September 21st to 26th, 2026
Luxury Wellness &
Culture Retreat in
PORTUGAL
LET PORTUGAL REAWAKEN YOU
Join us for an unforgettable journey through the lush hills of Sintra and the golden coast of Cascais. Each day is infused with thoughtful rhythm—mornings of movement and stillness, afternoons of exploration and ease, evenings of exquisite food, wine, and connection. From private wine tastings at cliffside vineyards to sunset yacht cruises and palace garden strolls, every moment has been designed for your renewal.
OUR PRIVATE ESTATE
FOR THE WEEK
Tucked into the lush hills of Sintra, this historic estate is a hidden gem of old-world elegance and modern luxury. Once the private home of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the famed author of Sherlock Holmes, the property carries with it an air of quiet intrigue and literary charm.
Surrounded by manicured gardens and panoramic views that stretch across the valley, the villa offers a rare blend of privacy, beauty, and five-star hospitality. Each room is thoughtfully appointed—spacious yet cozy, with luxurious finishes and timeless character. From the sun-drenched terraces to the softly lit dining spaces, every corner invites you to slow down and savor.
With attentive service, breathtaking natural surroundings, and a sense of storied history, this estate is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination in itself.
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![Long banquet table set for a formal dinner with candles, greenery, and wine glasses inside a winery featuring large wooden barrels.]()
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![A Mediterranean-style house with yellow and beige exterior, red-tiled roof, stairs leading to a patio, and a water feature with a curved wall and striped benches in the foreground.]()
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![Elegant event space decorated with hanging floral arrangements and chandeliers, featuring numerous set tables with flowers and candles, staff members preparing the venue.]()
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![People sitting and chatting by a swimming pool with lounge chairs, surrounded by trees and mountains in the background.]()
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DAILY ITINERARY
A Portugal Dreamscape
A sample itinerary—subject to slight changes as the magic unfolds.
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DAY 1 - September 21st
Welcome to the Magic of Sintra
You’ve arrived in the heart of the Sintra mountains, where misty forests and whimsical palaces set the tone for an unforgettable journey. As you settle into our private estate—tucked among ancient trees and garden paths—breathe in the beauty that surrounds you. We’ll gather on the green lawn for a golden hour welcome reception featuring craft cocktails and live music, followed by a candlelit dinner crafted by a beloved local chef, perfectly paired with regional wines. The magic has begun.
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Day 2 - September 22nd
Palaces, Pastries & Vineyard Lunch
Start with yoga in the green glasshouse and breakfast on the terrace. Then we set off in open-air jeeps, stopping in Sintra’s charming village for Portugal’s beloved pastry before exploring the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira with our local guide. From there, cruise the rugged Atlantic coastline on our way to a vineyard lunch paired with regional wines.
We return home for a laid-back BBQ by the pool.
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DAY 3 - September 23rd
Coastal Adventure & Seaside Hike
Ease into the morning with yoga in the glasshouse, followed by a leisurely breakfast. We’ll then head out for a scenic coastal walk—about 45 minutes of fresh ocean air and dramatic cliffside views—leading us to a beachside restaurant for a leisurely seafood lunch and chilled rosé.
After lunch, change into your suit and head straight down to the private beach just steps away, where reserved loungers, umbrellas, and refreshing treats await for a relaxed afternoon on one of Sintra’s most beautiful stretches of sand.
We’ll return to the property for a laid-back family style dinner and end the day with a cozy movie under the stars.
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DAY 4 - September 24th
Free Day + Dinner & Fado at the Adega
By mid-week, you’ve found your rhythm—easy mornings on the mat, laughter-filled meals, and sun-soaked afternoons. Today is your reset.
Move at your own pace: lounge by the pool, book a massage, hike the hills, or revisit a village you loved. This day is all about freedom and restoration.
Tonight, we gather off-property at a beautiful local Adega for a memorable dinner with local wines and live Fado music—an evening that celebrates connection, presence, and the magic of the week together.
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DAY 5 - September 25th
Cascais Sailing & Final Farewell
After morning yoga and breakfast, we’ll head to the coastal gem of Cascais. Spend the late morning exploring this colorful seaside town before meeting at the marina for a private luxury catamaran sail with champagne, sushi, and live music, subject to a 17 person attendance.
Back on property, enjoy downtime before our final night celebration—an on-site, Michelin-style dinner by Mad Kitchen, complete with heartfelt toasts and a beautiful farewell to new friends.
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DAY 6 - September 26th
Until Next Time
One final breakfast, one last view of the Sintra mountains, one deep, grateful breath. Though our time here ends, you’ll leave with a full heart, a nourished body, and a sense of connection that lingers long after the journey home.
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⟡ 5 nights at a luxury private estate nestled in the Sintra mountains
⟡ Daily yoga in stunning settings
⟡ Daily breakfast to start your day with intention
⟡ All dinners
⟡ Elegant welcome and send-off receptions
⟡ Some lunches
⟡ Open-air jeep tour along the dramatic coastline
⟡ Guided coastal hike to a secluded seaside lunch
⟡ Private tours of royal palaces and gardens
⟡ Wine tasting and multi-course lunch at a local winery
⟡ Visits to charming villages rich in culture and history
⟡ Luxury sunset catamaran cruise along the Atlantic (Experience requires a minimum of 20 guests; if not met, a thoughtful alternate experience will be arranged).
⟡ Round-trip transportation for all scheduled excursions
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⟡ Airfare
⟡ Transfer to and from airport
⟡ Some lunches and some alcohol
PRICING
Get ready for a week where nearly everything is taken care of—from stunning accommodations and daily breakfast to gourmet dinners with wine pairings, cocktail receptions with live music, sea outings, cultural excursions, yoga, hiking, biking, and all group transportation.
While the rates below reflect your full retreat package, the true value of this experience ranges from $10,500–$12,000 per person. Thanks to strong partnerships and group pricing, we’re able to offer it at a significantly lower rate—without compromising quality or care.
A 50% deposit is due at booking; final payment is due by June 23, 2026.
PROPERTY MAP
Meet Your Host
After 15 years in corporate leadership—while teaching yoga, coaching speakers, and building community-rooted nonprofits—I felt called to bring it all together. That’s how LDW Coaching & Retreats began.
These retreats are thoughtfully designed to offer more than just a beautiful escape—they’re a return to what matters most. Rooted in presence, beauty, and connection, they create space for rest, growth, and meaningful community.
Whether we’re flowing on a yoga mat, sharing a meal, or watching the sun set over the Mediterranean, my hope is simple: that you leave feeling more grounded, more connected, and more yourself.
LINDSAY WHEELER
“I HAVEN’T BEEN EVERYWHERE, BUT IT’S ON MY LIST.”
- SUSAN SONTAG
THE FAQS
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The EU is introducing a new travel authorization system called ETIAS for visa-free travelers (including U.S. citizens). ETIAS is not yet in operation but is expected to begin in late 2026, and the EU will announce the exact start date in advance. I will set a reminder to check for updates on July 1st and will share anything new with the group, but I also recommend setting your own reminder, as this trip may fall around the time the requirement goes into effect.
If ETIAS is required at the time of our trip, apply only through the official EU site:
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etiasWhat to expect if ETIAS is required:
Short online application
Have your passport, email, and payment card ready
Answer a few travel/security questions
Receive approval by email
As always, please check official government sites for the most current travel requirements before your trip.
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Optional Pre-Arrival Day in Lisbon
Monday, September 21, 2026
Ease into Portugal’s rhythm with an optional pre-arrival experience in Lisbon, perfect for guests who wish to arrive a night or two early (ideally on Sunday, September 20th).
Morning – Cultural Walking Tour & Scenic Lunch
10:00 AM | Meet at Bairro Alto Hotel Begin the day with a private history and architecture walking tour through Lisbon’s most captivating neighborhoods, guided by my dear friend and local expert Frederico.
Discover the city’s tiled facades, winding alleys, and breathtaking viewpoints.
End the morning with a beautiful scenic lunch celebrating Portuguese cuisine and culture.
Cost: €180 per person Reserve your spot:Lisbon Cultural Walking Tour & Lunch
Recommended Hotels
Please arrange your own accommodations for this optional portion of the trip. To make planning easy, I've included a few recommended hotels below, all conveniently located within a five-minute walk of our meeting point:
Afternoon – Transfer to Sintra
4:00 PM | Group Pick-Up at Bairro Alto HotelFor anyone joining the tour, we’ll gather for a private transfer to the estate in Sintra.
Arrive in time to unpack, unwind, and settle in before our evening welcome cocktail reception and dinner celebration.
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Fly into Lisbon international airport. There are many ways to get to Sintra, where our private Estate is located, but we recommend using the driver service we are providing. Once your flights are booked we will happily connect you to the logistics team providing all transportation. The drive from Lisbon to the Estate is 25 to 35 minutes (in normal traffic) and is almost a straight line on whichever highway you take (A5 of IC19) .
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In Sintra, Portugal, during the last week of September (21st–26th), you can expect daytime highs around 73–78°F (23–26°C) and nighttime lows between 62–64°F (17–18°C). It’s generally mild and pleasant, though there's a chance of 2–4 rainy days that week, with light to moderate precipitation averaging about 1.3–1.5 inches (32–38 mm).
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Yoga and active outdoor clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a light jacket in case it gets chilly at night or during the day, casual clothes for dinners out, and leave a little space in your suitcase in case you want to buy things. We will have yoga mats, so no need to bring one!
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Your 50% deposit is non-refundable and non-transferrable. Thank you in advance for understanding this firm policy—space on this retreat is very limited and the experience has been designed to be nearly all-inclusive, with the hotel and all excursions privately reserved and paid for well in advance.
Final payment is due by June 23, 2026. Cancellations after June 23, 2026 will be non-refundable in full.
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Any and all dietary restrictions can be accommodated on this trip as we will be working closely with the Chef to curate a menu special to our group. Please just let us know of any special requests you may have. Similarly, all outings where meals are being provided can accommodate special dietary requests. Simply reach out to Lindsay, your host and she will work with the teams to make your gastronomy dreams come true!
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Europe as a whole is not a huge tipping culture, but our guides work closely with Americans and have become accustomed to receiving tips. If you feel so inclined, please plan for tipping your drivers, bellman, and wait staff while off property.
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For the comfort and peace of mind of all guests, travel insurance is required to attend this retreat. Your policy should include coverage for trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and travel delays. Life is unpredictable, and having travel insurance helps protect your investment should unforeseen circumstances arise. We highly recommend purchasing your policy at the time of booking to ensure full coverage.
For assistance with booking your travel insurance, you may contact our trusted agent:
Sharon Creast, Elevated Travel
📧 sharon@elevationstvl.com
📞 404-626-4997 -
WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT OUR RETREATS
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"Our retreat week was truly transformative. I arrived not knowing anyone, yet immediately felt welcomed and at ease."
“As each day unfolded, I found a sense of clarity and peace I didn’t even know I was seeking. I left with a renewed sense of purpose—and a deep desire to carry forward what I experienced while on retreat.”
- SUSAN LANEY
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“What made this retreat unforgettable was the harmony of it all."
“The peaceful natural setting, the incredible meals and wine, the yoga sessions, and the joy of being around kind, inspiring people—it all blended together so beautifully. That sense of balance is exactly what I’ll be carrying with me as I return home.”
- OLGA GREENBURG
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“Absolutely spectacular."
“It’s hard to imagine traveling again without this kind of care and curation. Every moment was thoughtful, joyful, and effortless.”
- BECKY STEWART
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