Why Intimate Retreats Work Better in Small Venues
Retreats can be a life-changing experience. We’ve seen it firsthand; often, retreat participants are traveling for the first time on their own, plunging into something new and exciting. Guests come from all around the world, ready to explore shared interests and connect with others on a deep level. Time and time again, our retreat guests tell us that their week in Ericeira was one of the best weeks of their life.
Connection is a huge part of this. Meeting new people who share your passions, whether it be yoga, surfing, or art, can open up lasting friendships, introduce you to different cultures, and teach you new skills and perspectives.
The activities, meals, and conversations play a part in fostering these connections, but so does the venue. We’ve found that the small venue is the perfect setting for an intimate retreat… here’s why.
With their cozy ambiance and centralized common areas, small venues are easier to settle into. There’s enough space for everyone, but the smaller nature of the venue helps create natural gathering places where guests can congregate, rather than dispersing between activities.
Something we are always striving for at O House is to be more than just a hotel; we’re a home. We’re a place where you can feel comfortable to truly relax, be yourself, and explore without second-guessing yourself. By the end of the retreat, guests have shared meals around a family-style table, kicked off their mornings with coffees on the patio, and created a home, right here in Ericeira.
Having a small staff helps as well. At O House, we have a team of five, which allows us to truly get to know guests, provide consistent and reliable support, and act as familiar faces for the whole experience.
In the midst of work, family duties, and the day-to-day routine, taking the time to relax and connect deeply with people is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. With the help of the right venue, intimate retreats can change lives, whether it be by teaching you that it’s okay to take a break, introducing you to a new best friend, or showing you that it’s possible to build a home, even on the other side of the world.
