Location: Kosovo
September 11 - 18, 2026

Sign up today!

Join a circle of women who are becoming—not shrinking—in their next season of life.

A small-group retreat for women navigating change

Sometimes you don’t find yourself alone.

You remember yourself with others.

If you’re in the midst of a major life shift—maybe it’s divorce, an empty nest, career pivot, or the feeling that there has to be more—this retreat is for you!

You want to live your next chapter well. But right now it feels…

  • overwhelming

  • lonely

  • unclear

Life is is not what you dreamed it would be.

And traveling by yourself feels daunting—or you’ve done it before and still long for deeper connection with like-spirited travelers.

The good news is that you don’t have to walk this transition alone.

For women who crave laughter, depth, adventure … 

And the kind of connection that

changes everything  

About this retreat

For Wisdom to speak, we must create the space to listen.

This is why I love travel and why I create retreats for women—to provide an intimate, small-group experience that empowers you to walk Bravely and Boldly into this phase of your life.

For each retreat, I intentionally choose a location that I know well and that has changed me.

This year, I believe Kosovo is inviting us to experience authentic community and connection.

The kind of connection that changes everything.

Are you ready to take the journey your soul has been waiting for?

Meet me in Kosovo!

Have questions? Schedule a call. or email Dawn.

Why Kosovo?

I am SO excited to share the ONE country that has changed my life more than any other with you on this retreat!

Kosovo is a truly special place, and like no other location you've experienced.

From lively cafés to historic streets to the dramatic beauty of the Rugova mountains, this is a country that invites you in and makes you feel at home.

I’ve been traveling in Kosovo for more than 20 years and living here more recently, and it’s a place that has held me through my own seasons of change—offering perspective, connection, and a reminder of what really matters.

The people here know how to live fully, even after hardship, and that resilience is contagious. Visiting Kosovo means being welcomed into a culture that values community, presence, and shared joy.

  • It’s rare

  • it’s unspoiled by mass tourism, and

  • it’s the kind of place where transformation happens naturally—especially when experienced together.

This retreat is intended to be small and intimate by design, and Kosovo offers the perfect setting for a transformative experience for our community of like-spirited women.

Other things you can expect to experience here:

  • Feel the local’s love for Americans—several streets are even named after our presidents! It’s one of the safest places I’ve traveled to as a woman and I’ve always felt welcomed with open arms!

  • Enjoy truly unmatched hospitality. Kosovo continues to be recognized by international safety and travel sources for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

  • Try the best macchiato in the world. It’s true, even better than Italy! (Google it and find out!)

  • Explore a landscape that is wild and stunning

  • Taste food that’s amazing

One thing I know for sure: Because of my deep local connections in Kosovo spanning 20+ years, you will have a truly unique experience and I’ll introduce you to some of my favorite places and people along the way!

Are you ready to take this amazing journey?

What you’ll walk away with

This retreat is not just another trip. It’s a transformational experience that delivers:

✔ New confidence to travel your own way

✔ Deep sisterhood and authentic connection

✔ Clarity about your next chapter in life

✔ Courage to take bold steps

✔ A renewed sense of self-worth

✔ Lifelong friendships

I’m ready for transformation!

  • “I still can’t put into words everything I experienced, saw, felt, smelled, tasted, heard…I’m not sure I will ever have the exact words or photos to describe what I experienced. I love this community and “movement” that you have started. It is exactly what I am looking for. I want to be part of it!”

    —Molly, Macedonia & 5-Day Excursion

  • “You are not just helping women to move through their fears and embrace their bravery.  You are connecting lost, wounded souls and making them feel not alone, but seen and heard, and that it’s ok to be perfectly imperfect.  You’re bonding us together forming a community of women yearning to feel they have support and friendship….”

    —Amy, Macedonia

  • “This experience has been worth everything to me. It’s changed my life!”

    - Robin

  • This is a community like nothing else I’ve experienced. It’s brought so much enlightenment to my life—not just about travel, but also personal growth.

    - Jacqueline

  • “Dawn is very insightful. Her teaching helps bring out the best in who you are. Be ready to be challenged, inspired, and immersed in the culture and the connections with your travel mates. 100% recommend this Brave Journey!!! Thank you Dawn for sharing your vision.”

    Montenegro attendee

  • “This trip was amazing! It showed me how we need to step out to experience the best in life. It is so amazing to meet the other women and to go through the journey with them. They are all strong, interesting women with unique experiences. It is an honor to do this trip with them and learn from them.”

    Montenegro attendee

An experienced guide

with you every step of the way

Dawn Pick Benson — transformational travel coach, storyteller, and guide — has spent the last 20+ years traveling, coaching women through life transitions, and living in Kosovo.

She knows the Balkans intimately — its people, its magic, its rhythms — and she knows what it feels like to rebuild, rediscover, and live with boldness and curiosity.

I will walk alongside you, not in front of you — coaching, encouraging, laughing, and exploring with you.

A few more details…

On this retreat, you’ll experience both the vibrant culture of the city as well as the magic of the mountains.

Days will start slow and group sessions will take place in the morning.

Late afternoon and evenings are free for you to rest or explore your surroundings.

Below is a general idea of where we will stay and what we might experience during the trip.

Day 1 — Prishtina

  • Experience Kosovo’s vibrant capital, cafe culture and get your first taste of Balkan hospitality.

  • Meet other women in the group as well as some who live here, and enjoy a local dinner and true cultural experience

Days 2–4 — Peja, at the foot of the Rugova Mountains

  • Stay in a historic and beautifully restored kulla (an Ottoman stone house).

  • Explore the ancient bazaar and the rhythms of everyday life.

  • Optional hikes, picnics in Rugova Mountains, and visits to Radac Waterfall.

  • Local wine tasting & cultural experiences.

Day 5 Special Feature: A Solo Excursion Day Just for You

Each woman gets guided support and coaching from Dawn to explore solo, build confidence, and create her own meaningful adventure in a safe, welcoming environment.

Days 6–7 — Belle Resort in the Deçani Mountains

  • Traditional home-cooked Balkan meals.

  • Time on the ranch or on the adventure course if desired.

  • Deep group reflection sessions and delicious slow moments.

  • Visit the historic Deçan Monastery on the way.

Optional:

5-day add-on to Shkodër & Komani Lake in Albania

  • a breathtaking, off-the-beaten-path experience

READY FOR SOME MAGIC?

SIGN ME UP!

Have questions? Schedule a call or email Dawn.

What’s included

  • You’ll fly into Prishtina, Kosovo and spend the night in a beautiful hotel (free airport shuttle included)

  • The next day, we will travel to Peja, at the foot of the stunning Rugova Mountains and spend 3 nights before traveling to Decan, where we will stay at a luxurious villa at the top of the Decani Mountains.

  • A full breakfast each morning, including home made breads, cheeses, fruit and coffee

  • Transfers to and from Prishtina airport

  • Local wine & charcuterie welcome

  • Walking tour of Peja & Prishtina

  • Plenty of free time to rest, reflect and explore

  • Lots of shops and restaurants within 5-10 min walking distance

  • Free wifi

You will also receive:

  • Dawn as your guide who has spent 20 years traveling in this region

  • Private, small group workshops and facilitation by Transformational Travel Coach Dawn Pick Benson

  • 4 Group Travel Coaching Sessions Before Departure

  • 2 Group Travel Coaching Sessions Post-trip

VIEW PHOTOS OF ACCOMMODATIONS

What’s not included

  • Travel, medical, and cancellation insurance (required)

  • Airfare

  • Passport or visa fees

  • Lunches and dinners (there are numerous restaurants, cafes and stores within walking distance so you can choose your own price point)

  • Additional expenses you might incur on your own, including tips and excursions

Price

Retreat investment begins at $4,597

(Early Bird price only)

This retreat is unique.

It’s specifically designed to be high-touch and build community with a small group of women.

With a smaller group, we get the luxury of going deeper and getting to know one another well, so expect a lot of face time with Dawn, a chance to learn from her about solo travel and lots of time to be known and seen by other amazing women!

This retreat is for those who are ready to

start living boldly and authentically in this chapter of life!

~ Dawn Pick Benson

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Women in the midst of life transitions who want connection, self-discovery, adventure, and community — especially those ready to live their next chapter boldly and joyfully.

  • No! Whether you’re a first-time solo traveler or a seasoned adventurer, you’ll be supported. Dawn’s coaching ensures confidence, empowerment, and safety.

  • Accommodations, airport transfer, breakfast each day, coaching support, and transfers between locations.

  • Airfare to Prishtina, travel insurance (required), lunch and dinners, personal expenses

  • Of course — but the group is intentionally small to ensure deep connection, presence, and community building.

  • Yes! Kosovo is one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers and locals alike, with a welcoming culture and friendly environment. And they have a special love for Americans!

  • Mornings start slow so you have plenty of time for reflection. Then we gather most mornings for group sessions. This is where we have great discussions designed to build community and enjoy what it means to feel seen and understood by other women walking a similar path. Most afternoons are free to explore on your own or in a group. We usually enjoy dinners together, although it’s not required!

What you’ll experience

Together, let’s experience some magic!