How to Find the Perfect Retreat Venue
You’ve dreamed of this moment: guiding people closer to their hearts, building a connected community, and sharing the work that lights you up most.
Now, you’re ready to plan your first retreat! Planning a retreat involves selecting the perfect venue, choosing a price point that reflects the value, crafting a schedule that satisfies, and creating a strategic launch plan.
But let’s focus on what I believe is the cornerstone of retreat planning: finding the perfect venue. Your venue sets the stage for the entire experience, and it’s where your dream becomes tangible.
Step 1: Start With Market Research
Before you dive into venue hunting, it’s important to know who your retreat is for and what they’re seeking. Conducting solid market research will help you understand your audience’s needs and preferences. For a deep dive into this, check out my blog post on how to nail your market research.
Once you’re clear on your audience and retreat vision, you can move on to venue selection.
Step 2: Ask the Right Questions
To narrow your search, take time to answer these key questions:
Location: Is your retreat international, domestic, or local?
Duration: How long is your retreat? (Half day, full day, weekend, 5 nights, 1 week, or 2 weeks?)
Intention: What is the purpose of your retreat? What transformation or experience do you want attendees to walk away with?
Atmosphere: What kind of environment will best support your intention? For example:
High-end luxury boutique hotel?
Eco-friendly retreat center surrounded by nature?
Remote and introspective, or close to other activities for exploration?
Budget: What price point will you set for your retreat, and how much of that can go toward venue costs?
Activities: What activities will you offer, and what venue features are required to support them? (e.g., a large room for yoga, quiet spaces for meditation, a sound system for music, tables for writing, etc.)
Once you’ve answered these questions, you’re ready to begin your search!
Step 3: Begin Your Venue Search
Finding the perfect venue takes thorough research and careful consideration. Here are some tips to guide your search:
Where to Look:
Google Maps: If you have a specific city or region in mind, search for "retreat centers" or "yoga retreat venues" on Google Maps. Read the reviews and pay attention to feedback from past guests.
Retreat Booking Platforms: Websites like BookYogaRetreats.com and RetreatGuru.com are great for finding venues that cater specifically to retreats.
Facebook Groups: Join retreat-related Facebook groups where hosts share venue recommendations and experiences.
Word of Mouth: Ask other retreat leaders about their favorite venues. Their firsthand experience can offer invaluable insights.
Shortlist Your Options:
Aim to narrow your search down to 3-5 venues that align with your vision, budget, and practical needs. Choose places that truly excite you—it’s a bonus if you’ve already spent time there, as that familiarity can boost your confidence in rolling out your retreat.
Step 4: Evaluate the Venues
Before signing a contract, take these steps to ensure the venue is a good fit:
Do Your Research:
Read Reviews: Look for feedback from both guests and other retreat leaders.
Schedule a Tour: If possible, visit the venue in person or ask for a virtual tour. Seeing the space firsthand can make all the difference.
Ask Questions:
Interview the retreat center to get a sense of how they operate. Their responsiveness and professionalism will give you a glimpse of what to expect during your retreat. For a list of exact questions to ask, download my retreat questionnaire here.
Request a Retreat Host PDF:
Most venues have a document outlining key details like room options, prices, accommodations, activities, and policies. Review this thoroughly to ensure it aligns with your needs.
Set Up a Call:
Once you’ve narrowed it down further, schedule a Zoom call to discuss your retreat plans and the venue’s offerings. This is your chance to go over specifics and build rapport with the venue staff.
Step 5: Confirm Your Booking
Once you’ve found the venue that aligns most with your retreat’s vision, here’s how to move forward:
Secure Your Dates: Place a deposit to reserve your spot. Most venues will outline a payment plan, with the remaining balance due closer to your retreat dates.
Clarify Minimums: Understand the minimum number of participants required to cover costs. Some venues also allow additional teachers to join pro bono for larger groups.
Save on Fees: When it’s time to pay, consider using a wire transfer to save on credit card fees.
Step 6: Stay in Touch
Maintain clear communication with your venue leading up to the retreat. Share guest details, ask for updates on any property changes, and ensure all logistical needs are met. A well-coordinated relationship with the venue will help your retreat run smoothly.
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Intuition
As you search for venues, trust your gut. Choose a space that feels like the perfect container for the magic you’re about to create. The right venue will excite and inspire you—and that energy will ripple out to your retreat participants.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
For more tips on hosting a retreat, check out my free video: How to Host a Retreat. And don’t forget to download my retreat questionnaire for a seamless venue selection process!
You’ve got this. Your dream retreat is closer than you think.