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Transformational Luxury Travel & Retreats for Women in Midlife

For the woman who has spent years showing up for everyone else, it is time to return to yourself. Grit & Grace Adventures creates intimate, small-group journeys designed for women forty-five and better navigating life’s transitions.

Our boutique retreats blend deep cultural immersion, meaningful connection, and the restorative movement of yoga. Every experience is intentionally crafted to ground you, expand your horizons, and remind you who you are when the world goes quiet. This is travel that awakens your confidence, sparks your curiosity, and honors the part of you that knows it is time for more.

⤷ Further Exploration

Currently In Thailand

Currently In Thailand

A woman with a backpack and a sun hat looking at ancient temple ruins during sunset.

Currently Grounded In: Thailand: Hosting Our Boutique Cross-Country Retreat

Temples, Tea Plantations, and True Connection 

We are currently on the ground in Thailand, preparing for our February 16th departure. This journey will lead an intimate group of women from the vibrant pulse of Bangkok to the quiet hills of the north. Together, we will immerse ourselves in tea roasting traditions, share slow mornings on the Andaman Sea, and move through guided jungle safaris. You are invited to follow our live dispatch on Instagram as these days unfold, witnessing the balance of restorative stillness and deep conversation that defines our sanctuaries.

Join the Journey in 2027

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[ DESTINATIONS ]

Upcoming Women’s

Adventure Retreats

Morocco - Ancient Sands and Soulful Connection

May 6th - 15th, 2026

Join an intimate circle of women for a luxury Moroccan retreat that balances the grit of the desert with the grace of the medina. We begin in a private countryside villa near Marrakech before traversing ancient trade routes to reach the hidden dunes of the Erg Chegaga Sahara camp. This journey is crafted for women in midlife who value cultural immersion over consumption. You will experience the artistry of local weavers, the stillness of the desert, and the warmth of nomadic hospitality. Between nomadic encounters and ruins, you will find space for yoga, fine dining, and meaningful reflection with like-minded travellers. This is more than a tour. It is a purposeful exploration of Morocco and yourself.

Only 4 spots Left!

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Only 4 spots Left! ✈️

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People sitting in chairs watching a sunset over a marshland, some wearing hats, during a group outdoor gathering.

Botswana - Wild Silence and Ancient Rhythms

June 28th - July 9th, 2026

Experience the raw beauty of the Okavango Delta and the vastness of the Kalahari on a luxury safari designed for the discerning woman. This journey invites you to step away from the digital noise and into the deep pulse of the African bush. Our small group will move through private concessions where the wildlife remains undisturbed, and the connection to the land feels personal. We balance the grit of open-air game drives with the grace of high-end tented camps and sundowners under an endless sky. Whether we are gliding through the delta in a traditional mokoro or sharing stories around a fire, this retreat is a masterclass in being present. It is a sanctuary for women navigating life's transitions who are ready to trade the familiar for the extraordinary.

Only 4 spots Left

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Only 4 spots Left ✈️

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Group of people relaxing in a natural infinity pool in a lush jungle.

Bali - Spiritual Stillness and Sacred Waters in Bali

Sept 14th - 24th, 2026

Beyond the bustling crowds lies a Bali of ancient water temples, emerald rice terraces, and a profound sense of peace. This retreat is an invitation to slow down and align with the island’s gentle spiritual pulse. We begin in the cultural heart of Ubud where the morning mist settles over the jungle before finding our way to the serene shores of the east coast. Our small group will participate in traditional blessing ceremonies, walk through heritage villages, and enjoy the restorative movement of yoga in open air shalas. This journey is thoughtfully designed for the woman in a season of reflection who is seeking a blend of cultural depth and high end comfort. It is a space to honor your transition surrounded by the island’s natural grace and the supportive presence of a community that understands the value of a meaningful pause

Sold Out

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Sold Out ✈️

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Group of people performing a traditional dance in front of a white wall with ornate wooden windows, with a large tree partially visible at the top.

Bhutan: A Himalayan Journey into the Last Shangri-La

Nov 6th - 17th, 2026

Venture into the heart of the Dragon Kingdom for a retreat that feels like stepping back in time. Bhutan is a place where ancient traditions are not just preserved but lived every single day. Our journey takes a small circle of women through the emerald Paro Valley and the high mountain passes of Punakha to discover a culture rooted in kindness and presence. We will hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery, participate in sacred butter lamp ceremonies, and share meals with local families in traditional farmhouses. This experience is crafted for the woman seeking a true perspective shift and a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world. Between the prayer flags and the fortress monasteries, you will find a profound sense of peace and a reminder of what it means to live with intention.

Sold Out

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Sold Out ✈️

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Three women dressed in traditional Indian and Western clothing walking in front of the Taj Mahal during sunset.

India: A Pilgrimage to the Soul

Feb 2nd - 20th , 2026

India is not a destination you simply visit; it is a land that requires you to show up with your whole heart. Our journey into the sacred rhythm of India is designed for the woman who is ready to trade the surface level for the profound. We wander through ancient temples where the air is thick with incense and intention, and find ourselves in quiet courtyards where the noise of the world finally falls away.

This is an invitation to explore the vibrant markets of Delhi, the sunrise reflections on the Ganges, and the soft, golden light of Jaipur. Between the movement and the culture, we find the "jai yen" or cool heart within ourselves. It is a journey of deep connection, big laughs, and the kind of beauty that stays with you long after you have returned home.

5 Spots Left

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5 Spots Left ✈️

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2027 Journeys
Colorful Buddhist temple with ornate golden roofs, a tall stone pagoda, a large statue of a Buddhist monk, and lush green plants under a bright blue sky with clouds.
India - Feb 2027
Thailand Jan 2027
Galápagos Coming Soon
Colombia Coming Soon
Bhutan 2027 Coming Soon
Japan Coming Soon
An aerial view of a historic church with twin spires located in a town square, surrounded by townhouses and green hills in the background.
A yellow and brown iguana sitting on a black rock by the ocean with waves and a blue sky in the background.
A traditional Japanese pagoda with multiple tiers, situated in a scenic area during sunset, with Mount Fuji in the background and the sun creating a starburst effect.
A hilltop monastery with traditional Bhutanese architecture, white walls, wooden windows, and golden roof decorations, built on a rocky mountainside surrounded by forest.
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The Grit & Grace Manifesto: A New Standard for the Modern Matriarch

We believe that the most profound journey a woman can take is the one that leads back to herself. For too long, the travel industry has marketed to women in midlife as either passive observers or retirees in search of a cruise ship. At Grit & Grace Adventures, we reject those narrow definitions. We recognize that this stage of life is not a graceful decline but a powerful re-negotiation of identity and intent.

Our mission is to provide an elevated container for women navigating the complexities of career shifts, empty nests, and the evolution of self. We curate founder-led experiences that replace the exhaustion of consumption with the luxury of presence. By blending the physical grit of global exploration with the emotional grace of stillness, we help you bridge the gap between who you have been and who you are becoming.

We do not offer tours. We offer sanctuaries. Whether we are moving through the high mountain passes of the Himalayas or the quiet shorelines of Thailand, every detail is designed to foster clarity and connection. We invite you to step away from the roles you play for others and reclaim the space that belongs only to you. This is your invitation to rise, to explore, and to live with an intelligence that is entirely your own.

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Our Founder

My journey to founding Grit & Grace Adventures was not a straight line but a series of meaningful pivots. Before the world slowed down in recent years, I led exhilarating global retreats and ran a marketing firm in Costa Rica. When life brought me back to Canada, I opened three successful women’s boutiques where I spent my days listening to the stories of remarkable women. I heard a common yearning for more than just a vacation. I heard a longing for deep cultural immersion and profound connection with others, navigating the unique experience of midlife.

I created this company to be the sanctuary I knew we all needed. As a certified yoga instructor, life coach, and lifelong explorer, I have trekked the Himalayas, lived in a tent in the African Bush, sailed a tall ship up the coast of Brazil, and slept under the Saharan stars. I have learned that stepping outside our comfort zones is the fastest way to raise our tolerance for uncertainty and rediscover our own hidden capabilities.

I lead our journeys personally because I believe the true magic lies in the connections forged between fellow travellers. I am here to share a new way of seeing the world and yourself as you exist within it. I invite you to join our circle as we explore the depths of our own souls through the beauty of the unknown.

Penny Light

Contact Penny
Woman in a brown dress with tattoos, sunglasses, and jewelry standing in front of a painting of an older woman making ice cream on a seaside terrace with yellow shutters.
  • "I came for the wildlife, but I left with a deeper sense of who I am. From sunrise yoga overlooking the Okavango Delta to connecting with incredible women from around the world, every moment felt intentional. I was nervous to join solo, but by day two, I had a tribe. Penny creates magic. If you're hesitating, don’t. This is the trip that changes everything."

    – Norma, Ontario, Canada

  • I was nervous to join as a solo traveller, but I felt so supported through the whole process with Penny. This group of women became family. I never felt alone, only inspired, and free to be exactly who I was. I am now leaving with a new group of sisters. If you’re on the fence, let this be your sign: do it.

    –Natasha, Australia

  • "This retreat went above and beyond my expectations with every detail thoughtfully planned to perfection. The friendships forged on this journey will last a lifetime and I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to any woman looking to connect, explore, and grow."

    Marlene

  • This is not your average retreat. Penny blends adventure with mindfulness in a way that feels seamless. One day I was watching elephants by boat, the next I was meditating overlooking the African Savanna - It’s real, raw, and transformative. You won't find this anywhere else.

    – Gayle Ann, Ontario, Canada

  • "Penny has an incredible gift for bringing women together and creating a space where you feel safe to step outside your comfort zone. I returned home feeling more like myself than I have in years with a renewed sense of wonder and a heart full of stories."

    —Tracy

  • "The balance of movement, culture, and high end comfort was exactly what I was looking for in this season of my life. It was a soulful adventure that felt deeply personal and expertly handled from start to finish."

    —Sarah

  • Penny is the real deal. Her love for Botswana, her presence as a teacher, and the intention behind every detail made this trip unforgettable. I came hoping to disconnect, and instead, I reconnected with everything that matters. It’s not just a trip, it’s an awakening

    – Elizabeth, Ontario, Canada

  • We came for the safari and scenery, but left feeling completely changed. This trip somehow blends introspection and play. Imagine waking to lions calling in the distance, then flowing through yoga as the sun rises. Every detail was intentional. Worth every cent.

    – Marie, United States

  • "I arrived as a solo traveler and left as part of a sisterhood of remarkable women who truly understand the beauty of this midlife transition. This was not just a trip but a meaningful return to my own strength and grace."

    —Karen

  • "This was a life changing experience that combined adventure with deep soul work in a way I never expected. Penny is a master at creating a safe and sacred container for women to truly let go and rediscover their own light."

    - Mindy

  • What surprised me most wasn’t the wildlife (which was breathtaking), but the deep connection I felt with the women on this journey and with myself. Penny creates space for truth, for healing and a TON of laughter. The best YES I have made.

    – Arlene, Ontario, Canada

  • "I have never felt so well looked after while also being challenged to grow and explore. The intimacy of the group allowed for conversations that were as rich and beautiful as the landscapes we were traveling through."

    - Jane

  • "Penny has a profound gift for weaving together culture, movement, and a sense of belonging for women in our wisdom years. I returned home with a clearer sense of who I am and a heart full of beautiful new friendships."

    - Susan

  • The grit of the adventure and the grace of the hospitality made for a perfect balance that fed my spirit. This journey is an absolute must for any woman looking to reclaim her sense of wonder and adventure in midlife."

    - Snooks

  • The itinerary flows like a story from the majesty of Victoria Falls to the quiet mystery of the Okavango Delta. But what sets it apart is Penny’s thoughtful care. Every lodge, every practice, every pause had purpose. You’ll feel it. You’ll remember it forever.

    – Michelle, United States


[ FAQ ]

Common Questions

  • At Grit & Grace Adventures, we favour depth over density. Our retreats are intentionally kept small, usually with a maximum of 10 participants (Plus our founder, Penny). This ensures a boutique feel where the movement is fluid, the conversations are rich, and the focus remains entirely on your experience.

  • Our community is typically made up of women in their wisdom years, generally between the ages of 45 and 70+. We find that this shared stage of life, navigating career shifts, empty nests, or new beginnings—creates a beautiful and immediate common ground.

  • Most of the women in our circle arrive solo. We curate our journeys to ensure you feel a sense of belonging from the moment you land. You will find yourself surrounded by like-minded women who are also seeking meaningful connection and shared adventure.

  • Absolutely. Our journeys are not about physical "perfection" or advanced poses. We view yoga as a movement toward yourself. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or have never stepped onto a mat, our small group sizes allow us to honour your individual rhythm. It is about presence, not performance. If you are open to moving your body and breathing with intention, you are ready.

  • It means I am with you every step of the way. I personally curate the itineraries and lead the groups to ensure the high standards of Grit & Grace are met. This allow us to remain flexible, intimate, and deeply focused on the individual experience of every woman in the circle.

  • We focus our expertise on the ground by curating every detail of your sanctuary and local journey. While we do not book your international flights, we are happy to provide guidance on the best arrival times and airports to ensure your transition into the group is seamless. Once you land, we take care of everything else so you can simply arrive and be present.

  • Yes. Once you have reserved your place in the circle, you will receive a comprehensive preparation package tailored to your specific destination. This includes a curated packing list to help you balance comfort and style, as well as cultural etiquette tips and any necessary travel requirements. We ensure you feel fully prepared and confident long before your journey begins.

  • Absolutely. If you have a circle of six or more women, we can curate a private sanctuary designed specifically for your group. Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday, honoring a new chapter after a divorce, or simply reuniting with your closest friends, we handle every detail from luxurious accommodations to soulful itineraries. This allows you to focus entirely on connection and shared memories while we manage the logistics of your private adventure.

  • We frequently witness the magic of multi-generational connection on our adventures. While our retreats are primarily designed for women in their wisdom years, we warmly welcome the daughters and granddaughters who wish to walk beside them. Whether it is a mother and daughter duo or three generations of women traveling together, these shared experiences offer a rare and beautiful opportunity to bridge the gap between generations through adventure and stillness.

  • Grit & Grace Adventures was founded on the belief that when women gather in a dedicated space, the energy shifts. In midlife, we are often defined by our roles, mother, partner, career professional. Our boutique journeys provide a sanctuary for you to shed those labels. In the company of other women navigating similar transitions, there is a unique safety that allows for true reflection, deep laughter, and the "unbecoming" of who you thought you had to be. We create a gender-affirming environment that celebrates the diverse stories and resilience of all women.

  • While our heartbeat is women’s travel, we occasionally open specific expeditions to partners and friends of all genders. These are rare, once in a lifetime opportunities where sharing the wonder with a loved one adds a different layer of joy. In these instances, we communicate with the group well in advance to ensure everyone feels comfortable and the boutique atmosphere remains intact.

  • We do. Whether we are in the heart of the Sacred Valley or the wilds of Botswana, we work closely with our local chefs to honour your needs. Please share your requirements with us during the registration process so we can ensure every meal is a nourishing part of your adventure.

  • To maintain the integrity of our small group journeys, all deposits are non refundable. Final balances are generally due 90 days prior to departure. We have a tiered refund schedule based on how close we are to the departure date. For full details on timelines and processing fees, please visit our dedicated Terms and Conditions page.

[ ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ]

If you are ready to swap the routine for something a bit more visceral, you are in the right place. Whether you have a specific destination in mind or you are just beginning to navigate what comes next, I am here to help you find the right path. No automated systems or generic responses. Just an honest conversation about where you want to go.

Let’s Start the Conversation