Guincho Wayra House

I didn’t feel welcome here. It was hard to get in touch with the owner, who never answered the phone. The place was dirty and messy, the toilet smelled bad, and the kitchen garbage was full. The Booking.com room description was misleading: the bathroom symbol in the room details could make you think the toilet was private, but there was only a walk-in shower and the toilet was shared. We didn’t stay there in the end, and the owner neither refunded us nor spoke with us. I accepted the price and quality of a hostel, but the hygiene and service were far below what I’d consider a normal hostel standard, and unacceptable.

I’d never travelled alone before and felt a bit nervous, but Laura kept in touch with me before the trip and right up until I arrived at Wayra house. She welcomed me warmly, and I felt secure. The house was amazing, clean and tidy, with lovely energy, nature all around, and a terrace with great views. The activities were well organized, and breakfast was ready each morning. Starting the day with Laura’s yoga class was just what I needed. The house is close to the beach, and the volunteer who was there at the time also made the stay special. It was such a good experience. I hope I can come back soon. :) Eva

The view of Guincho beach and the surrounding hills is something I won’t forget. You can hear the wind, walk through a little forest for about twenty minutes to reach the ocean, and enjoy the countryside setting. There’s a tiny supermarket around the corner and a small restaurant visited by locals. Public transport makes day trips easy, whether you want to explore Cascais, take the coastal train to Lisbon, or catch a direct bus to Sintra. In Cascais, there’s an old town, museums, sandy beaches with calm water, and good local food. Laura also has restaurant recommendations. At Guincho Wayra house, Laura has made a lovely home, full of thoughtful details. There’s a cozy shared living room, a small terrace with a hammock, a well equipped kitchen, and a large terrace where guests can have breakfast together with a view of the sea. Breakfast included fresh fruit, good coffee, different teas, cereal, and local bread. The beds were comfortable, and I felt at home right away. Laura and Nestor were warm and caring, always ready to help with advice or ideas. The other guests I met were interesting and sociable people from different places. I booked a surfing and yoga package, which was a great mix of activity and relaxation. The surf lessons and yoga were both great experiences. Yoga in the morning with Laura or another instructor helped me slow down and relax. You can also book massages, kitesurfing, or surf lessons at the hostel. The house’s atmosphere, the hosts, the sun, and the surrounding nature made it a unique, peaceful retreat. I’d return any time and recommend it wholeheartedly. I can’t wait to be back in this little paradise!

Yoga on the terrace with a view of the waves was such a lovely way to start the day. There are lots of outdoor activities to choose from, as well as great classes with Laura and Tina. I spent a week at Wayra House, and it felt like home, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and wonderful hosts and guests. Laura and Yolain, you’re amazing and do a great job. I had an incredible time and will definitely stop by again. Looking forward to seeing you next year!