Embodying Change: 7-day LGBTQ+ Retreat

Barcelona, Spain

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QUEER RETREATS
  • Email address verified
222 reviews
Jul 18 - 24, 2025
Group size: 8 - 13
Embodying Change: 7-day LGBTQ+ Retreat
Barcelona, Spain

QUEER RETREATS
  • Email address verified
222 reviews

Jul 18 - 24, 2025
Group size: 8 - 13

About this trip

Join WE CREATE SPACE, UNLOCK and QUEER RETREATS for a 7-DAY LGBTQ+ RETREAT outside BARCELONA with ORA ÖZER.


In our achievement-driven society, we're often conditioned to believe that meaningful change requires force, struggle and willpower. Hustle culture is not healthy, especially for LGBTQ+ people. This retreat presents a different path: one aligned with gentleness, inspiration and joy, set within a clear framework of inner exploration to help you fulfil your deepest aspirations.


Embodying Change is a seven-day experience designed to guide you through a holistic, inside-out approach to personal transformation. Learn practical approaches to personal and professional development that anchor your abundant ambition and your deepest desires in the generative foundation of your wellness.

What's included?

  • Daily yoga, movement and meditation
  • Guided nature and forest bathing to awaken the senses
  • Group workshops and activities designed to bring your ambition into productive alignment with your wellness
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner, with ingredients we sustainably source from producers in the region
  • Time to rest and relax, including use of the pool and sauna
  • On-site support from our team
  • One-to-one coaching session with our lead facilitator
  • Membership to WCS | Campus
  • Pick-up and drop-off from Sants Estació to our retreat home, Casa de Colors

Accommodation

Nestled in the stunning Catalan countryside and surrounded by majestic vineyards and mountains, our charming 16th-century masía is a relaxing escape just 50 minutes away from the vibrant city of Barcelona. Its serene environment, modern comforts and beautiful natural backdrops provide the perfect retreat setting.

Workshops & Activities

Hustle culture creates a familiar cycle: we drive ourselves toward burnout, recover just enough to function, then push again, slowing our progress while convincing us we're not doing enough. Along the way, we internalise the belief that if it doesn't hurt, it doesn't count. Struggle becomes validation of our effort rather than a sign that we need a different approach


We've inherited personal and professional development approaches that aren't designed with LGBTQ+ experiences in mind. 


For LGBTQ+ people already navigating minority stress, constant pushing has consequences for our nervous system. We become experts at overriding internal guidance, making achievements dependent on external validation rather than alignment with our authentic selves. Our wellness holds the key to developing practices that support transformation without sacrificing our ambitions, relationships and health.


Embodying Change is an immersive seven-day retreat to help you reprogram your relationship to yourself, your ambition and your wellness.


Through guided exercises, meditations and practical activities, you'll learn to view yourself through a compassionate lens, identifying and releasing internal obstacles while reconnecting with your authentic sense of purpose. This renewed state of being becomes the foundation for designing personalised, actionable steps that bridge the gap between your current reality and your desired future—all crafted by you, for you and with a supportive community around you.

Why Join?

Embodying Change guides you through seven transformative days of meaningful personal and professional growth. You’ll develop practical tools for sustaining change in ways that honour your ambition and preserve, protect and improve your wellness.

  • Discover a unique and proven framework for creating lasting personal change
  • Learn how to transform without struggle, force, or burnout
  • Identify and release the hidden blocks preventing your progress
  • Connect with your authentic desires beyond societal expectations
  • Experience the power of gentle, aligned action over willpower
  • Develop a personalised roadmap for your specific transformation goals
  • Gain practical tools to navigate each stage of the change process
  • Reconnect with your deepest desires without fear or hesitation
  • Design the set of practices that supports your vision for the future
  • Join a supportive community of fellow travellers on their own journeys of change

The Team

Our experienced team will guide you through your retreat journey:


Ora Özer (all pronouns), Facilitator

Ora supports creatives, leaders, and change-makers in crafting bolder and bigger visions for the future and walk the steps to reach them, weaving together ancient wisdom traditions such as meditation with modern neuroscience and psychology to offer fresh perspectives on well-being.


Jano San (he/him), Co-Facilitator

Jano has been practicing yoga from an early age, training in India as a teacher specializing in Hatha, supported by Asthanga Vinyasa. He  approaches  yoga as a holistic discipline, beyond the asanas. 


Veronique Charlotte (she/her), Chef 

Veronique seamlessly blends her expertise with her passion for design, offering a unique combination of culinary artistry and design sensibility, ensuring every experience is both visually stunning and gastronomically unforgettable.


Michael Stephens (he/they), Host

Michael is a community builder and connector. His mission is to create spaces that allow and encourage people to forge meaningful relationships to their work, themselves, and each other.

Food

Mealtimes will be a time to come together, connect as a group, and nourish our bodies. We'll be serving three healthy, delicious 'flexitarian' meals each day; incorporating a wide selection of locally sourced ingredients.

Arrival & Departure Info

We've arranged group transport to and from the retreat centre. Please aim to get to the pick-up point in Barcelona City Centre at least 15 - 30 minutes before the scheduled departure so we can leave on time. If you plan to make your own way there or back, please let us know in advance so we can share details of the retreat location. 


BCN PICK UP:

Friday 18 July @ 2pm

Exact Location tbc (Barcelona City Centre)


BCN DROP OFF:

Thursday 24 July @ 12pm

Exact Location tbc (Barcelona City Centre)


Please note that any other transport is not included. If you're flying into Barcelona, we recommend arriving the day before, or that you arrive into Barcelona as early as you can on the day. If you miss our transport, you'll have to arrange your own transport to Casa de Colores. 

More Information & Recommendations

WHAT TO BRING:

  • Comfortable attire for yoga, workshops, and outdoor activities
  • Personal toiletries (e.g., sun cream, insect repellent)
  • Personal wellness items (e.g., water bottle)
  • Sunglasses and a hand-fan in summer
  • Casual clothing for group meals and free time
  • Swimwear if you plan to use the pool and sauna
  • A pair of trainers or walking shoes for hikes
  • A sweater for the evening as it can get cold
  • An open mind and readiness to connect


LUGGAGE:

Please try not to travel with large suitcases. We have limited storage space in the private bus and at the masía. 


PHONES & INTERNET:

Phone reception and wifi available but please do not expect to be online much or sending or receiving files.


BUGS:

We do have mosquitos sometimes so bring insect repellent with you. 


SHEETS AND TOWELS:

Your rooms all have sheets, towels and blankets. There are also pool towels provided, however, they should not be removed from the property and should be used more than once. Sarongs are highly recommended for use by the pool, at the beach and on excursions. 


MONEY:

There are no ATM machines in the village so please bring a bit of cash with you if you want to buy something during an excursion or activity.


SECURITY:

There is a master safe in the house, where you can lock away your passports, money and valuables, which you will not need during your stay. All the bedroom also have locks. We recommend not travelling with unnecessary items of value, such as jewellery, watches, excess currency and laptops / tablets.


We will not take responsibility for any lost or stolen items. 


MEDICAL:

Please ensure you have travel insurance and/or medical emergency cover. We have a small first-aid kit but we recommend you bring the ‘usual’ medicines such as paracetamol, band aids, etc. Please inform us if you have any allergic reactions to food or insect bites. If you do, please bring an antihistamine or any other medication you may need. 


LAUNDRY:

We do not provide laundry services.


YOGA EQUIPMENT: 

We provide yoga mats, cushions and blankets but no blocks, straps or bolsters.

Inclusion & Safety Policy

We are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and non-sexualised environment for everyone. Our space is designed to promote mutual respect. Any form of harassment or discrimination is strictly unwelcome, and we reserve the right to ask anyone who does not adhere to these values to leave.

Cancellation Policy

  • Full Refund: Available for cancellations made at least 90 days prior to the retreat start date.
  • Partial Refund: A 50% refund is provided for cancellations made at least 45 days before the retreat.
  • No Refund: Cancellations made within 45 days of the retreat start date are non-refundable.

Please review our full cancellation terms during the booking process.

FAQs

  • Who is this retreat for? This retreat is ideal for LGBTQ+ community members who are ready for an immersive experience in personal growth, wellbeing and community connection.
  • What if I need to cancel? Please see our cancellation policy above for details.
  • Do I need any prior experience to come to a retreat? No, there is no prior experience needed to participate in our retreats.
  • How do I get to the retreat venue? We'll pick you up in Barcelona city, or if you drive we’ll let you know how to get there. 
  • If I drive, can I park? Yes, there are parking slots. Also, let us know if you are open to car-sharing with other guests. 
  • Will I be sharing my room with someone? Unless you book a private single occupancy room, yes. You’ll be sharing with other participants. But bedrooms are big, comfortable, and each has a private bathroom!
  • What is the bathroom situation? There are private bathrooms inside each bedroom, as well as a few others in various parts of the house.
  • Can I choose who I share my room with? If you choose a private 'twin' or 'double' room you can book for yourself and either your partner or friend. If you choose a shared 'dorm' or 'twin' you'll be allocated a room with another guest. If you'd prefer to share with someone of a specific gender we will do our best to accommodate to make things as comfortable as possible.
  • Can I bring my pet? We’re animal lovers, but no pets are to be brought to the retreat centre, please.
  • Will there be alcohol? We might share a glass of natural wine during dinner, but other than this, do not expect alcohol to be around. 
  • What if I have food intolerances or allergies? No problem. We'll ask you about all this as part of the booking process.
  • Do you offer any subsidies? We want to make our retreats accessible to people who feel a strong call to do the process, and whose financial situation currently prevents them from paying full price. Each request for financial assistance is assessed in terms of the specific need and availability. If this applies to you, please reach out to us at hello@createspaceretreats, and we will gladly explore the options available. 
  • How is the payment processed? To secure your spot, a 50% deposit of the total amount is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due at least one month before the retreat begins. 

Any other questions?

If you have questions that are not answered here, please do get in touch, and we'll be happy to speak with you: [email protected]

What’s included

  • Retreat Accommodation
    6 nights exclusive mountain accommodation
  • Group Travel
    All group travel to and from Barcelona
  • Food
    All healthy, flexitarian meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Beverages
    Fresh fruit juices, teas and coffee
  • Yoga and Movement
    All classes
  • Workshops
    All workshops
  • Excursions
    Any guided hikes and specified tours

What’s not included

  • Travel
    International flights and Individual transfers
  • Drink
    Alcoholic beverages
  • Additional Costs
    Optional activities, services and tours
  • Credit Card Fees
    Online Payment Credit Card Fees
  • Bank fees
    Bank transfer and Paypal fees
  • Insurance
    Travel and Health Insurance
  • Tips
    Added staff gratuity

Available Packages

Shared Dorm (Early Bird 25% Discount)
Deposit: €350
6 left

Shared occupancy 'dorm' room with private bathroom. You'll be sharing with two or three other guests across a split mezzanine bedroom. Early Bird 25% Discount: 1425€ 1900€

€1,425
Deposit: €350
Shared Double (Early Bird Discount)
Deposit: €400
Only 2 left

 Private occupancy 'double' or 'twin' room for two people with private bathroom. Perfect for either a couple or friends. You can let us know how you want the beds set up.  Early Bird 25% Discount: 1575€ 2100€


Price is per person but when you do the booking you'll have to do it for two people (the whole room)

€1,575
Deposit: €400
Shared Twin (Early Bird 25% Discount)
Deposit: €400
4 left

Shared occupancy 'twin' room with private bathroom. You'll be sharing with one other person.  Early Bird 25% Discount: 1575€ 2100€

€1,575
Deposit: €400
Single Room (Early Bird 25% Discount)
Deposit: €700
Only 2 left

Private single occupancy room with private bathroom. Perfect if you'd like your own space. Early Bird 25% Discount: 3000€ 4000€

€3,000
Deposit: €700


Itinerary

A Taste of the Schedule
Embodying Change: 7-day LGBTQ+ Retreat

Please note, this schedule represents the structure of our days and not necessarily the confirmed content of each day. A complete and confirmed schedule is shared with all participants. 

Friday, 18 July

3pm to 5pm - Arrivals & Check-in

5pm - Introduction & Orientation

6pm - Networking with Aperitif

7pm - Dinner

8pm - Free Time, Sauna, Rest

Saturday, 19 July

7am - Sunrise Yoga & Meditation

8.30am - Breakfast

10am - Workshop

1pm - Lunch

4pm - Activity

6pm - Free Time

7pm - Dinner

8.30pm – Relaxing activity or special night activity

9pm - Free Time, Sauna, Rest

Sunday, 20 July

7am - Sunrise Yoga & Meditation

8.30am - Breakfast

10am - Workshop

1pm - Lunch

4pm - Activity

6pm - Free time

7pm - Dinner

8.30pm – Relaxing activity or special night activity

9pm - Free Time, Sauna, Rest

Monday, 21 July

7am - Sunrise Yoga & Meditation

8.30am - Breakfast

10am - Workshop

1pm - Lunch

4pm - Activity

6pm - Free time

7pm - Dinner

8.30pm – Relaxing activity or special night activity

9pm - Free Time, Sauna, Rest  

Tuesday, 22 July

**Special schedule day**  

Wednesday, 23 July

7am - Sunrise Yoga & Meditation

8.30am - Breakfast

10am - Workshop

1pm - Lunch

4pm - Activity

6pm - Free time

7pm - Dinner

8.30pm – Relaxing activity or special night activity

9pm - Free Time, Sauna, Rest  

Thursday, 24 July

7am - Sunrise Yoga & Meditation

8.30am - Breakfast

9.30am - Closing Session

10.30am to 12pm - Departures

Your Organizer


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QUEER RETREATS
222 reviews
Retreats for LGBTQ+ Professionals to Rest, Reset & Reconnect.

Reviews

Still feeling so grateful for the time spent at the retreat. The theme was reclaiming joy, and I really appreciated how the workshops and activities were tailored to help us explore what that meant personally. From the beautiful setting and nourishing food to the sunrise yoga, it offered such a needed pause. I loved the opportunity to rest, reconnect, and reflect. Ora, Jano and Micheal held space with so much care, and the group I was with made it even more special. I left feeling grounded, inspired, and more in touch with myself
By Cindy N for 4 Day Queer Retreat | Reclaiming Joy on May 03, 2025
I really enjoyed this retreat and can highly recommend it to anyone looking for community, an amazing location and priceless content. The food was nourishing and the yoga & breathwork sessions were a great addition to the heart-filling group sessions we had. The surroundings are peaceful and the view from the retreat house is stunning. We would wake up to birds singing and see the sunrise. I definitely want to come again!
By Khatoun A for 4 Day Queer Retreat | Reclaiming Joy on May 01, 2025
Incredible experience with an intentional queer community. I've made friendships for life here. I had the most restorative and joyful four days over the long weekend with this wonderful crew. If you'd like to stay in a beautiful retreat centre, nestled in nature, this is for you. Food was also 5/5, handcrafted meals by Veronique and Mathias. Waking up in the morning with sunrise yoga, long nature walks... lazing by the pool. I'll mis the sunrise yoga, friendships made, and the time to deeply reflect in nature in a queer, sober, intentional space. I've referred mny friends and look forward to returning soon.
By Jaron S for 4 Day Queer Retreat | Reclaiming Joy on Apr 24, 2025
This retreat nourished the mind, body, and soul. Every element of The Queer Retreat was so intentionally and thoughtfully curated — from breathwork and meditation to group discussions, sunrise yoga on the terrace, poolside moments, and sharing delicious, wholesome food fresh from the BBQ. It offered a rare and beautiful opportunity to heal in community, build meaningful connections, and truly unplug in order to reconnect — with ourselves, each other, and the world around us. This retreat is for anyone seeking joy, genuine connection, the beauty of nature, and the space to simply be present. Huge thanks to Michael and entire team for crafting and holding such a powerful and transformative experience. Jade x
By Jade F for 4 Day Queer Retreat | Reclaiming Joy on Apr 23, 2025
I came back home with a fuller heart, a quieter mind, and a renewed sense of balance! This retreat was a beautiful pause from everyday life. The setting, the practices, and the people created a space of real connection, calm, and joy. I left feeling grounded, recharged, and grateful for the experience.
By Nicolas O for 4 Day Queer Retreat | Reclaiming Joy on Apr 23, 2025
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References

LL
I highly recommend We Create Space! I participated in a 2-day 'Who Am I?' Virtual Queer Leadership Retreat with other Queer leaders and it was truly transformational–I left forever changed. The intentional and purposeful programming by Michael and Maylis was so meaningful and well structured. The biggest draw for me was the community care and networking opportunity of being able to see and hear from other queer folx. This is what has been the hardest for me to find in my own personal journey.
By Luke L on 28 Jul, 2021
The workshop I attended literally created space in both my body and mind for exploration, curiosity and openness. It was wonderfully facilitated, inspired immensely by the speakers' talks and other queer participants sharings. It shifted the way I saw different aspects of my life and opened the room for more discovery. Definitely recommended to all queer people who want to learn more and increase their inner potential!
By Bers G on 09 Jul, 2021
I took part in a weekend Who Am I? retreat and highly recommend it. The group size is intimate so never feels too daunting and you're able to build connections well. Maylis was a fantastic organiser - felt there was great communication from pre-booking right through to afterwards. Michael is a fantastic host, he leads the retreat with from a place of kindness, vulnerability and openness I find really commendable. Whether you're new to self exploration or a seasoned pro - I think this is worth doing.
By Jamie M on 01 Sep, 2020
Show More References