What is a couples retreat? Types, benefits, and how to prepare
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA
Learn what a couples retreat is, including the different types and possible benefits of attending one. Plus, what to consider before going on a couples retreat.
It’s easy for couples to grow apart as the years pass. While trying to balance busy careers, family obligations, and some form of a social life, some couples may only end up spending a few minutes of quality time together every week. Factor in daily stressors and a handful of disagreements, and you may begin to feel more distant than ever. Facepalm.
Luckily, rekindling your romance doesn’t need to be a complicated process. Whether you’re looking to resolve conflicts, deepen your connection, or simply have a great time together, you might want to consider going on a couples retreat. This chance to work on your relationship can be a powerful—and enjoyable—way to strengthen your bond.
What is a couples retreat?
A couples retreat is a dedicated time away from everyday distractions for partners to focus on their relationship. It often includes activities to improve communication, therapy sessions, relaxation, and opportunities for personal growth under the guidance of professionals.
Types of couples retreats
Therapeutic retreats: These retreats are often led by licensed therapists or counselors and are meant to address specific issues and improve communication. Using individual and joint counseling, workshops, and exercises designed to build trust and understanding, they provide couples with tools and strategies to work through their challenges.
Wellness retreats: With a focus on holistic healing, these retreats include activities like yoga and meditation, spa treatments, and nutritious meals to encourage couples to relax and reconnect.
Adventure retreats: Perfect for couples who enjoy being active, adventure retreats are packed with outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or zip-lining. There are great opportunities for teamwork and collaboration, helping couples strengthen their bond.
Spiritual retreats: Often in serene, natural settings, these retreats are centered on spiritual growth and connection. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, yoga sessions and prayer, with discussions on topics like faith, purpose, and inner peace, provide a space for couples to reflect on their spiritual journey.
5 possible benefits of a couples retreat
Improved communication: Partners can communicate more openly and honestly by learning new techniques for better listening, expressing feelings, resolving conflict, and understanding each other's perspectives.
Enhanced intimacy: Activities designed to encourage closeness and intimacy, such as massage or partner yoga, can encourage vulnerability and connection.
Stress reduction: Meditation, nature walks, and spa treatments can help couples unwind.
Personal growth: Opportunities for individual self-improvement—like learning new coping strategies, gaining insights into personal behaviors, or exploring individual passions and interests—can help partners bring their best selves to the relationship.
Guidance from experts: Professional advice from experienced therapists or counselors can help couples navigate relationship challenges and build a stronger partnership.
What to consider before going on a couples retreat
If you’re intentional about the type of retreat you choose and what you hope to gain from it, you can maximize the benefits and strengthen your relationship.
Your goals and expectations
Have a clear understanding of what you hope to achieve and discuss your goals and expectations with your partner. If you’re looking to address specific relationship issues, a therapeutic retreat might be the best option. But if you want to focus on relaxation, consider a wellness retreat. Also, consider what type of retreat best aligns with your interests, in general. This can help ensure that you get the most out of the experience.
The location and setting
Think about what environment would be the best fit for you. Some couples prefer a serene, nature-based setting, while others might enjoy a vibrant city or cultural location.
The duration and cost of the retreat
Be realistic about your schedule and financial constraints. Keep in mind that the cost of the retreat may or may not include accommodation, meals, and activities, so choose a retreat that makes sense for you.
Any relevant reviews or recommendations
Look for testimonials and reviews online to get an idea of what to expect. Personal recommendations from friends or family can also be valuable. Research the facilitators and the retreat center to help you find the place that can help you achieve your goals.
4 tips for how to integrate the retreat into your daily life
After a couples retreat, the real work comes when you return home and start to bring what you’ve learned into your daily life.
1. Continue the practice
Regularly practice the communication and intimacy techniques you learned during the retreat to help reinforce new habits and strengthen your relationship over time.
Set aside time each day to practice active listening and open dialogue. Use "I" statements to express feelings without placing blame.
Schedule regular date nights or intimate moments to maintain emotional and physical closeness.
💙 Need a little guidance on active listening? Check out this session on mindful Listening from our Relationship with Others series.
2. Schedule follow-up sessions (if needed)
Consider occasional check-ins if the retreat included counseling. This can help you stay on track and address any new challenges that arise.
Schedule sessions with a couples therapist to discuss progress and ongoing issues.
Join a group for couples to share experiences and gain insights from each other.
3. Find new shared activities
Create new regular date nights, joint hobbies, or daily check-ins to help keep your connection strong.
Find activities you enjoy doing together, like cooking, hiking, or attending a class.
Establish routines like morning coffee together, evening walks, or bedtime conversations to ensure daily connection.
💙 It may sound cheesy but relationships are like gardens. Learn why Nurturing Relationships is an important element in a thriving partnership.
4. Reflection and adjustment afterwards
Regularly assess how well you’re implementing your learnings and make changes to keep you growing and improving.
Each month, discuss your relationship, celebrate successes, and identify areas for improvement.
Adjust your strategies as you grow and change together.
💙 Check out these 11 examples of relationship goals you can set—and check in on—with your partner.
What is a couples retreat FAQs
How do I choose the right couples retreat for us?
There are lots of styles of couples retreats, so choosing the right one can feel daunting. Here’s a guide to help you find one that meets your needs and expectations.
Identify your goals: Discuss with your partner what you hope to achieve from the retreat, like improving communication, resolving conflicts, rekindling intimacy, or spending quality time together.
Research options: Read up on different retreats, and the activities available at each one.
Check credentials: Look for licensed professionals with positive reviews and a strong track record in relationship counseling or therapy.
Read reviews and testimonials: Check out others’ opinions on the retreat's effectiveness, the quality of the program, and the overall experience.
Consider location and setting: Think about the environment that might most help you achieve your goals. Do you prefer a nature-based setting, or are you looking for a more urban experience?
Be practical: Consider the duration, cost, and accessibility of the retreat to make sure it fits with your schedule and budget. Factor in additional costs such as travel, accommodation, and meals.
What should I expect during a couples retreat?
Each couples retreat offers a different blend of activities that may include structured sessions, therapy, and free time to help you and your partner reconnect. Structured activities may include workshops, exercises, and tasks designed to improve communication, build trust, and deepen your relationship. Many retreats offer individual and joint therapy sessions with licensed therapists to help you develop effective communication skills and strategies for conflict resolution.
You might also participate in educational workshops or seminars on topics like relationship dynamics, emotional intelligence, and mindfulness.
To help you unwind and de-stress, retreats often include activities like yoga, meditation, nature walks, and spa treatments too. You’ll likely have free time to relax, explore your surroundings, and enjoy your partner’s company.
Are couples retreats suitable for relationships in crisis?
Couples retreats can be very beneficial for relationships in crisis. They offer intensive support and focused attention from experienced therapists, providing a safe and neutral space for both partners to express their feelings and concerns without the distractions of daily life.
The immersive environment allows for honest communication and vulnerability, with professional guidance from therapists trained to handle high-conflict situations. Structured interventions and exercises are specifically designed to address the root causes of relationship issues, which can help break negative patterns and promote positive change.
Many retreats also offer follow-up support to help couples continue their progress after the retreat ends.
What’s another name for a couples retreat?
Another name for a couples retreat is a "relationship retreat," which emphasizes the focus on improving and strengthening the relationship between partners. Other similar terms might include "marriage retreat," specifically for married couples, "partnership retreat," for any type of couple, or "love retreat," which emphasizes romance and intimacy.
Regardless of the name, these retreats share the goal of building a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.
How can we maintain the benefits of a couples retreat in our daily lives?
Maintaining the benefits of a couples retreat requires ongoing effort and commitment. A few simple strategies that can help include:
Practice daily communication: Set aside time each day to talk openly with your partner — and practice active listening too. This can help prevent misunderstandings and keep you connected. Check out these eight active listening techniques to help you improve your communication.
Prioritize spending time together: Enjoy regular date nights or special outings to maintain the romance and intimacy in your relationship.
Set goals and review progress: Regularly review the goals you set during the retreat and assess your progress. Discuss any challenges and celebrate your successes to keep you both focused on continuous improvement.
Remember shared activities: Continue doing hobbies that you both enjoy. Whether it’s cooking together, exercising, or pursuing a mutual interest, having fun together can keep you connected.
Use relaxation techniques: To help you both manage stress and maintain a positive outlook, practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga.
Seek ongoing support: Consider follow-up therapy sessions or join a support group for couples to help you stay on track and address any new challenges that arise.
Create new rituals: Establish new routines that reinforce your bond, like a daily hug, a weekly walk, or a monthly review of your relationship goals.
Stay flexible and adaptable: Relationships evolve, so remain flexible. You may need to adopt new strategies to help keep your relationship strong and healthy, so try to be open-minded.
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