There’s no shortage of beautiful places in the world—but when it comes to corporate retreats, the right venue is more than a backdrop. It’s the space that helps your team connect, reset, and move forward with purpose.
Every month, we highlight top retreat venues based on real feedback from our community: founders, People leaders, and operations managers who’ve actually hosted / planned retreats and come back raving. These retreat ideas stood out not just for the scenery, but for how they supported team growth, creativity, and momentum.
Here are July’s top offsite picks:
Cook’s Club Adakoy – Marmaris, Türkiye
Recommended by Michael Taubenheim, People Experience Manager at IMG.LY
This venue feels like a remote creative haven—tucked in a private bay, surrounded by pine trees and water, and only accessible by boat or forest road. Michael described it as “a playground for grown-ups” with a private beach, pool, dance floor, co-working space, and half-day adventure trips. The team loved how connection happened naturally, without a packed agenda.
It’s a great option for small to mid-sized remote teams looking to blend focused work with social time. The space includes a co-working area and a meeting room for 30–35 people. With a la carte dining (including vegan options) and a thoughtful on-site staff, it’s ideal for flexible teams who want a balance of productivity and fun.
See the podcast with Michael from IMG.LY
InterContinental – San Diego, California
Recommended by Rasika Rajagopalan, VP of People & Talent at Pacaso
Right on the waterfront, the InterContinental offers expansive views, modern design, and easy access to downtown San Diego. Rasika praised the flexible collaboration spaces and excellent event support—perfect for running a high-energy AI innovation sprint with her team.
This venue is well-suited for larger teams, especially companies in the 200–300 person range, who need room to think big. For team-building, consider a hike at Torrey Pines, kayaking through the La Jolla Caves, or a cultural visit to Balboa Park.
See the Podcast episode with Rasika from Pacaso
The Westin – Whistler, Canada
Recommended by Freya Rozzano, People & Culture Manager at Metalab
With stunning mountain views and a central location in Whistler Village, The Westin checked all the boxes for Metalab’s annual retreat. Freya shared that it was the ideal spot for their growing team, offering easy access to activities and spaces to connect both formally and informally.
Whether your group is 20 or 250, the Westin can scale with your needs. And with Whistler’s surrounding nature, there’s no shortage of ways to recharge—take the peak-to-peak gondola, unwind at the Scandinave Spa, or get adventurous with ziplining.
See the Podcast episode with Freya from Metalab
Maglian Campus – Divčibare, Serbia
Recommended by Dan Thomson, CEO at Sensay
If your team is craving space to think strategically and connect without distractions, Maglian Campus delivers. Located in the Serbian mountains, it’s quiet, remote, and ideal for leadership retreats or cross-functional team alignment.
Sensay retreats here three times a year. Dan emphasized how powerful it is to step away and focus on what’s next. Top activities nearby include guided horseback riding, evening fireside chats, and exploring historic monasteries.
See the podcast episode with Dan from Sensay
Barnsley Resort – Adairsville, Georgia
Recommended by Mariah McAfee, Senior Brand Marketing Associate at Spark Advisors
Barnsley is a favorite for its charm and convenience. With everyone staying on the same property, Spark Advisors found it easy to build community—whether over small-group activities or large team dinners with live music.
The resort’s walkability and variety of event spaces make it a solid choice for growing teams. Don’t miss a horseback ride on the property, a trip into town to explore local antique shops, or a fireside gathering to close out your day.
See the podcast episode from Mariah from Spark Advisors
Bonus: Waldorf Astoria – Park City, Utah
Also recommended by Spark Advisors for a partner-led retreat
For teams hosting VIPs or looking for a luxurious setting, the Waldorf Astoria in Park City stands out. Mariah noted how much their partners appreciated the natural light, flexible meeting rooms, and variety of scenic spaces for cocktail hours and meals.
With nearby access to golf, hiking trails, and Park City’s charming Main Street, it’s a retreat experience that feels elevated without being overdone. The team loved it so much, they’re headed back to Park City this summer.
Why These Venues Work
Each of these venues was handpicked by leaders who understand that company retreats aren’t just about stepping away—they’re about stepping forward, with clarity and connection. These spaces helped their teams align, reflect, and re-engage with each other in meaningful ways.
We’ve also rounded up three top retreat activities for each venue on Instagram, if you’re looking for team-building inspiration while you plan.
Want help building your venue shortlist?
Visit RetreatsAndVenues.com or take our quiz to start matching with the best-fit locations for your team.
Looking for the full story behind each recommendation?
Tune into Pioneers in Culture—new episodes drop weekly.