Madeira,
Portugal
April 17-24, 2024
SOLD OUT!
Join us for an epic adventure on the island of Madeira, Portugal, the Hawaii of Europe.
Personally, we think it’s Hawaii on steroids!
We will walk in the misty forests, along ancient levada’s and poke our heads above the clouds. We will explore the bustling city of Funchal as well as a couple smaller villages, learn about the history and culture of the island, and soak up the sun at our gorgeous villa.
This retreat is for women who understand that hiking is rejuvenating, clarifying and the best way to explore.
4 walks, portrait sessions, plenty of time designated for exploring, and a day to just hang out at the villa.
* Please note: this is primarily a hiking retreat. You need to be an average hiker to go on this trip.
*All hikes are subject to weather. It always sunny somewhere on Madeira, but pivots to new locations may need to be made.
What’s included
-7 nights accommodations in a gorgeous Villa
- food and snacks (entrees at restaurants, and all meals at the Villa)
- transportation to and from hikes
- 4 guided hikes spread throughout the entire island
-the chance for a photo shoot featuring YOU
-an online gallery of images of the trip from professional photographer, Deedee
Not Included:
- flight to Funchal, transportation to and from the airport to the villa (it’s a 10 minute cab ride)
- lunch on free day
- alcohol
- tips for hiking guides
- incidentals
- medical (required) and trip insurance
"I arrived at this retreat knowing no one and instantly felt like I'd known every woman there forever. That's the beauty in gatherings like this. I was a bit nervous how my body would respond to the long travel days, the hiking, the sleeping arrangements, etc. but was pleasantly surprised at how well I did. I left feeling so full - grateful for new friends that I was able to share such an amazing experience with, grateful for the beauty I was able to witness and document, and grateful for the deep chats, the hugs, the tears, the understanding, and all the laughter”
- Heartventure Participant, 2023
"I was so grateful to be part of group where activities were planned for me. As the planner in my household, that alone was such a gift. It allowed me to truly experience the culture and the land without the stress of having to figure out what to do next in a country foreign to me. Activities were thoughtfully planned out, the villas were gorgeous, the food was grand, and the area was beautiful. I would definitely invest in another retreat with Heartventures which, by the way, is a perfect name for this experience.”
- Heartventure Participant, 2023
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April 17
-Meet at Villa in Santa Cruz
-Welcome
-Opening circle
-Dinner in Santa Cruz -
April 18
-Relaxing morning at Villa, self serve breakfast
-Explore a village on the south coast
-Epic sunset hike (10km, 300m incline)
-Dinner at a local restaurant -
April 19
-Leave in the dark for secret sunrise
-North shore hike with spectacular views and massive waterfalls (10km, 500m incline)
-Madeira seafood lunch (other options available if seafood isn’t your thing!)
-First hand lesson on the history and process of making Poncha (Madeira used to be known as the Rum Island)
-Dinner at the villa -
April 20
-Breakfast at Villa
-Bus to Funchal
-Explore Funchal on your own
-Lunch and dinner in Funchal -
April 21
-Early morning, easier (but no less amazing) 8km hike.
-Quick shower and change at villa
-Espetada lunch at local taverna
-Afternoon free to explore the village
-Dinner at Villa -
April 22
*FREE DAY!*
-Breakfast at villa
-Lunch wherever your day takes you
-Reunite for dinner at restaurant in Santa Cruz -
April 23
-Morning hike at one Madeira’s largest and little known peaks before descending into one of the most beautiful valleys in the central mountain range (15km, 800m incline)
-Afternoon at villa to relax and get ready for departure the next day
-Dinner at an epic, fine dining meets local cuisine, mountain vistas and local wine to close the Villa -
April 24
-Breakfast at Villa
-Pack up and cab back to airport
Investment
Private Room (5 available): $4600+tax
Shared Room (two twin beds per room)
(6 available): $3997+tax
$600 deposit to save your spot.
Payment plans available.
✺ Frequently asked questions ✺
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In brief, it’s pretty epic and within close walking distance to Santa Cruz. See it here. See it here.
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You can take a cab (10 min drive to the villa) or take the bus to Santa Cruz and walk from the bus station to the villa.
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Anything from a coffee here and there, to tampons, to anything that might come up while travelling.
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No, we will pay for the bus ticket to Funchal.
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As much as possible we will cater to your needs, however, there may be times, when it’s not possible, depending on your needs.
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They are classified as easy or moderate, the paths are well marked and well maintained. However, you do need to be an average hiker to join this Heartventure.