Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the retreat located?
The retreat takes place in the Beira Baixa region of inland Portugal near Penamacor. The hotel is called Hotel Moinho do Maneio and the Farm is at a 20 min drive in Aldeia de Joao Pires.
What is the weather like in May?
May is spring in inland Portugal. Days are generally suited to spending time outdoors, while mornings and evenings can feel cooler. We recommend bringing layers, sun protection, comfortable outdoor shoes and swimwear if you would like to make use of the pool.
Will there be outdoor spaces available?
Yes. A large part of the experience is connected to the farm, gardens and surrounding landscape. Depending on the day, workshops, harvesting, meals or informal sessions may take place outdoors.
Are toiletries, a hairdryer and linens provided?
Bedding and towels will be provided. Final details about toiletries and hairdryers will be confirmed with the accommodation before the retreat, and guests will receive a practical information pack before arrival.
Is parking available?
If you plan to come by car, please let us know in advance. Final parking information will be included with the accommodation details.
Is laundry available during the retreat?
Laundry facilities are not part of the retreat service. We recommend packing enough clothing for the week.
What electrical voltage is used in Portugal?
Portugal uses 230V electricity with standard European Type C/F two-pin plugs. Guests travelling from countries with different plugs or voltage standards should bring the appropriate adapter.
What is included in the retreat?
The retreat includes seven nights, the full teaching program with Melina Hammer and The Farming Chefs, hands-on cooking workshops, farm-based activities, meals during the retreat program, ingredients used in workshops, local transportation connected to the retreat program, one exploration/free day, and group arrival and departure transport as specified in the final travel information.
What is not included in the price?
International or domestic travel to Portugal, personal travel insurance, personal purchases, and drinks or extras outside those specifically included in the retreat program are not included.
Do I need to be an experienced cook to join?
No. You do not need professional cooking experience. The retreat is designed for people who love food and want to become more confident, resourceful and intuitive in the kitchen.
What does recipe-free cooking mean?
Recipe-free cooking does not mean cooking without technique. It means learning to understand ingredients, taste as you go and make informed decisions using your senses, rather than depending entirely on fixed instructions. You will explore flavour balance, texture, acidity, heat, fat, seasoning and seasonality so you can adapt more confidently in your own kitchen.
What kind of ingredients will we cook with?
The exact ingredients will be shaped by the farm and the season. In May we expect a broad variety of herbs, edible flowers, greens, roots, peas, radishes, beets and other spring produce. Depending on availability, we may also cook with farm eggs and farm-raised chicken, lamb, goat or pork, alongside products sourced from nearby producers.
Are all meals included?
Yes. Meals during the retreat program are included and are centered around seasonal, ingredient-led cooking. Some meals will grow directly out of the cooking workshops, while others will be prepared and shared together as part of the retreat experience.
What if I have dietary requirements or allergies?
Please tell us about all allergies, intolerances and dietary requirements before booking. We can accommodate many dietary needs, but because this is a highly food-focused retreat built around shared menus and farm ingredients, not every dietary pattern may be possible. We will confirm with you personally whether we can accommodate your needs safely before your booking is finalized.
Will there be free time?
Yes. The retreat is intentionally not over-scheduled. On most teaching days we aim to leave approximately three to four hours for guests to rest, swim, read, walk around the farm or simply enjoy some quiet time.
Is there an excursion or free day?
Yes. There is typically one free day during the week. Transportation is provided so guests can explore a local village or part of the surrounding region at their own pace. The exact destination will be confirmed closer to the retreat.
How do I make a booking?
Bookings will be made through the official booking form on this page. Your place is secured once the required deposit has been paid. The retreat itself is guaranteed once the minimum participant number has been reached.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. A 30% deposit is required to secure your place. 50% will be charged, once the retreat is guaranteed. The final balance is due 8 weeks prior.
When is the retreat guaranteed to go ahead?
The retreat is expected to be guaranteed once the required minimum number of participants has booked. We typically work with a minimum of six guests, but may vary.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers travel disruption, medical expenses and cancellation. You can link the full booking and cancellation terms here
How do I get to the retreat?
You should arrange your travel to Lisbon. Group arrival and departure transportation is planned in connection with Lisbon Airport, as agreed for this retreat. Exact meeting points and times will be sent in the final travel information well before arrival.
Is there a group pickup?
Yes. Group pickup and drop-off are planned in connection with Lisbon Airport on the designated arrival and departure days. Pickup and drop off time will be around noon.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Exact check-in, check-out, pickup and drop-off times will be communicated after your booking. If you have questions about them, please email us directly at thefarmingchefs@gmail.com with the subject: RETREAT INFO
Can I arrive early or stay longer?
Possibly. If you would like to arrive before the retreat or extend your stay afterwards, contact The Farming Chefs before making arrangements so we can advise you on what is possible. Email: thefarmingchefs@gmail.com | Phone: +351 964 920 946.
What should I bring?
A detailed packing list will be sent 8 weeks prior to the retreat. In general, bring comfortable clothing, layers for cooler mornings and evenings, sturdy outdoor shoes, sun protection and swimwear.
Can I purchase The Farming Chefs products during the retreat?
Where available, selected The Farming Chefs products such as aprons or recipe books may be available to purchase. We will let guests know in advance if pre-ordering is recommended.
Do I need a visa for Portugal?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and circumstances. EU citizens do not normally require a visa for Portugal. Guests travelling from outside the US should check the official Portuguese entry requirements that apply to them before booking travel.
What currency is used in Portugal?
Portugal uses the Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, although it can be useful to carry a small amount of cash for local purchases.
Who is Melina Hammer?
Melina Hammer is the award-winning author of A Year at Catbird Cottage, as well as a food stylist, recipe developer, chef and food photographer. Her work is rooted in seasonal food, kitchen-garden ingredients, wild foods and the pleasure of creating soulful meals for the people around her.
What makes this retreat different from a normal cooking holiday?
The farm is part of the classroom. Rather than simply reproducing a series of recipes, you will learn to look at what is growing, taste ingredients at their source, understand what they need and build meals around the season. The goal is to leave with stronger instincts and transferable cooking skills, not simply a collection of recipes.
