
Are you ready to relax, reset, and break out of your routine?
Imagine yourself in a safe, supportive environment where you can choose your adventure—whether it's exploring the stunning Portuguese countryside or simply lounging by the pool with a good book while we take care of everything.
ALL INCLUSIVE, AFFORDABLE LUXURY
Spend 5 unforgettable days at a gorgeous luxury quinta nestled in the serene countryside of Portugal. Step off the hamster wheel and into a perfect balance of fun and relaxation. This "summer camp" experience for women is rooted in the principles of lifestyle medicine and longevity—optimized nutrition, mindful movement, community connection, and play—designed to refresh and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.
Whether you’re trying something new or soaking up quiet moments by the pool, this escape is all about you and what you need.
Your options are limitless—come find your perfect reset in Portugal.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MINDFULNESS & MOVEMENT

A holistic mindfulness and movement program optimized to lower cortisol and regulate your nervous system.
LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS

Exclusive use of a luxury quinta and grounds, with 5 hectares of pine and cork trees, vegetable gardens, & salt water pool.
FARM TO TABLE MEALS

Delicious and nourishing meals with protein-rich vegetarian or vegan options.
MASSAGE

1-hour relaxing and rejuvenating massage is included.
PLAY

Stimulate your mind and body with optional activities like ceramics, horseback riding, kirtan, sound bath and more!
ADVENTURES

Personalized for you, each day will offer a variety of on-site and off-site activities, including a scenic coastal hike and a sail along the Tejo River.
COOKING CLASS

Join our private chef for an engaging and hands-on cooking class, where you'll master a delicious, protein-packed, plant-based menu.
PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION

Reflect and earn CME (Continuing Medical Education) or CPD (Continuous Professional Development) option for healthcare professionals.
WORRY FREE TRAVEL

Private shuttle is included to/from Lisbon Airport and to any offsite activities - no car hire is needed.
RETREAT AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
Each day of the retreat is thoughtfully designed to help you de-stress, connect, and play. You'll have ample free time to enjoy the quinta's amenities, including the pool and gardens. Massages will also be available during free time. All listed activities are included but always optional, giving you the flexibility to create your ideal retreat experience.
*this agenda is directional and is subject to change

DAY 1
Afternoon Check in
Welcome & Introductions
Gentle Yoga & Meditation for Sleep
DAY 2
Morning Yoga or Meditation
Nature Walk
Optional Horseback Riding*, Pottery Class, or Lisbon adventure
Fireside
Kirtan
DAY 3
Morning Yoga or Meditation
Coastal Hike
Fireside
Sound Bath
DAY 4
Morning Yoga or Meditation
Nature Walk
Optional Horseback Riding*, Pottery Class, or Tejo River Sail
Blue Zone Cooking Class
DAY 5
Morning Yoga or Meditation
Farewell Circle
Afternoon Check out
OUR PRICING
All inclusive, rooms are private, ensuite, ground level.
Starting price $2,450, includes accommodations, meals, activities, coaching, and massage.
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
Private Room
Double bed with private, ensuite bathroom
$4,000/per person
all inclusive
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Shared room
2 single beds with private, ensuite bathroom
$2,450/per person
all inclusive
* For double occupancy you can choose your roommate or we will match you with a new friend.
IS THIS RETREAT FOR ME?

Are you ready to step away from the daily grind, embrace new adventures, and let yourself be fully taken care of?
Is it time to finally put yourself first?
Do you long for deep, meaningful connections with a community of inspiring, like-minded women?
Are you looking to reset, recharge, and rediscover what brings you joy?
If you nodded along to any of these, then this retreat was made for YOU!
MEET
DR. NATASHA RAJA VARLEY
Dr. Varley is the founder of Ascend Retreats. She is a world traveler, physician, adventurer, advocate, and certified life coach. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge of science and holistic practices, as well as harnessing the power of the mind to heal the body—and the body to heal the mind.
She is a dedicated advocate for women, and her superpower is building community.

WELCOME TO YOUR SANCTUARY
Just 30 minutes from Lisbon Airport, our luxurious quinta is nestled in Portugal's Alentejo region, offering five hectares of breathtaking landscapes.

QUESTIONS?
We have answers.
Read our FAQs below. For any other questions, please email
our founder, Dr. Natasha Raja Varley, at natasha@ascendretreats.com.
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Where does the trip start and end?We start on June 5, 2025, at the Penha Longa Resort in Sintra, Portugal. The closest airport is Lisbon’s Portela Airport (LIS), typically 25 minutes by car hire. We recommend arriving one day early to ensure you’re at our starting point on time. Uber or Bolt are both inexpensive options to get from Lisbon to the resort. Your flight home should be scheduled to depart at 12:30 pm or later from LIS airport.
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What does the price include?Book by March 14, 2025, and enjoy six days and five nights of luxury accommodations in a double-occupancy room at a magical, historic five-star resort ($1450 extra value). Engage in expert-led discussions with Dr. Menn and Dr. Gilberg-Lenz, offering invaluable insights. This exclusive retreat includes: Private transportation for all excursions Exclusive tours with local guides and cultural experts Daily mindfulness and movement sessions Intimate small-group coaching sessions Each morning begins with a nourishing breakfast, followed by either lunch or an intimate dinner with Dr. Corinne and Dr. Suzanne. With ample free time daily, you can explore, unwind, or immerse yourself in the beauty of the region. Reservations can be canceled until March 14, 2025, midnight EST, for a 50% refund of payments, minus your credit card processing fee. The refund will be processed using the original method of payment. After this point, there are no refunds. See full Terms and Conditions here.
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What’s not included in the price?Airfare; transportation to the retreat venue; travel insurance; activities not listed in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals, including room service, laundry, a daily city tax rate of 2 Euros per person, and spa treatments; food and beverages outside of the itinerary. While access to the Cancer & Menopause Symposium for healthcare professionals is not included, retreat participants can add it on for the discounted price of $500 (see option in checkout). Accommodations are not included if you book after March 14, 2025.
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Can I upgrade to a private room?Traveling with a partner or friend, or want more privacy? You can upgrade to a private room (which still accommodates two people) starting at a supplement of 329 EUR per night. This upgrade has limited availability and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. To upgrade your room, please contact us at natasha@ascendretreats.com.
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Can I extend my stay?Retreat attendees can add up to three extra nights before and/or after the retreat starting at 329 EUR per night. This upgrade has limited availability and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. To upgrade your room, please contact us at natasha@ascendretreats.com.
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What travel documents are needed?US citizens do not need a visa for stays in Portugal of up to 90 days. However, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. For added security, we recommend ensuring your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure from Portugal. For the most current information, please refer to the U.S. Department of State's travel advisory for Portugal. Not a US citizen? Please check with the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate for information and requirements.
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Do I need travel insurance?We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip investment. Travel insurance can reimburse you for trip costs if your plans change due to unforeseen circumstances. It also covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. For the best coverage, insure the full trip cost within two weeks of your initial deposit. Additionally, most "Cancel For Any Reason" policies must be purchased on the same day you make your initial deposit.
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What do I need to know about food and alcohol? What if I have dietary restrictions?We believe in nourishing the body, mind, and soul, and our meals are thoughtfully crafted to support your well-being. Each day, you'll enjoy delicious breakfasts and either lunch or an intimate dinner, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and expertly prepared dishes that highlight the flavors of the region. If you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, we are happy to accommodate your needs. Simply let us know in advance, and our chefs will ensure that your meals are tailored to your preferences. In alignment with our mission, we will be serving refreshing mocktails, fresh juices, herbal teas, coffee, and water instead of alcohol. However, if you choose, wine will be available for purchase at the resort. Please note that this is a drug-free and tobacco-free retreat, designed to provide a fully immersive and restorative experience.