Casa Rosa Reading & Yoga Retreat

Imagine a peaceful getaway at the beautiful Casa Rosa Hotel in Portugal, where book lovers come together for a restorative Reading Retreat, complemented by a gentle yoga session each day.

Your time is filled with unhurried moments, lost in the pages of your favourite novels, surrounded by like-minded guests who share a deep love of reading. Set in a tranquil and inspiring location, the retreat invites you to slow down, switch off, and fully immerse yourself in literature, relaxation, and calm surroundings.

Each morning begins with a gentle yoga session to awaken the body and mind, followed by a relaxed breakfast to set you up for the day ahead. During the day, there is plenty of time to unwind, read at your own pace, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Casa Rosa Hotel in Portugal.

In the evenings, guests gather over dinner to share thoughts on books, spark lively discussions, and enjoy relaxed social time with fellow readers. The retreat also includes a special day trip to the nearby island of Armona, reached by a short ferry ride. Here, you can explore pristine beaches, wander the island’s quiet paths, enjoy lunch by the sea, and of course, find the perfect spot to read and soak up the calm coastal atmosphere.

Our Book Club meeting for this trip will be about The Names by Florence Knapp, a thoughtful and evocative novel that explores identity, memory, and the stories we carry with us. Through richly drawn characters and lyrical prose, it reflects on how names shape our sense of self and connection to others, weaving together past and present in a quietly powerful and emotionally resonant narrative.

As well as the Book Club themed meals, we will also have an evening of “A book I love”, where everyone can share a favourite book with the group, sparking lively conversations and sharing unique perspectives.

The rest of the time is yours to enjoy — explore the serene surroundings, have meaningful discussions with others, or curl up in a cosy corner, by the pool or on the beach with your next great read. Casa Rosa offers the perfect blend of tranquillity and companionship, making it an ideal destination for book lovers seeking relaxation and inspiration.

Books in Places creates exceptional trips and reading retreats for book lovers, providing a chance to connect with fellow readers and travellers who share your passions. Most attendees are solo travellers, and solo occupancy is the standard. However, twin rooms are available for those who prefer to share the experience with someone else.

Your trip organiser is Paul Wright, or one of his experienced team – With over six years of experience running large book clubs in Bristol and Exeter, Paul has cultivated a deep understanding of what makes a great gathering. Since 2023, he has organised Books in Places trips, blending his love of literature and travel. The focus for the trip is on creating relaxed and sociable experiences where like-minded people can connect over books they love. 

Casa Rosa Boutique Hotel offers 10 smart rooms, and welcomed its first guests in March 2022. The property was fully refurbished over the last 3 years and has been finished to a high standard. The hotel looks traditional from the outside: pink plaster walls, classical details. Inside, it offers relaxed coastal living using natural materials with a contemporary twist. Exclusive to Friendship Travel.

At ground level there is an open-plan living/dining room which opens onto a tiled courtyard with plunge pool and sociable seating. Upstairs  (via a staircase – no lift), is a beautifully-furnished roof terrace – a real suntrap! Wherever you are in Casa Rosa, you should be able to pick up the free WiFi.

We include a buffet breakfast spread each morning, 2 lunches and 3 dinners with wine per week. We run an honesty bar during the day, with a wider drinks range served in the evening, from cocktails to a wine list. There is plenty of choice nearby for nights out, at own expense.

Please note – A new local tourism tax has been introduced by the government in Olhao since June 2023. All guests must pay locally to the hotel €2 per night up to a maximum of 5 nights. This is not included in your holiday costs.

All 10 rooms are of a slightly different size and are simple but stylish, with retro 1960s colour schemes and cool tones. Each is furnished with a comfortable king-sized bed, bedside tables, chair and desk/dressing table, hair dryer plus a walk-in shower (pool/beach towels provided). Air-con is included. Some rooms have a town view; others look on to the roof terrace or courtyard.

Prices are based on standard ground floor room (rooms 3 and 5), upgrades are available to a ground floor executive room at £15 extra per night, ground floor standard room with shared terrace at extra £15 per night, 1st floor standard rooms at £20 extra per night and deluxe suite at £25 extra per night.