Overview
Step away from the rush of everyday life and immerse yourself in words, community, and the desert quiet near Madrid, New Mexico. Our retreat blends unhurried time to read with curated experiences that inspire connection. Join Samantha Bahn and Deb Bass O-Brien for slow breakfasts, yoga, an author visit and much more!
Classic Santa Fe style retreat
Spacious Adobe Haven
Our retreat house is designed for true unwinding.
Set on 65 private acres in the Ortiz Mountains, it offers room to wander, gather, and recharge.
With colorful New Mexico adobe style and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s a setting that feels both expansive and special.
The Experience
Settle In
The moment you arrive, you’ll notice the quiet New Mexico magic. With inviting nooks and thoughtfully designed spaces, the house makes it easy to relax and feel at home.
Author Visit
We’re thrilled to welcome author Dan Flores for an intimate conversation during the retreat. He’ll share insights from Coyote America and offer his perspective on the enduring connection between humans and the natural world. Dan Flores is a Santa Fe writer originally from Louisiana who spent much of his career at the University of Montana. His essays have been published in the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Tribune, and Time Magazine. Along with appearances on the History Channel, on Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown on CNN, and in The Joe Rogan Experience podcasts, he was featured in Ken Burns's 2023 film on the story of the American buffalo. He also has a widely-praised podcast, The American West with Dan Flores. Flores has written 11 books, the most recent of which is Wild New World, winner of the 2023 Rachel Carson Environmental Book Prize, and Finalist for Phi Beta Kappa’s Ralph Waldo Emerson Prize. His Coyote America, a New York Times Bestseller, won the Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Award and was a Finalist for the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Prize. It appears in a new, expanded edition in 2026.
Books
We offer more than thoughtful discussions. We've prepared a book tasting, a book exchange and a couple surprises as well!
Ojo Santa Fe Hot Springs
Less than half an hour from our retreat house lies a 77-acre sanctuary of thermal pools and gardens. We’ll spend the morning soaking, pause for a fresh, locally inspired lunch, then continue exploring the variety of pools that make Ojo Santa Fe such a memorable destination.
Hiking
The trails in Los Cerrillos offer big desert views, unique rock formations, and unexpected finds along the way. It’s a landscape full of variety that makes hiking here both interesting and rewarding.
"Pose and Prose" Yoga with Britt Searles
Britt Searles is a former English-teacher-turned-yoga-teacher who often guides her practice with poetry or literature. Britt has a MA in English, and over 500 hours in yoga teacher training, including focused coursework in creative sequencing, hands-on adjustments, Reiki 1 & 2, and Yin Yoga. During the retreat’s“Pose and Prose” practice, Britt will guide students into a pose for up to 5 minutes, read a passage from nature-based writing, and then allow time between poses for students to journal, read, or simply reflect. Each pose is chosen for the mind-body connection it promotes. Arrive ready to relax, meditate, and journal.
Meals
Throughout the weekend, we’ll enjoy a mix of dining experiences: -fancy charcuterie boards -catered meals -local restaurants -private chef The food in this region is delightful and we'll celebrate the best of local flavors.
Digital Detox
This is your chance to step back from the noise. Out here, away from pressure and the constant buzz from your phone, there’s space to reconnect: with yourself, with others, and with the environment around you. There’s no right way to unplug. You choose what feels useful based on where you are and what you need.
Balance
Our carefully curated itineary leaves space for adventure, connection, relaxation and reading.
Itinerary
Previous
Next
The Retreat
Thursday, April 30
Arrival + Book Exchange
Welcome charcuterie dinner + evening hangout
Friday, May 1
Morning "Pose & Prose" yoga session
Book 'Tasting'
Ojo Santa Fe Hot Springs
Read
Fancy Dinner
Saturday, May 2
Wake up at your leisure and read!
Hike or read or both!
Discussion with Dan Flores, author of Coyote America
Dinner Out
Sunday, May 3: Departures
"Pose & Prose" yoga class
Book Exchange
Goodbyes
We remember to go with the flow in New Mexico. Activities may be rearranged due to weather or other factors.
What's included
What's Included
Pre-trip & Logistics Support
2 Yoga Sessions
Visit to Ojo Santa Fe Hot Springs
All breakfasts (3)
All dinners (3)
Transportation to and from all planned activities
All lunches (3)
Book Tasting
Book Exchange
Book Discussion
Transportation to and from Albuquerque or Santa Fe airports
What's Not Included
Travel insurance (we have recommendations for you to explore)
Any meals during traveling that take place before or after you meet the group
Additional Activities
Time in Santa Fe
Hosts
Samantha and Deb started 'Book Club Salida' as a way to connect people to books and authors to readers. They host events all year round and have an online presence for purchasing books as well!
Samantha
A lifelong educator and trip leader, Samantha brings two decades of experience inspiring curiosity and connection in and beyond the classroom.
As a co-founder of Book Club Salida, she loves weaving together stories, travel, and conversation to create meaningful shared experiences for readers and adventurers alike.
Deb
Deb is a seasoned teacher and who believes books—and travel—open doors to connection and wonder.
With nearly twenty years in education, she now channels that passion into curating experiences (and book lists!) that spark reflection, creativity, and community through Book Club Salida.
Gallery
FAQs
Does this retreat visit Santa Fe?
It does not. Los Cerillos is about 35 minutes from Santa Fe.
If you would like to spend time there, plan to do so before or after the retreat!
What is the cancellation policy?
Deposits are refundable for 7 days.
Cancel 45-90 days prior to the retreat start date and receive a 25% refund, less the deposit.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations that occur 45 or fewer days before the retreat start date.
However, we CAN apply any amount paid toward a future AWAY retreat!
What is the payment policy?
A 15% deposit is required to reserve your spot on the retreat.
The remaining balance can be paid in installments on
December 31
January 31
February 28
Please reach out if you'd like to chat about a payment plan that might work better for you.
Can my dietary needs be accommodated?
Yes! There are options for vegetarians, pescatarians, omnivores and carnivores alike.
Gluten-free diets can be accommodated as well.
Is there WIFI?
Yes. While it’s nice to unplug from the outside world, many of us have lives at home that require some communication.
We get it. There is WIFI in the house.