About Catrinandes

Our history

For over a century, Catrinandes has been cherished within the Dias de Matos family. The earliest photograph, from 1920, captures Father Luíz de Mattos Dias da Silva (Sr. Abade), who made the estate a spiritual haven for family and workers. For generations, it was lovingly passed down to the family’s priests, with Father Luiz Henriques Dias de Matos being the last in this lineage. More than a home, Catrinandes has always been a place of rest and renewal—not only for the family but for visiting priests seeking peace.

Catrinandes in 1920s - About - Sobre nós - Quinta Catrinandes Retreat Center - Molelos, Tondela, Portugal

Catrinandes, 1920's.

Catrinandes in late 1940s - About - Sobre nós - Quinta Catrinandes - Molelos, Tondela, Portugal

Catrinandes, late 1940's. From left to right: Maria da Piedade Dias de Matos, Maria Rita da Costa, Zélia Augusta da Costa Dias de Matos and Father Luiz Henriques Dias de Matos.

Though the origin of the name ‘Catrinandes’ remains a mystery, we like to believe it embodies the spirit of an “old soul,” rich with wisdom and insight. For us, keeping its name alive honors its legacy as a place of of reflection, connection, and renewal.

In 2020, Catrinandes entered a new chapter of renewal. The old was lovingly restored, blending with the new, as the dream of creating a space for all to find rest and reconnection took shape. A place where divine feminine and masculine energies merge in harmony, embracing all beings and perspectives in an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome.

By 2022, Catrinandes hosted its first retreat, marking the continuation of its mission to inspire rest, connection, and growth. Today, it remains a place that feels like hOMe—a sanctuary to pause, breathe, and renew. And so, the story continues...

Our mission

The Earth is evolving, its consciousness and vibration rising. We believe that each of us is on a journey of awakening - expanding into a life rooted in Love and Trust. This journey leads to hOMe, the sacred space within YourSelf.

At Catrinandes, our mission is to uplift the Earth's vibration by creating spaces where deep connection flourishes - connection with nature, your true essence, and the world around you.

Our purpose is to guide you toward a life of Love, Peace, and Joy, where awakening and expansion are not just possibilities but a way of Being. We walk this path with values of truth, integrity, compassion, simplicity, balance, and right conduct - honoring the sacred flow of giving and receiving as one.

Let’s journey together, remembering the way hOMe.

Welcome hOMe to YourSelf

Our team

At Catrinandes, Helena and Tânia are the welcoming faces of a dedicated team that works behind the scenes to ensure your retreat experience is exceptional. While we’re here to guide and host you, we are supported by a talented group of collaborators who bring their unique skills and passion to every aspect of what we offer.

Helena Matos

Co-founder / Chief Healing Officer

Helena’s roots run deep in Molelos, where Catrinandes has been a cherished family treasure for generations. Growing up in Caldas da Rainha, her holidays in Molelos were filled with joy, especially the breathtaking views of the Serra do Caramulo mountains. With over 20 years in pharmaceutical sciences and corporate life, Helena’s journey led her from London to the world of self-discovery. She trained in Yoga and Reiki and followed her dream to create a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul. Returning to Catrinandes felt like coming hOMe. Now, Helena welcomes you to Rest, Relax, and Renew in this special place.

Gifts

300h Yoga Certified Teacher
Special Yoga for Children with Special Needs
Restorative Yoga
Menopause Yoga
Reiki Master
Akashic Records Healer
Co-Active Trained Coach
Co-Active Leadership Graduate

Tânia Teixeira

Co-founder / Chief Joy Officer

Tânia is a leadership coach who sees leadership as the art of expressing our unique gifts and shining our light in the world. Born in Lisbon, she trained in pharmaceutical sciences and built a career in the UK and USA, bridging relationships between global health regulators and leading teams through challenges. Her experiences deepened her appreciation for meaningful connections - with self, others, and the "force" of life around us. Tânia’s love of travel and curiosity led her to yoga, coaching, and energy practices, sparking a passion for inner journeys. At Catrinandes, she’s co-creating a space for transformation, peace, and belonging - a place you can call hOMe. And yes, she might serenade you in the hallways!

Gifts

Co-Active Certified Professional Coach (CPCC)
Co-Active Leadership Graduate
Akashic Records Healer
Reiki Healer
200h Yoga Certified Teacher
Certified Stress Management Instructor

Tânia Teixeira - About - Sobre nós - Quinta Catrinandes - Molelos, Tondela, Portugal

Our talented collaborators

At Catrinandes, we are honored to collaborate with a team whose dedication and talent make every retreat truly special.

Sónia - About - Sobre nós - Quinta Catrinandes - Molelos, Tondela, Portugal

Sónia, from Sabores com Paixão Vegetarianos, brings her passion for nourishment to our kitchen, delighting our guests with her beautifully crafted, wholesome meals. Her dishes are a feast for the senses, and her presence infuses the space with warmth and creativity. Beyond her culinary expertise, Sónia is also a Facilitator of Frequencies of Bright, and we feel the love and radiant light she shares in everything she does.

Equipa Team Tânia Cecília Helena Lurdes Henrique - About - Sobre nós - Quinta Catrinandes - Molelos, Tondela, Portugal

Our local team - Cecilia, Lurdes, and Henrique - is nothing short of extraordinary. They ensure the natural beauty of our outdoor surroundings is lovingly tended to while maintaining the harmony and comfort of the main house, yoga studio (Rose hall), and your cozy resting place. Every detail is cared for with thought, love, and intention, creating an environment where you can feel truly at hOMe.