A Women's Weekend to Rest, Create & Reconnect
February 19-21, 2027 in Old Lyme, Connecticut
I've always believed there is something rather special about giving ourselves a little time away from the world, particularly in winter.
A few days to leave behind the familiar routines of our lives, to enjoy the company of other women, and to remember how lovely it can be to spend an afternoon doing something simply because it brings us pleasure.
And February, with its quiet woods, returning light, and beautiful Full Snow Moon, seems a wonderful time to do just that.
For our Winter Pause gathering, I've chosen a place that feels as though it belongs to another time.
Tucked into the winter landscape of Old Lyme, Connecticut, the historic Oliver Lay Mill House has stood beside the rushing waters of the river since around 1840. Once a working mill, its beautiful old granite walls have witnessed nearly two centuries of changing seasons, and today it is a home filled with warmth, character, and the quiet charm of old New England.
There is something quite magical about imagining a February weekend here. The sound of the waterfall beyond the windows, a fire burning in the hearth, the winter woods just outside our door, and a small gathering of women enjoying the simple pleasure of being together.
It's the kind of place that invites you to settle in, make yourself comfortable, and forget, for a little while, about the world beyond its walls.
We'll make time for the things that belong so naturally to this season: the pleasure of creating with our hands, walking through the quiet woods, sharing stories and good food, and gathering around the fire as the evening draws in.
And there will be time for yourself, too. Time to read, to wander, to sit quietly, or to become absorbed in something you've been wanting to try.
There is something wonderful about being among women who understand the beauty of the natural world, who notice the changing seasons, and who find meaning in the small things that so often go overlooked.
I hope this weekend will be a chance to enjoy that companionship, discover something new, and return home with a little more room in your heart for the quieter pleasures of life.
What to Expect
Nature Immersion & Slow Living
Instead of a packed schedule of structured activities, we offer women the space to connect with nature at their own pace. The natural beauty of Eleuthera invites slow exploration and reflection. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
Daily Gentle Nature Walks: Guided strolls along beaches or nearby natural settings, focusing on mindfulness, breathwork, and a deep connection to the earth. These walks encourage “deep listening,” allowing you to fully engage with your surroundings.
Silent Mornings: Start your day in silence with sunrise meditations by the ocean, quiet moments in nature, journaling, or personal rituals like morning tea by the sea. This time promotes introspection and grounding.
Sunset Beach Gatherings: Relaxed evening gatherings by the water, featuring guided reflections or the chance to share your thoughts and experiences from the day.
Mindfulness & Restorative Practices: We offer gentle, reflective activities like nature meditations and restorative yoga sessions to support wellness and personal growth without pressure.
Sacred Space Creation: Learn to create personal “sacred spaces” in nature using materials like shells, stones, and flowers found during walks.
Nature Journaling: Receive a beautifully crafted journal upon arrival to explore daily themes like “rooting” or “release” through creative writing, art, or poetry.
Artistic Expression: SoulCollage® sessions encourage free expression and inner healing.
Sacred Water Rituals: Meaningful rituals like releasing old burdens into the water or blessing yourself with healing sea water, all at your own pace.
Personal Free Time & Reflection: Ample time for solitude—reading, swimming, playing pickleball, or soaking in the environment.
Reflection Points: Quiet corners and outdoor spaces for private reflection, journaling, or simply enjoying the surroundings, with suggestion cards available for inspiration.
Additional Extras Available for a Fee:
Private Yoga Session with Kristina
Massage (on premises)
Snorkeling & other excursions (please book ahead)
Excursion to Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, a 25 Acre Plant Sanctuary On Eleuthera
Alcohol Policy
To support physical well-being and foster a mindful retreat environment, we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing or consuming alcohol, both on and off the property, during the retreat.
Our no-alcohol policy is rooted in the following principles:
Respecting those in our group or at the retreat center who are actively recovering from addiction through programs like AA.
Supporting those who may have an unresolved or unrecognized relationship with alcohol.
Preserving the sacred, meditative atmosphere of our retreat and maintaining its intentional focus.
We appreciate your understanding and commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and reflective space for all participants.
Our Accomodations:
Spanning 50 stunning acres, this extraordinary property features beaches on both sides, providing a truly unparalleled coastal experience.
Our retreat is set on a private hilltop estate, exclusively reserved for our guests. Perched 45 feet above the Caribbean, this serene sanctuary offers sweeping views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, giving you the freedom to choose your perfect spot for a swim or a leisurely stroll each day. From your spacious room or suite, you'll enjoy the rare privilege of watching the sun rise over the Atlantic and set over the Caribbean, all from the comfort of expansive windows or your private deck.
This breathtaking 50-acre property boasts beaches on both sides, offering a unique coastal experience.
On the Atlantic side, you'll discover an unspoiled 3-mile stretch of pink-sand beach, untouched by development and accessible only through a private, golf-cart-only driveway. With its secluded charm and serene beauty, this nearly private oasis is perfect for peaceful walks and panoramic views.
On the Caribbean side, just steps from our doorstep, lies a smaller, more secluded beach ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. While slightly rockier, the calm, clear waters provide the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration, offering a blissful escape from the everyday.
The property features two stunning buildings, each housing four luxurious two-bedroom suites—two located on the upper floor and two on the ground floor. Each suite is thoughtfully designed with a gourmet kitchen, a spacious living room, and private decks offering breathtaking water views. The suites include a master bedroom with a king-sized bed and a second bedroom with two twin beds, both accompanied by private ensuite bathrooms. Common areas, such as the kitchen and living room, are shared by suite occupants. If you prefer a ground-floor room or have someone in mind to share your room or suite, please let us know, and we’ll be happy to accommodate your needs.
A private chef will freshly prepare all meals on-site, including four gourmet dinners and daily buffet-style lunches served in the main lodge. Upon your arrival, each suite kitchen will also be stocked with essential breakfast provisions for your convenience.
Amenities include a private pool, golf carts, a pickleball court, and beach towels for your convenience.
Welcome Home
Retreat Cost & Payment Options
We understand that paying for a retreat can be an investment, so we've made it easier for you to join us with a flexible payment plan.
King Single (Private room) $4200
Twin Double (Shared Room) $3400 per person
A non-refundable $600 deposit required to reserve your space. This deposit is due when you confirm your reservation.
After your deposit, the balance will be split into two payments:
First payment is due by June, 1, 2025
Balance is due by November 1, 2025.
Please note that no refunds will be allowed after November 1, 2025. Trip insurance is strongly encouraged to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Flights and airport transfers are not included, but we can help coordinate travel from airports to the property.
If retreat is canceled by us for any reason, you are entitled to a full refund.
How to Reserve Your Spot:
Due to limited availability, we encourage you to reserve your place early. To do so:
Complete this inquiry form.
We will email you further details, including registration, ways to pay, etc.
We look forward to welcoming you to this special retreat experience!