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Retreats, events and workshops

Vinha da Manta is perfect for a happy family reunion, a girls trip, a special birthday, a culinary tour and the annual outing of the sports, walking, dance or music club. The garden, swimming pool and terrace are perfect for group dinners, for making music, dancing or whatever you come up with. We have a light and airy 100 m2 multifunctional yogashala in the garden.

The conditions are excellent because you are in Mediterranean, peaceful, and atmospheric surroundings, sleeping in cool lodges and/or cottages. The entire place is for the exclusive use by your group. And if you want, in addition to breakfast, we will serve you a copious lunch and lovely four course dinner, which can go on till the wee hours as far as we are concerned. Our cooking is organic and, if you want, vegetarian. Our chef Menno has a rich culinary imagination and some groups come back every year just for his cooking.

Dividing a group into smaller teams is easily done, because there are plenty of places, indoors (lodges) and outdoors, where you will not run into the others.  And if you want to take a breather, the pool is waiting for you – as is the glorious area with all its opportunities for sports, natural beauty, and urban culture. We are happy to contribute ideas when it comes to composing a schedule for a certain course. We are also happy to arrange for transportation from the airport and, if necessary, the excursions related to a specific workshop. Of course, you have access to free WiFi around the house.

Below you will find a selection of the courses, retreats and workshops we have hosted:

Writing masterclass, musical workshop, raw food week, crochet workshop, sewing lessons, acting masterclass, flamenco dancing, corporate training, photography workshop, painting classes, walking days.

Curious? We are happy to provide you with ideas for a suitable schedule with prices. Simply ask us, we have all-inclusive price packages for groups and are happy to discuss a lovely program with you.

Experience has taught us that the house and garden are also perfect as a film decor or for a photoshoot.

Over the years, Vinha da Manta has proven to be an excellent location for corporate outings and corporate trainings. Nothing is better than hosting a group of gentlemen and/or ladies who have just got off a plane a mere two hours away. Simply getting together, building a team, being able to face everything together in future. Root out minor frictions within a team. Meeting each other all over again, in a different spot, under sunny conditions, with a couple of peaceful days ahead, and just chat about home, work, and yourself.

Our house offers various spots – outside in the spacious garden or yogashala – for conversations, presentations, etc.

Over delicious meals and, if you want, gentle wines, we will make your corporate event an unforgettable one. Communication agencies, creative management teams, theatre companies, accountancies, and culinary businesses came before you. We can arrange everything for you, from your arrival at the airport to exquisite restaurants, bracing mountain hikes, lazing about on a sun bed on the beach with a glass of sangria within easy reach. We have a range of sleeping quarters, both in the house and the garden. Do not hesitate to have us compose a suitable schedule with you and for you.

Newsletter

Our reviews

  • star rating  We stayed from saturday to saturday. It’s been a great time, in a wonderful place, with warm and friendly people all around.
    If you like doing Yoga, it’s also possible... read more in their wonderful yoga shala. We had the luck, having Elise as an excellent teacher.
    Last but not least, the unique delicious dinners, one shouldn’t miss!

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    X4041DTmichaele
    July 11, 2019
  • star rating  You are great!
    Vinha Da Manta is great and all this thanks to the wonderful Jacqueline and Menno, their kids and the many volunteers who make sure that you feel... read more welcome and at ease from the moment you arrive and this during your whole stay.
    It is really difficult to tell everything in only a few words. My friends and I enjoyed the morning yoga classes, the nice breakfast, the refreshing jumps in the natural pool, the sporty walks, the peace and quiet, the privacy in the clean and cosy tents, the cats and dogs, the little chats with Jacqueline, Menno and the other guests.
    And last but not least thank you Menno for the fantastic dinner evenings. We loved the idea of all the guests around a big table sharing and enjoying your wonderful homemade food!
    We'll be back!
    Big kisses from the Belgian ladies; Saar, Indra, Marijke and Katrien!

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    KatrienV259
    July 11, 2017
  • star rating  We’ve just stayed in the Macieira lodge for three nights and had an amazing time with Jacqueline, Menno and the volunteers. The safari tent is spacious for a couple with... read more all the essentials to get by for a few days. By far the best things are the warm and friendly hospitality and of course Menno’s cooking! Wow! Don’t pass up the opportunity to eat dinner there - lots of choice for each meal and absolutely delicious. I’m veggie and there was plenty for me. A nice breakfast each morning too. Full of good tips on days out and activities. Would happily go back and spend more time there!

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    hollypaulandmime
    May 24, 2018
  • star rating  I have never felt so immediately welcomed as I did at Vinha da Manta. Menno and Jacqueline (and their kids) went out of their way to make my stay amazing.... read more Not only was the hospitality amazing, the food was incredible and the views were great. I had an amazing time getting to know both Menno and Jacqueline and their three sweet kids. I am already looking forward to my next visit. Thank you for treating me like a good friend and for making me not want to leave! Hopefully this is a 'see you soon'!

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    Loren W
    June 6, 2016
  • star rating  We enjoyed a family trip here in July and I would agree with many of the comments made in previous reviews.

    The accommodation was as described - a safari... read more tent with good facilities including a much needed fridge for the heat. If going, you really need bug spray or a mosquito net as we were bitten quite a bit and our citronella wasn't strong enough. The paths between the house and the pool can be steep and loose rocks caused a few wobbles every now and then so if you have mobility issues this may not be ideal for you.

    The pool was lovely though it could get quite crowded so if you want relaxation you had to go either first thing or on a Saturday which seemed to be prime changeover day.

    Because there are volunteers, service is very laid back so be prepared for this relaxed vibe.

    Menno's cooking was great and worth doing.

    I would also recommend a car as there are no shops within walking distance, you need to catch a cab if you want milk or ask the hosts to arrange it for you.

    There is some noise in the valley, the church bells, if the dogs get rowdy barking and local events. This didn't upset us though it did impact upon our sleep so if you are a light sleeper I would agree with the ear plug comment made by another reviewer.

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    ViBoLondon
    August 25, 2018
  • star rating  Vinha da Manta is difficult to sum up in a few words, but we had a magical time there. There is a genuine warmth about the place - not just... read more coming from the 35 degree heat. It is incredibly relaxing and relaxed but has all the important stuff covered: comfortable accommodation, good showers (with amazing views), cold water for dipping in and most of all incredible food. Being looked after in terms of food and drink (every other night) was a real highlight for us, especially when the kids are fed first (healthy and child-friendly food - so it IS possible!), and then grown-ups get to relax and enjoy Menno's FANTASTIC cooking with the other guests in a beautiful setting while the kids run around and find their own adventures. The yoga studio has the best view I've ever seen from a class (the teacher was really good too) and the massage similarly brilliant. Our two boys loved the cats, dogs and riding the horses. The kayaking trip about 1 and a half hours away with Rock and River was fantastic too. Vinha da Manta is a really special place and we really hope to go back. And the other reviewer Cat F is right - there is something sorted and fun about the Dutch! More

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    KikiMack
    September 6, 2016
  • star rating  We stayed a full week at Damanta and we were sorry that we could not stay any longer.

    Menno and Jacqueline are very nice hosts that are warm, friendly,... read more and know how to cook! You feel part of the family the moment you enter their house.

    We had a lodge (we are not supposed to say the 'T' word) with four adults. It is a beautiful lodge, with a kitchen block, a sleeping area (nicely separated two double beds in our case) and a nice veranda and sitting area. We even had our own little 'pool' with fresh running cold water! Super for an early morning dive!

    The pool is very beautiful. All natural with many lilies in the water and frogs on their leaves.

    The breakfast is very nice. Perfect fresh bread and hand made jams. Fresh juice, yoghurt with stuff and local cheese.

    The diner (Menno makes a delicious dinner 3 times a week) is restaurant class. All fresh from their garden (if possible) and create combinations. You eat with all the guests together in a very nice atmosphere.

    We did quite some hikes from Damanta. Menno knows where to go and even guided us on a walk to the river. The region is very pretty and has lots of opportunities to hike and swim!

    I would recommend this for everybody who likes nature, friendly people and a holiday away from the crowds.

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    Mischa C
    July 3, 2015
  • star rating  THE HOSTS:
    We read the reviews but nothing could have prepared us for the genuine hospitality of hosts Meno, Jacqueline and family. My husband and I spent a week here... read more in August (40 degrees on two of the days!)
    Unfortunately, we had problem after problem with our Car Hire provider Gold Car (DO NOT USE) Including being stranded and needing to be towed. Menno and Jacqueline literally came to our rescue.
    The family all play a part in the hosting be it manning the pool bar or preparing meals. They really are an incredible family with an impressive work ethic.
    THE GROUNDS:
    Although the decor may not be to everyone's taste, I can honestly say the grounds and accommodation are breathtaking in a way that photo's just do not do justice. Think high quality, Safari chic. One of the more magical places we have visited.
    FOOD:
    Breakfast is a generous spread of cheeses, meats, fruits, museli, tea, coffee, fresh orange juice and homemade spreads (YOU MUST TRY THE PUMPKIN JAM)
    Dinner is prepared freshly in house every other night. No menus. Served as a group with sharing platters. A totally new experience for us that we absolutely loved. It forces you out of your comfort zone and as a result we made some great new friends. Menno is a FANTASTIC chef. Absolutely brilliant!!!
    To sum up:
    On our final night we rebooked to stay again the following year. Smashing stay! And thank you once again to Meno and Jacqueline for showing us an incredible Portugal Xx

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    africatamar
    January 18, 2017
  • star rating  This is the fourth time we have visited this amazing place, which is usual for us, rarely going anywhere twice. But there is something so magical about Vinha Da Manta... read more other places fail by comparison. When you arrive you breathe and remember what’s great about life. It’s hard to tear yourself away. Gentle morning yoga, delicious breakfast, lounging by the stunning natural pool watching the kids make new friends and exploring for frogs in the lily pads, horse riding, a cheeky massage looking over the valley and the highlight, the sumptuous mouth watering dinners where everyone comes together and forges new friendships. Jacqueline and Menno and their lovely family are such warm hosts and nothing is too much trouble. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. I want to keep it a secret but such a rare jewel should be shared.

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    OnAir26215251561
    September 25, 2021
  • star rating  Excellent place, at the border of sierra d'estrella. Several walks available, both short and easy or longer. Very friendly staff. Chef worthy food by the owner. And his son is... read more learning fast to follow his footsteps. Chill natural pool on the premisses.

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    paulsP6345JN
    August 31, 2016

Vinha Da Manta

+351966011630 Chamada para a rede móvel nacional

info@damanta.nl

Quinta do Barata, Faia, Guarda

Licence 136342/AL

COPYRIGHT © 2018 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED VINHA DA MANTA