll unlock the secrets to crafting those crispy, golden delights that define Mediterranean street food. Discover the artistry behind the perfect texture and flavour.

In the afternoon, we'll embark on a leisurely countryside walk, where tranquility meets inspiration, and your senses are set free. You have the freedom to explore the countryside at your own pace or simply unwind at our venue—a lazy afternoon, tailor-made for you.

Late afternoon brings a culinary spectacle. We'll whip up a dazzling Medley of Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage dishes, each more extraordinary than the last. And when the sun dips below the horizon, we'll come together for a memorable dinner paired with fine wines. It's a grand finale you won't want to miss!

Prepare for a day that will electrify your senses and ignite your passion for Mediterranean cuisine! Get ready for a brunch that's a true symphony of flavours—picture Shakshuka with Crusty Bread and Mediterranean Quiche with Feta and Spinach, ready to dazzle your taste buds.

But that's just the beginning! In the afternoon, we'll dive into the creation of Yotam Ottolenghi's Spicy Mushroom Ragu masterpiece—a culinary gem that elevates countless dishes to perfection. Get ready to harness its aromatic magic!

Next up, brace yourself for the creation of our special vegetarian Moussaka, adorned with all the delectable trimmings you can imagine. It's a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Mediterranean cuisine.

Our evening dinner is a flavourful reunion with the dishes we've passionately crafted during our cooking class. This experience is a heartfelt celebration of Mediterranean flavours—an adventure you'll cherish long after the sun dips below the horizon. Get ready for a day that will tantalize, inspire, and warm your heart!

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