Looking for ideas for your next corporate retreat? Without doubt, company retreats are a great way to promote team-building, incentivize employees, and build company culture.
However, with so many possibilities, choosing the perfect destination for your team retreat can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll provide tips for selecting the best corporate retreat location and venue. To help you decide, we have prepared a run-down of the factors to consider when choosing where to go, an overview of the main types of retreat locations — plus a list of our top 20 company retreat places across the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe.
Let’s go!
Choosing the perfect spot for a company retreat can be a tough decision. There are lots of things to think about!
Before you start looking at places, think about what you want to achieve with the retreat. Do you want to build teamwork, focus on professional development, or just give everyone a chance to relax? Knowing what you're aiming for will help you choose a spot that fits your needs.
Some retreat locations can be pricey, so think about how much you can spend. Look for places that offer good value for your money, and try to negotiate discounts if you can.
Where are your team members based? Do you want to stay close to home or explore a new area? Think about how long it will take everyone to get there, and make sure the location is easy to reach.
Think about what type of environment would be best for your retreat. Do you want to be near the beach, in the mountains, or in a city? Look for a place that can accommodate your needs, with enough space, catering options, and places for downtime.
It's always a good idea to involve your team in the decision-making process. Ask for their ideas and opinions, and try to choose a location that everyone will be happy with.
We hope these tips help you find the perfect spot for your next company retreat! Up next we have listed the main types of company retreat destinations you could consider.
There are many destination options to choose from for a company retreat, each providing a unique range of activities and amenities. Whether you're seeking an outdoor adventure, a beachfront resort, or a city getaway, there's something to suit every team's needs and preferences. Some companies may prefer secluded locations for focused team building, while others may want destinations with more attractions for leisure time.
Regardless of the destination type, a company retreat can provide an invaluable opportunity for
team building, relaxation, and creativity boost.
Big cities can offer a dynamic and stimulating backdrop for a corporate retreat. Each city has its own unique history and atmosphere, and plenty of entertainment and cultural options to explore.
Popular city retreat options include warm Lisbon with its 253 sunny days a year, lively and artsy Athens just by the sea, Prague with its artistic spirit, Berlin with its trendy vibe, cool and sophisticated Barcelona and Madrid boasting of its unique traditions, and many more.
Beachside retreats are undoubtedly a perfect choice for corporate gatherings that require a relaxed and calming atmosphere. Why not take your laptop with you and meet your team members at the beach to spark creativity and innovation?
Beach destinations offer a laid-back ambiance for a corporate retreat, with plenty of recreational activities to enjoy such as swimming, surfing, and golfing. You can also try exciting activities like stand-up paddling, beach volleyball, beach yoga, or sailing. Some of the top seaside retreat locations include Mallorca, the Canary Islands, Greece, and Mexico.
Countryside retreats offer a tranquil and secluded environment for a corporate retreat. With remote locations nestled amidst fields, lakes, or orange trees, these destinations provide an ideal setting for uninterrupted focus and no distractions. As everyone is in close proximity, all resources are easily accessible, creating a strong sense of collaboration and momentum.
Spending an extended period of time together also allows team members to bond and get to know each other better. Countryside retreats are particularly suitable for small team collaborations focused on both bonding and work objectives.
In addition to a peaceful environment, these locations offer a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wine tasting. Some of our favorite locations for nature enthusiasts include Crete, Tuscany, Gran Canaria, as well as charming rural estates near Barcelona or Valencia.
Resort towns in the mountains, such as Aspen or Davos, can offer a beautiful and serene setting for a corporate retreat. These corporate retreat destinations often have a variety of activities and amenities to enjoy, such as skiing, hiking, and spa treatments.
We hope these ideas have inspired you to choose the perfect location for your next corporate retreat! Scroll down for our 20 top picks of the best corporate retreat destinations worldwide.
Gran Canaria offers the best of both worlds for your team. Experience adventure in the island’s national park or relax on idyllic coves. With the longest sunshine hours in Spain, it's perfect for immersing your team in nature. This stunning Spanish island provides year-round sun, beachfront offices, and excellent waves, making it an ideal winter offsite destination for teams.
Las Palmas offers two beautiful beaches, contemporary offices, and a variety of team-building experiences. Your team can brainstorm new ideas, work on outstanding projects, and enjoy surfing lessons or cocktails on the beach. With straightforward travel and Euro payments, a tropical island retreat is just a short trip away for European teams.
Best time to go: September - May
Playa del Carmen's breathtaking white sand beaches, bohemian atmosphere, and crystal-clear turquoise waters make it impossible not to fall in love with this Mexican destination. If you're searching for an ideal location for corporate retreats that offers great value, look no further. Once a small fishing village, Playa Del Carmen has transformed into Mexico's premier travel spot.
Home to the world's second-largest Meso-American Barrier reef, Playa Del Carmen boasts an array of water activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving, to explore the area's diverse marine life. For those seeking a different type of adventure, Mayan archaeological sites are a must-visit, or simply lounge under the palm trees and star-filled sky.
In addition to the breathtaking scenery, Playa Del Carmen's nightlife is equally vibrant, with a plethora of bars and beautiful restaurants serving local delicacies, international cuisine, and delicious cocktails.
Best time to go: December - May
A company retreat to Athens is a perfect combination of culture, history, and natural beauty. As the home of world-famous philosophers, scholars, politicians, and architects, Athens offers an abundance of historical sites for those who are passionate about history.
At the same time, the contemporary city is brimming with trendy restaurants, bars, and a vibrant nightlife scene, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture.
In addition, Athens offers endless possibilities for team-building activities to help your employees bond and create unforgettable memories. With its pleasant year-round climate and unique seaside location, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as sailing, windsurfing, rock climbing, and paintball throughout the year.
Best time to go: September - June
Your team will easily fall in love with Lisbon, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its cobbled streets offer iconic views at every turn, perfect for inspiring creativity in your team. And if you're a foodie, you'll appreciate the local delicacies and world-class wine, perfect for bringing your employees together over a good meal.
From the Castelo de São Jorge overlooking the town, the narrow streets with terracotta-tiled homes, to the wild coastline and pristine sandy beaches, Lisbon seamlessly integrates tradition and modernism.
Best time to go: September - May
Nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, Napa Valley offers a range of corporate retreat options for companies seeking team-building activities and relaxation. The region is home to world-renowned wineries, spas, and picturesque destinations like the luxurious Meadowood Napa Valley and the scenic Calistoga Ranch, both offering a range of amenities such as guided hikes, yoga classes, and team-building exercises. With its mild climate and stunning natural beauty, Napa Valley provides an idyllic setting for a corporate retreat.
Best time to go: September - November
As the European hub of art and individuality, Berlin embodies the values of liberty and freedom of expression, motivating people of all backgrounds to pursue their passions and make an impact. With its diverse culture, Berlin makes for the perfect destination for an offsite retreat to inspire your team.
There's no shortage of team-bonding activities to partake in, whether it's browsing local galleries and museums, embarking on a city-wide treasure hunt, or immersing oneself in the world of virtual reality.
Best time to go: all year-round
Combining business and pleasure has become increasingly popular with "bleisure" travel being a top choice. Bali, with its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and friendly locals, is a well-known destination for such trips. But what you may not know is that Bali is also an excellent location for business retreats and conferences.
Hosting your corporate event in Bali allows guests to experience the island's rich culture and picturesque surroundings while attending your scheduled activities. Bali's tropical climate with pleasant temperatures year-round makes it an ideal location for all seasons.
Best time to go: all year round
If you want to express gratitude for your team's hard work and reignite creative inspiration, there's no better way than treating them to a few days of indulging in Italy's gourmet cuisine under the Tuscan sun. With an abundance of wineries and dining options to choose from, your team will be spoilt for choice.
Best time to go: September - June
Madrid is a paradise for art fanatics and historians, but it’s also a modern city that continues to innovate. Over the last few decades, Madrid has added contemporary structures, vibrant shopping districts and numerous urban activities to its diverse portfolio. During a corporate retreat to Madrid, you can spend the morning sipping café con leche and browsing local museums before jumping into team-building experiences such as group painting, go-karting and more.
Best time to go: September - June
Crete is an excellent location to host a corporate retreat as it offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. With its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and rugged mountain ranges, Crete provides the perfect backdrop for team-building exercises, hiking, and water sports. The island is also home to some of Greece's finest cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Mediterranean dishes.
Additionally, Crete is easily accessible from Europe, with regular flights from major cities across the continent. Whether you're looking to recharge and relax or get active and explore, Crete has something to offer every member of your team.
Best time to go: September - June
Lake Tahoe in California is a stunning location that offers a variety of options for corporate retreats. Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Lake Tahoe is a popular choice for companies seeking to hold team-building activities and retreats. Some of the best options for corporate retreats in Lake Tahoe include the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe and the picturesque Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, both of which offer a range of amenities and activities such as team-building exercises, guided hikes, and yoga classes.
In addition, Lake Tahoe is home to numerous spas and wellness centers, making it an ideal place to relax and recharge. The area's breathtaking natural beauty, access to year-round outdoor recreational activities, and world-class skiing make it an excellent choice for a corporate retreat.
Best time to go: all year-round
Retreat organizers will find Barcelona to be an ideal location thanks to its easy accessibility from the international airport, a wide selection of boutique hotels, and an abundance of activities to choose from. From the awe-inspiring architecture to the impressive art galleries, Barcelona is a true architectural and cultural gem.
Your team can also participate in contemporary team-building activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, taking advantage of the city's proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.
Best time to go: September - June
San Diego is a popular spot for company retreats thanks to its fantastic weather, diverse range of attractions, and rich cultural heritage. Located in Southern California, the city enjoys a sunny and mild Mediterranean climate all year round, making it a perfect destination any time of the year.
San Diego is famous for its stunning beaches such as Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla, as well as the iconic Balboa Park, which features many museums, gardens, and even the San Diego Zoo. Food lovers will also be delighted with the city's culinary scene, which offers a wide variety of restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. Furthermore, San Diego hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including Comic-Con and the San Diego County Fair, adding to its vibrant cultural scene.
Best time to go: March - May and September - November
Boasting fantastic offices situated in the heart of the historical center, Prague is an ideal location for your upcoming team event. Enjoy a city steeped in rich history, delicious Czech food and beer, and some fun team-building activities. Prague is conveniently accessible, making it a great choice for distributed teams.
Best time to go: all year-round
Mallorca can add excitement and variety to your employees' routine, making it an ideal destination for a company retreat. This Spanish gem, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, is a source of inspiration that can motivate your team to produce their best work. Additionally, it is an excellent place to foster relationships among your employees through unique team-building activities like yoga classes, charter boats, and cooking classes, which can create unforgettable memories outside of the office.
Furthermore, Palma, the island's capital, offers excellent offsite working locations for those who need to focus on work-related projects, with an increasing number of trendy coworking venues that cater to the work-from-home trend.
Best time to go: September - June
Hawaii is an unbeatable destination due to its stunning natural beauty, exceptional amenities, and relaxed lifestyle. If you and your team are looking to unwind and relax by lounging on a beach, Hawaii has plenty of options for that. But unlike other beach locations, Hawaii also offers opportunities for outdoor activities that are easily accessible.
Best time to go: March - September
Sicily, a stunning Mediterranean island located near the southern tip of Italy, is a popular vacation destination that also offers an excellent setting for work-related events. With picturesque architecture, quaint fishing villages, and pristine beaches, it's a place that many people dream of visiting. The island's capital, Palermo, is particularly well-suited for company retreats, providing comfortable accommodations and functional office spaces in a beautiful setting.
During your stay, you'll have plenty of opportunities to relax, socialize, and focus on work projects, whether that means savouring delectable seafood, exploring nearby mountains, swimming in the sea, or enjoying Sicilian wines. Additionally, there are plenty of organized team-building activities to partake in, such as charter boat trips, cooking classes, escape rooms, and more.
Best time to go: October - May
Krakow, Poland is an excellent choice for a company retreat. The city boasts a wide array of culinary delights, making it a prime location to explore and indulge in tasty Polish cuisine. It is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, due to its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. Krakow is a patchwork of winding cobbled streets and historic buildings that exude charm and character.
Furthermore, Krakow combines a vibrant and artistic atmosphere with top-notch working facilities, providing numerous opportunities for team-building activities.
Best time to go: all year-round
Valencia is an increasingly popular destination for corporate retreats, offering a unique blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant urban life. Unlike the crowded tourist hotspots of Barcelona and Madrid, Valencia provides a more peaceful atmosphere for team-building activities and relaxation.
This picturesque coastal city is perfect for water-based team-building activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, and seafood lovers can indulge in fresh and delicious dishes with the famous Valencian paella being a must-try. As Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia is easily accessible with a major airport and an efficient transportation system. This means that getting around the city is hassle-free and stress-free, making it an ideal location for a company retreat.
Best time to go: September - June
Look no further than Tulum for a perfect paradise to host your corporate retreat. Tulum is a charming seaside jungle town that offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and warm hospitality. It is set near ancient ruins and underwater caves, giving your team the chance to explore and create unforgettable experiences.
After a long day of team building, its beaches provide a perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether your team prefers a chic bohemian-style boutique hotel, or a luxurious resort, Tulum offers a diverse range of lodging options to suit every taste and budget.
Best time to go: December - May
Whether you are looking to plan your corporate retreat in the Mexican jungle or across the world in the Swiss Alps, there is a perfect venue out there to suit your company’s needs. Be sure to book a venue that can accommodate the size of your team while also offering the best amenities to suit your business needs.
Encourage your team to try different activities the venues have to offer such as cooking classes, fitness classes, and scavenger hunts. This not only makes the corporate retreat memorable but also unifies the team and creates a stress-free, productive environment. Check out our list of favourite retreat ideas and activities for more inspiration.
Retreat planning is a lot of work. If you don’t feel like your team has the bandwidth to cover all these details, you may consider working with a professional event planner.
Companies like
Grow Retreats are dedicated to planning company retreats, and will help you choose a destination and retreat venue, plan your itinerary and activities, and take care of logistical details. If you’d like further help planning your next company retreat, don’t hesitate to
reach out to a member of our team.
