March | May | October 2026
Madeira Fitness Retreat
Duration
7 days, 6 nights
Location
Madeira Island, Portugal
Group size
7-14 guests
Fly Into
Funchal airport
Perfect for
Headspace | Outdoor Adventure | Connection | Training
Price
£300 Deposit with monthly payment plan
From £1,750 per person
adventure with us in PORTUGAL
You’re busy, active and curious. You live a full life and don’t often get time away from routines, responsibilities, and decision-making. You’re looking for headspace, perspective, and some physical challenge, so you can be the best version of yourself. You owe it to yourself and to those around you.
You may arrive knowing no one. This will change very quickly.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Our Madeira Retreat is built on the fundamentals of good health: training balanced with recovery, shared time discovering nature, eating high-quality seasonal food, connecting with each other and slowing down.
Our base is a restored farmhouse estate with a mix of private and shared villas overlooking the Atlantic, with space to be social and space to be by yourself. We spend time in the garden and eat slow dinners al fresco together.
Our hosting allows connections to happen naturally and we’ve crafted for you the perfect mix of calm, adrenaline, nature and camaraderie.
You can expect to leave with fresh energy, greater confidence, new perspectives and friendships formed authentically. Many of our guests stay in touch long after the week ends and sometimes travel together again.
If you value movement, meaningful conversation, kind hosting, and a week that feels both restorative and expansive, you’ll feel right at home here.
We can’t wait to see you!
2026 RETREAT DATES
WHO YOU’LL MEET
Our retreats attract busy, active, curious minds looking to reset and be inspired. Guests often join us solo, sometimes with a friend, partner or family member. They’re looking for like-minded individuals to share the experience with.
Most guests are between 30 and 60 years old. They are active in different ways; whether it’s at the gym, outdoors, or in a dance studio. Everyone is willing to try new things, spend time outdoors, and be in good company.
We have one fitness requirement, to be able to hike for a few hours.
Guests often comment on how easily the group gels; we think it’s down to our love for hosting and having a setting that allows you to reflect in nature as well as be social. Friendships made in Madeira often last well beyond the Retreat week.
where you’ll stay
Our home for the week is a stunning farm estate on the southwest side of the island, made up of a main house and individual cottages dotted around small organic gardens. We think it’s the perfect setting to rest and reclaim your headspace, with views to the Atlantic ocean, an outdoor pool and nature all around.
We have a selection of double and twin rooms available in the main house, as well as private double ensuite bedrooms in independent cottages. You can book your own room or share it with a friend or partner. All houses have been lovingly refurbished to a very high standard so you can enjoy a blend of tradition and modern luxury.
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Lounge
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Garden
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Pool
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Main House bedroom
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Main House bedroom
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Main House bathroom
Exploring Madeira
Expect to experience different landscapes and microclimates on this famous Portuguese island. We’ll be hiking volcanic terrain to the island’s 1862m peak, dipping into tidal pools, walking through forests, and canyoning. All activities are led by expert local coaches. Below are three of them from our schedule.
Hiking the PR1 Vereda do Arieiro (Pico to Pico Hike)
We’ll hike one of the most spectacular trails of Madeira, connecting two of the highest peaks on the island through ridges, narrow paths carved into the rock and panoramic views of peaks and valleys. At times we may find ourselves hiking above the clouds. The Vereda do Areeiro, aka Pico to Pico hike, is casually referred to as “Stairway to Heaven’ for good reason; the combination of challenging terrain, awe-inspiring views and the sense of accomplishment upon completing the trail makes it one of the most rewarding outdoor activities on the island.
Canyoning
Canyoning in Madeira is magical. You’ll slide down smooth, natural rock slides, rappel through misty waterfalls, jump into crystal-clear pools and swim through narrow canyons surrounded by mossy cliffs and soft filtered sunlight. It’s the perfect way to feel awe, adrenaline and gratitude at the same time. In planning our routes, we assume that everyone is a beginner and we work with local expert English-speaking guides to keep you safe and enjoying yourself. You can expect to leave with a sense of achievement and stories to tell!
All water jumps are optional, and there’s always an alternative way to complete the canyoning experience.
Faja dos Padres
We’re excited for you to discover this dramatic narrow strip of land by the sea with turquoise, crystal-clear waters, underneath a 250-meter cliff, accessible only by cable car. Originally developed by Jesuit priests, this is the perfect spot for lunch, a refreshing dip in the sea and a stroll around the unique mango, banana and avocado plantation protected by a unique microclimate.
where you’ll train
We have arranged gym sessions at Box Naval in Funchal, in group classes led by their excellent team of coaches. Whether you’re new to training or have been at it for some time, you can expect to be coached with care.
The workouts will be tailored to each guest, so that we can all train together while each guest is challenged appropriately to their level. In these sessions to date we have had every level of strength and fitness, from beginner to competitor.
If you have been given a specific training protocol to rehab an injury or for any other training goal, you can do it at the same time as our session in the open gym area.
We will also make use of the beautiful setting of our villa to do a bodyweight workout.
Most evenings we will recover from the activities of the day with yoga in the garden led by our hosts.
your hostS
Stella Kamba
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Stella founded More Life Adventures after several years of working as an architect and having experienced episodes of burnout in London. Having retrained as a personal trainer and after years of CrossFit training, she saw firsthand the role of recovery in long-term high performance. She began running fitness retreats to respond to the intensity of city living with intentional training, time in nature and living in community.
As a child, Stella went to summer camp every year, a formative experience she has brought to the More Life Adventures itineraries. She is in her element hosting groups of varied backgrounds and you can rely on her to ask questions and keep you going during long hikes!
RACHEL LINGHAM
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Rach is a retreat planner, event producer and surfer from the UK, living in Lisbon. She’s spent years creating everything from large-scale cultural gatherings to intimate retreats - spaces that connect people, spark ideas and leave room to breathe.
A long-time student and teacher of yoga, her work is shaped by the same principles she finds in practice - awareness, flow and connection. Whether planning a retreat or bringing together artists and speakers for an event, she cares about how things feel as much as how they run.
Now at MLA she looks after our Chamonix and Madeira itineraries and will be your host and yoga teacher in Madeira.
ANNA RICKMANN
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Anna was born in Germany and lives in Portugal, where she previously managed a surfhouse and now runs yoga and surf retreats, helping people reconnect to themselves and to nature.
With a background in hospitality, communication and project management, she combines structure with flexibility and warmth and loves to see guests let go of stress and leave lighter and more connected.
A lover of the sea, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Marine Living Resources. This year she will be hosting you in Crete and Madeira along with Rachel Lingham.
Madeira Fitness Retreat Itinerary
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Touch down in Madeira, Portugal and breathe in that Atlantic air. After a coastal drive from the airport, we stop in the seaside village of Ponta do Sol for a laid-back lunch with ocean views, perfect to shake off the travel haze.
Once at our home for the week, you’ll settle into your room, explore the lush grounds or take a refreshing dip in the pool. Our hosts will lead us into an open-air stretch session in the garden.
In the evening, we’ll gather around the table for a welcome dinner and relaxed chats as the sun dips behind the mountains.
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Wake up at your own pace, and choose to go for a swim, walk, read or journal. Join the group for breakfast in the garden, fuelling up for a day of adventure.
Mid-morning, we’ll transfer to our canyoning starting point for a morning full of challenge, surprise in nature. At the end of the session, we’ll refuel with a picnic lunch to relax and celebrate.
Following lunch, we head out to Cabo Girão, home to one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. We’ll take in the expansive views and allow space to absorb the beauty of the island.
Upon returning to the house, we’ll have an optional yoga session in the garden. The remainder of the afternoon is yoursfor you to rest as you like; and perhaps dip into our private pool.
As the day winds down, we gather for a home-cooked dinner, sharing stories and laughs with the Atlantic in the background.
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After gathering for breakfast, we transfer to a coached CrossFit class at Box Naval Gym, for a session of strength, movement and shared motivation, adapted to your level.
After the session, we’ll jump on a scenic cable car descent to Fajã dos Padres, for a unique coastal lunch made with local produce. We’ll make time for a relaxed walk, a dip in the sea and beach time to fully soak in the surroundings.
Later, we return via cable car and transfer back to the house. Opt for a guided team stretch or private time to rest, reflect, or recharge - before we come together for a home-cooked dinner, closing the day in comfort and connection.
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We’ll begin the morning slowly with a gentle wake-up and a light breakfast at home. Join a guided bodyweight session in the garden for strength, mobility and flow while staying deeply connected to your breath.
We then transfer to Seixal for lunch, to explore the Seixal natural pools and beach. Expect to dip, swim, laugh and explore a striking coastal landscape at a relaxed pace.
Following our return transfer, there will be time for a massage if you’d like one. In the evening, we’ll gather for a chef-prepared dinner around the long family table.
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We’ll start the day with breakfast at the house, fuelling up for a big day ahead.
We then transfer to the start of the PR1, and set out to hike through some of Madeira’s most striking volcanic landscapes. We’ll be stopping to take in the stunning views and make a longer pause for picnic lunch along the way.
We’ll celebrate the end of the hike with a glass of poncha at one of our favourite stops along the way.
As the evening falls, expect a chef-prepared family-style dinner to close the day, sharing stories from the day.
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We’ll start the day with a team breakfast before transferring to a coached CrossFit class at Box Naval. After training, we head into town for a relaxed and nourishing lunch and midday pause.
To recover, we’ll head for a leisurely walk to the stunning Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, to reconnect with nature and meander back to the villa via the local coffee roastery. You can then choose to take part in a guided team stretch or have private time to yourself before the evening.
We’ll end the day with sunset by the pool, followed by a chef-prepared meal in the garden.
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On our final day, the morning is yours to relax by the pool, soak in the surroundingsand take a deep breath before checking out.
We’ll then drive to Funchal and take the panoramic cable car to Monte Palace, for a walk and lunch at the stunning tropical gardens.
After lunch we’ll make our way to the airport for your transfer home, carrying epic memories and the energy of a restorative week.
Meals
All breakfasts and dinners are included in your package.
We work closely with nutritionist Sinead Roberts to plan your meals and you will receive a nutrition guide upon booking with guidelines for your meals and snacks.
Expect hearty local dishes made with fresh local ingredients to fuel you for an active week. We will eat together around a long family table, whether in the comfort of our garden or at hand-picked restaurants chosen for their food quality and character.
Breakfast: Our breakfasts will include organic produce straight from the farm.
Lunch: Each day we will have lunch at one of our favourite local restaurants, each offering a unique view of the island. On our long hike and canyoning days we will have a packed lunch prepared for us the night before (and victory snacks at the summit). Please note that all other lunches are not included in the price.
Dinner: Back at the farmhouse, we’ll share stories around a long table and eat delicious meals prepared by our private chef.
Dietary Requirements
We cater to all dietary requirements, which we ask you to let us know on your booking form once your booking has been confirmed.
Drinks
To support proper recovery during the week, we take a considered approach to alcohol.
Our villa has a Hobbit bar where we can enjoy a glass in the evenings. We also typically share a celebratory poncha after our big hike. Overall, we aim to keep alcohol consumption moderate so your body can benefit from the training, sleep and time in nature.
We trust our guests to make choices that feel good for them, within a week designed around recovery and energy rather than excess.
If you’re curious about why we take this approach, you can read more on our blog here.
HOW TO BOOK
You can book your space with a deposit of £300 and spread the balance across monthly instalments. The full balance is due one month prior to departure.
Booked with us before? Don’t forget to use your loyalty code.
EARLY-BIRD pricing
Double Occupancy Double or Twin Bedroom: from £1,750 per person
Single Occupancy Double Bedroom : from £2,350 per person
terms and conditions
Once your deposit is made, you’ll receive our Terms and Conditions to sign, for your booking to be confirmed.
We require a minimum of 7 guests to go ahead and we do our best to fulfil our promise to you. In the unlikely event that we cannot go ahead, your payment will be refunded in full, or you can choose instead to move it to a different More Life Adventures retreat.
We have one group airport transfer before lunchtime on arrival day and after lunch on departure day. The exact transfer times are confirmed separately for each date.
If the transfer times do not suit you, we can arrange a private transfer for you at an additional cost.
MAKE THE MOST OF IT
If you’d like to stay a few extra days on the island before or after our fitness retreat, we can assist you with arrangements to make the most of your stay.
DATES AND BOOKING LINKS
Included in the price
Accommodation: Six nights stay at our farm estate; with exclusive use of the house, outdoor pool and grounds.
All Breakfasts, Dinners and two picnic lunches
All Outdoor Activities: Pico-to-Pico hike, Canyoning, visit to Faja dos Padres and all other day trips.
Training and Yoga sessions: All our CrossFit classes, bodyweight classes and yoga sessions for the week are included.
All transfers including group airport transfers: Airport transfer times are planned separately for each trip to allow for a group lunch on both days. If you require a different airport transfer time, we can book this for you separately at an additional cost.
Madeira Retreat Gift Pack: A curated gift bag of essentials put together by Team MLA.
Photography: Photos and videos to keep the memories alive!
optional Add-ons
Massage: 60-minute massage sessions in the comfort of our own villa.
Private airport transfer: If you cannot make the group transfer, we can arrange a private transfer for you at an additional cost.
Not included in the price
Lunches: We take you to authentic local eateries as opposed to formal restaurants and you can choose from a starter to a three-course meal depending on your preference.
Return travel to Funchal: Your return flights to and from Funchal airport are not included, however we will send you detailed instructions on what flights to book.
Travel Insurance: We ask you to book this at your end with your provider of choice and send us confirmation of your insurance policy.
Drinks: We ask you to cover your own drinks individually during the week.
Sustainable Travel
Travel gives us the privilege of exploring beautiful places, connecting with local communities, and spending meaningful time in nature. It also comes with responsibility.
As a B Corp, we design our retreats to minimise unnecessary impact while maximising positive contribution. By reducing waste, supporting local businesses, and making considered choices together, we can help protect the places we visit and ensure they continue to thrive.
During our time together in Madeira, we:
Travel using group transfers
Actively reduce single-use plastic
Ask guests to be mindful of energy and water use
Leave no rubbish behind; on trails, beaches, or at our accommodation
A note on air travel
Air travel is worth making the most of. If you’d like to stay a few extra days on the island before or after the retreat, we’re happy to help you plan your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
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We tend to gather busy high achievers, who work hard and want to invest in their health but have little to no time for planning breaks. We’ve had guests on sabbatical, in-between jobs, right before a life change, celebrating a birthday, or simply taking some time out for themselves.
You’ll find kind, genuine, well-travelled, curious people who love to challenge themselves physically, try new things and explore the world in good company. Conversation can range from silly to serious; we love to laugh, mostly at ourselves! There is a little bit of alcohol during the trip, but not a lot.
Our guests are typically anywhere between 30s and 60s but we’ve also had younger and older guests on occasion.
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We welcome all levels of fitness. Prior experience in functional fitness training or CrossFit is not at all required. We ask you to:
Be able to join us on a big hike lasting 4 hours, with frequent breaks.
Be willing to train with us and try new things.
Every workout is individually tailored; Before the retreat, we collect detailed information on your training background, goals, and any injuries so we can plan sessions with our guests in mind.
It is common for guests to join us with a prior injury; we regularly modify workouts and train around these safely.
If you’ve taken some time away from training, this can be a great opportunity to rebuild consistency and confidence, with support from experienced, attentive coaches.
If in doubt, drop us a line at hello@morelifeadventures.com and let’s have a chat.
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To date, we have had guests from their 30s to their 60s. We have no upper age limit.
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Absolutely. Many of our guests join solo and leave with a circle of new friends. We design the experience to make new connections effortless.
We also encourage you to invite a friend or family member, which reduces the per-person cost and helps build meaningful memories.
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Sharing a room with a friend, partner, or family member can be a lovely way to experience the retreat together. Shared rooms are also priced at a lower rate than single occupancy.
If you’re travelling solo, rest assured you won’t be asked to share a room unless you choose to.
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All activities are optional and you are very welcome to opt in or out as you like. If you’d like to opt out of some of the activities, our accommodation is an ideal place to spend some time relaxing, napping or reading a book.
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We arrange group transfers from Funchal Airport so that everyone arrives together.
Once you’ve booked, we’ll share recommended flight times to match the group transfer.If you’re unable to join the group transfer, you’re welcome to book a private airport transfer with us as an add-on, or make your own arrangements — just let us know in advance.
Please note that the villa is available from the scheduled group arrival time.
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We work with an excellent local chef to provide fresh, locally sourced, homemade and delicious food.
Our meals are planned by our nutritionist Sinead Roberts with our activities in mind, so you are always well-fuelled. Portions are generous, so you are unlikely to be hungry between meals.
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We cater for all allergies and dietary requirements. Once you’ve secured your place, you can let us know your requirements on the booking form we send you.
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To help you recover properly during the week, we take a considered approach to alcohol.
We enjoy a drink with dinner and after our big hike, but overall we keep alcohol consumption moderate so your body can fully benefit from the activities, and get quality sleep.
Drinks are paid for individually.
We trust our guests to make choices that feel good for them, within a week designed around energy, recovery, and feeling better.
If you’re curious about why we take this approach, you can read more on our blog here.
Did we miss anything?
kind Words from our guestS
★★★★★
“This was an superbly organised adventure holiday on a magical island. Madeira is almost tropical with its lush greenery, beautiful mountains in the middle of the ocean. I hiked until I looked down into clouds nestled between the mountains and loved paddle boarding. We enjoyed tree planting with Friends of Madeira and topped it off with a refreshing dip in the natural pools. Thank you MLA!”
Ope A
★★★★★
“I had an incredible time with More Life Adventures! The trip exceeded my expectations in every way possible. It was great to meet new friends who share similar interests. One thing that really stood out to me was how well-planned everything was. More Life Adventures took care of everything, from arranging the activities to planning meals, which allowed us to relax and enjoy ourselves fully.”
Laura R
★★★★★
“This trip gave me a sense of achievement and the opportunity to meet lovely people who just make your life a bit better!”
Amy J
★★★★★
“Fantastic location, great people and an action packed holiday. Highly recommend if you have a taste for adventure.”
Punam M
★★★★★
“Thank you so much, I had a great time, it was awesome. Thank you for the lovely accommodation, the WODs we shared and the great food. It was very good. The chef was great too and thank you for your big love.”
Heather B
