History
Solar Alvura has a rich history dating back to 1868, when the original farmhouse was established. Over the years, the property operated as Hotel Solar da Fornalha, a family-run thirty-room hotel that was fully functional from 2002 until around 2010. During a period of closure, the property fell into disrepair, with overgrown grounds and buildings left unoccupied for nearly a decade.
The property was then extensively renovated and has revived both the hotel and its surrounding land, preserving the character and history of this unique estate. During restoration, a number of fascinating historical features were uncovered, including a buried stone marked 1868, an old olive press, and two hidden stone-lined wells that hark back to traditional Portuguese life. Four enormous olive barrels, once encased in brick and mortar, have been repurposed and are displayed around the grounds, with the two largest flanking the steps from the restaurant patio to the orange groves.
The estate’s fertile land tells its own story, once cultivated with olive trees, oranges, and vineyards. Today, guests can enjoy a lush landscape filled with figs, olives, oranges, and carob trees, a living testament to Moncarapacho’s agricultural heritage. Every corner of Solar Alvura reflects a careful balance between historic charm and modern comfort, offering a boutique retreat where the past and present seamlessly coexist.
Moncarapacho is a charming rural village located a few miles inland from Faro, in the heart of the Eastern Algarve, nestled between the coast and the mountains. Its history dates back to 1368, and you can discover more about its heritage at the local museum. Strolling along the village’s white cobblestone streets, or calçada, feels like stepping back in time to the 1950s. Despite its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, Moncarapacho is just 20 minutes from the vibrant city of Faro and Faro Airport. A short 10-minute drive brings you to the serene beach village of Fuseta, where time seems to slow down—locals sip coffee at the pastelería, while older men enjoy a leisurely beer in the sunshine.
A Wellness Retreat Project
This hotel is being developed as a staged project, with an initial opening for the summer season of 2026, followed by a temporary closure to complete renovations, and a full re-launch as Shanti‑Som Wellbeing Retreat in 2027.
We are transforming the property into a serene sanctuary inspired by the philosophy of Shanti — inner peace — designed to welcome guests seeking to explore their health, wellbeing, and longevity in a truly restorative environment. Drawing inspiration from the original Shanti‑Som in Andalusia, which blends Balinese spirit, relaxed rhythms, and holistic care, our retreat will offer thoughtfully curated wellness programs that nourish body, mind, and spirit.
At Shanti‑Som Wellbeing Retreat, guests can participate in expertly guided programs including yoga, Pilates, fitness, detox, and healing, all crafted to support vitality, reduce stress, and encourage personal transformation. These experiences are complemented by modern wellness facilities, including a fully equipped gym, spa, hot and cold therapy, and Reformer Pilates studio. Wholesome, balanced meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients further enhance your wellbeing and enjoyment throughout your stay.
More than just a place to unwind, Shanti‑Som is designed as a space to learn, grow, and flourish — offering authentic experiences, a warm community atmosphere, and expert guidance that help you cultivate lasting wellness habits beyond your retreat.
For more information please visit www.shantisom.com or follow us on Instagram @shantisomalgarve