SUP Retreat in the Azores
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationPortugal / Azores
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions89.01 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
In a few words
Immerse yourself in a revitalizing retreat in the heart of the Azores , between the Atlantic Ocean and spectacular volcanic landscapes. Guided by a top-level athlete, you'll explore the islands on stand-up paddleboards, paddling through crater lakes, steep cliffs, and natural hot springs , in an environment conducive to a deep connection with nature .
Accessible to all levels, this trip blends stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) , physical well-being , and island adventure . Each day becomes an invitation to slow down , breathe, paddle, and discover the hidden treasures of this unspoiled archipelago. Alternating sessions on the water with moments of relaxation on land, you cultivate your inner balance while exploring an environment of rare beauty.
Conceived as a timeless winter retreat, this unique experience allows you to reconnect with your vital energy in a friendly and inspiring atmosphere. A journey to awaken your inner peace , blending movement, contemplation, and self-discovery .
The highlights
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Daily SUP sessions: calm waters (crater lake) & SUP surfing
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Island Adventures: Hiking, Hot Springs & Azorean Culture
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Wellness & Culture: Azorean Culinary Experience
Photos
Sport
Level
Stand Up Paddle
The expert's opinion
This SUP retreat is open to all levels. Whether you're a beginner or already have stand-up paddleboarding experience, this retreat will offer you world-class coaching, including paddleboarding in calm water and at sea, as well as stand-up paddle surfing!
In figures
Stand-up paddleboarding
- Average duration/day: 2h
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
English
Maddi Leblanc is a Canadian stand-up paddleboarder (SUP) athlete, coach, and competitor distinguished by her versatility, courage, and passion for the sport. Originally from Niagara, Ontario, Maddi has established herself as one of Canada's top SUP racers, winning national titles in sprint, technical, and distance disciplines—achievements that highlight the breadth of her skills and her competitive excellence.
As a member of the Canadian national team, she competes in top-level SUP competitions, representing her country at international events while regularly reaching the podium at major Canadian competitions. Beyond competition, Maddi is deeply involved in the paddleboarding community as an instructor, mentor, and advocate for inclusive access to watersports.
Off the water, her commitment to sport and community shines through in her leadership and efforts on the ground. Whether coaching promising young paddlers, sharing her expertise in clinics and workshops, or pushing her own limits in challenging races, Maddi embodies the spirit of determination, athleticism, and sportsmanship.
Program
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Arrival day
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Upon your arrival in Ponta Delgada, we will be waiting to take you to our hotel, located just a 15-minute walk from Populo Beach. Relax and unwind in the jacuzzi, or explore the south coast of São Miguel Island. Please plan to arrive at our hotel no later than 5:00 PM to allow time to settle in before dinner.
Tonight, we will all get together to get to know each other and enjoy a family meal prepared with local ingredients.
Day 1 -
Awaken your blue spirit: paddle, explore and thrive in the Azores
- Transportation Car - 10h30 - 20kmper day
- Activity Stand-up paddleboarding
- Duration of the activity 2h per day
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h per day
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of the ocean and the magic of the Azores. This unique winter retreat combines stand-up paddleboarding, wellness, and island adventure, all guided by Maddi LeBlanc, three-time Canadian National SUP Champion. From crater lakes and volcanic coastlines to lush hot springs, experience a moving journey on water and land, designed to connect you with nature, your body, and your blue spirit.
Days 2 to 6 -
End of stay
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today you leave the island and return home.
Day 7
Note
This is a provisional itinerary. It is subject to slight modification depending on local weather conditions, our partners' schedules, unforeseen opportunities, and the group's wishes.
Accommodation
Located on the south coast of São Miguel Island, our charming traditional house, built of basalt stone, is a centuries-old former convent that exudes the island's volcanic energy. It is surrounded by banana trees and other fruits grown in the gardens, such as papayas, mangoes, and coffee. During the retreat, you will be accommodated in a shared double room, each with its own private bathroom, and will enjoy a daily breakfast prepared in the house's kitchen, which is also accessible to guests. The terrace features a seating area with comfortable sofas, as well as a jacuzzi overlooking the fruit trees.
Access
Upon your arrival in Ponta Delgada, we will be waiting to take you to the hotel, located approximately a 15-minute walk from Populo Beach. On your departure day, we will arrange your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation (shared room)
- All transfers
- 4 targeted SUP training sessions (in a volcanic crater lake or in the ocean)
- 1 surfing/sup surfing lesson
- 1 hike in Lagoa do Fogo
- 1 visit to the volcanic hot springs
- Daily breakfasts
- 1 welcome dinner
- 1 farewell dinner
- Access to all equipment throughout the week (wetsuits, SUP boards, surfboards)
The price does not include
- All lunches
- All the other dinners
- All additional activities
- International flights
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
For SUP/surf lessons, you will receive the following equipment:
- a SUP/surf board, a paddle, and a leash
- a wetsuit (please let us know your height and weight so the instructors can prepare your equipment)
All other additional activities also include their own equipment, such as a wetsuit, helmet and boots for canyoning (information needed: height, weight, shoe size).
Equipment to bring
- backpack
- Plastic bags or waterproof bags to keep your belongings dry
- camera
- sunglasses
Clothing to bring
A trip to the Azores requires the following clothing and equipment (all year round):
- layered clothing (t-shirt, shorts, sweater and pants)
- dark swimsuit (for volcanic hot springs)
- rain jacket
- sandals/flip-flops
- running and/or hiking shoes
- beanie for the coldest days/nights
- A hat to protect oneself from the sun
- All the necessary equipment for the activities will be provided.
