An ancient craft, deeply connected to landscape, water, and slow time. This weekend is dedicated to learning the basic techniques of willow weaving in a calm and immersive environment.
This is a gathering for those who value traditional crafts, conscious learning, and the simple pleasure of creating something with their own hands.
More about willow
Willow is a fast-growing, renewable natural material traditionally used in basketry and weaving. It can be harvested annually without harming the plant and is fully biodegradable, returning naturally to the soil at the end of its life.
Requiring minimal processing and often grown locally along riverbanks, willow has a very low environmental footprint. Its use supports traditional skills and transforms a simple plant into durable, functional everyday objects.
Facilitator
Misaki Nature Crafts
Misaki Nature Crafts is a love story that travelled the world before settling in Reguengo, Portalegre, two years ago. Misaki first became interested in basketry in Japan, her home country, teaching herself through books and experimentation with traditional techniques.
After moving to Portugal with her husband, she sought out local artisans, refining her skills and learning to work with regional materials.
Misaki’s baskets are both beautiful and practical objects, carrying the stories and memories of an artist who has woven together her Japanese roots with the influences of a journey that has found a new home in Portugal.
Program
(Indicative schedules may vary slightly depending on the season and retreat)
Friday
Afternoon
15:00
Check-in.
Welcome drink.
Evening
Welcome dinner featuring local, seasonal ingredients.
Saturday
Morning
8:30 - 10:00
Breakfast.
Free time: rest, walk the land, swim or discover the region.
Free Lunch.
Afternoon
An afternoon with Misaki dedicated to learning the basic techniques of wickerwork, in a tranquil and immersive environment, with each participant developing their own piece, guided closely and at their own pace.
Natural pauses, tea and moments of quiet are part of the process.
Sunday
Morning
8:30 - 10:00
Breakfast.
11:00
Checkout
What's Included
Two nights' accommodation (breakfast included).
Welcome drink on arrival.
Friday dinner (non-alcoholic drinks included).
A curated Saturday afternoon programme, with all materials included.
Afternoon tea: tea, herbal infusions, and a homemade cake or light refreshment are served in the afternoon.
Time and space to rest, walk, read, and simply be. Full access to all shared spaces: natural swimming pool, sauna, and rooftop.
Freedom to walk peacefully around the farm and the surrounding land.
Not Included
Flight tickets.
Trip Insurance (please see our FAQS here).
Massage treatments (available by appointment).
Horse Riding (available by appointment).
Alcoholic drinks (available to order on-site).
Practical notes
Intimate group.
Materials included.
No previous experience required.
FAQs
How do I get there?
For guests arriving from abroad, we can organise a group transfer from Lisbon (at an additional cost).
If you live in Portugal and plan to drive, we will send you detailed directions in advance.
If you plan to come by bus, please send an email to reservations@asociedaderural.com and we can send all the information.
Private transfers can also be arranged upon request (at an additional cost).
Please note: flights are not included in the program price.
Is the program suitable for beginners?
Yes. Yes. The program is designed for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
Are practices indoors or outdoors?
We have beautiful indoor and outdoor practice spaces. Whenever weather conditions allow, we enjoy practising outdoors, always adapting to the season and conditions.
How many people attend each retreat?
This is an intimate and exclusive experience, with a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 10 participants.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Friday Check-in: from 3:00 pm
Sunday Check-out: by 11:00 am
Is there a packing list?
In addition to your usual travel essentials, we recommend bringing:
- Comfortable clothes
- Walking or hiking shoes
- Bathing suit & flip flops
- Sunscreen, hat & sunglasses
- Layers for cooler mornings and evenings
What should I do during free time?
Free time is an invitation to rest and reconnect.
You might choose to:
- Walk or sit quietly in nature
- Writing, drawing, play games
- Enjoy mindful conversations over tea
- Swim or use the sauna
- Book a massage or a local activity (not included)
- Doing nothing is also very welcome.
What is the food like? Is alcohol included?
Expect seasonal, nourishing, local food, prepared with care. Dietary requirements and allergies can be accommodated. Please let us know at the time of booking.
Alcoholic drinks are not included, but are available to order on-site.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing personal travel insurance specilly if you are coming from abroad. In the rare event that the retreat needs to be cancelled or rescheduled due to force majeure, we can only refund the retreat cost itself and cannot cover additional expenses such as flights.
We recommend a policy that includes: "Cancel for any reason" option.
(Some credit cards also offer travel insurance benefits.)
What is your cancellation & transfer policy?
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for full details here.
Tickets may be transferred to another person up to three days before the retreat start date by contacting us via email.
After this period, our standard cancellation policy applies.
Purchasing travel insurance is strongly advised.
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