Where movement meets nature: Helping guests restore energy to body and soul in an exclusive environment where comfort and wellbeing go hand in hand with nature
More than just a hotel, this is a place for fresh starts. The promise of Santa Cruz – Movement & Nature House is simple: to restore energy to body and soul in an exclusive environment where comfort and wellbeing go hand in hand with nature.
Founded by engineer João Ferreira and Professor Joaquim Ferreira of the CNS Group – Neurological Health Campus (a leading centre in Portugal and Europe for the research and treatment of neurological diseases), the project was born from the belief that harmonious movement prevents disease and promotes overall health, resulting in a space where body, mind and nature breathe in perfect harmony.
“This first Movement House was created precisely as a natural extension of that commitment. We want our guests to enjoy an invigorating experience in every sense, offering them unique experiences that will help them feel better,” says Joaquim Ferreira.
This is indeed evident as soon as you walk through the gate, entering a world where scientific evidence is not absent, but at the heart of the concept.
Located in Torres Vedras, near Santa Cruz Beach – 45 minutes north of Lisbon, on the Portuguese west coast – the 12-hectare estate between the ocean and the countryside is home to a hotel that offers tailor-made experiences created by experts in movement, exercise and nutrition.
The nine rooms available – exclusively for adults and all with a balcony or terrace – enjoy views of the Atlantic and comfort designed down to the last detail, to give guests a sense of the proximity of the sea.
Decorated by Patrícia Pina, each room is named after a beach, such as “Conchas” or “Praia Azul”, creating a direct link to the region, prioritising sustainable materials such as upcycled wood, local stoneware and macramé elements – created by artist Filipa Rosa – to evoke maritime tradition.
The soft shades of grey, cream and blue create an atmosphere that inspires a sense of balance and tranquillity.
At the restaurant, chef Pedro Mena presents a menu inspired by the Mediterranean diet and seasonal produce, where each dish retains the integrity of its ingredients and encourages healthier eating.
Another standout feature is the organic vegetable garden that was recently developed next to the hotel.
With the motto “Grow with awareness and harvest with purpose”, the produce from the garden is used in meals and enhances the experience, allowing guests to learn about the cultivation cycle of the plants that end up in their dishes and infusions.
“Our organic garden is more than just a space for growing food; it’s an extension of what we believe in: taking care of the body, the mind and also the planet. We want our guests to feel the difference that quality food makes and understand the value of bringing nature into their daily lives,” says Mariana Leitão, the hotel’s general manager.
There is something for everyone here: walks along trails that lead to the cliffs (where you will find two swings overlooking the sea), bike rides, martial arts classes, yoga, archery, or water sports on the estate’s lake. The pickleball court, spa, indoor pool with jacuzzi, gym, and cinema room complete the experience.
There is also a number of carefully curated programmes for those seeking a more active lifestyle. ‘Awake’, lasting three days, is a combination of revitalising exercises; ‘Move’ promotes harmony between body, mind and socialisation over the course of one week; ‘Engage’, which lasts two weeks, is designed for those seeking a more profound transformation.
All programmes start with an individual assessment of movement, nutrition and wellbeing, and include a personalised plan and individual exercise sessions, massage therapy, free access to all equipment and services, results analysis and recommendations for the future.
“Our programmes have been in high demand among foreigners, especially Germans and French, but also Portuguese. It’s clear that people are becoming more and more interested in places that offer leisure activities, but also different experiences that are beneficial to their wellbeing or simply allow them to discover new activities or hobbies,” says Mariana Leitão.
With the scientific knowledge of the CNS Neurological Campus at its core and a holistic approach to health, this hotel is an invitation to start over, with a focus on movement, rest and wellbeing.
___
Follow Essential Algarve Magazine on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or Linkedin for more news!
You might also like:
Vila Vita Spa crowned Portugal’s Best Resort Spa at the World Spa Awards
The Residences: New homes showcase incredible lifestyle offering at Portugal’s Vale do Lobo
NO COMMENT