Overview
Designed for women who lead, this retreat brings together entrepreneurs, executives, and business owners for a week of adventure, meaningful conversation, movement, and time to think more clearly about what's next. Surrounded by a small group of ambitious women, you'll have space to step away from the demands of everyday life, gain fresh perspective, and build genuine connections with others who understand the unique challenges of leadership. Our journey begins in Antigua, one of the most charming towns in Central America. Known for its cobblestone streets, colorful Spanish colonial architecture, and vibrant culture, Antigua is the gateway to Guatemala's Western Highlands. You'll have time to explore historic churches, excellent restaurants, specialty coffee shops, and markets filled with beautifully crafted Guatemalan goods. Sitting at just over 5,000 feet (1,533 m), Antigua is also the perfect place to acclimatize before heading higher into the mountains. We'll gather for movement classes, guided journaling, and thoughtful discussions, while leaving plenty of free time to wander the city, enjoy a long meal, or simply slow down and recharge. From Antigua, we'll head into the mountains for a two-day trek up Acatenango. For those interested, there is an optional evening hike onto the slopes of Fuego, one of the world's most active volcanoes. If you'd rather stay at camp, you'll still enjoy incredible views of Fuego's glowing eruptions from across the valley. On our second morning, we'll rise before dawn for the final push to Acatenango's 13,045-foot (3,976 m) summit, where we'll watch the sun rise over a landscape of volcanoes and rolling clouds. While Acatenango is a challenging hike, our experienced guides and retreat leaders will be there every step of the way. After descending the mountain, we'll spend two nights at a peaceful coffee farm near Acatenango. Enjoy movement classes overlooking the mountains, tour the coffee farm, sample freshly harvested Guatemalan coffee, or simply relax with a book and take in the views. For those looking for more adventure, horseback riding, mountain biking, and additional hiking are all available. As with every Away Retreat, the adventure creates the setting, but it's the conversations over coffee, around the dinner table, and on the trail that often leave the biggest impact. You'll return home with a fresh perspective, and a community of women you'll continue learning from long after the retreat ends.
The Experience
From Strategy to Action
Step away from the daily demands of leadership to focus on what's next. Together, we'll break down long-term goals into concrete action steps, identify the decisions that will have the greatest impact, and establish milestones and accountability measures to keep you moving forward. You'll leave with a plan that's both ambitious and achievable.
Facilitated Reflection
Through guided discussions and structured reflection exercises, participants will step back from the demands of daily leadership to evaluate current projects, commitments, and opportunities through the lens of both their business goals and personal values. Together, we'll identify what to start, stop, and continue, helping each participant focus their time, energy, and resources where they will have the greatest impact in the year ahead.
Wandering the Streets of Antigua
Antigua is a relaxed, compact town that is full of charm and part of the beauty is wandering around and exploring the colorful cobblestoned streets. There are lovely cafes, rooftop views of the volcanoes, the colorful Santa Catalina Arch, churches and old ruins damaged by an earthquake in the 1700s. We'll provide our curated list of recommendations for markets, cafes, restaurants and sights so you can take things at your own pace. If you prefer to go with a trip leader, you can also join us as we stop by our favorite places!
Antigua Yoga Classes
After arriving in Antigua, we'll have private yoga classes in a lovely art studio with views out the window of one of the surrounding volcanoes. We will take the time to reset and stretch out any tension from sitting on a plane.
Where We're Staying (Antigua)
We will be staying in a comfortable and luxurious hotel in a restored colonial building in the historic center of Antigua. We're just a few blocks away from the iconic Santa Catalina Arch. Rooms have two queen beds or one king bed and an en-suite bathroom. There's a lovely roof deck where you can take in views of the town and volcanoes. There is also a small pool and lush central courtyard. Most rooms have fireplaces and four of the king rooms have a jacuzzi!
Acatenango Overnight Hike
Topping out at 13,045 ft (3,976 m), Acatenango is the third-highest volcano in Central America. This hike is challenging, but the experienced guides and trip leaders will be there for you every step of the way. We will hike up to basecamp on the first day of the hike, with an optional sunset hike onto the slopes of Fuego, an actively erupting volcano. For those that don't want to make that trip, not to worry, our basecamp will provide incredible views where you can watch the captivating eruptions as the sun sets, with truly incredible views after dark as the brightness of the eruptions is much more pronounced. After spending the night at basecamp, we will wake up early for a sunrise hike to the peak of Acatenango, followed by breakfast in camp and the hike down. It will be an epic journey and an accomplishment you will never forget! For those that aren't up for making the full hike, there is an option to get a 4x4 90% of the way to base camp. You can book this in "Trip Extras". As always, everything is option, so the hikes to Fuego and the peak of Acatenango are optional, you do what feels best for you! Either way, you will be able to have up close views of one of the most iconic peaks in Central America.
Where We're Staying (Acatenango)
Accommodations on the Acatenango hike will be more rustic. We'll be staying in simple A-frames or cabin with bunk beds with mattresses. The cabins feature huge windows with a front-row view (a safe distance away) of the regularly erupting Fuego! The camp also features enclosed dining areas and outdoor areas by a fire pit with lounge chairs to stargaze and enjoy the volcano. An example of the cabin with bunks is here.
Down Time at a Coffee Farm
After challenging ourselves physically and mentally over the course of the Acatenango hike, it's time to unwind and relax. We'll spend the last two days of the trip at a coffee farm on the slopes of the volcano. The property has sweeping views across the volcanoes and surrounding area and each room has a jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing sore muscles. There are decks and open spaces for practicing yoga and is a peaceful space to recharge as a group. At night, we can enjoy a cozy campfire with volcano views.
Where We're Staying (Coffee Farm)
This spot is incredibly picturesque - it's a luxurious hotel and restaurant in the middle of a coffee farm on the slopes of volcanoes. All accommodations are in standalone cottages with a private deck and jacuzzi. The rooms will have either queen or king beds and a private, en-suite bathroom. There are ample outdoor spaces for relaxing, a fire pit in the evenings and a restaurant and cafe with floor to ceiling windows to enjoy the views.
Coffee Tour and Tasting
While staying at a working coffee farm, we'll get the opportunity to tour the farm and see how coffee is produced. From growing in rich, volcanic soil to being harvested, fermented, dried and roasted. At the end of the tour, we'll get to sample some of the excellent coffee that Guatemala has become famous for!
Peer Advisory
One of the greatest advantages of gathering with accomplished women leaders is the opportunity to learn from one another. Using a structured peer advisory format, participants will tap into the experience and expertise of fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders to gain fresh perspectives, work through current challenges, and uncover new opportunities. After the retreat, participants will have the opportunity to continue peer advisory sessions in a structured format, for 9 months (no additional cost). We will count on each other for accountability, honest feedback, celebrating wins, and navigating challenges.
Be Taken Care Of
As a founder or leader, you're often the one making decisions, solving problems, and looking after everyone else. This week is different. We've thoughtfully planned every detail so you can set down the responsibility, be fully present, and enjoy the rare experience of having someone else take care of you.
Accommodation
Queen Room, Double Occupancy
Share a queen room and enjoy your own bed and a private, en-suite bathroom. This room has 2 queen beds, so if you are attending with a friend, you can opt to room with them and each have your own bed. If you're coming solo, we will pair you with a roommate! The photo below is of the accommodations in Antigua, but the setup will be similar on the coffee farm. There, you'll also have a private balcony and jacuzzi!
FROM$3,000.00/pp
Queen or King Room, Single Occupancy
Enjoy your own bed and a private, en-suite bathroom. In Antigua, this booking option will either be a room with 2 queen beds or 1 king bed. On the coffee farm, your room will have 2 queen beds, plus a private deck and jacuzzi! The photo below is of the accommodations on the coffee farm.
FROM$4,000.00/pp
King Room, Single Occupancy
Enjoy your own king bed and a private, en-suite bathroom. The photo below is of the accommodations in Antigua, complete with a cozy fireplace, but the setup on the coffee farm will be similar. There, you will also have your own private deck and jacuzzi!
FROM$4,200.00/pp
King Room with Jacuzzi, Single Occupancy
Enjoy your own spacious king bed and a private, en-suite bathroom. In Antigua, this booking option will be 1 king bed with garden patio and private stone jacuzzi. On the coffee farm, your room will have one king bed, plus a private deck and jacuzzi! The photo below is of the accommodations on the coffee farm, but you will have a jacuzzi in both Antigua and on the coffee farm with this booking option!
FROM$4,500.00/pp
What's included
What's Included
Pre-trip & Logistics Support
Transportation to and from La Aurora airport (GUA)
Yoga classes
Leadership seminars
Arrival gift
Acatenango Overnight Hike
Coffee farm tour and tasting
All meals (except 1 lunch and 1 dinner in Antigua)
What's Not Included
Roundtrip airfare to GUA
1 lunch and 1 dinner in Antigua
Travel insurance (we have recommendations for you to explore)
Any meals during traveling that take place before or after you meet the group
Specialty drinks (smoothies or alcoholic beverages)
Additional Activities or Spa Services
4x4 transport to Acatenango basecamp (hike alternative)
Hosts
Our retreats are led by a small, collaborative host team that brings together complementary expertise, genuine hospitality, and thoughtful on-the-ground support. Together, we create an experience that feels well organized, welcoming, and easy to settle into, so you can focus on being fully present, connecting with others, and enjoying the journey.
Sara Walsh
Sara is a nonprofit executive, entrepreneur, and former corporate attorney with extensive experience leading organizations through growth, transformation, and strategic change.
Throughout her career, Sara has held senior leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, leading complex initiatives in strategy, operations, capital planning, and organizational effectiveness for nonprofits, government agencies, and mission-driven organizations. She is also the founder of CORE Planning Group, a consulting firm that helps organizations navigate growth and organizational change.
In addition to her consulting and nonprofit leadership work, Sara is a serial entrepreneur. She founded Liberty Hall, a craft cocktail bar in Colorado, and is the founder and CEO of Spirits of the West, a premium ready-to-drink cocktail brand launching in 2026 that is redefining the canned cocktail experience.
Sara holds a JD and MBA from DePaul University and an MS in Executive Leadership from the Yale School of Management. She lives in Colorado with her family and enjoys trail running, skiing, and exploring the Rocky Mountains.
Amy Heinemann
Amy is an avid traveler and loves hiking and other outdoor adventures, food and architecture. She grew up doing long road trips with her family to explore national parks in the US and Canada and has carried this excitement about wide open spaces into adulthood.
Her favorite way to discover new countries and cultures is through their culinary traditions, markets and natural landscapes.
After prior careers in the environmental field and finance, she decided to take a break from her corporate job in NYC and has been traveling around the world - mostly organizing solo adventures and trips with friends. In total, she has visited 142 countries and her favorite Caribbean island is Dominica!
When she's not traveling, she spends time at her home base in Antigua in the Caribbean, doing lots of baking, paddleboarding, discovering new hiking trails and diving.
Lindsay Eldridge
Lindsay Eldridge is the founder of Away Retreats, where she designs and leads small-group experiences that combine adventure, movement, meaningful conversation, and connection in extraordinary places around the world.
For more than 20 years, Lindsay's career has centered on creating meaningful experiences through travel and the outdoors. She has led adventure and educational programs across the U.S. and internationally, including guiding sea kayaking trips in the U.S. Virgin Islands, leading expeditions in Ecuador and the Galápagos, Thailand, Australia, and South Africa, teaching English in South Korea, and completing a 75-day National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) expedition in the Alaskan wilderness.
She also spent more than seven years with Broadreach, a leading study abroad organization, where she directed international programs and helped thousands of students experience the world through travel and education.
In addition to founding Away Retreats, Lindsay also built her own Pilates business and is a comprehensively certified Pilates instructor through Balanced Body. She believes movement is one of the best ways to clear the mind, build resilience, and create space for fresh perspective.
As an entrepreneur and mom of two, Lindsay understands the challenges of balancing ambitious goals with everyday life. She created Away Retreats to offer the kind of experiences she wanted for herself: thoughtfully designed adventures that inspire curiosity, encourage meaningful conversations, and create lasting connections.
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FAQs
What is the cancellation policy?
Deposits are refundable for 10 days.
If cancellation occurs more than 120 days prior to the retreat start date, you will receive a 100% refund, less the deposit.
Cancel 90-120 days prior to retreat start date and receive a 50% refund, less the deposit.
Cancel 46-90 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 25% deposit is required to reserve your spot on the retreat.
The remaining balance is due 120 days before the retreat start date.
Please reach out if you'd like to chat about a payment plan that might work better for you.
Is everything really optional?
Yes! This is your trip. Every scheduled activity is available to you, and you are in no way pressured to join any or all of them. There is freedom in doing what you would personally like to do, each day.
Please read about the options available during the volcano hike.
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.
Are vaccinations recommended or required?
You may read about the current CDC recommendations and guidelines here.
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 understand. While in Antigua and on the coffee farm, there is WiFi in rooms and around the property. On the Acatenango hike, there is no WiFi and cell service will be limited, so it's a great chance to unplug!
May I see a list of available activities in the area?
If you'd like to schedule one of the many activities that are offered, we're here to help!
Check out the noncomprehensive list below:
- Massage/Spa Services
- Mountain biking
- Horseback riding
Why do you require travel insurance?
As experienced travelers who’ve learned to expect the unexpected, we require travel insurance.
Travel insurance helps protect your investment in the retreat and provides coverage for unexpected events such as illness, injury, family emergencies, travel delays, lost luggage, or trip interruptions.
Because retreat payments are subject to our cancellation policy, we require all guests to carry travel insurance so they have protection if plans change unexpectedly. It's best practice to purchase a policy shortly after booking (and we provide a recommended insurance provider in your confirmation email).
What is on the packing list?
You'll receive a packing list which will include things like:
✔ Swimsuit
✔ Layers for warmer days and cooler evenings
✔ Sun hat & sunglasses
✔ Hiking boots and comfortable walking shoes
✔ Activewear for excursions
...and not much else!