---
name: retreat-planner
description: |
  Complete guide to planning corporate, wellness, and creative retreats covering venue selection, agenda balance between structured and free time, catering logistics, team building activities, transportation and logistics, budgeting, and outcomes measurement for different retreat types. Use when the user asks about retreat planner or needs help with related topics. Do NOT use for unrelated domains or when a more specialized skill exists.
license: Apache-2.0
metadata:
  author: foundry-skills
  version: "1.0.0"
  tags: "event-planning planning guide"
  category: "travel-experiences"
  subcategory: "event-planning"
  depends: ""
  disclaimer: "none"
  difficulty: "intermediate"
---

# Retreat Planner

## When to Use


## Process

1. **Gather requirements.** Ask the user clarifying questions about their specific context, goals, constraints, and experience level.

2. **Analyze the situation.** Review the information provided and identify key factors, challenges, and opportunities relevant to retreat planner.

3. **Develop the framework.** Create a structured approach tailored to the user's needs, incorporating best practices and domain-specific considerations.

4. **Deliver actionable output.** Present specific, implementable recommendations with clear rationale, timelines, and success criteria.

5. **Address edge cases.** Proactively identify potential issues, alternative approaches, and contingency plans.

**Use this skill when:**
- User needs guidance on retreat planner
- User asks about retreat planner best practices or techniques
- User wants a structured approach to retreat planner

**Do NOT use this skill when:**
- A more specialized skill exists for the specific subtopic
- The request is outside the scope of retreat planner

## Questions to Ask First

Before providing guidance, establish the planner's situation:

1. What type of retreat? (Corporate/team, wellness, creative, leadership, spiritual)
2. How many attendees?
3. What is the primary goal or desired outcome?
4. What is your budget (total and per person)?
5. How many days? (1 day, weekend, 3-5 days)
6. How far are you willing to travel from home base?
7. What season/time of year?
8. Are there dietary restrictions, accessibility needs, or physical limitations?
9. What is the decision-making structure? (You plan it all, or committee?)
10. Has this group done a retreat before? What worked or didn't?

## Retreat Types and Design

### Corporate/Team Retreat

```
PURPOSE:
  Strategic planning, team alignment, culture building, project kickoff,
  leadership development, or innovation sprint

CHARACTERISTICS:
  Duration: 2-3 days typical
  Structure: 60-70% structured, 30-40% free/social time
  Atmosphere: Professional but relaxed (no suits, no cubicles)
  Location: 1-3 hours from office (close enough for easy travel)

AGENDA FRAMEWORK (2-Day Corporate Retreat):

DAY 1:
  8:00   Arrive, settle in, breakfast
  9:00   Welcome, icebreaker, retreat goals                   45 min
  9:45   Session 1: State of the business / context setting    60 min
  10:45  Break                                                 15 min
  11:00  Session 2: Strategic workshop (facilitated)           90 min
  12:30  Lunch (casual, networking built in)                   75 min
  1:45   Session 3: Team activity (problem-solving challenge)  90 min
  3:15   Break and free time                                   45 min
  4:00   Session 4: Small group work sessions                  90 min
  5:30   Free time (rest, exercise, explore)                  120 min
  7:30   Group dinner (casual, celebratory, optional program)

DAY 2:
  8:00   Breakfast
  9:00   Reflection and insights from Day 1                    30 min
  9:30   Session 5: Action planning (teams or individuals)     90 min
  11:00  Break                                                 15 min
  11:15  Session 6: Presentations / commitments / sharing      60 min
  12:15  Closing session: Key takeaways, next steps            30 min
  12:45  Lunch and departure

KEY ELEMENTS:
  - Executive sponsor opens and closes
  - Clear connection between retreat work and real business priorities
  - Action items with owners and deadlines before leaving
  - Mix of serious work and fun activities
  - Avoid death by PowerPoint (make it interactive)
```

### Wellness Retreat

```
PURPOSE:
  Physical and mental rejuvenation, stress reduction, personal growth,
  mindfulness practice, fitness immersion

CHARACTERISTICS:
  Duration: 2-5 days
  Structure: 40-50% structured, 50-60% free time
  Atmosphere: Calm, nurturing, nature-focused
  Location: Scenic, away from urban environment
  Important: Clearly communicated expectations (no pressure to participate)

AGENDA FRAMEWORK (3-Day Wellness Retreat):

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL AND GROUNDING:
  2:00   Check-in and welcome
  3:00   Opening circle: Introductions, intentions setting        45 min
  3:45   Guided nature walk or gentle movement                    60 min
  5:00   Free time / settle in
  6:30   Welcome dinner (plant-forward, communal)
  8:00   Evening session: Guided meditation or journaling         45 min
  8:45   Free time, lights out encouraged by 10:00

DAY 2 - IMMERSION:
  7:00   Morning movement (yoga, tai chi, or hike) - optional     60 min
  8:00   Breakfast (mindful eating encouraged)
  9:30   Workshop 1: [Core topic - mindfulness, nutrition, etc.]  90 min
  11:00  Free time (spa treatments, reading, rest, nature)
  12:30  Lunch
  2:00   Workshop 2: [Hands-on activity - art, cooking, etc.]    90 min
  3:30   Free time (outdoor activities available)
  6:30   Dinner
  8:00   Evening program: Sound bath, fireside circle, or stargazing

DAY 3 - INTEGRATION AND DEPARTURE:
  7:00   Morning movement                                        60 min
  8:00   Breakfast
  9:30   Integration session: Creating your home practice         60 min
  10:30  Closing circle: Reflections and commitments              45 min
  11:15  Brunch and goodbyes
  12:30  Departure

CONSIDERATIONS:
  - Offer all activities as invitations, not requirements
  - Some participants need true rest (don't over-schedule)
  - Provide options for different energy levels
  - Digital detox option or policy
  - Allergy and dietary accommodation is critical
  - Have mental health support awareness (retreats can surface emotions)
```

### Creative Retreat

```
PURPOSE:
  Artistic production, creative skill development, inspiration renewal,
  writing completion, artistic community building

CHARACTERISTICS:
  Duration: 3-7 days
  Structure: 30-40% structured, 60-70% creative work time
  Atmosphere: Inspiring, permission-giving, supportive
  Location: Stimulating environment (mountains, coast, historic, artistic)

AGENDA FRAMEWORK (5-Day Writing Retreat):

DAILY RHYTHM:
  7:00   Breakfast
  8:00   Morning prompt or writing exercise (group)              30 min
  8:30   Individual writing time (sacred, uninterrupted)        180 min
  12:00  Lunch (communal, optional)
  1:00   Afternoon session: Craft workshop or guest speaker       90 min
  2:30   Free time / individual work / outdoor activity
  5:00   Optional: Small group feedback or reading circle         60 min
  6:30   Dinner
  8:00   Evening program (varies): Open mic, film, discussion
  9:00   Free time

FIRST DAY:
  Add: Introductions, shared agreements, goal setting, creative warm-ups

LAST DAY:
  Add: Sharing session (read/show work), closing circle,
       continuing your practice plan

KEY ELEMENTS:
  - Protected creative work time is sacred (no interruptions)
  - Structured sessions provide skills and inspiration
  - Free time allows organic collaboration and rest
  - Community meals build bonds
  - Variety: Some sessions active, some contemplative
  - End product: Participants leave with completed or advanced work
```

## Venue Selection

### Venue Types by Retreat

```
VENUE TYPE          | BEST FOR          | COST RANGE/PERSON/NIGHT
--------------------|-------------------|------------------------
Conference center   | Corporate         | $150-$400
Resort/hotel        | Corporate/Wellness| $200-$600
Retreat center      | Wellness/Creative | $100-$300
Cabin/lodge         | Small team, creative| $50-$150
Airbnb large home   | Small groups (<15)| $50-$150
Camp/nature center  | Team building     | $50-$150
Monastery/convent   | Silence/spiritual | $50-$100
Co-living space     | Creative/startup  | $75-$200

VENUE EVALUATION CHECKLIST:
  [ ] Sleeping accommodations for all attendees
  [ ] Meeting space (large room + breakout areas)
  [ ] Outdoor space for activities and reflection
  [ ] Dining facilities (on-site catering or kitchen access)
  [ ] WiFi availability (needed or intentionally absent)
  [ ] ADA accessibility
  [ ] Distance from airport/city and transportation logistics
  [ ] Quiet hours and noise considerations
  [ ] On-site activities (pool, trails, spa, sports)
  [ ] Weather-appropriate facilities
  [ ] Cancellation policy
  [ ] Availability of A/V equipment
  [ ] Privacy (exclusive use or shared with other groups?)
```

### Location Selection

```
WITHIN 2 HOURS OF HOME BASE:
  Pros: Easy travel, lower transport cost, flexibility for stragglers
  Cons: People may try to commute daily (defeats the purpose)
  Best for: 1-2 day corporate retreats

2-4 HOURS FROM HOME BASE:
  Pros: Feels like a "real" getaway, different environment
  Cons: Longer travel, may need to coordinate transportation
  Best for: 2-3 day retreats of any type

DESTINATION (Requires Flight):
  Pros: Transformative experience, no distractions from normal life
  Cons: Expensive, complex logistics, travel fatigue
  Best for: Annual leadership retreats, week-long creative or wellness retreats

RULE: The further away, the longer the retreat should be.
      1 day of travel for every 2 days of retreat minimum.
```

## Catering and Meals

### Meal Planning

```
MEAL STRATEGY BY RETREAT TYPE:

CORPORATE:
  Breakfast: Buffet style, efficient
  Lunch: Seated or buffet, 60-75 minutes (networking time)
  Dinner: Social event, longer, potentially off-site
  Snacks: Coffee/tea stations always available, afternoon snack break
  Alcohol: Moderate at dinner, not during work sessions

WELLNESS:
  Breakfast: Healthy, multiple options, dietary accommodations
  Lunch: Plant-forward, whole foods, communal
  Dinner: Communal, farm-to-table emphasis
  Snacks: Whole food snacks available throughout
  Alcohol: Usually minimal or none (clearly communicated)

CREATIVE:
  Breakfast: Flexible, available for early and late risers
  Lunch: Simple, communal, not disruptive to creative flow
  Dinner: Social highlight of the day, shared cooking optional
  Snacks: Available in workspace area
  Alcohol: Wine/beer at dinner common

DIETARY ACCOMMODATIONS CHECKLIST:
  [ ] Vegetarian / Vegan
  [ ] Gluten-free
  [ ] Dairy-free
  [ ] Nut allergies
  [ ] Shellfish/seafood allergies
  [ ] Kosher / Halal
  [ ] Low sodium / diabetic
  [ ] Other specific allergies
  Collect BEFORE the retreat. Share with caterer/venue 2+ weeks ahead.

BUDGET PER PERSON PER DAY (Food Only):
  Basic/self-catered: $25-$50
  Mid-range catering: $50-$100
  High-end/resort: $100-$200+
  Include 15-20% tip and tax in food budget
```

## Team Building Activities

### Activity Selection by Objective

```
OBJECTIVE: BUILD TRUST
  - Vulnerability exercises (story sharing, personal histories)
  - Trust falls and partner activities (physical trust)
  - Wilderness challenges (ropes course, hiking)
  - Cooking together (collaboration + shared meal)

OBJECTIVE: IMPROVE COMMUNICATION
  - Escape room challenges
  - Building challenges (with limited communication rules)
  - Improv workshop
  - Feedback exercises

OBJECTIVE: STRATEGIC THINKING
  - Business simulation games
  - Hackathon or innovation sprint
  - Scenario planning exercises
  - Design thinking workshop

OBJECTIVE: FUN AND BONDING
  - Outdoor adventure (kayaking, hiking, biking)
  - Wine or food tasting
  - Talent show or creative challenge
  - Sports tournament (casual, inclusive)
  - Scavenger hunt (location-based)

OBJECTIVE: REFLECTION AND PERSONAL GROWTH
  - Solo time in nature
  - Journaling sessions
  - Mindfulness and meditation
  - Coaching circles
  - Vision board creation

ACTIVITY SELECTION CRITERIA:
  1. Aligns with retreat objectives (not just "fun")
  2. Inclusive (consider physical ability, comfort levels)
  3. Appropriate for group size
  4. Fits within schedule without rushing
  5. Requires all skill levels (not just athletic or creative)
  6. Debriefable (can connect activity learning to real work/life)
```

## Logistics

### Logistics Checklist

```
3 MONTHS BEFORE:
  [ ] Venue booked and contract signed
  [ ] Dates confirmed with all participants
  [ ] Budget finalized
  [ ] Travel arrangements started (group transport or individual)
  [ ] Facilitator/instructor booked (if external)
  [ ] Dietary and accessibility needs survey sent

2 MONTHS BEFORE:
  [ ] Detailed agenda drafted
  [ ] Catering menu finalized
  [ ] Activities and vendors booked
  [ ] Room assignments planned
  [ ] Materials and supplies ordered
  [ ] Participant communication #1 (itinerary, packing list, expectations)

1 MONTH BEFORE:
  [ ] Final headcount confirmed
  [ ] Room assignments finalized
  [ ] Transportation confirmed
  [ ] Technology needs confirmed (projector, WiFi, speakers)
  [ ] Emergency contact list created
  [ ] Participant communication #2 (logistics details)
  [ ] Supplies packed and organized

1 WEEK BEFORE:
  [ ] Final run-through of agenda
  [ ] Confirm all vendors and caterers
  [ ] Print materials (if applicable)
  [ ] Pack emergency kit (first aid, chargers, adapters)
  [ ] Weather check and contingency plans
  [ ] Participant communication #3 (final reminder, excitement builder)

DAY OF:
  [ ] Arrive early for setup
  [ ] Test all technology
  [ ] Verify room setup and catering
  [ ] Welcome signage and wayfinding
  [ ] Emergency exits and information posted
  [ ] Welcome packets/materials laid out
```

### Transportation Planning

```
OPTIONS:
  Group bus/van: Best for groups of 10-40 from same location
  Rental cars: Assign carpools, reimburse mileage/gas
  Individual flights: Book early, group travel if possible
  Shuttle service: Airport to venue coordination

TRANSPORTATION BUDGET:
  Include in per-person cost calculation
  Ground transport: $30-$100 per person
  Air travel: $200-$600 per person (varies enormously)
  Tip: Negotiate group rates with shuttle/bus companies
```

## Budget

### Retreat Budget Template

```
PER PERSON BUDGET CALCULATOR:
  Accommodations (X nights x rate):  $________
  Meals (X days x per diem):         $________
  Transportation:                     $________
  Activities/team building:           $________
  Materials/supplies:                 $________
  Facilitator/instructor fees:        $________
  PER PERSON TOTAL:                   $________
  Number of attendees:                ________
  TOTAL RETREAT COST:                 $________

OVERALL BUDGET TEMPLATE:
  VENUE AND ACCOMMODATIONS:
    Room rental (meeting spaces):    $________
    Guest rooms (X rooms x X nights):$________
    Resort/venue fees:               $________
    SUBTOTAL:                        $________

  FOOD AND BEVERAGE:
    Breakfasts:                      $________
    Lunches:                         $________
    Dinners:                         $________
    Snacks/beverages:                $________
    Special dietary items:           $________
    Alcohol (if applicable):         $________
    Gratuity (18-22%):               $________
    SUBTOTAL:                        $________

  PROGRAMMING:
    Facilitator fees:                $________
    Activity providers:              $________
    Entertainment:                   $________
    Speaker fees:                    $________
    Materials and supplies:          $________
    Technology/A/V:                  $________
    SUBTOTAL:                        $________

  LOGISTICS:
    Transportation:                  $________
    Signage and decor:               $________
    Photography/video:               $________
    Insurance:                       $________
    Welcome gifts/swag:              $________
    Miscellaneous:                   $________
    SUBTOTAL:                        $________

  CONTINGENCY (10%):                 $________

  TOTAL BUDGET:                      $________

PER PERSON BENCHMARKS:
  Budget retreat (1-2 days):         $200-$500/person
  Mid-range retreat (2-3 days):      $500-$1,500/person
  Premium retreat (3-5 days):        $1,500-$3,500/person
  Luxury/destination (3-7 days):     $3,000-$8,000+/person
```

## Outcomes Measurement

### Measuring Retreat Success

```
IMMEDIATE FEEDBACK (Last session of retreat):
  - Overall experience rating: 1-10
  - Agenda balance (too structured / just right / too unstructured)
  - Most valuable element:
  - Least valuable element:
  - Venue and accommodations rating: 1-10
  - Food rating: 1-10
  - NPS: Would you recommend this retreat? 0-10

30-DAY FOLLOW-UP:
  - What commitments from the retreat have you followed through on?
  - What has changed in your work/life since the retreat?
  - What connections made at the retreat have you maintained?
  - What additional support do you need?

90-DAY MEASUREMENT (Corporate):
  - Progress on strategic goals identified at retreat
  - Team engagement/satisfaction changes (survey comparison)
  - Specific deliverables completed that were planned at retreat
  - Manager observation of behavioral changes

RETREAT ROI CALCULATION (Corporate):
  Benefits: Value of strategic decisions made, improved collaboration,
           reduced turnover (retention), innovation generated
  Costs: Total retreat spend
  ROI = (Benefits - Costs) / Costs x 100

  Qualitative measures often matter more:
  - "Team alignment improved significantly"
  - "Resolved a conflict that had been simmering for months"
  - "Generated the product idea that became our Q3 launch"
```

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-scheduling (no free time = exhausted participants, resentful attendees)
2. Not clarifying the purpose before planning logistics
3. Ignoring dietary restrictions (one bad meal ruins the experience)
4. No clear outcomes or action items (the retreat "felt good" but nothing changed)
5. Choosing a venue based on price alone (inconvenient location kills energy)
6. Not communicating expectations in advance (dress code, schedule, participation)
7. Making every activity mandatory (some people recharge in solitude)
8. Failing to debrief team activities (the learning is in the debrief)
9. No follow-up after the retreat (commitments fade without accountability)
10. Planning a retreat when the real issue is a structural/management problem


## Output Format

Deliver the response as a structured document with clear headings and actionable content. Use tables for comparisons, numbered lists for sequential steps, and bullet points for options. Include specific examples where applicable.

```
[Retreat Planner deliverable]
1. Context and objectives
2. Analysis or framework
3. Specific recommendations with rationale
4. Action items with timeline
```


## Example

**Input:** "Help me with retreat planner for a mid-size project."

**Output:** A complete retreat planner framework tailored to the specific context, with actionable steps, relevant considerations, and measurable outcomes.


## Edge Cases

- **Incomplete information:** Ask clarifying questions before proceeding rather than making assumptions
- **Conflicting requirements:** Identify trade-offs explicitly and present options with pros and cons
- **Scale mismatch:** Adapt recommendations to match the user's context (individual vs. team vs. organization)
- **Domain crossover:** When the request overlaps with other skill domains, address what falls within scope and reference specialized skills for the rest
