Crochet Retreat with Jolly Lizard in Ericeira, Portugal

For a long time, the idea of a crochet retreat felt like something beautiful but unrealistic. Something I would love to attend, but never imagined organizing myself. It stayed in the category of dreams rather than plans.

Everything changed when the hotel team reached out to me and suggested this format. Not as a vague idea, but as a real, thoughtful invitation. In that moment, something clicked. This was a challenge. This was unexpected. This was exciting.

And it was PORTUGAL 🇵🇹

A country I have never been to before. A place full of color, light, history, and atmosphere. Add crochet to that, something I genuinely love and live with every day, and suddenly this idea stopped being abstract. It became real.

Why I Decided to Do This

I love crochet deeply. Not just the final pieces, but the process, the thinking, the quiet focus, and the conversations that happen naturally when people create together.

This retreat feels like a rare combination of things that matter to me. A new country. A creative challenge. A chance to share what I know, what I do, and how I see crochet. No pressure to perform. No rush. Just real time together, centered around crochet.

It is a little scary, honestly. And that is usually a good sign.

The Most Important Details

• When: March 21-27, 2026
• Where: O House, Ericiera, Portugal
• Host: Olena of Jolly Lizard
• Cost: Price starts at €1980 ($2322 USD), ( Don’t miss out on our shared room deal – save up to €960 ($1133 USD) each when booking for two!
• What Is Included: Everything but your flight! Transportation, accommodation, food, crochet supplies and swag, and excursions are ALL INCLUDED.
• How to Book: email shared@beachhouseouteirinho.com and let them know you would like to book your spot!

On the hotel’s website you will find the full day-by-day schedule, details about accommodation, what is included, and current availability.

What We Will Create Together

We will start with crochet charts. You will learn how to read them, understand their logic, and use them confidently in your own work. We will practice reading charts together, step by step, so they stop feeling intimidating and start feeling clear.

From there, we will move into our main project. We will crochet a bag together using a design created especially for this retreat. I am currently working on this design with the retreat in mind, focusing on structure, details, and a finished look that feels thoughtful and wearable.

Throughout the process, everything will stay very hands-on. We will talk about construction, design decisions, and small details that make a piece feel intentional. This is not about speed or perfection, but about understanding crochet on a deeper level and enjoying the process together.

Beyond Crochet

This retreat is not only about sitting with yarn.

We will visit the most colorful and striking castle in Portugal. A place that feels almost unreal, full of contrasts and history, and impossible not to be inspired by.

There will be walks through the old town, where time moves differently. Streets, textures, colors, small details that stay in your memory.

We will do a light coastal hike, following the ocean, breathing fresh air, letting the body move after hours of sitting and crocheting.

One of the evenings will include a wine tasting. Good wine, calm conversation, and that feeling when people who did not know each other a few days ago suddenly feel familiar.

And above all, there will be a lot of talking. Real conversations. Shared laughs. Quiet moments. The kind of communication that rarely happens online.

Why This Matters to Me

This retreat is a first in many ways.

It is my first retreat. My first time teaching in this format. My first time traveling to Portugal. And my first time stepping this far outside my comfort zone.

I am not a teacher in the traditional sense. I am someone who loves crochet deeply and wants to share what I know, how I work, and how I see things. I am bringing all of myself into this experience. Not a polished system, not a performance, but real presence and honest sharing.

This retreat is not about authority or perfection. It is about creating something together. Learning side by side. Allowing space for curiosity, mistakes, conversations, and small discoveries that only happen when people slow down and work with their hands.

I am doing this because it feels alive and true to where I am right now.
If this resonates with you, you will find the link to the hotel below with all booking details.

I would truly love to share this first experience with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an advanced crocheter to join?

No. This retreat is suitable for confident beginners and beyond. You do not need advanced skills, only basic crochet knowledge and a willingness to learn and practice.

Will there be teaching, or is it more of a social retreat?

Both. We will start with crochet charts, learning how to read, understand, and use them in practice. There will be guided crochet sessions, explanations, and plenty of time for questions, alongside relaxed social time.

What exactly will we crochet?

We will crochet a bag together using a design created specifically for this retreat. The focus is on understanding construction, charts, and design logic rather than rushing to finish.

Are crochet materials included?

Yes. All necessary materials are included. You will receive yarn from Hobbii, crochet hooks from Prym, and all required components for the project, including a printed pattern and all additional supplies needed to complete the bag.

What language will the retreat be held in?

The retreat will be held in English.

Is the daily schedule very strict?

No. There will be a planned schedule, which you can review on the retreat page, but the overall pace is relaxed. There will be free time built into each day for rest, personal exploration, or extra crochet time.

What activities are included besides crochet?

The retreat includes a visit to the most colorful castle in Portugal, a walk through the historic old town, a light coastal hike, a wine tasting, and shared meals and conversations.

Are flights included?

No. Flights are not included. Everything else during the retreat, including accommodation, meals, activities, local transportation, and crochet sessions, is included.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely. Many participants come solo. This retreat is designed to feel welcoming, calm, and easy to join, even if you are traveling alone.

How do I book and where can I see the full schedule?

All booking, pricing, availability, and the detailed day-by-day schedule are available on the hotel’s official retreat page

Who do I contact if I have questions about booking or accommodation?

All booking-related questions should be directed to the hotel team via the contact details on the retreat page.