Step through stone archways into a former monastery where time slows and serenity takes over. For centuries, these walls sheltered monks who devoted their lives to stillness, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Now, you’ll be invited into that same sacred rhythm, only this time, the focus is on your body, your soul, and your well-being.

Here, spa rituals inspired by ancient monastic traditions await you. Picture yourself lying back as warm olive oil infused with herbs is gently massaged into your skin, melting away tension you didn’t even realize you were holding. In this sanctuary, stress dissolves, silence speaks, and your body remembers what true rest feels like.

This isn’t just self-care. It’s a reminder that true strength is born in surrender, and that silence often holds the loudest truths.

Step onto land that has been lovingly tended by the same family for generations, where tradition and care infuse every drop of liquid gold. Here, olive trees stretch toward the sky, bearing fruit that reflects centuries of patience and devotion.

As you explore the groves and learn the process behind Portugal’s prized olive oil, you’ll be invited into a guided tasting experience that awakens all your senses. The aroma is green and peppery, the texture luxuriously smooth, the flavor earthy and alive. It’s a reminder that the simplest things when given time, attention, and love become extraordinary.

And because you’ll fall in love with these flavors, save a little room in your suitcase. Taking a few bottles home means every drizzle on bread or salad becomes a portal back to Portugal, carrying with it the memory of slowing down, savoring, and saying yes to life’s richness.

As night falls over Alentejo, the sky transforms into a canvas of infinite light. You’ll step away from the noise of daily life and stretch out beneath one of Europe’s clearest skies, where silence feels sacred and every star seems close enough to touch.

Guided by a local astronomer, you’ll journey through constellations, planets, and cosmic wonders, learning stories written in the stars. The vastness overhead invites you to soften and expand all at once, reminding you that your presence here matters, yet you are also part of something far greater.

In the hush of the night, surrounded by starlight and sisterhood, you’ll feel the duality of being both grounded in your body and limitless in your soul. This is awe in its purest form, and a moment that will stay etched in your memory long after you leave Portugal.

Imagine strolling through sun-drenched vineyards, the air filled with the scent of ripe grapes and earth, as your guide shares the centuries-old artistry of Portuguese winemaking. Soon, you’ll sit down for a picturesque meal right in the heart of the vines, a setting so magical it feels like stepping into a living postcard. As laughter flows and glasses clink, you’ll savor flavors that embody the land itself, creating a memory you’ll carry forever.

Then, the experience deepens. Inside the cellar, you’ll roll up your sleeves for a hands-on blending session, crafting a wine that is uniquely your own. Each pour and swirl becomes a reflection of you, your journey, your transformation, your bold expression. And when you cork that bottle, you’re not just creating wine…you’re bottling a memory, a truth, a piece of Portugal that will travel home with you.

This is more than an activity. It’s a keepsake you’ll carry back across the ocean, waiting for the moment you uncork it and taste not just wine, but the courage, connection, and clarity you discovered here.

Nope! One of the luxuries of this retreat is that every woman has her own private room for the entire stay. This ensures you have space to rest, reflect, and integrate at your own pace.

Your investment covers everything you’ll need once you arrive in Portugal. For eight days and seven nights, you’ll be immersed in comfort and care, with private accommodations (no room sharing), daily breakfasts, and four beautifully prepared group dinners—including an exclusive evening at Fialho in Évora and a magical vineyard meal. Three lunches are also included as part of our group experiences, so you’ll be nourished as you explore. Every retreat session, your private one-on-one with Denise, and all scheduled experiences—like the cork forest Jeep tour, olive oil tasting, monastery spa, stargazing, and wine blending—are part of your journey. Private transportation during the retreat is also provided, so all you need to do is arrive and let yourself fully experience Portugal.

Your international flights to and from Portugal are not included, as well as any extra nights you might choose to stay before or after the retreat dates. A few meals, including some lunches and dinners, are intentionally left open so you have space to rest, reflect, or even wander off for your own discovery moments. Personal extras—such as spa services beyond what’s listed, shopping, or souvenirs—are also up to you. And finally, trip insurance is required for all participants, but must be arranged separately.

Comfortable clothes for both group sessions and excursions, a journal, walking shoes, and a curious heart. You may also want to leave a little extra space in your suitcase for olive oil or wine, because trust me, you’ll want to bring a taste of Portugal home. You will receive a detailed packing list, as well as other important information to help you prepare well ahead of our departure time.

This retreat is intentionally designed as a full journey, not a menu of pick-and-choose options. Every session, every experience, from blending your own wine to stargazing under the Alentejo sky, has been woven together to support your growth, your breakthroughs, and the sisterhood we’ll create as a group.

Your willingness to show up fully matters. When you participate, you’re not just saying yes to your own transformation, you’re adding to the collective energy that makes this retreat powerful and unforgettable. Vulnerability and connection are what make this experience so much more than a vacation.

That said, we know everyone’s process is different. If the idea of fully committing to the sessions and activities doesn’t resonate with you, it might be a sign that this isn’t the right time for this retreat. This is a space for women ready to lean in, trust the process, and allow themselves to be both seen and supported. And when you do, the magic unfolds in ways you can’t even imagine yet.

Absolutely. Many women attend our R.A.W. retreats solo, and this is one of the best places to meet like-minded souls. By the end, you won’t just have retreat sisters, you’ll have lifelong friends.

No problem! We’ll provide clear instructions on how to arrive, what airports to use, and what to expect. Once you’re in Portugal, we’ll handle the logistics. You just get here, and we’ll take it from there.

 This retreat is a sacred container created just for women who are ready to step away from their daily roles and responsibilities to focus fully on themselves. It’s not about being a mom, a partner, a boss, or any of the titles you wear in your everyday life. It’s about giving yourself the rare gift of time and space to reconnect with you.

While we absolutely honor the importance of family and relationships, this Portugal experience is intentionally women-only. By creating this kind of environment, we open the door to deep vulnerability, shared trust, and powerful sisterhood. It’s about giving yourself permission to exhale, knowing you don’t have to care for anyone else in the moment but your own growth and transformation.

Here in the heart of Alentejo, it’s all about YOU. Your healing, your breakthroughs, and your bold expression. Your loved ones will benefit from this too, because when you return more aligned and fulfilled, those shifts ripple outward.

Yes, you’ll need a valid passport to join us in Portugal. Since the retreat takes place in the Alentejo region, all travelers must have a current passport to enter the country. Most international destinations, including Portugal, also require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date, so it’s a good idea to double-check now and renew early if needed.

I recommend pulling out your passport today to confirm the expiration date, and don’t wait until the last minute. Renewal timelines can vary, and the last thing you want is unnecessary stress as your retreat approaches.

If you’re unsure about the requirements, or need guidance on the renewal process, let me know. I want your journey to be smooth from the moment you book your flight to the moment you land in Portugal ready to exhale, explore, and embrace your transformation.

Yes, Portugal is widely known as one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming destinations. The Alentejo region, where our retreat is based, is especially peaceful, filled with open landscapes, charming towns, and a warm sense of community. Travelers consistently remark on how relaxed and at ease they feel here.

Your safety and comfort are my top priorities. Throughout the retreat, you’ll have private transportation for our scheduled experiences, trusted local guides, and carefully chosen accommodations. You won’t have to worry about navigating logistics or feeling lost, because we’ve designed everything so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without distraction.

Like anywhere you travel, it’s wise to take common-sense precautions: keep an eye on personal belongings in busier areas, stay mindful of your surroundings, and respect local customs.

By following our thoughtfully curated itinerary and leaning into the support that’s built into this retreat, you can focus on what really matters, which is your growth, your breakthroughs, and savoring the beauty of Portugal without unnecessary worry.

March in Alentejo feels like early spring with mild days, cooler mornings and evenings, and the occasional light rain. The weather is fresh and changing, which actually makes it the perfect backdrop for slowing down and reconnecting with yourself.

No need to stress about what to bring, because you’ll receive a detailed packing list well ahead of time, with suggestions on the types of clothing and essentials that will keep you comfortable for all of our experiences. That way, you can relax knowing you’ll be fully prepared without second-guessing your suitcase.

You’ll fly into Lisbon Airport (LIS), Portugal’s main international hub and the closest airport to our retreat location in Alentejo. This is where your journey begins, and from there, all your retreat transportation is arranged so you can simply arrive and exhale.

For your return, you’ll also depart from Lisbon Airport (LIS), making your travel logistics simple and streamlined. Once you register, you’ll receive clear recommendations for both arrival and departure times so you’ll know exactly when to book your flights to align with the retreat schedule.

No guesswork, no stress, just clarity and ease from the moment you leave home to the moment you return, carrying Portugal in your heart (and maybe a few bottles of olive oil or wine in your suitcase!).

Flights are not included in the retreat investment. Each attendee is responsible for booking her own airfare to and from Lisbon Airport (LIS). This gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred airline, travel times, and any extended travel you may want to add on before or after the retreat.

To make your planning easier, once you register you’ll receive detailed guidance on the best arrival and departure times so your flights align seamlessly with our retreat schedule.

If you’d like extra support, our trusted travel specialist Ales (pronounced Alesh) can help you with flight recommendations and planning. His guidance ensures your journey feels seamless from start to finish.

Getting to and from the retreat is simple and stress-free. Private transfers are included for all attendees on the official start and end dates of the retreat. When you land at Lisbon Airport (LIS), a dedicated driver will be waiting to welcome you and bring you directly to our first retreat home in Évora, setting the tone for ease and comfort from the very beginning.

At the close of our week together, private transfers will also be arranged from our final retreat location back to Lisbon Airport so you can head home with peace of mind, and a heart full of memories.

If you decide to arrive earlier or stay longer in Portugal, we’ll gladly help you coordinate transportation outside the retreat dates. Those transfers will be at your own expense, but you won’t be left figuring it out alone. You’ll always have support to ensure your travels feel smooth and worry-free.

All payments made toward this Portugal retreat are non-refundable. This reflects the significant time, care, and investment that go into securing accommodations, activities, and logistics well in advance. Because everything is pre-booked, we are unable to offer refunds under any circumstances.

If something unexpected comes up and you can’t attend, you still have options:

• Transfer or Sell Your Spot: You’re welcome to transfer or sell your retreat spot to another woman who feels called to join us. If you choose this, please let us know right away so we can update our records.

• Transfer Your Credit: You can apply your full retreat credit toward a future retreat with Denise Marsh (private or group). This credit must be used within 12 months of the original retreat date.
• Trip Insurance: Trip insurance is required for all attendees. This protects your investment if unforeseen circumstances prevent you from traveling.

For cancellations, transfers, or assistance, email denisemarshraw@gmail.com. Thank you for respecting this policy, as it allows me to create a seamless, soulful, and transformative retreat experience for every woman who says yes.

Yes! You’ll be well taken care of when it comes to meals outside the scheduled group dining. During the first half of the retreat, our Évora retreat home is just a short distance from the city center. That means you’ll have the chance to wander charming streets and discover local cafés, traditional taverns, and modern restaurants, which are all within easy reach. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor Alentejo flavors at your own pace while soaking up the atmosphere of this historic city.

In the second half of our retreat, we’ll settle into the peaceful Sleep & Nature Hotel in Montemor-o-Novo. This space has its very own restaurant on-site, so you can enjoy lunch or dinner without leaving the property if you’d like a slower, quieter evening. From fresh, local ingredients to dishes rooted in regional tradition, you’ll have access to nourishing and delicious options whenever hunger strikes.

So whether you’re exploring nearby eateries or enjoying the convenience of on-site dining, you’ll always have easy and satisfying choices for the meals not included in the retreat schedule.

Portugal uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, especially in cities, hotels, and restaurants. That said, it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, such as  grabbing a coffee at a local café, buying something special at a market, or tipping.

To make things easier, you may want to exchange some money into Euros before your trip, as banks and credit unions at home often offer better rates than airport kiosks. ATMs are also easy to find in Portugal, but keep in mind your bank may charge international withdrawal fees. Planning ahead ensures you won’t have to stress about it once you’re there.

The good news? You’ll also receive guidance on recommended amounts to bring well before the retreat, so you’ll feel confident and prepared when it comes to handling money during your trip.

I want this retreat to feel like a “yes” that’s within reach, so there are flexible payment options available. You can either pay in full or choose a convenient payment plan that spreads your investment over time, making it easier to align with your budget.

Details about the investment and payment plan options are available on the registration page under Investment Details.

If you have any questions or need a little extra clarity on the payment process, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to make this as smooth and stress-free as possible, so the only thing you need to focus on is getting ready for your Portugal journey.

Yes, absolutely, there will be free time! While this retreat is thoughtfully designed with transformative sessions and group experiences, I deeply value the importance of space for rest, reflection, and simply doing what your soul craves in the moment. Whether that’s sipping an espresso in a sunlit square in Évora, journaling under ancient olive trees, or enjoying quiet time in your private room, you’ll have space to just be.

As for the itinerary, here’s where we invite you to practice one of the core themes of this retreat: trust. Instead of an hour-by-hour schedule, you’ll receive a clear outline of our key experiences and activities, but not a rigid agenda. Why? Because transformation doesn’t happen on a stopwatch. It happens in presence, in flow, and in the moments you can’t plan for.

This retreat is an invitation to let go of control, lean into trust, and allow yourself to be surprised by what unfolds. Every detail has been intentionally curated, so you can relax knowing you’re supported while also leaving room for magic to meet you right where you are.

This Portugal retreat is intentionally designed as an intimate experience, limited to a small circle of women. By keeping the group size low, every participant has the space to feel fully seen, supported, and safe enough to lean into both vulnerability and bold expression.

The smaller group setting also allows me, as your guide, to spend focused one-on-one time with each woman, ensuring you receive personal attention and guidance alongside our group work. It’s this balance of private reflection and collective energy that makes the retreat so transformative.

This isn’t just a trip; it’s the beginning of a sisterhood. The bonds you’ll form here, through shared stories, laughter, and breakthroughs, will extend far beyond Portugal, becoming a network of women who “get it” and continue to inspire you long after you return home.

Yes, travel insurance is required to attend this retreat. It’s not just a formality; it’s a safeguard for you. Travel insurance protects against the unexpected things, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, flight delays, or even lost luggage, so you can arrive in Portugal with peace of mind, knowing you’re covered no matter what.

Travel insurance isn’t included in your retreat investment, but it’s simple to secure. You can purchase a policy through your preferred insurance provider, or if you’d like guidance, you can connect with our trusted travel specialist, Ales (pronounced Alesh) at ales@journeysofthespirit.com. He can walk you through options and help you choose the plan that best suits your needs.

This retreat is about releasing stress, not adding to it, and trip insurance ensures you can stay focused on your growth, joy, and transformation without worry.

Don’t worry, you won’t be left guessing what to pack. Ahead of the retreat, you’ll receive a detailed packing list by email, covering everything from clothing suggestions to personal essentials. You’ll know exactly what belongs in your suitcase and what can stay at home, so you feel fully prepared and stress-free before you even board your flight.

We’ll also go over packing details and answer any questions during our pre-retreat virtual group session. This gives you the chance to connect with your fellow retreat sisters, share ideas, and pick up extra tips before we meet in Portugal.

By the time you zip up your suitcase, you’ll feel confident and ready knowing you have everything you need for a transformative and unforgettable week in Alentejo.

Before the retreat, we’ll gather for a virtual group video session where you’ll have the chance to ask questions, get answers, and receive guidance directly from me on how to prepare. You’ll leave that call feeling clear, supported, and excited for the life-shifting experience ahead!

Yes, absolutely! Portugal’s culinary traditions are rich and diverse, and the venues we’ve chosen are well-prepared to accommodate a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other specific restrictions, you’ll find thoughtful options that allow you to fully enjoy the meals without worry.

From breakfasts at our retreat homes to group dinners and our special experiences, including the farm-to-table meal, olive oil tasting, and our exclusive dinner at Fialho, you’ll be able to savor dishes that honor both your preferences and the essence of Portuguese cuisine.

If you have dietary restrictions, just let us know when you register. That way, we can ensure everything is arranged in advance so your meals are not only stress-free but also a memorable and nourishing part of your journey.

This retreat does involve a moderate level of physical activity. You’ll want to feel comfortable with walking for extended periods, sometimes on uneven ground, navigating stairs, and exploring historic sites like Évora. Experiences such as the cork forest jeep tour, vineyard walks, and olive oil farm visit all require mobility and a willingness to be on your feet at times.

While everything is designed to be enriching and enjoyable, this retreat may not be the best fit for women with significant mobility limitations or accessibility needs. Many of the places we’ll be visiting in Alentejo are centuries old and not fully adapted for wheelchairs or those requiring extensive accommodations.

If you’re unsure whether this retreat is right for you, please reach out with your questions or concerns. I’ll gladly help you assess what to expect so you can make an informed decision that feels aligned for your body and your experience.

Absolutely! Many women choose to arrive in Portugal a little early or stay a few extra days after the retreat to make the most of their journey. You may want extra time to adjust, explore Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods, or even venture north to Porto or south to the Algarve. Portugal is full of treasures waiting to be discovered, and extending your stay is a beautiful way to deepen your experience.

Accommodations and activities outside the official retreat dates aren’t included, but our trusted travel specialist, Ales (pronounced Alesh), can assist you with recommendations and planning. He’ll guide you toward the best options so your extended time in Portugal feels seamless and enriching.

Let this retreat be the catalyst, and if your heart is calling for a little more Portugal before or after, go for it!

Yes, both of our retreat homes provide internet access, so you’ll be able to connect if needed. That said, I gently encourage you to see this retreat as a rare invitation to unplug. The emails, notifications, and to-do lists will still be there when you return, but this week in Portugal is about you.

Stepping back from constant connection allows you to truly step into presence: to hear your own inner wisdom more clearly, to connect deeply with the women around you, and to recharge your mind, body, and spirit without distraction. Trust me, the texts and emails can wait…your transformation can’t.