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Awaken in the Sun

June 19–25, 2027 | 6 nightsEstalagem da Ponta do Sol, Madeira, Portugal
A sun-filled week of Madeira, movement, culture, connection, and ease.
Awaken in the Sun returns in 2027 with a new focus on movement and wellbeing through Kaiut Yoga with Petula Nicholson. Set along Madeira’s sunny south coast, this small-group experience combines yoga with the food, culture, landscapes, and local experiences at the heart of The Madeira Experience. Days may take us along historic levadas, through villages and vineyards, around tables filled with Madeiran food and wine, or simply back to the hotel with nowhere else we need to be. Petula will guide us through Kaiut Yoga during the week, an accessible approach to movement designed to support mobility and greater freedom in the body. The practice complements our time exploring Madeira rather than defining it. The result is a week with plenty of movement, but no pressure to perform; plenty to experience, but no need to rush; and space to enjoy Madeira at a rhythm that feels good.
What Awaits You
  • Kaiut Yoga with Petula Nicholson, offering an accessible approach to movement, mobility, and greater freedom in the body
  • Guided walks through Madeira’s landscapes, including its historic levadas and laurel forests
  • A private culinary gathering at my family home featuring Madeiran and Portuguese cuisine and the joy of gathering around the table
  • Wine tasting at Blandy’s Wine Lodge, connected to generations of island history
  • A personal storytelling walk through Ponta do Sol - my family’s village
  • Time along the coast, at the hotel, and on your own to rest, explore, and enjoy Madeira at an easy rhythm
What’s Included
  • Six nights at Estalagem da Ponta do Sol, a cliffside boutique hotel overlooking the Atlantic
  • Daily breakfast, two group lunches, and four group dinners at thoughtfully selected settings, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, including the private culinary gathering at my home
  • Cultural and nature-based experiences throughout the week
  • Kaiut Yoga sessions with Petula Nicholson
  • Group transportation throughout the week, including scheduled airport transfers
  • A small, intentionally designed group setting with space for connection and ease
  • A welcome gift and thoughtful personal touches throughout the week

Inside the Experience

This retreat is designed to balance movement and stillness, exploration and rest. Each day unfolds with a spirit of ease, presence, and flexibility.
Mornings
Begin with a relaxed breakfast by the sea. Some days may include gentle movement or guided levada walks; others begin slowly, with time to journal, stretch, or simply enjoy the view.
Afternoons
Afternoons are open for connection and discovery. Experiences may include visits to lesser-known corners of the island, cultural outings, or longer excursions shaped by season and group interest — with space left for rest or personal exploration.

Evenings

Evenings often bring shared group dinners, including one gathering at the founder’s family home. These moments are designed for warmth, conversation, and lingering connection — unhurried and unforced. A more detailed itinerary will be shared in Spring of 2026.

Reserve Your Spot

Awaken in the Sun Pricing Early Bird pricing (available through February 28, 2027):$3,650 USD per person (shared room)$3,950 USD (single occupancy) Standard pricing (beginning March 1, 2027):$3,800 USD (shared room)$4,150 USD (single occupancy) Accommodations include a mix of ocean-view and garden-view rooms. Ocean-view rooms are limited and allocated based on availability at the time of booking. All rooms offer comfort, natural light, and a peaceful setting overlooking the Atlantic or the hotel’s gardens.
If you’re traveling solo, roommate pairing is available upon request. Please indicate your preference at booking.
Reserve Your Spot
  • Your retreat includes:
  • Six nights of accommodation at Estalagem da Ponta do Sol
  • Daily breakfast, two group lunches and four group dinners, including the culinary gathering at the founder’s family home
  • Gentle movement sessions led by Petula, a yoga teacher deeply connected to Madeira
  • All scheduled excursions and experiences
  • Group transportation throughout the retreat, including airport pickup and drop-off
  • Welcome gift and curated touches throughout the week
A $500 deposit secures your spot.Flexible payment plans are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I arrive?
The retreat begins mid-to-late afternoon on June 19. If you’re flying from North America or elsewhere, we recommend arriving a day early. We’re happy to assist with an extra night at Estalagem or a nearby guesthouse.
What’s included?
Six nights of ocean-view accommodation, daily breakfast, five group dinners, all scheduled excursions and cultural experiences, airport transfers, and retreat hosting and facilitation. You'll also receive a welcome gift and meaningful extras throughout the week.
What’s not included?
Flights, travel insurance, optional meals and activities outside the itinerary, and personal expenses.
Can I join solo?
Yes — many participants come on their own. The retreat is designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and a meaningful space for solo travelers and small groups alike.

Will I receive a full itinerary?

Yes. The full day-by-day schedule will be shared in the late Spring of 2027 with confirmed times, experiences, and details.

Can I extend my trip?

Absolutely. Whether you’re dreaming of extra days in Lisbon or time to unwind in Funchal, we’re happy to assist with planning before or after the retreat.

What is the cancellation policy?

A $500 deposit is required to reserve your place and is non-refundable.If you cancel before April 19, 2027, all additional payments will be refunded.After that, all payments are non-refundable.You may transfer your spot to another guest with prior approval.We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance.
Still Deciding?
We’re here to support you. Whether you have questions about travel, timing, or fit, we’re happy to help.
Join the Interest ListSend a Quick Question
There’s more waiting here. Join a retreat or create your own experience — the journey begins where curiosity leads.
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