Founder’s Retreat
May 28 - June 3, 2027 | 6 nightsEstalagem da Ponta do Sol, Madeira, Portugal
A signature week for women to experience Madeira through culture, connection, reflection, and the beauty of simply being here.
The Founder’s Retreat returns in 2027, bringing together a small group of women for an immersive week on the island that inspired The Madeira Experience.
We’ll explore Madeira through its landscapes, food, traditions, history, and local life - from guided walks and cultural experiences to memorable meals and the quieter moments that often stay with us the longest. The pace is intentional, with time to explore and gather, but also time to pause, breathe, and simply enjoy where we are.
I’m delighted that Michelle Powell Evans will join us as a guest collaborator, guiding gentle breathwork and meditation throughout the week. Her sessions will add another layer to the experience, creating moments to slow down, reconnect, and be present amid everything Madeira has to offer.
This is the retreat at the heart of The Madeira Experience - personal, welcoming, and rooted in sharing the Madeira I know and love.
What Awaits You
- Guided levada walks and cultural excursions that bring Madeira’s landscapes, history, and local life to life
- 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
- Restorative wellness sessions led by Michelle, centered on grounding, connection, and renewal
- Time to rest, reflect, explore, and enjoy meaningful connection with the women around you
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
- Restorative wellness sessions with Michelle
- 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
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Inside the Experience
This retreat is designed with intention—balancing moments of exploration with room to simply be.
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Mornings
Start your day with a relaxed breakfast overlooking the sea. Some mornings bring a guided nature walk or market visit; others invite quiet reflection, journaling, or solitude with a view.
Afternoons
Afternoons are open and spacious. You might explore a new corner of the island, pause for rest, or gather for gentle group sessions and shared conversation. One day may include a full-day excursion to experience Madeira’s dramatic northern coast.
Evenings
Five group dinners are included—slow, generous meals filled with conversation, flavor, and warmth. One night may feature a cooking workshop, while others invite toasts at sunset or quiet circles beneath the stars.
A detailed itinerary will be shared in early 2027.
Reserve Your Spot
Founder's Retreat pricing
Early Bird pricing (available through December 1, 2026):$3,650 USD per person (shared room)$3,950 USD (single occupancy)
Standard pricing (beginning December 2, 2026):$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.
Standard pricing (beginning December 2, 2026):$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.
- 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
- Restorative wellness sessions led by Michelle, centered on grounding, connection, and renewal”
- 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.