Writing & Wellness in Azores, Portugal

Arrive in Terceira and begin your Azorean escape with a private group transfer to your exclusive retreat home, XHale. With the entire property reserved for your group, you’ll immediately settle into a relaxed, intimate atmosphere designed for connection and restoration.

After check-in, enjoy a welcome brunch at the hotel and time to unpack, explore the grounds, or unwind by the pool. Throughout today and tomorrow, guests will receive their Jet Lag Relief Massage, a 30-minute personalized session scheduled in a relaxed staggered flow to support recovery from travel.

After gathering for our opening circle, we'll enjoy a beautiful welcome dinner featuring authentic Azorean cuisine and local flavors, the perfect way to connect with fellow travelers and set intentions for the week ahead.

Begin the day journaling with an ocean view and a meditation and breathwork session, followed by breakfast at the hotel. Today’s highlight is a bespoke private island exploration for your group. We might forest bathe in moss-covered woods, descend into volcanic lava caves, breathe mineral-rich air near sulfur fumaroles, visit natural lava pools to swim, or meditate on sun-warmed stones.

Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared picnic lunch before returning to the hotel for our first writing workshop. In the evening, relax over a paella night dinner at the hotel. Head to bed early or get a Tarot reading by Ali.

Start the morning with a restorative wellness session and breakfast before transferring to the marina for a private whale and dolphin watching experience (weather permitting). Sail the Atlantic coastline alongside expert guides and observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat — a powerful reminder of the ocean’s scale and beauty. Depending on sailing times, a boxed breakfast or picnic lunch will be provided.

Return to the hotel for rest and free time, with options for one-on-one notes meetings with Ali, if desired.

In the evening, head into town for a three-course dinner at a charming local restaurant, complete with wine or beer and relaxed island hospitality. Transfers are included.

After morning wellness and breakfast, depart for a guided coastal hike. Choose from two route options based on group preference, exploring dramatic cliffs, sweeping Atlantic views, and untouched natural landscapes.

Pause for a scenic picnic lunch along the coast before returning to the hotel. After some free time, join Ali for a writing workshop.

In the evening, enjoy a relaxed BBQ dinner (vegetarian options) at the hotel to unwind after a full day.

Ease into the morning with wellness and breakfast before enjoying a full morning at leisure. Redeem spa vouchers for massage treatments, relax in the spa circuit, or explore the UNESCO-listed town of Angra do Heroísmo with its colorful streets, cafés, and boutique shops. Lunch is at leisure.

Later in the afternoon, gather for a poolside sound bath (weather permitting), creating space for deep relaxation and integration.

Afterwards, come together for a closing ceremony where we'll share our writing, journal, and end with grounding rituals by the fire (if conditions allow). Celebrate the journey with an unforgettable farewell dinner featuring artisanal wood-fired pizzas (vegan and gluten free options available) made with garden-foraged toppings and local cheeses.

Enjoy one final morning wellness session followed by a celebratory brunch with optional mimosas. After check-out, transfer as a group to Terceira Airport for onward journeys home, refreshed, inspired, and deeply connected.