The venue you choose for your company retreat will influence and shape the atmosphere of your gathering, nurturing or hindering connections, creativity, or relaxation. The venue's proximity, its welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, the modernity of its amenities, the availability of activities and rest options onsite, and the inspiring surroundings all have an impact that can boost the success of your event.
Recent studies have shown a surge in demand for unique and non-traditional venues. In February 2025, Cvent released their Planner Sourcing Report, surveying over 600 event professionals in Europe and found that 48% of European events and meeting planners were looking for "different venues". We see it as well. More and more clients are seeking places that prioritize their team members' experiences.
Taking your team offsite is a great idea. But getting out of the [home] office is nothing new. How do you avoid the "been there, done that" palpable feeling of boredom from your team checking into yet another hotel room?
It is not enough to get out anymore. If your employees are going to make an effort to leave their comfort, family and work duties for a few days, it had better be worth it. That means taking them somewhere memorable, somewhere that will break the routine and the familiarity, maybe even throw them a bit off guard, somewhere that will have an impact.
Stepping out of the box and into the unknown and unexpected will encourage fresh thinking, and a dramatic first impression sparks curiosity and excitement. That is why a unique and one-of-a-kind, even quirky location can make a big difference.
When the venue is an experience in itself, it already sets the tone for the rest of the offsite, creating a shared experience that fosters a unified atmosphere.
It all trickles down from there: with curiosity and excitement comes more engagement, which leads to more authentic connections, creativity and bonding.
We intentionally work with a diverse range of venues, enabling us to cater to the needs of all our clients. We ensure that we add a few unique gems in different regions. Here are four of our current favourite ones:
If you are looking for historic grandeur combined with natural beauty, the Rhön Bath & Estate is the perfect place for you and your team.
This manor was once the home of Ludwig I of Bavaria, and his heritage is evident throughout the property. Surrounded by lush gardens, the outdoors provides a peaceful and secluded environment. The addition of a 2800 m² spa, sheep and cattle, access to mini golf, horse riding, and more activities truly makes this venue a one-of-a-kind retreat spot. The location has been preserved and renovated to perfectly accommodate any company's needs, featuring high-tech and modern amenities, including stucco ceilings and chandelier-lit rooms. And there's no need to worry about food, as the venue has several onsite restaurants.
The Wild British Enclave is a unique estate that offers a diverse range of properties.
From mansions to barns, country houses, and thatched cottages, the Wild British Enclave boasts a total of 86 bedrooms, over 8,000 acres of wild meadows, ancient woodlands, and lakes.
Only a couple of hours from London, this location is both accessible and remote, offering a wide range of activities onsite, from heated outdoor pools and a spa to tennis courts and more unique options, such as wild swimming, axe throwing, archery, and fire feasts in the woods.
The Portuguese Team Village is the perfect blend of eco-conscious design and a comfortable, immersive natural setting. The venue offers hotel comfort in sustainable glamping accommodations, including luxury tents, wooden bungalows, domes, and villas that are seamlessly integrated into the landscape. The whole resort is about maximazing nature connection while minimising impact.
The several workshop rooms, both indoor and outdoor, are perfect for Team building and creative brainstorming, filled with natural light and offering panoramic views.
In terms of activities, the venue offers a range of options, including water sports, horseback riding, yoga, and stargazing sessions with astronomers. Additionally, on-site restaurants host themed dinner nights, specializing in local and authentic cuisine.
The Pyrenees Valley retreat location is a foundation with a deep commitment to regenerative practices and systemic change, set in an inspiring natural setting. Beyond a venue, they see themselves as a network of change-makers who devote their life energy, wealth, and talents as a force for good.
It operates on 100,000 hectares dedicated to regenerative practices, from forestry to agriculture, which create an immersive experience for teams of 10 to 50 employees coming together to reflect and deepen collaboration. The facilities offer space to socialize and relax with stunning views over the Muga Valley. Although situated in a remote and wild setting, they are only a two-hour drive from Barcelona or Girona.
Choosing an unusual venue for a team retreat is a strategic investment, as it has the power to transform a standard corporate event into an energizing, memorable, and productive occasion that can yield lasting benefits for both individuals and the organization as a whole.
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