Iris has been personally practising Buchinger fasting since 2018, drawn to its gentle yet profound approach to physical and mental reset. In 2023 she completed her certification as a fasting guide at the Zentrum für Naturheilkunde in Munich, and has since guided several online fasting groups with care and expertise.
Beyond fasting, Iris holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Transition with a focus on food systems, bringing a thoughtful perspective on mindful and sustainable eating to everything she does. She is also trained in Progressive Muscle Relaxation, supporting participants in finding deep rest during the fasting process.
Details of this retreat
In daily life we rarely stop.
We eat on the go, respond to messages, move from task to task. This retreat offers something different. Eight days to slow down, reset your body and reconnect with your relationship to food. Through 5-days guided Buchinger fasting, gentle movement and time in nature, you create space for your body to regenerate and your mind to settle.
Along the way, we’ll share simple, practical teachings on fasting, Ayurveda and mindful eating so you leave not only reset, but with tools you can carry into everyday life.
Schedule
Gentle yoga, breathwork, and meditation in the morning, followed by juices, and Fasting & Ayurveda masterclasses. Afternoons are free for woodland walks, rest, and reflection. Evening broths,, check-ins and meditation.
The closest international airport is Porto Airport (OPO), approximately 1.5 hours from Quinta da Tojeira in the Douro Valley.
Shuttle service — We offer a shared shuttle directly from Porto Airport to the retreat centre on arrival and departure day. Details will be shared upon booking.
Public transport / Taxi — Trains and buses run from Porto to Vila Real, from where a taxi to the retreat centre is the easiest onward option.
Own transport — The retreat centre is easily reachable by car. Parking is available on site.
Accommodation
3 luxury suites, 4 bedrooms and a dormitory area in the attic with two shared bathrooms.
Deluxe Private Room (ensuite)
Shared Deluxe Room (shared bathroom)
Dorm (shared bathroom)
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
The retreat is held at Quinta da Tojeira, a historic quinta in the heart of the Douro Valley, surrounded by eight hectares of private forest. It offers the perfect blend of wild nature, tranquillity, and understated luxury. The house has over 1000m2 of internal space and capacity for 18 people.
What's Included
7 nights’ accommodation at Quinta da Tojeira
Airport transfers
Fasting guidance
Daily yoga, breathwork, and meditation
Fasting & Ayurveda masterclasses
Daily broths and juices, final meal & breaking-fast meal
Pre-retreat preparation sessions
Post-retreat follow-up support & cooking guides
Comprehensive fasting materials
What's Not Included
Flights
Travel insurance
Health screening
Fasting support tools (enema, tongue scraper, hot water bottle, etc)