How to Choose a Women's Retreat: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Book

How Do I Choose the Right Women's Retreat?

Choosing a women's retreat is a deeply personal decision. The right retreat can be life-changing; the wrong one can feel like a wasted weekend. Here are 7 questions to help you evaluate whether a retreat is right for you.

1. Who Are the Retreat Guides?

The guides make or break the experience. Look for guides with:

• Professional credentials (coaching certifications, guiding certifications, wellness training)
• Years of experience leading groups
• A philosophy that resonates with you
• Testimonials from past participants

At Soul Sister Retreat, our guides are Heather Evans, MBA, PCC — an executive coach with 25+ years of experience — and Winslow Passey, a certified AMGA Ski Mountaineering Guide and Yoga Health Coach.

2. How Large Is the Group?

Group size dramatically affects the experience. Intimate retreats (8–15 women) allow for deep connection and personalized attention. Larger retreats (20+) can feel more like a conference.

Soul Sister Retreat caps attendance at 12 women to ensure every participant gets individual attention and the group can bond deeply.

3. What Is the Location Like?

The setting matters. Ask yourself:

• Does the landscape inspire me?
• Is it accessible from where I live?
• Will the environment support the transformation I'm seeking?

Zion National Park offers awe, scale, stillness, and wonder — qualities that create space for reflection and transformation.

4. What Activities Are Included?

Look beyond the marketing language. What will you actually do each day? Quality retreats include a mix of:

• Physical activity (hiking, movement, yoga)
• Reflective practices (journaling, meditation)
• Group work (workshops, sharing circles)
• Rest and integration time
• Nature connection

Soul Sister Retreat includes electric bike rides, fear breakthrough workshops, healing nutrition, archetype discovery, and a sacred rock release ritual.

5. What Is the Total Cost — and What's Included?

Be clear about what you're paying for. Does the price include lodging, meals, activities, and materials? Are there hidden costs?

Ask for a detailed breakdown so you can compare retreats apples-to-apples.

6. What Do Past Participants Say?

Testimonials are one of the most reliable indicators. Look for specific, detailed reviews — not just "it was great." Pay attention to comments about:

• The guides' effectiveness
• The depth of transformation
• The food and accommodations
• Whether expectations were met or exceeded

7. What Happens After the Retreat?

The best retreats don't end when you go home. Ask:

• Is there follow-up support?
• Is there a community to stay connected with?
• Are there practices to bring home?

Soul Sister Retreat offers ongoing community membership, The Freedom Practice for daily integration, and wellness tracking tools.

Ready to Find Your Retreat?

If you're looking for a women's retreat that combines adventure, reflection, community, and lasting transformation, explore Soul Sister Retreat's October retreat in Zion National Park.