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Discover the real Almería.
If you are a female travel enthusiast who is ready to escape the hordes of other tourists, you are tired of the typical destinations, and the tour bus style guided tours and want to experience the essence and culture of your destination, then join us for a retreat where you will discover Almerías hidden gems, mountain trails and savor tantalizing local flavors that few other travelers ever get to experience and return home relaxed, rejuvenated and content.
Standing barefoot in the sand
as the Mediterranean Sea laps at your feet, you inhale and smell the fresh salty air, you feel your shoulders drop and your stress melt away as the sun kisses your skin. You realize that you are more relaxed and freer then you have felt in years. The days events have left you engaged and fulfilled. As you take in the next breath, you smell the wood fire where your incredible Spanish meal is being prepared and hear the cork exiting the bottle of another fabulous Spanish wine. A feeling of anticipation fills you as you imagine what tomorrow will bring.
Exploring the glittering desert mountains on the coast of Almerìa, you revel in the riches and beauty surrounding you. The sound of the birds delight your ears, while the sparkling crystals are a feast for your eyes. The history and the wonders of Almería are all around you. You are on yet another incredible adventure...
Flamenco & tapas, you cannot leave Andalucía without being exposed to the incredible dance and music of Flamenco nor enjoying the incredible array of tapas. With Secrets of Almería you will get the opportunity to try tapas you would have never known you could order, but will wish you could take home with you! And dance your heart out with professional Flamenco dancers and performers that help you understand the heart of Flamenco!
The colorful local markets are not to be missed, you see the incredible products and soak in the local culture of the Mediterranean coast and the riches it has to offer. You can smell the churros and chocolate mixed with the salty air, and see the incredible variety of tomatoes, peppers, and fruits; you aren't sure where to start, so you jump right in!
THE BENEFITS OF TAKING AN ESCAPE WITH SECRETS OF ALMERIA
Wouldn’t it feel delightful to explore the little-known gems that southern Spain has to offer, and you get to skip all of the tourist destinations?
On this retreat, by focusing the itinerary on the gorgeous little-known destinations, on the the incredible food, the local family-owned businesses, and on the road lesser traveled, you will feel less like a tourist and more a part of the family.
How liberated will you feel waking up each morning without a care in the world?
On this retreat, everything is carefully planned and organized removing the need for you to make any decisions enabling you to release the stress and soak in the Mediterranean lifesyle so that you can return home relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to take on the world once again.
Wouldn’t it be fun to travel with a small group of like-minded travelers to share activities and meals?
On this retreat you will join like-minded travelers, on a journey to experience the real southern Spain led by a local English-speaking guide. You will eat like a local, explore “locals only” hidden destinations and make friends during this epic experience.
Can you picture the relief and tranquility when you “get away from it all” in gorgeous southern Spain without the worry of communicating in a foreign language?
On this retreat, you will have local Spanish and English-speaking guides so that you will have experiences that very few foreigners enjoy and understand every detail.
Can you feel the joy of experiencing a curated, all-inclusive 7-night journey in sunny and beautiful Spain?
On this retreat, through exploring hidden gems, enjoying culinary delights and experiencing the exotic Spanish culture, you will discover the secrets that most tourists don’t have the opportunity to allowing you to return home feeling satisfied and fulfilled.
How tranquil will you feel to just ‘be’ and let the world move around you, while you soak in all of its beauty?
On this retreat, ever detail is meticulously planned with your needs and desires in mind so that you can be in the moment, soaking it all in.
Wouldn't it feel great to know that you are giving back to the community while enjoying yourself?
Secrets of Almería donates 100 euros to our local Paws-Patas Animal Shelter for each retreat booked!
Your Chalet Away From Home
For the first 5 nights, you will enoy our lovely chalet just seconds from the sea in the heart of Almería. You will enjoy the sounds of the waves from your bedroom window and from the breakfast table.
It's not only a beautiful location, but puts you in the heart of Spanish experience. Enjoying the Spanish veranda common areas in and outside of the house to hang out and relax. You can stretch or practice yoga from the terrace overlooking the sea or you can curl up with the book in any nook you fancy. This will be your home away from home, enjoying the typical Andalucían lifestyle.
The chalet has 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms all well equipped and comfortable. Several rooms are set-up for sharing, but if you prefer not to share that is available too! In addition, the house enjoys a great orientation from allowing you to enjoy the sunshine and sea views from the multiple terraces, and it has a large patio, with a wrap around porch and an ample swimming pool and multiple chill out zones. Whether you are looking to hang out with your new friends or you are looking for some private time there are multiple areas to do either one.
In order for you to reduce your packing and ensure a comfortable stay, each bathroom has a hairdryer, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hair brushes/combs, soap, shampoo & conditioner and more.
For the last 3 nights, we will stay in a lovely boutique hotel in the center of Almería city. We will be in the heart of the historic district, within walking distance of the best to see and eat in the city! If you selected a shared room in our Chalet, you will keep your same roommate in your large hotel room, unless you request otherwise which can be arranged. Contact us for more details: info@secretsofalmeria.com!
A FEAST FOR ALL OF THE SENSES
Andalucía is well known for it's rich and savory cuisine
and we will be samping a big variety of the best flavors on offer. You will discover the tapas culture, the rich Paella and the incredible seafood on offer.
Imagine the delicious aroma of saffron and smoked paprika filling the air as the chef is preparing your incredible Lobster Paella, with perfectly cooked rice infused with the rich flavors from the local seafood topped with fresh lobster, your sense will come alive with every bite.
Your culinary journey will soar when you experience the "Journey Through Andalucía" wine tasting gastronomic experience with our experienced Sommelier perfectly pairing incredible tapas with wines from noteworthy local wineries.
Let's not forget that accompanying your meals you will have the opportunity to explore the incredible local wines, beers, cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks available here. From incredible fresh squeezed orange juice, fresh brewed coffee or tinto de verano (a local wine spritzer) each offer enhancing your meal in a way that suits you best.
Join us for this immersive culinary adventure, where every flavor is a story, every aroma an invitation to explore the heart of Southern Spain. Each meal is not just eating; it’s a cultural experience, a journey of taste, aroma, and connection. Welcome to our table, where every bite is a vibrant celebration of life along the Mediterranean.
Your Excape to the Mediterranean
What incredible experiences will I enoy on this journey?
Here is a glimpse of what we offer.
Sample Itinerary
Day 0 = Arrival Day: You will be picked up from the airport or train station as long as you arrive at the organized destination within the arrival window. You will be whisked to our gorgeous chalet in Vera Playa where you can relax and get unpacked with a glass of wine in your hand.
Day 1 = Pampering & Nourishment: Today we will nourish our bodies with a delicious olive oil pairing breakfast, time exploring in the Spanish countryside and a relaxing massage to work out those travel kinks.
Day 2 = The White Painted Village: After a home-cooked breakfast we will go to the white-painted village of Mojacar to soak in the views, and explore the local shops and old architecture. Later we will enjoy a fabulous paella on the beach and dinner will be our incredible gastronomic "Journey through Andalucía" wine pairing!
Day 3 = Outdoor Markets, Coves & Art: Today we will explore the adorable local market in the seaside village of Villaricos. After a typical Spanish breakfast, and our fill of shopping, we will head out and explore the little known coves in the area for snorkeling and beach combing. In the evening we will dabble in a little art while enjoying local wine and tapas.
Day 4 = Sparkling Views: We will begin with a gorgeous hike, then stop for ceramics shopping in the artisan village of Nijar, and have a fabulous meal in the coastal village of Agua Amarga. After some much-deserved free time back at the chalet and of course a lovely dinner.
Day 5 = Boats & Spa time: Today we will head towards Almería for everything Flamenco (okay and tapas, fortresses, and shopping too). We will stop in a gorgeous seaside village for a VIP trip on the Mediterranean and an incredible seafood lunch. That evening after our time in the Hammam spa we will enjoy some tapas in the historic district.
Day 6 = Tapas & Flamenco: After our incredible breakfast we will explore our way through historic Almería; learning about this incredible city through it's food and history. We will also enjoy a fantastic Flamenco class and then be entertained by an incredible Flamenco show and dinner.
Day 7 = Beaches, Shopping Exploring, it's your choice!: Today, you can choose from an array of options. You can go off to explore on your own, go shopping, or to the beach or join me to visit the Alcazaba and the el Cable Ingles or a combination of the above. Lunch and dinner will both be included today and at incredible locations chosen for their unique gastronomy and their locations.
Day 8 = Departure: Today we will get you back to the train station or hotel as long as you are leaving from the designated locations and within the designated times.
MORE REASONS TO COME TO SPAIN WITH SECRETS OF ALMERÍA
Can you imagine knowing you will have 7 full days of fun, relaxation, culture, amazing food, friends, outdoor activities, live entertainment and art and dancing classes and not have to lift a finger to plan anything?
On this retreat, you will enjoy a curated experience that allows you to experience Spain like a local; enjoying the best of everything so that you can go home knowing that you didn't miss a thing and yet knowing there is still more to experience when you come back.
How relaxed will you feel walking the beach and feeling the Mediterranean Sea lapping at your bare feet?
Everwhere we go while you are on this adventure, you will be seduced by the gorgeous blues of the Mediterranean Sea. Each day you can take the opportunity to hear the waves, dip into the healing waters and take selfies that will make your friends and family envious and allow you to return home rejuvenated.
Wouldn't it be DELICIOUS to sit down at some of the best hand picked restaurants and not have to translate the menu and try to figure out what to order?
Cathy has hand picked each and every restaurant for you to enjoy during your week in Almería. Each restaurant has been chosen for it's food, it's cultural importance and/or it's goergeous views and sometimes because of the entertainment. In addition, you will enjoy an incredible gastronomical tour through Andalucía through the food and wine as you enjoy a customized meal where each course is paired with a delicious local wine and you will learn what Spanish wine is all about so that you can go home knowing what Spanish gastronomy truly is and know you had some of the best!
Can you imagine hiking down into a magical cove that very few people know about and soaking in the sea or looking for abalone?
We love to discover special snorkeling holes and little known beaches to get away from the crowd and soak in the tranqility of the Mediterranean Sea. You will have the opportunity to discover some of our secret spots so that you can return home and still hear the calming sound of the Sea to carry you through your day.
How about getting some of that stress out on the dance floor? Can you embrace your inner BADASS and dance Flamenco?
Cathy has organized for you to dance with professional Flamenco dancers, singers and guitarists to give you a special and unique experience that no other tourists have so that whenever you need to you can tap into your inner Flamenco dancer, hold your head up high and show the world who you really are; a strong, beautiful and amazing woman!
Picture beautiful mountains in the desert, view of the Mediterranean Sea and sparkling gemstones at your feet...
WIth Cathy you will be going somewhere special that even many of the locals don't realize exists so that you can spend the afternoon amazed and in awe of the beauty around you and have stories to tell when you get back home.
Top 4 reasons to join us:
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On this adventure, with like-minded travelers, through intimate “locals only” experiences you will find kinship and community allowing you to make deep and meaningful connections that will last a lifetime.
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During our time together you will be immersed into the Mediterranean lifestyle with authentic local experiences, you will discover hidden gems and awaken your senses connecting you to the beauty of life around you.
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On this retreat, through unforgettable adventures in the mountains, desert and sea, you will forget about those emails, presentations and needy clients, so that you can unwind and feel reinvigorated.
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On this journey together, through introducing you to the authentic Spanish flavors, the hidden language of Flamenco and the surprising secrets destinations you will rekindle your passion for life so that you can let go and have fun!
What's included
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A gorgeous home-like environment for 5 nights, where you feel like part of the family, in a private chalet in a seaside village.
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3 nights in a boutique historic hotel in the historic center of Almería, close to everthing but away from the noise and hustle and bustle of the city.
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Homemade breakfast made fresh daily while at the chalet and a delicious breakfast buffet while we are in the city – that is eight scrumptious breakfasts.
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All meals are included 7 luscious lunches, and 8 gourmet dinners – plus snacks, tea, coffee, wine, soda and bottled water at any time of the day.
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Welcome massage
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Spa Hammam access with massage at Aire Spa
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Magical, unique off-the-beaten-path guided experiences for seven full days throughout Almería, Spain.
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Free time to roam the local beaches and bird-filled lagoons neighboring our chalet.
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Free time to shop and explore Almería city.
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All entrance fees for all planned excursions.
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Group Transportation for all excursions and to and from the airport at designated times, arriving on September 4th and departing on September 12th.
What's Not included
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Your round-trip airfare from home.
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Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance (highly recommended!)
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Personal transport to the airport outside of scheduled group transport.
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Meals, beverages and activities during free time or done outside planned group activities.
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Tips and gratuities.
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Taxi transport and entrance fees for any private, individual trips.
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Souvenirs, phone calls, spa services (except those included in the group activities), taxis, laundry (through a paid service), etc.
What you'll take home
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Beautiful gifts crafted for you from Secrets of Almería
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A depth of knowledge about Spain; the culture, the gastronomy, and the land.
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Moments you will treasure for a lifetime
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A relaxed and less stressed mindset
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Beach and mountain treasures
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New Friends
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A little of the Spanish language and a lot of the Spanish mindset
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Deep connections with other amazing individuals who want to travel in the same style you do!
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Incredible memories (and pictures!) of your Spanish adventures and new friends.
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A tan (if you want one that is!)
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New ways of thinking about travel and how to explore new places
This adventure is just what you need if:
You want to travel to fabulous places but don't know where to start
You prefer to not travel alone and would love to be with like-minded women
You love to be pampered and don't want to be in charge of the travel details
You want to see the wonders and beauty of Spain and not wait in line
You love food and wine and getting to know new people
You don't know Spanish making it difficult to get to the essence of Spain
You love nature, hiking, snorkeling, the sun and spa time
This adventure is not what you need if:
You prefer to go it alone and not travel with anyone else
You like to be in charge and feel you could do it better
You don't like adventures or getting a little dusty and dirty
You don't like trying new foods and wines and prefer to only eat what you know
You like waiting in line and only checking the boxes of the typical generic travel
You don't love nature, hiking, snorkeling, the sun and spa time
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Is this retreat for me?This retreat is for you if: You are ready for a new way to travel and explore the world You want a healthy mix of relaxation and activities that fill your heart with fun, laughter and connection You want to immerse yourself into the local culture You enjoy food and wine You are ready to let go and have some fun You want to try something new The road lesser traveled is calling your name This retreat is NOT for you if: You prefer traditional modes of travel You want to see the 'check the box' tourist destinations You are not interested in trying new things You don't enjoy food and wine You prefer to keep yourself distant from the local culture You only want to lay by the pool or on the beach and skip any excursions
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What is the itinerary?The EXACT itinerary, what we’ll be doing day to day, is not published so we can be in the moment. Every itinerary is unique and special bringing magical experiences for all of us, so keep your heart and mind open to what life will bring us. Due to the fact that we use many local and family owned providers there schedules may vary depending on the time of year and don't forget weather is also a big factor in choosing each activity during the week. We at Secrets of Almería don't believe in creating a 'set-in-stone' standardized itinerary, we evaluate each trip, the weather that week, day and hour and modify as we go to provide the best experience possible to our guests. The theme of each trip will always be honored and you will have an amazing time as that is our focus! You can see the general itinerary for each retreat to get a good idea of our adventure! Want to see a sample itinerary? Check this out
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What is included on my trip?Transportation to and from airport (designated times only!) Delicious and bountiful breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks each day of the retreat as part of all programmed activities All incredibly planned and guided excursions, the associated equipment and transportation Hospitality filled gorgeous accommodations for 9 nights Beach towels (of course!) Sunscreen (we don't leave home without it!) WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED: Souvenir shopping, personal phone calls, extra spa services, taxis, laundry, bell-boys, and tips for your room maid Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance Exceptions to the cancellation policy Activities during free time Airfare
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What is your cancelation policy?Any cancellation will result in a total loss of the $500 USD Deposit. Full payment of retreat is expected by 6 weeks before the 1st day of the retreat. Any cancelation made between 6 weeks and 12 weeks before retreat start date will result in a 50% loss of funds. If you cancel after 6 weeks and a day before the retreat start date you will experience a total loss of funds. We reserve the right to cancel the trip if it is not meeting the trip minimum (if we do so your deposit is refunded in full). We reserve the right to determine if you are not a good fit for this trip (if we do so your deposit will be refunded in full). Should the exchange rate vary more than 5%, price is subject to change. Trip cancellation insurance is always recommended whenever making travel plans.
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I would like to have a roommate - how do I arrange that?If you would like to be matched with a roommate, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to pair you with someone else who is also seeking a roommate. Then you’ll have a chance to meet and get to know your fellow traveler during our pre-trip online gatherings. In case there is no one to pair you with, your room will be considered a single, and an additional single-occupancy supplement will be added to your retreat fee.
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Can I bring my kids or partner?Secrets of Almería retreats (unless privately booked for a group) are adult women only trips meant for the traveler seeking a unique experience of connecting to the local culture and discovering the road lesser traveled. This is a great experience for women to come with friends, their daughter (over 21 of course!) or alone to meet new people and have an amazing opportunity to reconnect to themselves. This retreat is not a couples retreat!
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Where do I fly into?We recommend you choose the Almería, Alicante or Madrid airports. If you choose Madrid, we can then help you with how and from where you can book your train to Alicante or Almería so that you can be picked up by our driver and the others arriving into the Alicante airport. We will pick you up in Alicante (whether you arrive by train or plane) if your arrival is between 3pm and 7pm (this is subject to change as flight timetables update). For Almería, we would love it if you could arrive between 1 and 3pm. Departure from Alicante: We can have you to the Alicante or Almerìa airports by 8am, however if the the group has later departure times, we can adjust this schedule. Almería airport is 1 hour from our chalet and and Alicante is 2.5 hours from our chalet. If you do not see the location or timetables that we mention above, please ask Cathy before booking your flight! We are at your disposal to answer any questions you may have. Contact us at info@secretsofalmeria.com or via Whatsapp +34 644 773 807. You may choose to arrive or depart Spain on different dates and from different locations than our scheduled retreat, if you do that we can do our best to help you find your way the retreat pick-up locations whether it is buy local flight, train, bus or other. However, please before finalizing your travel itinerary, reach out and make sure that you have given yourself enough time to get from point A to point B as distances can be deceiving. Remember, you have chosen the road lesser traveled... and we want to help you have an incredible and low-stress experience in Spain!
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Is there transportation from the airport to the retreat venue?We provide transportation from the designated arrival city in a specific time window to the retreat venue. If you are going to arrive into a different city or outside the designated time window than we can help you organize transportation to the retreat venue at your own cost.
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Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?We can typically accommodate dietary restrictions however, please contact us in advance with your specific restriction to be sure that is possible.
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Will I have internet access?Yes, you will be able to stay connected with your loved ones. Wifi is available at our accommodations but may not always be at the high speed you are accustomed to! That being said, the more you can disconnect from your life back home, the better the impact of your experience, so please plan to be “off the grid” as much as possible.
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What is the weather like?Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 47°F to 87°F and is rarely below 42°F or above 95°F. August is the hottest month in Almeria with an average temperature of 27°C(80°F)and the coldest is January at 13°C(55°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 11 in July.
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What do I pack?You will be in Southern Spain and we have up to 320 days of sunshine a year! However, that doesn't mean we can guarantee perfect weather. The average weather for this time of year is 69F (21C) during the day and 54F (12C) in the evening. Being prepared throughout the day with a light jacket and/or scarf is recommended. We recommend packing light for your trip here, but maybe having an extra bag to fill with your purchases to take home! Recommended items: swimsuit comfortable/casual clothes for exploring villages an evening outfit for a night out hiking shoes/sandals comfortable walking shoes scarf jacket/rain jacket if you run cold, medications allergy medication (just in case)
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Still have a question?Please email us at info@secretsofalmeria.com with any question you have. We are happy to help!
Meet Your Retreat Host
Contact
Vera Playa, Almería, Spain 04621
+34 644 773 807 or +1 720-545-6003
