Want to soak in the beautiful fall colors in the northeast?
Join us October 13-17, 2026 in Bar Harbor, Maine this October for a women’s Reading Retreat nestled between rugged coastlines, dazzling fall foliage, and the serene beauty of Acadia National Park. Over four nights, we’ll savor fresh air, good books, late-morning breakfast chats, and a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxed town wandering.
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Bar Harbor in October is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and savor both nature and community. The pace here is unhurried, the scenery is unforgettable, and the light — that crisp autumn light — will make everything feel slightly more magical.
What to Expect
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A beautiful, historic home in the heart of Bar Harbor, within easy reach of shops, water views, and local flavors. ​
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Indoor and outdoor spaces to cozy up with a book
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Continental breakfasts and chef-prepared dinners, plus all on-property drinks included
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Airport transfers to and from Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB)
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A welcoming retreat host to take care of all the details
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Optional daily activities like whale watching, visiting Acadia National Park or wandering the charming Bar Harbor
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Small group size — just 10 women — so you can form meaningful connections
Our flexible itinerary is designed to balance relaxation and adventure. You choose how much (or how little) you want to do.
Is This Retreat for You?
This trip is thoughtfully created for women travelers who want:
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To slow down and unwind in a beautiful location and soak up the fall colors
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To connect with a supportive group of women
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A hassle-free travel experience with expert planning and care
Whether you’re a solo traveler or coming with friends, this retreat offers space to read, relax, and recharge at your own pace.
Pricing & Booking
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$3,480 per person, double occupancy
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$2,900 per person, triple occupancy (one room with king + murphy beds)
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$900 upgrade, solo room occupancy
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We pair you with a compatible roommate or you can room with a friend. Solo travelers are welcome to upgrade for privacy.
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Secure your spot with a 40% deposit ($1,392 for double occupancy).
Full balance due by August 10, 2026.
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Deposits are non-refundable.
Retreat will be confirmed once 80% of spots are filled. If minimum numbers are not met, deposits can be refunded or applied to a future trip.
It's recommended to not book your flight until the retreat has been confirmed.
View property images here!
Accommodation & Activities
Our home will be in the heart of Bar Harbor, within easy reach of shops, water views, and local flavors​
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Cozy guest rooms, each with full bathrooms, air conditioning, and high-speed WiFi
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Interior and exterior spaces to cuddle up with a good book
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We'll explore our area with whale watching, visiting Acadia National Park (you get to choose from a hiking or a driving tour), wine tasting, and wandering the idyllic town.
What's Included
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4 nights accommodation at the property
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4 continental breakfasts and chef-prepared dinners
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Some lunches provided on day excursions, but not all
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All on-property beverages
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4 included optional group activities such as whale watching or touring Acadia National Park
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Round-trip airport transportation (BHB airport)
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Welcome gift
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Professional retreat host & on-site support
What's Not Included
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Flights to and from Santorini, Greece
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Travel insurance (recommended)
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Off-site meals and drinks not specified
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Tips for drivers, tour operators and housekeeping and house staff
Sample Itinerary
(subject to change)
Day 1
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Arrival and group transfer from BHB Airport (meet at 2:30-3 pm for transfer)
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Villa check-in & welcome gift
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Book Exchange and introductions
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 3
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Continental breakfast
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Optional excursion to town and lunch on your own
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Open afternoon
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Group dinner at the villa
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Evening at your leisure
Day 2
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Continental breakfast
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Optional Acadia National Park Tour (offering both hiking and driving options)
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Open afternoon
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Chef-prepared dinner
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Evening at leisure
Day 4
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Continental breakfast
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Optional whale watching tour
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Afternoon at your leisure
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Group dinner at local restaurant
Day 5
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Continental breakfast
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Morning to enjoy the villa and surroundings
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Departure transfer to the airport at 10:00 am
Getting There
Fly into Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB). Plan to arrive by 2-2:30 pm on October 13th to join the group shuttle departing at 3 pm. The property is approximately a 20-minute drive from the airport.
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If your arrival plans differ, please let us know. You may need to arrange your own transport.
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Layered clothing for crisp, fall weather
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A warm sweater of fleece (October evenings can be chilly!)
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Comfortable shoes for walking. Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers if you plan to join the Acadia hiking option
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A rain jacket (coastal weather can shift quickly)
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Reusable water bottle
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A book you enjoyed to exchange during dinner on night 1!
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Any medications or personal essentials
Towels, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryers, eye masks, and earplugs will be provided. A full packing list will be provided prior to departure.
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And be sure to have extra room in your luggage for your gift bag and other bookish goodies!
What to Bring
Meal Plan & Dietary Restrictions
Each day begins with a light continental breakfast, and dinners are prepared by our private chef. Some lunches will be provided on our daytime excursions, but not all. If you have dietary restrictions, follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, or have severe allergies, please notify us at reservations@slowtravelco.com at least 30 days before departure so we can accommodate you.
Group travel with Slow Travel Co. is all about ease and connection. Your Retreat Host will handle all logistics and coordination during the trip, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your experience. If you have questions or need help at any time, your host is just a message away!
Traveling as Part of a Group
Getting to Know the Group
Before the retreat, we’ll set up a private WhatsApp group so you can connect with your fellow travelers. Feel free to chat, share excitement, or arrange virtual meetups ahead of time!
Most rooms are double occupancy with king or queen beds. Unless you’re traveling with a friend or partner, we’ll pair you with a fellow retreat attendee. Occasionally, rooms with two beds are available, but this can’t be guaranteed. If you prefer privacy, you can upgrade to a single room for an additional fee.
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To ensure a comfortable stay, please be considerate of your roommate regarding cleanliness and noise. Earplugs and eye masks will be provided. Travelers who use a CPAP machine or are aware of snoring may want to consider a single room upgrade.
Shared Rooms & Accommodations
Safety
While we take every precaution to ensure safe activities and excursions, please remember your own responsibility for personal safety. Avoid going out alone at night and follow all safety recommendations.
Your Retreat Host is an experienced traveler and will manage all aspects of the trip — from planning to on-site coordination. She is your primary contact for questions or support before and during the retreat. After booking, expect a friendly welcome email with more details like packing tips and travel info.
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Please note, your Retreat Host is not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you feel unwell, she can help direct you to local healthcare providers.
Your Group Leader & Support
Medical & Health Requirements
All travelers must have valid medical insurance
before departure.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this retreat. If you need recommendations on reliable providers, just reach out. We’re happy to help!
Travel Insurance
House Guidelines
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Please be respectful of your roommate and fellow guests.
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No visitors or guests allowed at the villa without prior approval from the Retreat Host and your roommate.
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Help us keep the space safe and welcoming for everyone.
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No smoking.
Mid-October is one of the most magical times of year in Bar Harbor, with crisp air, vibrant fall foliage, and that unmistakable New England autumn glow. Temperatures typically range from 40°F (4°C) at night to 60°F (16°C) during the day. Expect cool mornings, mild afternoons, and the possibility of light coastal rain. Be sure to check the local forecast before packing so you can bring layers suited for brisk mornings, comfortable daytime exploring, and chilly evenings by the water.
Climate & What to Expect
