Casa Fuzetta - The House of Stories – Details, episodes & analysis

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.

** Warning - this episode contains some swearing.

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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

Or join our mailing list to be amongst the first to hear about new availability and retreat dates. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

To learn more about Kat and Cheeky Yoga Club, please visit: https://www.cheekyyogaclub.com/

Other elements mentioned in this episode:

https://www.reelsrockstars.co.uk/reels-rockstar-online-course

Ncheta at Casa Fuzetta - LINK

Book: Feel the Fear and do it anyway - WATERSTONES LINK

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.

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

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 

Our architects: https://jaimecoutinho.com/en/

Our interior designer: https://mariaraposo.com/

Our local creative friends:

https://www.casacubista.com/

https://www.instagram.com/casa__sergio?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D

https://www.meinke-flesseman.com/

Vezelay, France - https://maps.app.goo.gl/rMyTmmCAL8sTs8WC7

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.

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

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 

Our architects: https://jaimecoutinho.com/en/

Our interior designer: https://mariaraposo.com/

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.

****************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

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. 

For visuals - please see:INSTAGRAM REEL

They also delve into Portuguese coffee traditions and prepare for their next adventure, exploring a new garden-to-table restaurant.

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

You can tap into the sights and spirit of Olhão and the retreats at Casa Fuzetta - by following us on your favourite social media platform.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

OTHER ELEMENTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

RODE mikes - for recording when on the go

https://rode.com/en/microphones/wireless/wirelessgoii?variant_sku=WIGOII

Bear in mind you will also need: https://rode.com/en/accessories/adaptors-cables/sc19?variant_sku=SC19

Why we Love Olhão

Here are a couple of instagram reels we have created showcasing Why we Love Olhão - enjoy!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_qYSJMsBCT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Crdzp8wga4E/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Don’t just take our word for it… here’s a wonderful recent article by Lulu Townsend for House&Garden: 

https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/Olhão-portugal-algarve-travel-guide?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_social-type=owned&utm_brand=houseandgarden

Coffee culture in Portugal is worthy of respect and can confuse newcomers - here’s one of the best and most in-depth guides we have found:

https://catavino.net/portugal-coffee-ordering-guide/

Piri Piri sauce

You should be able to find a good bottle in most good supermarkets.

If you are brave and a serious lover of heat - you could make your own - here’s a recipe from BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/piri-piri_sauce_59380

Litao:

To understand more about this unique Olhãonese delicacy, explore:

https://beckyinportugal.com/2016/08/26/dried-fish-portugal/

https://www.sulinformacao.pt/en/2013/12/no-natal-de-Olhão-troca-se-o-bacalhau-pelo-litao/

We love a PomPom 

If you do too, here’s a guide on how to make a pompom - https://www.stitchandstory.com/blogs/getting-started/how-to-make-quick-pom-poms-from-fork-and-yarn?srsltid=AfmBOop0s5-T_9PMr0Ig8Nk1njNKGAkDrSpfxax42JtfbmeGceXW1y7_

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.

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

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 inspiration on where to stay and visit in Portugal, explore Emma’s: https://www.design-escapes.com/

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

STUDIO GAMEIRO - designers involved with Austa - https://www.studiogameiro.com/

Visit the Salt Mines of Loule - book here: https://www.techsalt.pt/index-en.html

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. 

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

LINKS TO OTHER ELEMENTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

To learn more about the NGO Paul is working with - visit: https://foundationstp.org/

To learn more about life in Sao Tome - see https://vimeo.com/776673509

Recommended reading: Martin Page - Portugal - the First Global Village - https://www.amazon.co.uk/First-Global-Village-Portugal-Changed/dp/9724613135

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.

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HARUKA:

Visit Haruka’s website: https://harukaaoki.com/

Subscribe to Haruka’s substack: https://haruka.substack.com/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email

Follow Haruka on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecosmicharuka/

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.. 

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of the upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2024-retreats

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

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. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT NORA:

Nora Bohm’s design practice: https://www.kokon-interior.de/

Nora’s Workation at Casa Rosa in January 2025 - https://www.kokon-interior.de/workation/

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.

************************************************************

Any questions, comments or suggestions - please email us at casafuzettapodcast@gmail.com

For more about Casa Fuzetta - please visit casafuzetta.com

Details of our upcoming retreats can be found here:

https://www.casafuzetta.com/2025-retreats

If you would like to join our February 2026 Workations, please join our waiting list: HERE

Or join our mailing list to be amongst the first to hear about new availability and retreat dates. https://www.casafuzetta.com/keep-in-touch

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.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casafuzetta

For interior design and sourcing inspiration, explore: https://uk.pinterest.com/tgdonovan/

To shop the Casa Fuzetta Edit, please visit: https://www.casafuzetta.com/edit

Enjoy a special discount from our friends at La-Eva by using “LA-EVAxCASAFUZETTA” at https://la-eva.com/collections/shop

To learn more about the creative brands mentioned, please explore the following links:

Ze e Maria: Instagram

Stephane’s instagram: link

La-Eva/Meinke Flesseman special edition: link

Linens with old photos: https://www.instagram.com/luz_editions/

Casa Cubista: https://www.instagram.com/casacubista/

Learn more about Artur Pastor’s photography: HERE

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