The Art of Unwinding

Where East meets West

Booking Policies Retreats

Cancellation Policy

We understand that life can be unpredictable. Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair to all guests while protecting the integrity of the retreat experience for the whole group. It also reflects our own agreement with the retreat venue, so please do read it carefully before booking.

Please note: guests are responsible for arranging their own travel and personal insurance. The Art of Unwinding Retreats cannot be held liable for losses arising from a guest not holding adequate cover. See the Travel Insurance section below for what your policy should include.

All cancellations must be submitted in writing by email to: aoife@theartofunwinding.com

Notice GivenRefundMore than 60 days before arrivalFull refund of amounts paid, minus the non-refundable deposit and minus any costs already committed on your behalf (e.g. to facilitators or catering)30–60 days before arrival50% refund of the total amount paid, minus the non-refundable deposit and minus any costs already committed on your behalfLess than 30 days before arrivalNo refund. We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover this eventuality.Non-arrival / no-showNo refund. The full retreat fee is forfeited.

Your deposit is required to secure your place and is non-refundable in all circumstances.

Transfers: If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your place to another person (subject to Aoife's approval) up to 30 days before the retreat. Please contact us to arrange this.

In the unlikely event that The Art of Unwinding Retreats must cancel or significantly alter the programme, all participants will receive a full refund of amounts paid, or the option to transfer to a future date. We are not liable for any additional costs incurred independently, including flights or accommodation.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all retreat guests. Please ensure your policy is in place before making your booking.

Your travel insurance should ideally cover:

  • Cancellation and curtailment — reimbursement if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, injury, or unforeseen circumstances

  • Medical expenses and emergency repatriation while abroad in Portugal

  • Lost, stolen, or delayed baggage

  • Flight delays or missed connections

  • Pre-existing medical conditions — ensure these are declared and covered by your policy

If you need to cancel after our policy deadlines, travel insurance may be the only way to recover your costs. Please do not leave this to chance.

We recommend using a comparison site such as comparethemarket.com or moneysupermarket.com, or contacting your existing travel insurer. If you have annual travel insurance, please check that it covers retreat and wellness holidays for the specific dates of your trip.

The Art of Unwinding Retreats cannot be held responsible for any losses due to illness, injury, or circumstances beyond our control. By booking, you confirm that you understand the importance of holding adequate travel insurance.

Early Departure

We ask all guests to commit to the full retreat programme on arrival. The Art of Unwinding Retreats is a carefully structured experience, and early departure can affect both your own journey and that of the group.

In the event of early departure:

  • No refund will be issued for the unused portion of the retreat, regardless of the reason for departure.

  • If you need to leave early due to a medical or personal emergency, please speak to Aoife directly and she will do everything possible to support you.

  • If you hold travel insurance that includes curtailment cover, you may be able to make a claim for unused portions of your stay. Please retain all receipts and documentation.

  • We encourage any guest who is finding the retreat challenging to speak with Aoife privately. Our priority is always your wellbeing, and we will do our best to support you through whatever arises.

Health, Suitability & Responsibility

This retreat involves physical activity including fitness sessions, yoga, Pilates, and breathwork. By booking, you confirm that you are in good general health and are physically and emotionally suited to participate.

  • Please disclose any medical conditions, injuries, or medications on your booking form. All information is treated with complete confidentiality.

  • If you are unsure whether any element of the programme is suitable for you, please consult your GP before booking.

  • The Art of Unwinding Retreats reserves the right to ask any guest to sit out a specific session if a facilitator believes participation may cause harm.

  • Breathwork sessions can bring up strong emotional responses. This is a natural part of the process and will be held in a safe, supported environment. Please speak with Aoife if you have any concerns before or during the session.