about us 

Hi there - we are Alison and Paul

We have lived in Casa Verde since moving to Portugal 5 years ago

We have been slowly regenerating this land and building living spaces

the last few years have been strange times for many of us 

so it feels good to be able to welcome people at last

Hi I’m Paul. A multi instrumental musician, composer, writer and artist

I am self taught learning from a practice of deep listening and meditative exploration

I play unusual traditional instruments from all over but specialise in ethnic wind

as a wind player there is a very natural bridge 

from inner breath work through creative pattern play to external expression

I’m always happy to share such explorations with visitors 

whether they be musically experienced or not

I enjoy holding space with sound healing baths for those who prefer just to receive

There is also a recording studio set up at Casa Verde


Ali has had a rich and varied life 

as a broadly experienced chef, baker and teacher

with a huge knowledge and passion for all things food related

as well as a research scientist, safari and tour guide/organiser and more

... but it is her ability to watch, listen and remember that shines most.


All these skills combine to make cooking for retreats one of her favourite activities

responding subtly to the changing needs of people in landscapes

following the ever shifting inner and outer seasons 

allow her to skilfully nourish body and mind.


we are both long term meditation practitioners 

with rich and varied experiences

always happy to discuss and offer practices 

and to be available as a listening ear where required

there is a carefully chosen library of books in the house 

available to inspire and assist with inner work

as well as miles and miles on country walks 

where you are very unlikely to meet anybody

except some of the local wildlife