Location: Essaouira, Morocco
Dates: September 7–12, 2026
Focus: A soulful, sun-kissed retreat designed to slow down, explore Moroccan culture, and reconnect with your senses.
Airport: Essaouira (ESU)
Arrival: Arrive before 4 PM on September 7
Departure: Depart after 1 PM on September 12
Investment: $2,450–$4,250
Group Size: Up to 12 women
This is for you if:
– You’re ready to explore Morocco in a mindful, immersive way
– You crave connection, reflection, and sensory experiences
– You’re excited by culture, creativity, and playful moments
This is not for you if:
– You prefer highly structured or packed itineraries
– You’re looking for a typical sightseeing tour
– You’re uncomfortable with slowing down, reflection, or new experiences
the Need-to-know
vibe check
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Signature experiences
- Traditional Berber weaving workshop and cooking class for hands-on cultural creativity
- Hammam experience to relax, refresh, and indulge
- Jewelry-making workshop at the villa — craft your own keepsake
- Ceramic workshop for a playful and artistic hands-on experience
- Palm fiber basket weaving combined with a Medina visit for local exploration
- Sunset camel ride along the coast for unforgettable views and adventure
- Celebration dinner with Gnawa music to dance, connect, and soak in Moroccan rhythm
your home for the week
The EXPERIENCE
- 6 days / 5 nights luxury villa accommodation
- Roundtrip ground transportation from Essaouira (ESU)
- All meals and beverages
- All excursions, workshops, and activities
- All gratuities for guides, drivers, and staff
- Curated Pillars gifts and surprises
- Dedicated retreat host and support team throughout your stay
What’s not included:
- Airfare to/from Morocco
- Meals, experiences, or activities beyond the curated itinerary
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Investment
Room Selection
A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot.
After booking, you may choose:
Option 1: Pay in Full
Option 2: Payment Plan
Wanna join?
book now
Savor Portugal’s Culture:
Private cooking class
Wine tastings
Full-day Douro Valley tour with a riverboat excursion and vineyard picnic.
Immerse in Heritage:
Wander UNESCO World Heritage vineyards and towns, blending history, beauty, and inspiration into your journey.
Celebrate Connection:
Small group limited to 6 participants.
Curated workshops like Portuguese tile painting.
Moments designed for reflection and bonding.
Slow Down:
Slow mornings.
Intentional free time.
Luxurious spa day.
Delight in Surprises:
Pillars touches at every turn.
The EXPERIENCE
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat was created for women who crave meaningful travel. Those who want to slow down, savor beauty in every form, and connect with themselves and others. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or simply in need of rest, this experience blends luxury, authenticity, and connection in equal measure.
Where is the retreat taking place?
You’ll be staying in a private six-bedroom villa in Portugal’s Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rolling vineyards, olive groves, and centuries-old winemaking traditions. It’s about 90 minutes from Porto and feels worlds away- peaceful, intimate, and breathtakingly beautiful.
What’s the vibe or energy of this retreat?
Think elegant ease. Mornings with yoga or coffee by the infinity pool, afternoons exploring vineyards or painting tiles, and evenings over candlelit dinners and soulful conversation. The pace is intentionally slow, designed for presence, pleasure, and connection.
How active is this retreat?
The activity level is moderate. Expect gentle movement and excursions balanced with generous downtime to rest, reflect, or simply enjoy the view.
How many guests will be attending?
This retreat is intentionally limited to 6 guests to preserve intimacy, connection, and personalized attention.
Do I need to come with someone?
Not at all. Many guests come solo and leave with new friends. With a small, supportive group, there’s space to connect or to recharge in solitude when you need it.
What’s the food like?
Every meal is a celebration of local flavor and slow living. You’ll enjoy fresh, regionally sourced ingredients, paired with Douro Valley wines and prepared with intention. Dietary needs can be accommodated, just let us know in advance.
How do I get there?
The nearest airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto. Transportation to and from the villa is included at designated times.
What should I pack?
Think effortless chic: comfortable clothing for movement and walks, light layers, a few dressier pieces for dinners, and a swimsuit for the pool. We’ll send a detailed packing guide closer to the retreat date.
When should I book my spot?
With only six spaces available, early booking is recommended. Once the retreat is full, a waitlist will open for future experiences.
What makes this a Pillars experience?
Pillars retreats are designed with heart, detail, and soul. Expect thoughtful touches throughout- surprises that remind you that luxury isn’t just about where you stay, but how you feel. In Portugal, you’ll rediscover the joy of slowing down, of savoring the moment, and of living fully awake to beauty.
**Cancellation Policy:** All payments are non-refundable. In the event of illness, emergency, or other unforeseen circumstances, retreat credit may be offered at Alyssa’s discretion.
**Travel Responsibility:** Guests are responsible for booking their own flights, ensuring their passport is valid, and obtaining any required visas or travel documents. Pillars Travel Company is not responsible for flight delays, cancellations, or travel documentation issues.
**Liability Release:** By registering for the Retreat, participants acknowledge that participation involves inherent risks. Pillars Travel Company is not liable for injury, illness, loss, or damage during travel or participation in Retreat activities.