From the honey-colored stone, to the rose-covered cottages, the Cotswolds is a place found in storybooks. Famous for its lush pastures & stunning villages, it’s no surprise that this gem has been the backdrop for books, artwork, and movies for hundreds of years. 

Prepare to be awed by the rich history, natural beauty, magnificent historic castles and stately homes. It doesn’t get more “quintessentially English” than this.

Live your best Jane Austen life with us during this magical week in the Cotswolds.

We must agree with Home & Gardens Magazine who listed our retreat manor as part of their "Worlds Best Homes."  While it is clearly stunning - is also contains a beautiful story.  The Clifford Family, who still owns the estate today, can trace their ancestry in this area back to the 11th century. In 1730 this incredible manor house was built and has remained in the family since.  Filled with charm, loving restoration, and incredible grounds - you'll likely want to spend leisurely mornings exploring the property, which we'll have all to ourselves during this 6 night retreat.

This is a great retreat for someone longing for a peaceful escape with slow exploration of this incredible region.  There will be a mixture of downtime at our manor house, time to peruse shops in town, and time to explore the storybook villages of the Cotswolds as a group.  

This will be our second time to this wonderful property.  This time however, we're taking over second property owned by the Clifford family as well.  This means two incredible historic homes on one property all for our group to enjoy.

Illuminare Retreats (named after the Italian word for "to light up") provide a curated & immersive travel experience for women from all walks of life.  In the company of new friends, you'll find time to relax & recharge - while also being inspired & renewing your sense of adventure.  Europe has a beautiful way of getting down deep into your soul & stirring alive passions you forgot were there.   Of reigniting ideas & bringing a new perspective to our lives. 

If you've been longing for clarity & inspiration in your life, this is for you.

The Manor House will be the primary meeting point (all meals will be had here) so please make note that walking between the houses (through a pathway beside a beautiful reflecting pool filled with lily pads) will be required for those staying in the Orangery.  If you have any concerns regarding walking, please let me know at your registration. 
Please note NEITHER property is ADA accessible.

Please read through these important FAQs:

WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?

Women from all walks of life who need a little time away, reconnecting with themselves while being in a picturesque setting. Retreat members are eager to make new connections/friends, understand that Europe means a decent amount of walking, and are flexible/happy travelers!  We will do some walking through the villages & countryside, so comfortable shoes are suggested.  However, this will be a more slow paced retreat focused on relaxation over adventure. Please note: This home is not ADA accessible.

HOW MANY ATTENDEES WILL THERE BE?

The group will include up to 14 participants, plus the host Amanda and retreat staff.

4 months prior to the trip, a Facebook group will be created for our retreat members to get to know each other, ask questions & share more about themselves.  This is a great time to discuss any transportation questions too, as you'll find several other travelers likely on a similar itinerary whom you can share rides with!

CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE A SPECIAL DIET?

On the application, you'll see a spot to let us know any diet needs you have & we will absolutely do our best to meet those at all meals. If you have specific concerns, please feel free to email with questions.

**If you have serious dietary restrictions, please email before registering with your specific needs so we can assess if this is the right retreat for you.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

Bristol & Cardiff airports are both approx. one hour drive to our retreat home.  London airports are approx. two hours by car.  The train system is great as well, so don't be afraid to add an extra day or two on to your trip & check out more of the country.  I'm happy to connect you with private driver options as well.

WHAT ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?

Featured in Homes & Gardens Magazine as a "Worlds Best Home", our stay for this retreat is a stunning manor house nestled in the countryside.  The Clifford Family, who still owns the estate today, can trace their ancestry in this area back to the 11th century. In 1730 ground broke on the TWO incredible homes we will reside in.  If a home with character draws you in, I assure you you'll be amazed here.  As quirky 1700s buildings often do, the houses vary in size and amenities.  Some bathrooms have a bath and hand-held shower only, while others have a stand-up shower.  All rooms are beautiful and packed with charm.