A Leadership & Strategy Retreat for Founders & Leaders
MOVEMENT & MAGIC IN MOROCCO:
A LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGY RETREAT FOR FOUNDERS AND LEADERS
Peacock Pavilions
Marrakech, Morocco
April 18-24, 2027
with Anne Whelan & Melanie Caines
A 7-day, 6-night immersive retreat in Morocco for founders, entrepreneurs, and senior leaders who are ready to step out of the whirlwind, reconnect with themselves, and think clearly about what’s next in their business and leadership. Morning yoga and movement, nourishing food, and the beauty of Morocco meet structured, small-group leadership sessions and individual strategy support. You’ll leave restored, with a simple plan for the next 12 months and a renewed sense of how you want to lead. This retreat will be co-facilitated by Anne Whelan (strategy and leadership) & Melanie Caines (yoga, meditation, & breathwork).
GOOD TO KNOW:
Group size: 6-14 people
Exclusive use? Yes we will be the only guests at the property.
THIS RETREAT IS DESIGNED FOR
THE EXPERIENCE
OUR RETREAT HOME
Our glorious home for the week will be Peacock Pavilions, a handmade, artisanal boutique hotel in an olive grove on the outskirts of Marrakech.
We will have exclusive use of the whole property for our retreat week.
Peacock Pavilions has been featured on CNN International and HGTV, as well as in the New York Times, Elle Decor and in multiple travel guides.
The hotel features a pool, outdoor gym, outdoor cinema, yoga pavilion, and a painted dining tent.
CULTURAL EXCURSIONS
Our retreat will include the following cultural excursions:
Guided tour of the Marrakech Medina
Spa Experience (Hammam + Massage)
Agafay Desert Excursion
THE FOOD
Peacock Pavilions provide a fixed daily menu, served family-style, that relies on local, fresh ingredients, some from their own gardens.
Breakfast – fresh bread baked daily from the village’s communal bread oven (rebuilt as part of our charity, Project Soar), homemade jams, eggs or muffins, yogurt, fruit, just-squeezed juice, coffee, and tea.
Lunch – light and fresh (soups, salads, tarts, etc.) served with cookies or fruit for dessert.
Dinner – three delicious courses, served by candlelight, ending in an herbal infusion from the garden to help you sleep.
PROJECT SOAR
Peacock Pavilions is proud to be a hotel that gives back.
In 2013, Peacock Pavilions’ owners, Maryam Montague and Chris Redecke, founded Project Soar, a non-profit organization that seeks to uplift underserved teen girls. Each Soar Girl receives over 50 hours of empowerment activities a year with our girl centered curriculum that helps each girl understand her value, her voice, her body, her rights and her path.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
This retreat is intentionally designed as a leadership and strategy intensive with integrated wellness:
- You will spend structured time each day working on your business and leadership: clarifying priorities, designing a simple strategy, and identifying concrete decisions.
- You will receive an individual 1:1 strategy/leadership session focused on your specific context.
- You will leave with tangible deliverables (your one-page plan and commitments) that you can share with your team, partners, or board.
Daily wellness practices:
Daily yoga, meditation, and movement practices support clearer thinking, better decision-making, and sustainable leadership – directly relevant to your professional performance. Participants can discuss with their accountants the extent to which retreat costs may be treated as a business expense in their specific circumstances.
By the end of the retreat, you will have:
- A one-page “Next 12 Months” map outlining your key strategic priorities, focus areas, and commitments.
- A personal leadership mantra or guiding statement that anchors how you want to lead in this season.
- A short list of specific decisions and first moves you’ll make in the 30–90 days after the retreat.
- Greater clarity on where your energy and attention need to be to support your business and your team.
- Practical practices and boundaries to support sustainable performance and reduce burnout risk.
PROGRAM ELEMENTS
Included in the retreat experience are the following offerings with Anne:
-
One pre-retreat group call (60–75 minutes).
-
A pre-retreat reflection for each participant (business, leadership, and current challenges).
-
Five structured group sessions (approx. 60 minutes each) following a clear leadership/strategy arc.
-
One 45-minute individual strategy/leadership session per participant on retreat.
-
A post-retreat group integration call (approx. 60 minutes) 4–6 weeks after the retreat.
accommodations & Fees
Deliberately intimate and exclusive, Peacock Pavilions sleeps 14 retreat participants in 2 guest pavilions and two unique bungalows. Peacock Pavilions is located on a private estate in a farming village and you may hear the sounds of village life and the call to prayer during your stay.
| DAWN & DUSK BUNGALOWS |
Burrowed behind gorgeous olive trees, the Dawn & Dusk bungalows feature custom calligraphy and a myriad of layered art pieces. There is 1 bedroom in each bungalow (with 1 king bed or 2 twin beds) with ensuite bathroom and air conditioning/heating.
| ATLAS PAVILION |
Draped in bougainvillea, the Atlas Pavilion is a private 1300 square foot house decorated in glamorous tribal chic style. There are two double occupancy rooms here: two ensuite bedrooms (option of king or two twin beds), with fireplaces and air conditioning/heating
| MEDINA PAVILION |
With its own rose garden, the Medina Pavilion is a private 2,400 square foot house, decorated in modern global style. There are three double occupancy rooms here: three ensuite bedrooms (option of king or two twin beds), equipped with air conditioning/heating.
Single Occupancy Room
(1 bed + private bathroom)
Promo (until September 30): $4500 USD
After September 30: $4850 USD
Double Occupancy Room
(2 twin beds + private bathroom)
Promo (until September 30): $4000 USD pp
After September 30: $4350 USD pp
what to expect
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Accommodation: 7 days/6 nights
- Daily Yoga & Movement: classes with Melanie
- Meditation & Breathwork: mindful practices integrating the retreat themes
- Meals: daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 6 dinners
- Cocktail Hour: with canapés on arrival day
- Cultural Experiences: guided tour of the Marrakech Medina, spa experience, and Agafay Desert excursion
- Taxes: all included
-
Pre-Retreat Group Call: one call (60–75 minutes).
-
Pre-Retreat Reflection: a pre-retreat reflection for each participant (business, leadership, and current challenges).
- Group Sessions: five structured group sessions (approx. 60 minutes each) following a clear leadership/strategy arc.
- Strategy Session: one 45-minute individual strategy/leadership session per participant on retreat.
- Post-Retreat Call: a post-retreat group integration call (approx. 60 minutes) 4–6 weeks after the retreat.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
- Flights
- Gratuity for Peacock Pavilions staff
- Alcohol
- Travel Insurance
- Ground transportation from Marrakech to Peacock Pavilions on arrival day and back to Marrakech on departure day
OUR ITINERARY
SUNDAY, APRIL 18: YOUR ARRIVAL
- Arrival & Check-in
- Canapes, Cocktails, & Introductions
- Dinner
MONDAY, APRIL 19: Grounding: Where You Are (Business & Self)
- Morning Movement, Breathwork, & Meditation
- Breakfast
- Visit Project Soar
- Lunch + 60min Group Session with Anne
- Free Time / Individual Sessions with Anne
- Relaxing Yoga Session
- Dinner
TUESDAY, APRIL 20: Centering: What Really Matters
- Morning Movement, Breathwork, & Meditation
- Breakfast
- Free Time / Individual Sessions with Anne
- Lunch + 60min Group Session with Anne
- Guided Tour of the Marrakech Medina
- Dinner in Marrakech
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21: Mantra/Drishti: Guiding Principle for This Season
- Morning Movement, Breath, & Meditation
- Breakfast
- Free time
- Lunch + 60min Group Session with Anne
- Free time / Individual Sessions with Anne
- Relaxing Yoga Session
- Dinner
THURSDAY, APRIL 22: Manifesting: A Simple Strategy and Action Plan
- Morning Movement, Breathwork, & Meditation
- Breakfast + 60min Group Session with Anne
- Depart for the Agafay Desert excursion
- Dinner
FRIDAY, APRIL 23: Energy: Resourcing the Leader
- Morning Movement, Breathwork, & Meditation
- Breakfast & 60min Group Session with Anne
- Traditional Hammam & Massage in Marrakech (spa experience)
- Free Time in Marrakech
- Farewell Dinner
SATURDAY, APRIL 24: DEPARTURE DAY
- Breakfast
- Checkout & Departures
TRAVEL
FLIGHTS
The arrival day is Sunday, April 18 and the departure day is Saturday, May 24.
Marrakech Airport (RAK):
The closet airport is Marrakech Airport (RAK), approximately 30mins from the retreat centre. Air Canada flies to Marrakech with stops in Toronto or Montreal plus Lisbon.
Casablanca Airport (CMN)
There is also a direct Air Canada flight from Montreal to Casablanca (CMN) 3 times a week. The drive to Marrakech/retreat centre is about 2.5hrs. We can arrange a private transfer if you prefer this option (the train also runs between the two cities with one stop/change).
GROUND TRANSPORTATION
We can arrange your transportation for you.
Marrakech Airport Transfers:
1-3ppl = $44 USD total
4-7ppl = $60 USD total
Casablanca Airport Transfers:
1-3ppl = $187 USD total
4-7ppl = $204 USD total
Please note: these transfers can be billed to your room and paid via credit card upon check-out.
TRAVEL QUESTIONS?
Check out our FAQ section by scrolling down the page or you can reach Melanie by email at novayogaretreats@gmail.com.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE TERMS & CONDITIONS
CANCELLATION POLICY:
If you cancel your booking up to 180 days before the retreat start date: your deposit (less a change/cancellation fee of €150 EUR or $150 USD depending on the currency of your booked trip) and all other payments may be transferred to another Nova Retreats Inc. trip (within one year of the current retreat start date), space permitting. Please note: if you make multiple changes each change/cancellation will result in an additional €150/$150 USD change/cancellation fee. You are also permitted to transfer to a different Nova Retreat OR transfer your booking to another interested party (the change/cancellation fee noted above will still apply).
If you cancel your booking between 120 days and 179 days from the retreat start date: you can avail of a one-time transfer of your payments (MINUS your €500 or $500 USD deposit and MINUS a €150/$150 USD change/cancellation fee) to another Nova Retreats Inc. trip (within one year of the current retreat start date), space permitting (please note: this is a one-time transfer and multiple changes are not permitted, no exceptions). You are also permitted to transfer your booking to another interested party. Please note: your €500 or $500 USD deposit will be non-transferable and non-refundable if you cancel OR transfer in the 120-179 day time period.
If you cancel your booking 119 days or less from the retreat start date: no credit can be given and all monies paid will be forfeited.
In the event that the trip is postponed for any reason, including any force majeure event, all monies paid will be converted into travel credit that can be applied to a future Nova Retreat Inc. trip; this credit is transferable and expires one year from the original retreat date.
Nova Retreats Inc. is a small business that proudly works with intimate, family-run hotels and venues and we are unable to offer refunds of any kind. If you require more security, please talk to an insurance broker about a comprehensive travel plan that will offer you the coverage you need.
Thank you for understanding.
• A $750 USD non-refundable deposit (PER PERSON) is required to reserve your spot (ie, a double room requires 2 deposits).
• 50% of balance is due October 18, 2026
• Remaining balance is due December 18, 2026
• Payments can be made via credit card, interac e-transfer, or cash.
•Proof of Emergency Travel Medical Insurance AND Trip Interruption/Cancellation Insurance are both required.
• Yoga classes will be all-levels; no previous experience is required. All sessions are optional and guests are invited and encouraged to find what is best for them in terms of participation and movement.
NOVA RETREATS
Nova Retreats proudly curates small group wellness retreats filled with connection, joy, and authentic experiences. We welcome travellers who are able to go with the flow and who are interested in embracing and respecting different countries, cultures, and customs. Each trip is thoughtfully planned and lovingly led by sole owner, operator, and founder, Melanie Caines, who proudly collaborates with beautiful venues and amazing yoga teachers for a truly unforgettable and rejuvenating week. Since 2014, Melanie has curated and hosted over 70 retreats for hundreds of people from all over the world.
At Nova Retreats we recognize that travel is a privilege: we welcome the opportunity to experience and embrace different cultures and customs, offering us an exciting departure from what we’re used to at home. We will do everything we can to ensure your week with us is a comfortable and joyous journey and we ask you to please remember that some things are out of our control; some days may be hotter than you like, or cooler than you like, wetter or windier than you’d like. You may be walking on cobblestones, there could be hills or stairs to climb; you may be introduced to new tastes and types of food. And this is why we travel: to shift our perspective, to understand, to learn, to grow, to expand our horizons, to see the world.
Magic happens when we give ourselves time and space, outside our daily routines and lives, to think, breathe, experience, & enjoy. We look forward to sharing that magic with you.
YOUR RETREAT FACILITATORS
Anne Whelan is a seasoned entreprenuer, CEO and independent corporate director with deep experience leading complex organizations through growth, change, and uncertainty. Anne hasbeen named one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women multiple times, and has led her group of companies from inception to being named one of the Best Managed Company in Canada. Anne serves on several boards, where she works closely with leadership teams on strategy, governance, and execution.
With more than two decades in senior roles spanning innovation, technology, operations, and Anne brings a practical, grounded perspective to the realities of leading a business today – from focus and prioritization to people, capital, and capacity. She is known for asking clear, sharp questions that cut through noise and for helping leaders translate big-picture ideas into simple, actionable plans.
Most importantly, Anne understands the strength of the mind-body connection that yoga can bring to leaders, reconnecting with her yoga practice and joining Melanie on fantastic retreats to Costa Rica and Croatia . This founders and leaders edition is a way of weaving that magic together with thoughtful, real-world strategy work, so participants can return home both restored and ready for what’s next in their business and leadership.
Melanie Caines is a yoga teacher, wellness entrepreneur, and retreat leader with more than 17 years of experience in mindful movement and wellness. After discovering yoga as a way to support her own physical and mental wellbeing, she completed her original teacher training in 2008 and began sharing her passion for accessible, empowering movement with others.
She is the founder of Nova Yoga, a vibrant studio in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, known for its welcoming community. Melanie also created Move With Melanie, an on-demand platform offering hundreds of yoga, mobility, and self-care practices designed to support students at every stage of their journey. In 2014, she launched Nova Retreats, curating transformative international retreats that combine yoga, cultural exploration, and meaningful connection. Melanie’s teaching philosophy centers on empowering individuals to cultivate strength, freedom, confidence, and joy both on and off the mat.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need a passport?
Yes you are required to have a passport.
I don’t have anyone to go with and I don’t want to pay for single occupancy – can you find me a roommate?
Yes I can try to match you up with another solo traveller. You can pay your deposit and if a match cannot be made your deposit will be refunded.
I have dietary restrictions – is this retreat able to accommodate me?
Yes certainly; once you have reserved your spot please pass on any allergies, restrictions, or requests.
Do I need to be an advanced yogi to join this retreat?
Participants should have a regular yoga practice and be comfortable with a level 1/2 class; participants should be confident modifying when they need to and be open to exploring and adventuring on the mat.
Can I bring my kids?
This retreat will be an adult-only vacation.
How can I reach you if I have further questions?
You can email Melanie at novayogaretreats@gmail.com.
TESTIMONIALS
In a word, Nova Yoga Retreats are delicious! Melanie and her co-leaders hold space beautifully, guiding the group through yoga and meditation practices and “off campus” excursions with gentle mastery. You can show up and know that everything has been taken care of. Her groups are always welcoming; I attended two retreats solo and left both with amazing friends. Melanie chooses retreat locations with natural and artistic beauty and most importantly–soul. Her love of travel and exploring new cultures adds so much to the experience. Last, but not least, the food and accomodations are always a delight!
It felt like a true escape from my normal life. I feel like I was able to connect to the area and the people who journeyed with me. Your ability to curate a safe space to be and a place to play for people is truly a gift, Melanie. Thank you.
I can’t recommend Nova Yoga’s retreats highly enough. Melanie put together an amazing week that stretched our bodies and our minds, and left both stronger and more restored. This experience was much more than “just” yoga — it was truly a reset physically and mentally, and a wonderful opportunity to restore and refresh alongside amazing and kind women.
From the moment I arrived, I knew it would be a transformative journey. Each class left me relaxed and rejuvenated. This, along with amazing food and people, made for an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for the perfect yoga getaway.
The Nova Yoga Retreat an amazing experience! The instructors created a very welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. I’m not sure I’ve ever been more relaxed than I was during this retreat. I challenged myself both physically and mentally and I felt stronger in both ways by the end of the week. I made new friends, learned new yoga skills, breathed in the epic beauty of the countryside and really enjoyed the excursions! A beautiful country and yoga retreat experienced with an amazing group of strong, vibrant women! I can’t wait to plan my next trip with Nova Yoga Retreats.
Melanie finds the best places and brings together the most amazing people.
Melanie has created a unique and magical experience that allows people of all ages to deepen their yoga practice in beautiful and comfortable locations. Mel makes you feel safe, able, and confident. She offers opportunities to modify all poses to accommodate your body. Her suggestions and “challenges” allow for growth in both body and mind. You leave the retreat feeling empowered and refreshed. I just returned from my second retreat with her, and am looking forward to planning my next one. Absolutely amazing experiences.
I love the opportunity to get away from the tourist areas and get to know the local scene. The food was fabulous, staff and accommodations were excellent. The yoga was wonderfully therapeutic. And I really enjoyed getting to know the group. This was a wonderful experience for me and my first time travelling as a single. It gave me the confidence to try it again.
Melanie is the most incredible yoga instructor. Her retreats are absolutely amazing. A magical experience of a lifetime. If you haven’t done one of her retreats, you are really missing out!
From the retreat lodgings to the food to the excursions and of course yoga for all levels and styles, it was a travel highlight of my life!
Highly ecommend this enriching yoga retreat experience. This was my second time attending a Nova Retreat, and I’m already looking forward to returning. It’s a truly enriching experience—an opportunity to step away from the busyness of everyday life and reconnect through yoga, mindfulness, and a warm, supportive community. The setting in Marrakesh adds a unique and magical dimension to the retreat. The culture, the atmosphere, and the beauty of the surroundings make it an unforgettable place to recharge. I wholeheartedly encourage anyone seeking rest, renewal, and inspiration to take this time for themselves—you won’t regret it.
I met some incredible people, ate some amazing food, and deepened my yoga practice. The tranquility and grounding was just what I needed. I would highly recommend Mel’s retreats for both the inexperienced and experienced traveller because you can really cater to what you want and need, and you will meet similar people with whom you can enjoy the journey.