10 years ago Tara Donovan was looking forward to a romantic weekend with her husband Jonathan. Little did she know that she would come home with a lot more than duty free!
They were headed to Olhão, a working fishing town in the Eastern Algarve in Portugal, a previously prosperous place where the polish had faded but the charm had not diminished.
Tara had never been to Portugal, didn’t speak the language and at that point would have struggled to differentiate her cobra from her downward dog yet a decade later she is the proud guardian of Casa Fuzetta, named by CNTraveller in 2024 as one of the top yoga retreat venues in the world.
Tara and her friend (of 30 years) Kate Rowland draw back the curtains of Casa Fuzetta. Through conversations and interviews with the people and community in this special corner of the world, they uncover why serendipity is a regular occurrence and coincidence is the stuff of everyday magic
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EPISODE 3 - Casa Fuzetta - From Skeptic to Yogi: Kat's Cheeky Yoga Club Story
Episode 4
Friday, October 4, 2024 • Duration 51:56
EPISODE 3 - Casa Fuzetta - From Skeptic to Yogi: Kat's Cheeky Yoga Club Story
In this episode of 'Casa Fuzetta: The House of Stories,' hosts Tara and Kate share a heartfelt interview with Kat Achtelik, founder of Cheeky Yoga Club, who reveals her personal journey with yoga and the challenges and joys of hosting retreats at Casa Fuzetta and beyond.
They talk about the significance of community, trust, and resilience, providing inspiring insights and practical tips for aspiring retreat hosts.
The episode wraps up with a teaser for their next adventure at Olhão market.
We have a couple of spots remaining for our Heal the Healers retreat 3-9 January - if you would like to know more, please email Tara at casafuzetta@gmail.com
If you would like to join our February Workations, please complete the expression of interest form: HERE
EPISODE 2 - Casa Fuzetta: Tales of Creativity & Synchronicity
Episode 3
Friday, October 4, 2024 • Duration 39:59
EPISODE 2 - Casa Fuzetta: Tales of creativity & synchronicity
In this episode of 'Casa Fuzetta: The House of Stories,' hosts Tara and Kate recount the incredible journey of transforming two derelict buildings in Portugal into one of the best yoga retreats in the world, as named by Conde Nast Traveller in early 2024.
Following Tara's initial visit to Portugal in September 2013, the story navigates through the selection of architects, the welcoming local community, the creative process behind the renovations, and the vital role social media played in building Casa Fuzetta's profile.
A special highlight includes tales of creativity and synchronicity with locals Aaron and David, founders of Casa Cubista, and Dutch born artist, Meinke Flesseman.
The episode wraps up with a teaser for the next instalment, featuring Kat, founder of Cheeky Yoga Club, who has hosted several retreats at Casa Fuzetta.
If you would like to join our February Workations, please complete the expression of interest form: HERE
EPISODE 1 - The Heart of Casa Fuzetta: A Tale of Passion and Persistence
Episode 2
Friday, October 4, 2024 • Duration 34:55
In this inaugural episode of 'Casa Fuzetta: The House of Stories,' hosts Tara and Kate recount the remarkable journey of transforming a series of dilapidated buildings in Olhão, Portugal, into one of the world's best yoga retreats.
The story begins ten years ago with Tara, the former CEO of Jamie Oliver’s Media Group, who had never visited Portugal or practised much yoga. Motivated by an unexpected trip to Olhão and her husband's spiritual journey, the couple embarked on a massive restoration project.
Facing challenges from squatters and architectural uncertainties, they gradually acquired adjacent properties, navigated complex legalities, and overcame numerous obstacles.
Through determination, trust, and a bit of serendipity, Casa Fuzetta emerged as a rejuvenated space for retreats, embodying both historical significance and modern beauty.
If you would like to join our February Workations, please complete the expression of interest form: HERE
Or join our mailing list to be amongst the first to hear about new availability and retreat dates.
Welcome to Casa Fuzetta: The House of Stories - Meet Tara and Kate
Episode 1
Friday, October 4, 2024 • Duration 18:32
In the premiere episode of 'Casa Fuzetta: The House of Stories,' hosts Tara and Kate invite you to join them as they explore the journey and magic behind Casa Fuzetta, named one of the best yoga retreat venues in the world by Condé Nast Traveller in 2024.
They share insights on the transformation of derelict buildings in a working fishing town in the eastern Algarve of southern Portugal, into an enchanting retreat.
From heartfelt stories of synchronicity, unexpected adventures, to meeting fascinating guests like yoga instructor Kat, founder of Cheeky Yoga Club and restauranteur Emma, founder of garden to table concept Austa, Tara and Kate introduce the series' theme of moving from a place of fear to one of trust and intuition.
We promise a blend of personal tales, local flavours, and inspiring interviews, spanning topics from spiritual journeys to creative pursuits in Portugal.
If you would like to join our February Workations, please complete the expression of interest form:
EPISODE 4 - From Olhão with Love: A birthday walk through town
Episode 5
Tuesday, October 15, 2024 • Duration 22:54
Soundscapes and Stories from a Portuguese Fishing Town
In this episode, Tara and Kate invite you on a journey through the coastal town of Olhão in the Eastern Algarve, Portugal.
The episode captures the lively atmosphere of Olhão's fish and produce markets along with interactions with locals, painting a vivid picture of the town's charm and culture.
If you would like to join our February Workations, please complete the expression of interest form: HERE
Or join our mailing list to be amongst the first to hear about new availability and retreat dates.
EPISODE 5 - Discovering Hidden Gems in Portugal
Episode 6
Sunday, October 20, 2024 • Duration 56:54
An Interview with Emma, co-founder of garden to table restaurant concept, Austa
In this episode, Tara and Kate invite you on the road with them to start exploring unique local ventures.
The focus centres on an interview with Emma Campus, co-founder of Austa, a garden-to-table restaurant concept showcasing the treasures of Portuguese culture and cuisine.
The episode emphasises the importance of community, creativity, and the quest for an enriched life beyond the usual hustle and bustle.
You can also tap into the sights and spirit of Olhão and the retreats at Casa Fuzetta - by following us on your favourite social media platform.
EPISODE 6 - Unveiling Portugal's Hidden Stories and Legacies
Episode 7
Sunday, October 27, 2024 • Duration 35:38
In this episode, Tara and Kate delve into Portugal's rich history and its contemporary challenges.
They share insights from an impromptu conversation with Anglo-Portuguese friend Paul Azevedo over lunch at a favourite local restaurant in the heart of Olhão.
Topics covered include the historical significance of the Algarve during the Roman and Salazar years, the impact of Portugal's colonisation in Southern Africa, and the current socio-economic crises in São Tomé and Príncipe. Paul also shares details about his NGO work and an upcoming documentary highlighting the humanitarian and environmental issues in São Tomé.
You can also tap into the sights and spirit of Olhão and the retreats at Casa Fuzetta - by following us on your favourite social media platform.
EPISODE 8 - Embracing Artistic Living: Haruka Aoki's Journey to Portugal
Episode 9
Sunday, November 10, 2024 • Duration 44:52
In this concluding episode of their first series, hosts Tara and Kate reflect on their journey and introduce guest Haruka Aoki.
Haruka shares her experience of moving from New York to Lisbon, driven by a desire to embrace her artistic self and find deeper connections in her new home.
With parallels to Tara's own story, Haruka discusses the challenges and joys of adjusting to life in Portugal, forming meaningful relationships and finding beauty in everyday moments.
The episode delves into themes of unlearning structured behaviours, the importance of community, and the rewards of following one’s passion.
Tara and Kate also share ideas for their second series of Casa Fuzetta - A House of Stories.
Discovering the Magic of Casa Fuzetta: A Conversation with interior designer, Nora Bohm
In this episode Tara flies solo to interview Workation guest Nora Bohm, an interior designer from Germany.
Nora shares her experience of her different stays at Casa Fuzetta - on retreat with Kat / founder of Cheeky Yoga Club (interviewed in Episode 3) and for a Workation, her love for the house's detailed interiors, and the unique community vibe that draws her back.
The discussion emphasises the positive energy and love that guests imprint within the walls of the house, fostering a nurturing and inspiring environment for future visitors to share and contribute to..
If you would like to join our February Workations, please complete the expression of interest form: HERE
We have a couple of spots remaining for our Heal the Healers retreat 3-9 January - if you would like to know more, please email Tara at casafuzetta@gmail.com
Or join our mailing list to be amongst the first to hear about new availability and retreat dates.
SEASON 2 - Episode 3 - the Creative Spirit of Olhão
Episode 12
Sunday, April 6, 2025 • Duration 27:45
EPISODE 3 - Exploring the Creative Spirit of Olhão
Tara and Kate go over to their favourite local interiors shop, Zé e Maria to meet with Stephane Gaillard, the store's creative lead.
Stephane shares his passion for blending traditional Portuguese crafts with contemporary design, the importance of community engagement, and teases a new project set to launch in 2026.
The discussion touches on the intricate relationship between local artisans, traditional crafts, and modern innovations, encapsulating the unique essence of Olhão.
The episode reflects on the vibrant, inclusive community of Olhão and its magnetic appeal.
If you would like to see how much more than a coat of paint was involved in the evolution of Casa Fuzetta from ruin to beauty, here is a link to an instagram reel condensing 2.5years into 30 seconds: REEL
If you would like to see how much more than a coat of paint was involved in the evolution of Casa Fuzetta from ruin to beauty, here is a link to an instagram reel condensing 2.5years into 30 seconds: REEL
LINKS TO OTHER ELEMENTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
With a focus on honest eating, thinking, and drinking, Austa is a restaurant, coffee shop, kitchen, and community connected to the land in the Algarve, Southern Portugal. https://austa.pt/
For other favourite places mentioned in this episode, explore:
MORGADO DO QUINTAO - Vineyard & farmstay - A large, restored early 1800's family-owned vineyard estate, offering wine tastings and a boutique farmstay experience. Located between Silves and Lagoa in the Western Algarve. https://www.morgadodoquintao.pt/
DÁ LICENÇA, Extremoz, Alentejo. “ For those who seek to enjoy a remarkable experience, combining tradition with modernity and luxurious comfort. BE OUR GUEST.” https://dalicenca.pt/en/
SILENT LIVING - We can see Silent Living as a recipe of that wonderful plate made by our mothers, which reminds us of home, warming our hearts and souls. https://www.silentliving.pt/
PROJECTO MATERIA - https://www.projectomateria.pt/en/ "The greatest wealth of any nation or culture is their people", João Rodrigues, founder - foodie map of portugal sharing producers, winemakers, fishing cooperatives
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform makes the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
