Six Senses Douro Valley, a resort set in a former 19th-century estate along the Duro River, is nestled in one of the world’s premier wine regions in Portugal. Recently launched, it features a Women’s Wellness Program aimed at encouraging guests to prioritize health over indulgence.
This program has been crafted with input from Functional Health experts and authors, including Dr. Mindy Peltz. It’s tailored to support women’s hormonal cycles through various methods, including fasting, personalized nutrition, and mental and physical practices.
Guests will complete a survey before arriving to share their lifestyle, medical history, health objectives, and dietary preferences, as well as details about their hormone cycles. When they arrive, the program begins with thorough wellness and biomarker screenings.
According to Anna Bürstam from Six Senses, there’s a common expectation placed on women to be constantly strong. She suggests that by tuning into their natural rhythms and listening to their bodies, participants can greatly benefit from the program.
Every participant receives a sleep tracker along with a personalized consultation from a sleep expert on-site. The accommodations at the resort feature lamb wool mattresses, temperature-regulated pillows, and organic linens designed to ensure quality sleep.
Alongside that, participants can use a continuous glucose monitor for up to two weeks to see how their bodies respond to insulin during their stay. The overall goal is to empower women with tools to lead healthier lives.
Nutrition plays a crucial role, with all produce being locally sourced or grown on the property. For those on the wellness program, lunch and dinner consist of three courses catered to different stages of the hormone cycle.
The cycle itself is segmented into three phases: power, manifestation, and cultivation. The power phase follows a ketogenic approach but makes room for nourishing foods during the manifestation phase.
During these phases, fasting for 13-17 hours is recommended, though it’s emphasized that the approach should focus on intent rather than strict limitations. The resort does not prohibit alcohol but suggests being mindful of its effects on glucose levels.
Besides dietary experiences, Six Senses offers various relaxation options, including spa facilities with hot and cold therapy pools, infrared and herbal saunas, and extensive wellness treatments aimed at detoxification and recovery.
Nature plays a big role, too. The property’s surroundings—once a 19th-century vineyard—offer beautiful walking trails that lead to waterfalls and organic gardens, enhancing the overall experience.
Additional offerings include workshops on cosmetics made from natural herbs, IV treatments, and even sessions on astrology.
Bjurstam believes the collective experience of the wellness program can amplify its benefits for women, making it a powerful opportunity.
My own experience wrapped up with a ceremony where we were reminded that life itself is a ceremony, and the program had prepared us well for it.
The cost of the Douro Valley Women’s Wellness Program varies: starting from $1,420 per person for three nights up to $2,260 per person for a week.
