How R3 Retreats started
R3 Retreats was established in 2016 by Marcus Webb, who had spent over a decade working in outdoor education and experiential learning. The name stands for Rest, Reflect, Reset — though we've moved away from that framing over time, because it implies an outcome that we can't reliably deliver.
The original premise was straightforward: most adults in professional environments don't have access to extended, well-supported time away from their usual pace. Not holidays — which tend to involve activity and stimulation of a different kind — but genuinely slower, more deliberate time. We wanted to create the conditions for that, in a place that was quiet enough to make it possible.
Since then, we've run programs for several hundred participants across our different formats, refined the structure based on what works, and built a small team of facilitators who understand what good retreat facilitation actually involves — primarily, getting out of the way.
No outcome promises
We don't tell people what they will feel or experience during or after a program. We describe what the experience involves and let people decide if that sounds useful for where they are.
Small groups
Programs run with between 6 and 12 participants by default. This is a deliberate choice — larger groups change the dynamic in ways that tend to undermine the quieter goals of a retreat.
Honest communication
If someone enquires and we don't think a program is appropriate for them right now, we say so. We'd rather someone return when the timing is right than participate in something that isn't suited to their situation.
Not therapy
None of our programs are clinical services. Our facilitators are not therapists. We are clear about this in every program description and during the intake process.
Simple environments
The retreat property is comfortable but not luxurious. We avoid over-designed, spa-like environments — not because we object to them, but because they tend to distract from the quieter purpose of a retreat.
Steady programming
We run programs year-round with a consistent structure. We don't respond to wellness trends by adding new formats. The programs are stable because the needs they address are stable.