ELEVATE: Madeira

May 25  - May 31 2026

You are invited to ELEVATE 2026.  Join us and experience the rich natural beauty of Madeira, Portugal. Our setting is the world renowned Saccharum Wellness Resort & Spa. Nestled on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this luxury eco-wellness resort offers a tranquil escape where Ayurvedic-inspired spa rituals, nourishing local cuisine, and the raw beauty of this oceanfront property come together in perfect harmony. 

ELEVATE will be filled with sunrise hikes, daily yoga and meditation, island adventures nourishing meals, and some of the most profound natural beauty that will inspire you to share, create and be present. Rachel and Ally invite you to paradise—to play, rest, explore, and experience all that Madeira has to offer. 

This is your invitation. 🌺

The Setting 

Madeira translates as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” and is often called the "Hawaii" of Europe. This lush, volcanic paradise in the North Atlantic is known for its dramatic cliffs, terraced hillsides, and vibrant botanical gardens. This Portuguese island offers breathtaking contrasts—from black sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to misty mountains and ancient laurel forests. With its year-round mild climate, rich biodiversity, and awe-inspiring landscapes, Madeira is a sanctuary for nature lovers, adventurers, and seekers of stillness alike. 

The Accommodations 

Saccharum  Resort and Spa is a sanctuary of luxury and wellness, where sustainability is seamlessly woven into every detail. Cradled between the mountains and the Atlantic in Madeira, it invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. Ocean-view rooms with private balconies blur the line between indoors and out, letting the sea breeze and golden light become part of your stay. Contemporary design meets natural textures, creating spaces that are both elegant and deeply restful.

The Yoga

Rachel and Ally with be offering daily yoga practices. This retreat is open to all ability levels and ages. Hatha, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Nidra, Yin Yoga traditions will be honored. Each day begins with a morning practice.  A second, restorative, practice will be offered in the evening. Your level of commitment is entirely up to you. Take what you need and leave the rest.

The Community 

The Adventure

The Food 

Enjoy fresh, locally sourced cuisine infused with island flavors and Mediterranean influences. While the Saccharum Resort features three distinct on-site dining options, we’ll also venture out to explore some of Madeira’s most beloved local restaurants. Throughout the week, we’ll share a variety of curated group meals that showcase the richness of the island’s culinary traditions. That said, not all meals will be shared; you'll also have time to explore on your own or enjoy a quiet meal in solitude if you wish.

The Spa 

Inspired by the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, the spa offers refined treatments that awaken the senses, restore balance, and renew the spirit—each experience a gentle invitation to immerse yourself in serenity and timeless beauty.

Your Hosts

Rachel Larsen- Yogi, Professor of Anthropology, Travel Influencer, and author of Elevate- has been teaching yoga for over 25 years. Her lifelong exploration of the world and the human spirit has taught her that true travel is a sacred journey of connection—forming bonds and relationships that nourish the soul. Guided by her deep wisdom and a vast global network, she creates experiences that awaken, inspire, and transform.

Ally Braxton-a yoga practitioner for over 15 years and teacher for the past two, offers a blend of creativity, grounded presence, and heartfelt belief in each person’s innate capacity to heal. Through mindful movement, yin, and meditation, she invites others to turn inward, awaken their inner wisdom, and embrace transformation—wisdom deeply enriched by her time teaching across Southeast Asia.

Investment

The total for the trip is

 $3,895 USD double occupancy 

 $4,675 USD single occupancy

FOUNDERS' DISCOUNT $295.00 OFF 

FOUNDERS' PRICING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 

Payment Plan

$1000 deposit is due upon registration

50% will be billed 10/1/2025

The remaining balance paid in full 2/1/2026

Financing options available 

Note: All prices are without airfare

Travel Info

International flights should arrive into and depart from Funchal Airport (FNC), Madeira.
Transfers between the airport and the hotel can be arranged upon request (not included in program cost). 

Inclusions:

• 6 nights luxury accommodation at Saccharum Resort sea view with balcony 

• Daily yoga sessions

• Daily breakfast, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
  

• Sunrise Hike 

• Island Adventure Day 
  

• English-speaking guide for all excursions

• Ground transportation for all programmed activities
  
  

Not Included

• International airfare

• Meals not listed above

• Alcohol

• Gratuities for guides and drivers (left to guest discretion)

• Personal hotel expenses

• Travel insurance

• Early check-in or late check-out

• Spa treatments

• City tourist tax (collected by hotel at check-in)