Overview
For six nights in Morocco, we’re bringing together three things we love: really good books, really good movement, and the chance to experience a place with genuine curiosity. Reading is an intentional part of the retreat. We’ll select a book to read together before the trip, then continue the conversation in Morocco. Throughout the week, we’ll make space for both shared bookish experiences and the luxury of uninterrupted reading time, whether that means a quiet morning with your book, an afternoon by the pool, or lingering over a conversation about something you’ve just read. Each morning, you’ll have the option to begin with mindfulness, Pilates, or both. Pilates classes will be energetic, thoughtfully programmed, and designed to give you a genuinely great workout, with excellent instruction and attention to form. We’ll practice in two beautiful indoor spaces and head outside when the setting and weather are right. And then there’s Morocco itself. We’ll experience the country through its food, traditions, landscapes, and people, with experiences that help us get to know where we are rather than simply pass through it. There will be plenty to see and do, but also enough space in the itinerary to slow down and enjoy being there. This is a retreat for people who love a great book or a great workout, who are curious about the world, and who want to experience Morocco with enough time to actually take it all in. Group size 14-18 participants.
Authentic Comfort
A Curated Boutique Stay
Built in the traditional Moroccan style using local materials and handcrafted details, this peaceful retreat feels deeply rooted in its surroundings.
It offers comfortable, thoughtfully designed accommodations rather than high luxury, with an emphasis on authenticity and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.
The Experience
All-Inclusive
Meals are a highlight of this experience, and every meal is included throughout your stay. From breakfast each morning to long lunches and dinners around the table, everything is freshly prepared, full of flavor, and rooted in Moroccan ingredients and traditions. Meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly, together, and are as much a part of experiencing Morocco as anything else we’ll do during the week.
Moroccan Storytelling
The Moroccan tradition of hikayat, or storytelling, dates back centuries, with stories passed orally from one generation to the next. Once a familiar form of entertainment throughout Morocco, the tradition is becoming increasingly rare as the number of practicing storytellers declines. One evening, we’ll have the special opportunity to experience hikayat for ourselves, with traditional Moroccan stories shared in both English and Darija. It’s a chance to experience a living literary tradition and the power of a story told the way it has been for generations: aloud and together.
Atlas Mountains
Our morning in the Atlas Mountains is not an ordinary stroll. We’ll head into the mountains to explore quiet valleys, meet local communities, and learn more about the traditions and culture of the Amazing people who have called this region home for generations.
Pilates
Each morning, you'll have the option to begin your day with a mindfulness session, a Pilates session, or both. Pilates classes will be energetic, thoughtfully programmed, and designed to give you a genuinely great workout, with excellent instruction and attention to form throughout. We’ll make use of several beautiful spaces around the property, including two indoor practice areas and outdoor spaces when the weather allows.
Pop-Up Bookshop
For a few days, a corner of our Moroccan home will become a tiny bookshop of our own. We’ll fill it with a thoughtfully curated collection of books to browse throughout the week. Settle into the cushions with something that catches your eye, swap recommendations with someone else, or discover the book you didn’t know you wanted to read. And because every good bookshop visit should end with a new book, one book of your choice is included with your retreat. Browse the shelves, choose your favorite, and it’s yours to take home.
Bread Making
We learn to make bread the Berber way, shaping dough by hand and baking it over a traditional fire. This simple, time-honored method connects us to generations of Moroccan kitchens.
Balance
Our carefully curated itineary leaves space for adventure, connection, relaxation and learning.
Henna
Henna holds a special place in Moroccan culture. This ancient art has been passed down through generations of Berber women. More than decoration, it’s a symbol of blessing, protection, and celebration. Sitting with a local henna artist is a chance to experience this tradition firsthand, watching intricate Berber designs take shape as stories, identity, and artistry are woven into each pattern. It’s a meaningful moment of connection with the land, with the women who preserve this craft, and with this centuries-old ritual.
Pre-Retreat Virtual Book Club
Reading the same book before we travel gives us a shared starting point, sparks conversation before we even arrive, and adds another layer to our time together. As with everything, you choose whether you'd like to participate. You'll help choose the book by voting from a curated shortlist. About four months before the retreat, we'll mail a copy to your door. Then, about two months before departure, you have the option of joining our virtual book club discussion.
Recharge
This is your chance to step back from the noise. Here, away from pressure and the constant buzz of everyday life, there is space to reconnect: with yourself, with others, and with the environment around you. There is no right way to unplug. You choose what feels supportive based on where you are and what you need right now.
Optional Hammam
During your free time, you can choose to experience a traditional hammam without even leaving the property. Warm steam, Moroccan black soap, and a vigorous exfoliation are all part of this centuries-old bathing ritual. A trained attendant guides you through the experience, leaving plenty of time afterward to relax, read, or linger by the pool.
Optional Pottery Workshop
During your free time, you’ll have the option to join a hands-on pottery workshop. Pottery in Morocco has long been part of daily life, with pieces made for cooking, carrying water, serving food, and gathering around the table. You’ll learn about these traditions while creating your own piece, such as a tagine or bowl, to take home with you. Or, keep the time entirely your own for a book, the pool, or whatever sounds good that day.
We Give Back
A portion of the profit from this retreat will be donated to a nonprofit organization doing meaningful work in Morocco. We believe that traveling somewhere also means finding ways to support the communities and places that welcome us.
Flights
Plan to fly in and out of Marrakech (RAK). Flights should arrive on September 23 and depart on September 29, 2026. If traveling from North America, you will need to DEPART ON SEPTEMBER 22 in order to arrive on the 23rd. Private transportation will be arranged according to arrival times (if you arrive in the afternoon, you'll have a different shuttle than if you arrive in the evening). Our first accommodation is only one hour from the Marrakech Airport! If you’d like to go ahead and book now, please note that most flights are non-refundable and plan ahead accordingly. Flight booking assistance is available under 'Add Ons'.
Accommodation
Single Occupancy with Ensuite Bathroom
Expect comfortable accommodations and your own ensuite bathroom. The photo is an example of a room; each room is different.
FROM$4,250.00/pp
Single Occupancy with Shared Bathroom
Expect comfortable accommodations. In typical riad style, this options shares a hallway bathroom with one other room. The photo is an example of a room; each room is different.
FROM$3,750.00/pp
Triple Occupancy with Ensuite Bathroom
Expect comfortable accommodations and your own ensuite bathroom. Book this room along with two friends. Price is per person. The photo is an example of a room; each room is different.
FROM$3,650.00/pp
Double Occupancy with Shared Bathroom
Expect two twin beds, comfortable accommodations. In typical riad style, this room shares a bathroom just outside the room with another room. Book with a friend or book solo and be paired with another solo traveler of the same gender. Price is per person. Each room is different.
FROM$3,550.00/pp
Double Occupancy with Ensuite Bathroom
Expect two twin beds, comfortable accommodations and your own ensuite bathroom. Book with a friend or book solo and be paired with another solo traveler of the same gender. Price is per person. The photo is an example of a room; each room is different.
FROM$3,400.00/pp
Itinerary
Previous
Next
A Typical Day
This retreat is designed to give you time to really settle into Morocco: its landscapes, food, traditions, people, and pace of life.
Days will move between energetic Pilates classes, cultural experiences, incredible meals, time with our shared book, and plenty of space to read whatever you brought along. Some experiences we'll have together as a group, while other parts of the day are intentionally left open.
AM
Journaling Workshop or Morning Meditation
Movement Class
Breakfast
Morning Activity:
- Monday - Pop-Up Bookshop
- Tuesday - Atlas Mountains Tour
- Wednesday - Free Day
- Thursday - Visit Berber Souks
- Friday - Breadmaking Class
- Saturday- Depart
PM
Lunch
Afternoon Activity:
- Sunday - Arrive
- Monday - Book and Tea Afternoon, Stretch & Recover Class
- Tuesday - Book Club
- Wednesday - Free Day, Henna Ceremony (after dinner)
- Thursday - Book and Tea Afternoon, Moroccan Storyteller (after dinner)
- Friday - Book Exchange
6:30 - 7:30 - Group Dinner (timing depends on the activity)
Free time blocks provide ample time to relax or find adventure. Additional experiences available include:
- Traditional Hammam Spa
- Massage
- Pottery Class
- Visit to Agafay Desert
- Visit to Marrakech
We'll follow the weather, local rhythms, and opportunities that arise. Activities may move between mornings and afternoons, and we'll leave room to slow down rather than rush from one thing to the next.
What's included
What's Included
Pre-trip & Logistics Support
Transportation to and from Marrakesh Airport (RAK)
All breakfasts (6)
All lunches (5)
All dinners (6)
Meditation & Journaling Sessions
Traditional bread-making class
Tour in the Atlas Mountains
Henna Ceremony
Book Discussion
Pilates Classes (5)
Restorative Stretch/Movement Classes (2)
What's Not Included
Roundtrip airfare to Marrakesh, Morocco (RAK)
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
Pottery Class
Hammam
Spa Services
Travel insurance (we have recommendations for you to explore)
Hosts
Our retreats are led by a small, collaborative host team that combines subject-matter expertise with thoughtful, on-the-ground support. Together, we create an experience that feels well organized, welcoming, and easy to settle into. Your guides for this retreat will be Brittany, along with another Away Retreats instructor (to be announced).
Brittany Mora
Travel has always been one of Brittany's greatest passions. She loves discovering new places, learning about local culture, and experiencing destinations at a slower, more intentional pace.
As a returning Away Retreats Guide, she's excited to lead another small group through one of her favorite kinds of travel experiences.
When she's not traveling, Brittany is the founder and owner of Silver Shuffles, a movement company based in Raleigh, North Carolina, that helps adults stay active, connected, and confident through joyful movement.
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Reviews
FAQs
What is the cancellation policy?
Deposits are refundable for 7 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 15% 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.
If you are taking the Vet Med CE path, you will be required to attend the sessions to earn CE credits.
Can my dietary needs be accommodated?
Yes! There are options for vegetarians, pescatarians, omnivores and carnivores alike.
The first four days will lean vegetarian while we expect more meat options later in the week.
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.
There is WIFI at the first and third locations. There is not WIFI in the desert.
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 will the weather be like?
In Morocco in early October, the weather is typically warm and comfortable, making it a wonderful time for exploring and being outdoors.
Expect warm days, with cooler mornings and evenings offering a welcome break from the afternoon sun.
What is on the packing list?
You'll receive a packing list which will include things like:
✔ Thin cotton
✔ Lightweight wool shirts
✔ Lightweight fleece
✔ Sun hat
✔ Closed-toed shoes
...and not much else!