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.  

There's something about all 5 senses being engaged. Taking in the smells & the sights. Feeling the ancient roads under your feet, hearing the clank of the cup meeting the saucer as locals savor their afternoon tea.  And the tastes... we'll fill our bellies (and our souls) with the cuisine of this beautiful region.

We will come home filled. 
With experiences, with the love of a culture, with new friends, and with a renewed sense of self.

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.