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Retreat Details

Everything you need to feel ready — and nothing you don’t.

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Where & when

The Rise takes place in southern Crete, in a remote, quiet setting surrounded by stone, sea, and sky.

We stay in a shared villa, with everyone — including organisers.

All meals are served here. It’s where we gather for morning training before our excursions into the wild. And where we meet again for our discussions after sharing an evening meal.

It’s a home base — for training, meals, rest, and heading out into Crete’s wilder corners.

Upcoming Retreat

5-11th October 2025 — Crete

Transport from the airport is included.

What’s included

  • Airport transfer (both ways)
  • Six nights’ accommodation
  • All meals and snacks — chef-prepared, local, and seasonal
  • All training sessions and workshops
  • Entry fee to Samaria Gorge
  • Additional hikes and excursions

…and everything else you’ll carry home that isn’t listed here.

Six nights in a shared villa

Everyone stays in the same villa — including the organisers. It’s communal, calm, and part of the experience.

Fresh meals cooked in-house

All food is prepared by our local chef – seasonal, nutritious, and shared together around the table each day.

Daily training and workshops

Movement, Discussions, Group Activities – structured and led by your guides but with space to breathe and time to relax.

Excursions into nature

We explore Crete’s Wild Places – hiking, swimming, slowing down – from gorges to beaches and beyond.

Space to reflect

Whether writing some reflections under a tree or hanging in a hammock – stillness is a part of the practice not a break from it.

Cost & commitment

The full cost of the retreat is £1200. A deposit secures your place once accepted and payment instalment plans are available.

If cost is a barrier, talk to us. We’d rather hear from you than have you count yourself out.

FAQs

You might still have questions. Here are a few we often hear — and if you’re wondering something else, just ask.

What age range is this for?

All adult men are welcome on The Rise — what matters is your willingness to show up.

Is this for any fitness level?

Yes. You don’t need to be a gym junkie or a marathon runner to come on The Rise. We meet you where you are and we finish things together.

If you are completely new to any walking and/or training, we recommend you start exploring some local walks as preparation before the retreat – so the ankles, knees and hips are ready for the hike and you can enjoy the views rather than battling to finish.

Do I need to train before I come?

We will never tell people not to train - but it is not a requirement before coming on The Rise. The training is tailored to your level and the atmosphere is supportive — wherever you're starting from, you’ll be met there.

This isn’t about external performance measurements. It’s about showing up, bringing your best, and your own willingness to improve.

I’ve never done anything like this. Is that okay?

Absolutely. Many participants come to The Rise because it’s unlike anything they’ve done before. Curiosity and openness matter more than experience.

Do I need to be in a certain mindset?

No. Just come with an openness, a curiosity, and the willingness to participate. You don’t need to be “ready” — you just need to be real.

What happens after I apply?

We’ll get in touch to arrange a short phone call — usually around ten minutes — to make sure it’s a good fit. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have.

If it feels right, we’ll send you travel details, a packing list, and everything else you’ll need to prepare.

Do I need to know anyone going?

Nope. Most men come solo — and many leave with deep connections.

How many people attend each retreat?

Each retreat is limited to eight men, plus the two facilitators. It’s an intentionally small group — big enough for diversity, small enough for depth.

What if I have food requirements?

We cater to most dietary needs — just let us know in your application, and we’ll confirm everything with you.

Is there phone signal or Wi-Fi?

Some of the places we go have limited reception — and that’s by design. It’s an opportunity to unplug and reconnect. There may be extended parts of the day without phones but you will always be able to get back to your rooms and make any calls/messages that you need to later on.

What’s this ‘Solo Journey’ I keep hearing about?

We won’t say too much. It’s part of the retreat for a reason — and it’s for you to experience, not anticipate. What we can say: it’s meaningful, personal, and unforgettable.

Keep exploring

The Journey › The Team ›

This is real. And it’s waiting for you.

You’ve seen what the week looks like. The place, the people, the pace. The next step is simple.

If it feels right — trust your instinct — make the first move. What is there to lose?

You’re not expected to be perfect. Just present.

Apply Now › The Team ›