Set within the rolling countryside of Kent, this retreat is shaped by winter light, historic towns, and the kind of quiet beauty that invites you to slow down. Rather than rushing from place to place, our days move slowly - lingering mornings, wandering cathedral streets, pubs with a roaring fire, and taking in the understated elegance of England at its most timeless.

Kent has long been known as the garden of England, but in winter it reveals a different kind of magic - softened landscapes, hushed villages, and a sense of calm that feels increasingly rare. From medieval lanes and ancient cathedrals to intimate bookshops and quiet afternoons, this is a retreat rooted in presence rather than performance.  The perfect place to start your new year.  

Our home for the week is the remarkable Goodnestone Park - a 12 bedroom privately owned English estate with deep literary and historical ties. Built in 1704 and still held by the same family today, the house and family are draped in fascinating history.  With connections going back to the signing of the Manga Cara and the backdrop to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, the house carries centuries of lived-in beauty, thoughtful restoration, and stories held within its walls.

During our six nights together, the estate becomes our sanctuary - a place to settle in, wander the grounds, and truly winter.

This retreat is designed for women craving rest, restoration, and slow exploration. Days will include time spent entirely on the estate, gentle outings to nearby historic towns like the storybook town of Canterbury, and ample space for personal reflection, pampering, and unstructured wandering.  Nothing is rushed.  

This is a week for fireside conversations, soft mornings, meaningful pauses, and returning home feeling grounded, nourished, and quietly changed.

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.

While this retreat is very relaxed, there will be some strolling through villages and fields. If you have any concerns regarding walking, please let me know at your registration. 
Please note our 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.

3-4 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?

Our house is very easy to access.  Fly into London and you have two options:  Hire a driver for a 90 minute ride to our estate or take the train to Canterbury, followed by a 20 minute taxi ride to our home away from home. I'm happy to connect you with private driver options if needed.

WHAT ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?

Our home for this retreat is Goodnestone Park, a privately owned English estate set within the Kent countryside. Held by the same family for generations, the house dates to the early 18th century and offers the kind of lived-in beauty and quiet character that only historic homes can provide.  Jane Austen was a frequent visitor here as her brother and his wife lived on the estate.  We'll share more stories from Jane at the house together! This Georgian mansion is filled with warmth, thoughtfulness, and a sense of ease that invites you to slow down and settle in.  A true escape from the ordinary into the extraordinary.