Portugal’s Spice Route & Beyond: April 25 Gastronomic Adventure

Our inspiration lies in the renowned Spice Route, where precious Asian spices ignited a global trade revolution. The Portuguese Discoveries of the 15th and 16th centuries, driven by a thirst for precious metals and exploration, expanded Portugal’s influence across Africa, the Americas, and Asia, granting access to treasures of exotic spices.

You will enjoy iconic Portuguese dishes like Bacalhau, Cataplana, and Cod Fish Cakes.

Delve into the melding of Indian and Portuguese flavours, a testament to Portugal’s rich ties with Goa. Explore Mozambique’s vibrant culinary influences with indulgent curries and seafood delicacies.

To conclude, savour the tastes of Brazil and Macau, former Portuguese colonies, adding a global flair to your palate.

Join us to savour history and become an integral part of this remarkable culinary voyage, a celebration of Portugal’s global influence on the world’s palate.

Your cooking experience

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.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Day – Settle into The River House at Figs on the Funcho and kick off your holiday with welcome drinks and a mouthwatering dinner followed by biscuits and cheese with a glass of port.

Day 2: Wine Farm Visit and Culinary Adventure – Start with a fresh, authentic Portuguese breakfast before exploring a local wine farm to experience the award-winning wines with tapas. We then dive into a hands-on cooking class followed by a gourmet dinner paired with exquisite wines.

Day 3: Seafood Extravaganza with Cataplana – Wake up with a burst of citrusy freshness, enjoy Codfish Cakes with Cheese for lunch, unwind with a tranquil countryside walk or a lazy afternoon, and finish the day with a spectacular Cataplana dinner and Portuguese wines.

Day 4: International Portuguese Cuisine Delight – Savor a brunch bursting with Brazilian and Mozambican flavours, create exotic Goan curries and Macoun dishes in an afternoon cooking session, and cap off the day with a dinner celebrating your culinary masterpieces.

Day 5: Farewell Breakfast and Departure – Relish one final, wholesome breakfast before saying goodbye and heading home with unforgettable memories.

Note: Itinerary may be subject to change

Your Hosts

Join Cheryl and Graham for an unforgettable cooking holiday, where you’ll master the vibrant flavours of the Portuguese spice route or Ottolenghi-inspired global dishes. With years of retreat experience, we ensure every meal is freshly prepared and tailored to your dietary needs, offering a delicious and healthy culinary adventure. Whether you’re an experienced cook or simply passionate about food, this is your opportunity to savour a truly unique and enriching holiday.

Venue

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.

How to get here

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.

Non-participating partners welcome

There are several quiet areas on the property to enjoy and take advantage of the peaceful, tranquil, scenic surroundings. Enjoy bird watching, book a relaxing aromatherapy massage, enjoy stand up paddle boarding or kayaking or simply chill out by the infinity pool and soak up some much needed vitamin D.

The clearly signed walking route is ideal for exploring the countryside on your own.

There is so much to discover and enjoy in the Algarve that is within easy reach if you have a car.

“I went along to Figs on the Funcho as a non-painter with my painting partner. My time there was incredibly relaxing with stunning views across the river and countryside, with interesting walks and sunsets to die for.” – Clive

Email me if your partner would like to join.

What to bring

• 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.
• 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.
• Clothing to keep you cosy while unwinding outside in the evening.
• Insect repellent.

Check-in check-out

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.

Weather in the Algarve

Arrival day

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 wholesome meal thoughtfully prepared by your hosts, Graham and Cheryl. 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.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation is permissible up to 30 days before your scheduled arrival, entitling you to a refund of the total amount paid, minus a cancellation charge equivalent to the deposit. However, if you cancel within the 30 days preceding your arrival or fail to show up, the full reservation cost will be charged. Please refer to the Retreat Terms and Conditions – Figs On The Funcho for a detailed explanation of the terms, including the cancellation policy. Once the deposit is paid, it signifies the guest’s acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

What you can expect to see and do

Unspoiled Serenity: Experience a tranquil and peaceful setting away from crowded tourist areas.

Infinity Pool Bliss: Enjoy a riverside location with an infinity swimming pool, offering uninterrupted panoramic views of the countryside and river.

Bird Watching Delight: Spot a variety of local birds from the comfort of a shaded seating area at Figs on the Funcho.

Starry Nights and Breathtaking Sunsets: Marvel at the beauty of starlit skies and create lasting memories with unforgettable sunsets.

Year-Round Enjoyment: Embrace our location all year round, featuring pleasant sunshine and warm temperatures, even during the winter months.

Relaxing Massages on Demand: Indulge in ultimate relaxation with the option to order on-demand, soothing massages during your stay.