FAQs
What makes these retreats different from yoga-retreats?
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There are already millions of yoga retreats out there — we didn’t feel the need to create another one. Our retreats on the Azores are about reconnecting with nature, creativity, movement, mindfulness and yourself in a more grounded and authentic way. We hike, explore, slow down, create and experience the island together.
You don’t need any yoga experience or retreat experience to feel welcome here. This is simply a different kind of retreat, on a different kind of island.
Who are these retreats for?
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These retreats are for people who are open to new experiences, looking for change, love nature and enjoy slowing down for a little while.
They’re for curious minds, reflective souls and anyone who wants to reconnect with themselves in a real and grounded way.
What happens during a mindfulness and Creativity retreat?
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We explore creativity in a light, playful and grounded way — without pressure or expectations.
Through nature, conversation, movement and creative exercises, we reconnect with the present moment and rediscover creativity as something natural and personal. The retreat is about expression, curiosity and finding simple ways to bring what’s inside us into the world around us.
Why Azores Island Faial?
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Faial has a very special energy. You can feel that nature is truly alive here — volcanic landscapes, fertile earth, endless ocean and all the elements in one place.
The island is small, authentic and still untouched by mass tourism. Almost everywhere you look, you see the sea, and something about arriving here naturally helps people slow down and let go.
There’s a certain magic to this island — but it’s something you have to experience for yourself.
What is a 1:1 retreat?
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A 1:1 retreat is a more personal and focused experience, created entirely around you and your individual journey.
Through nature, mindfulness and creative tools, we explore your personal themes at your own pace. The advantage of a private retreat is the flexibility, depth and space to fully focus on yourself — without having to share the experience with a group.
Do I need experience with mindfulness?
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Not at all. You don’t need any experience with mindfulness, meditation or retreats to join.
All you need is openness and curiosity. Being on a small island in the middle of the Atlantic naturally helps people slow down, become present and reconnect with themselves — the rest unfolds very naturally from there.
Do I have to be creative to join?
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Not at all. You don’t need to be “creative” to join these retreats.
Honestly, I’ve simply never met a person who wasn’t creative in some way — some people just haven’t rediscovered it yet. So if it makes you feel more comfortable, no, you don’t need any creative experience to come here. But chances are, you’re far more creative than you think.
What kind of people join these retreats?
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All kinds of people join these retreats — creatives, nature lovers, people going through change, people looking for clarity, or simply those wanting to slow down and reconnect with themselves.
What they all have in common is openness, curiosity and a desire for something real. And somehow, the right people always seem to find each other here at exactly the right moment.
How physically demanding are the hikes?
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That’s a very good question. During the Hiking & Soul retreats, we usually hike around 3–4 hours a day at a relaxed pace.
This is a volcanic island, so some trails can be uneven and there is lava rock terrain in certain areas. You don’t need to be an athlete, and we are definitely not racing anywhere — there’s no pressure and plenty of time. But you should feel comfortable walking for a few hours and have a reasonable level of fitness and sure-footedness.
Is there free time during the retreat?
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Yes, absolutely. Rest and free time are an important part of the retreat experience.
There is always space to reflect, journal, relax in the garden, enjoy your apartment, take in the nature around you or simply do nothing for a while. You can also jump into the pool, slow down and fully enjoy island life at your own pace.
Do I need to be spiritual to join?
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Not at all. You don’t need to be spiritual to join these retreats.
All you really need is a love for nature, the ocean and being fully present in the moment. For us, spirituality is something very simple and grounded — feeling connected to yourself, the earth and the world around you.
We’re not a group of people pretending to have life all figured out. We’re simply humans who love nature, authenticity and real experiences.
Is this a digital detox retreat?
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Not officially — but many people naturally spend less time on their phones here.