Retreat to the Azores, Portugal
Sao Miguel & Terceira Islands
September 6 - 13, 2025
We loved Portugal so much when we were there in 2021 we decided to go back, but this time to the Azores Islands of Sao Miguel and Terceira. We'll spend four nights at the four-star Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort on Sao Miguel (the Green Island) to explore the many wonders of the island, including relaxing in natural hot springs at Furnas (famous for its geothermal activity), hiking to the scenic twin lakes Lagoa das Sete Cidades situated in the crater of a dormant volcano, and swimming at Ponta Da Ferraria.
Next, we'll take a short local flight to Terceira to experience the local culture, Angra do Heroísmo (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the lava caves. On Terceira, we'll be staying at the Xhale Azores, a beautiful four-star yoga retreat center that we'll have to ourselves for three nights.
Join us for this one-of-a-kind opportunity to visit the Azores, where you'll enjoy a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Start your day off with an invigorating yoga class before heading out to explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes that await you. Join us back at the beautiful yoga resort for a yin yoga class to recuperate. Enjoy the beaches, pools, and scenic overlooks, and immerse yourself in nature.
What to Expect
This week in the Azores will include:
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Daily yoga classes appropriate for all levels including vinyasa-style practice to energize and yin practice to recuperate and restore
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Delicious meals beginning with dinner on Saturday evening and ending with breakfast on the last morning (some meals on Sao Miguel will be on your own to give you the opportunity to explore)
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Access to the amenities of the resorts, including the pool, spa, lounge, gym, yoga studio, and beach at Santa Barbara
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Four nights of lodging at Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort (see below for room options)
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Three nights of lodging at Xhale Azores in Terceira
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Optional group activities such as a day tour of the East part of Sao Miguel, visit to Sete Cidades (Twin Lakes) and the ocean thermal baths at Ferraria, an afternoon coastline hike from Xhale, swimming and snorkeling in the natural volcanic pools, tour of the UNESCO Heritage site Angra do Heroismo
A full schedule of meals, yoga classes, and group activities will be provided closer to the retreat dates.
The Details
Retreat rate includes:
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7 nights accommodations at 4-star resorts (4 nights at Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort and 3 nights at Xhale Azores)
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Delicious meals including dinner on arrival day, breakfast daily, one lunch at Santa Barbara, dinner on Tuesday, and all meals while at Xhale Azores
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Daily yoga sessions
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Optional group outing (self-drive) to Sete Cidades and Ferraria
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Group tour of the East part of Sao Miguel with Furnas Lake (includes lunch)
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Local flight from Sao Miguel to Terceira
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Transportation to and from the airport in Terceira
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Afternoon coastal hike with picnic lunch from Xhale Azores
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Swimming and snorkeling in natural lava pools
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Group tour of Angra do Heroismo
Retreat rate does not include:
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Airfare to/from the Azores (we can assist you with booking your flights)
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Rental car on Sao Miguel (we can assist with booking and pairing people to share cars)
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Spa treatments or additional excursions such as whale watching on Sao Miguel or the addition of a thermal soak during our tour of Furnas
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Alcoholic drinks
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Gratuities
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Trip insurance (we can provide you with a quote from Allianz Global Assistance upon request)
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Credit card processing fees
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Optional Carbon Offset
Our Host Resort on Sao Miguel:
Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort
Not just another hotel, but a dream given form by João Reis, an entrepreneur and enthusiastic surfer, who realized a vision on the northern coast of São Miguel. It began from a passion: a passion for the dark, sandy beach that bears its name; for the mysterious blue waters of the Atlantic; and mystic green pastures and forested-mountains of Ribeira Grande. This environment mixed with a desire to transmit the same passions for nature, the sea and, above all, the Azores, resulted in SANTA BÁRBARA.
João Reis respected the natural beauty of the island and developed this resort to be in harmony with the island’s unique surroundings. Built from scratch, and in perfect symbiosis with the coastal ecology, the eco-friendly beach resort is integrated into its environment. Its architecture, the materials, and the framing of the landscape were the three main concerns of the project. What resulted was a site that breathes in the island and coastal ecosystem, providing its visitors with a tranquil stay.
The resort is dominated by a saltwater pool with submerged stone lounges and a manicured patio that provides views of the ocean that promise to delight. Nearby, the wooden deck, which was built on top of the cliff overlooking the beach, is the perfect place to have a massage, while relaxing to the sound of the waves, wind, and seabirds. Individual patios with thatch parasols provide personal spaces for meditation, leisure, and peace.
The onsite organic farm supports the resort's commitment to cultivating ecological and socially-responsible farm-fresh, sustainable produce to sustain their restaurants. The resort is dedicated to ecologically sustainable policies. The architecture and luxury amenities, Farm-to-Table supply chain, environmental support, and energy/water efficiency programs were constituted to reduce their ecological impact and maintain the natural beauty and environmental balance of the coastal ecosystem.
There are three room types available: One Bedroom Garden Villa, Blue Green Studio, and One Bedroom Blue Green Villa. You can find the details in the Accommodation Options Section below.
Our Host Resort on Terceira:
Xhale Azores
The story of Xhale began with Teresa and Tony, a couple deeply connected to their roots in the Azores. Despite their successful careers in Canada, they couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing—a piece of their hearts remained on the island of Terceira. After decades of dreaming about creating a place where others could experience the same joy and well-being amidst the untouched beauty of Azorean nature, they made their dream come to life.
With unwavering determination, they left their comfortable lives behind and returned to the Azores to bring their vision to life.Their mission was to create a haven, Xhale, where travelers could escape the pressures of modern life and immerse themselves in the island's natural wonders.
Building Xhale was not without challenges, but the couple's dedication and love for the island kept them going. Every corner of Xhale is crafted with care, offering a sanctuary where guests can unwind, rejuvenate, and rediscover their connection to themselves and the natural world.
The vision of Xhale resort is to create a sanctuary where guests can find inner peace and holistic wellness amidst the captivating beauty of the Azores. It aims to be a premier luxury wellness destination, offering a transformative experience in harmony with nature. Sustainability and eco-friendliness are core elements of the resort's vision. Ultimately, Xhale seeks to be a haven for rejuvenation and self-discovery.
Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Terceira, Xhale offers a luxurious escape and takes significant strides toward reducing their environmental impact. They are committed to preserving the natural wonders surrounding the resort and creating unforgettable experiences for their guests while treading lightly on the earth.
The resort has 11 peaceful, private luxury suites, the Grata Cafe, an outdoor lounge with a pizza oven, Sage Spa with Turkish Bath and a massage treatment room, a fully-equipped gym, the Willow Yoga Studio with cork floors and all yoga equipment, fire pit, heated infinity pool, picnic area by the ocean, and shuttle service to and from the airport.
Accommodation Options
Amounts shown represent the total investment for the retreat based on room selection. The accommodation at Xhale Azores in Terceira is in one of 11 private luxury suites as either single or double occupancy.
Double Occupancy (One Bedroom Garden Villa at Santa Barbara) - 2 Rooms Available - $3,325/person; $3,175 if registered by March 7, 2025
These rooms have two twin beds (or can be set up with a king-size bed for a couple). They have a spacious living room, a kitchenette, a private deck, AC, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer.
Single Occupancy (One Bedroom Garden Villa at Santa Barbara) - 1 Room Available - $4,600/person; $4,450 if registered by March 7, 2025
This room has a king-size bed, a spacious living room, a kitchenette, a private deck, AC, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer.
Double Occupancy (Blue Green One Bedroom at Santa Barbara) - 2 Rooms Available - $3,545/person; $3,395 if registered by March 7, 2025
These rooms have two twin beds (or can be set up with one king-size bed for a couple), a living area complete with a comfortable sofa, a deck with a private jacuzzi, a kitchenette, AC, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer.
Single Occupancy (Blue Green Studio at Santa Barbara) - 2 Rooms Available - $4,825; $4,675 if registered by March 7, 2025
These rooms have one king-size bed, a living area complete with a comfortable sofa, a deck with a shared salt-water plunge pool, a kitchenette, AC, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer.
Santa Barbara Rooms
Xhale Azores Rooms
About São Miguel
Black sand beaches, steaming thermal pools, and dramatic volcanic landscapes await on São Miguel Island, the crown jewel of the Azores. Unwind amidst the breathtaking scenery of Sete Cidades Lake and marvel at its imposing crater lake. Explore vibrant Ponta Delgada, the charming capital of São Miguel Island. Relax in Furnas’ natural hot springs, chase thrills on a hike through lush vegetation and waterfalls, or embark on an exciting whale-watching adventure. São Miguel Island offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
Picture-perfect, 'The Green Island,' boasts lush forests, stunning beaches, and geothermal wonders like the Furnas Valley. Immerse yourself in nature's allure, from the world-famous hot springs to the iconic Sete Cidades Lake.
Furnas boasts close to 30 bubbling, steaming calderas of different temperatures and biological compositions.
Throughout the year, keep your eyes peeled for resident species like Sperm Whales, Bottlenose Dolphins, Atlantic Sptted Dolphins, and Risso's Dophins.
About Terceira
Craving volcanic wonders and historic charm? Look no further than Terceira Island, a gem nestled in the Azores archipelago of Portugal! Terceira has a certain majestic quality – perhaps a trace of its former life as the heart of the Portuguese Kingdom. The celebration of local heritage is strong here, with dozens of carefully kept, colorful impérios (small temples built to display symbols of the Cult of the Holy Spirit) that dot every village and town on the island.
Terceira boasts a unique blend of experiences - hike through dramatic volcanic landscapes, explore the charming capital Angra do Heroísmo, and dive into natural pools.
Step into the history of Terceira Island and unearth its cultural richness, an essential chapter in Portugal's history. Angra do Heroísmo, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites you to explore its historical treasures, from churches and monasteries to fortresses with stories etched in time. Enhance your experience by venturing into one of the world's exclusive visitable lava tubes—the Algar do Carvão—a unique natural wonder.
Payment Details and
Cancelation Policy
To secure your space on the retreat a non-refundable US $500 deposit is required. A payment schedule will be provided upon registration, however, you may pay in full at any time prior to July 7, 2025.
Anyone registering after July 7, 2025 will be expected to pay in full upon registration.
Should you need to cancel your reservation at least 90 days prior to the start of the retreat, you will receive a refund for payment made less the $500 deposit. Should you need to cancel less than 90 days prior to the retreat, for whatever reason, we will not be able to provide a refund or credit. No refund or credit will be given for arriving late or departing early. Payments must be made in accordance with the payment schedule in order to hold your space. In the unlikely event Firefly needs to cancel the retreat, a full refund will be given.
We strongly advise the purchase of travel insurance at the time of booking your retreat in case of any unexpected events or changes to your plans before or during your trip. We can provide a trip insurance quote through Allianz Global Assistance upon request.
Meet Your Guide: Carrie Lehtonen
Carrie Lehtonen's second chance at life came at 31 years old when a blood clot in her coronary artery resulted in a heart attack. As a healthy triathlete in the prime of her life, Carrie was the last person anyone would suspect of having heart disease.
After 20 years of experience in Human Resources, Carrie chose to change careers so she could help people find their path to better health and live inspired lives. Carrie is committed to reducing the impact of heart disease, and loves seeing people light up when they learn something new, challenge themselves beyond what they think they are capable of, and tap into their passion.
Carrie created Firefly because she believes that what the world needs most is for each person to uncover their passion and live an inspired life. We each have a unique gift, and it's Carrie's mission to help you ignite your inner light so that you can shine!
Carrie lives in Evergreen, CO with her husband and four fur-babies (two cats and two dogs). Carrie is a life-long learner, and loves to travel to experience different cultures and see diverse natural environments. She published her first book, Pawsitive Perspectives, in 2024. Carrie has been teaching yoga for over 12 years and leading retreats around the world for 10 years.
Carrie is a Registered Yoga Teacher and Educator (E-RYT500) with training from CorePower Yoga and Vessilify in Colorado, Nosara Yoga Institute in Costa Rica, and Prajna Yoga in New Mexico. She has training in vinyasa yoga, yin yoga, anatomy, Self Awakening Yoga (SAY), Yoga Therapeutics and Stand Up Paddleboard yoga. Carrie is a Holistic Health Practitioner, and attended the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, where she was trained in more than one hundred dietary theories and studied a variety of practical lifestyle coaching methods.