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She Rises In The Mountains

Embers & Earth:
A Women’s Retreat In The Smoky Mountains

Tending your inner fire as the seasons turn; grounding, resilience, shared connection.
October 15th - 19th 2026
Led by Deb Cioffi & Carrie Sarlo-Randazzo

Join the waitlist to be notified when registration opens!

Leaves fall, the air cools, and everything begins to draw inward. Embers & Earth is a retreat created in that spirit—a space for women to soften, to ground, and to reconnect with the quiet strength that lives beneath the surface.

Together, we’ll explore practices that both build strength and invite ease—a balance so often missing in daily life. Morning yoga and meditation will awaken and support the body, cultivating stability, resilience, and fluidity, while also creating space for release and restoration. Through journaling and creative practices, you’ll be invited inward—an opportunity to listen more closely to yourself and what you need in this season.

We’ll step outside often—walking wooded trails & waterfalls, hiking through mountain landscapes, and letting nature remind us how to be both rooted and adaptable. There is wisdom in the turning of the season, and space here to receive it.

Nourishing meals, unhurried time, and meaningful connection weave throughout the experience. For those who feel called, optional spa treatments and local wine tastings offer moments of ease, pleasure, and enjoyment.

This retreat isn’t about doing more.
It’s about cultivating strength that feels sustainable and embodied.

About tending to what is steady and warm within—so you can move forward feeling grounded, supported, and deeply connected to yourself.

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PRIVATE RETREAT CENTER

  • Shared Rooms / Private Baths

  • Chef Prepared Meals

  • Yoga & Meditation Room

  • In-House Gym

  • 50 Private Acres in National Forest

  • Transportation to/from Airport

  • Transportation for Guided Hikes

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YOGA, NATURE, CREATIVITY

  • Daily Yoga

  • Guided Meditation

  • Lake-Side Nature Walks

  • Water Fall Hikes

  • ​On Property Private Woods

  • Creative Journaling/Photograpy

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ACCOMODATIONS

  • Ground Floor:

  • Room 1: Two Twins w/ Prvt Bath

  • Room 2: Two Twins w/ Prvt Bath

  • Main Floor:

  • Room 3: Two Queens w/ Prvt Bath

  • Room 4: Two Queens w/ Prvt Bath

  • Third Floor:

  • Room 5: Two Fulls w/ Shrd Bath

  • Room 6: One Queen. w/ Shrd Bath

Make Your Reservation

Embers & Earth 2026 Retreat

Retreat Reservations will be opening soon for those on the waitlist!

To make your reservation, email Deb at d.cioffi925@gmail.com and include the following:

  • Your requested room

  • Preferred roommate (If you have one - it's ok if you don't.  We'll pair you up).

  • Once we confirm your reservation, your 50% deposit (Zelle or Venmo) is required to complete your registration. Payment balance is due 30 days before the retreat.

  • A follow-up email will be sent with waiver form along with dietary requests.

Scroll down to review FAQ's

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Yoga Studio

 

Frequently Asked Questions

WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?

This retreat is for women craving a deep reset—mentally, physically, and spiritually—through movement, nature, and connection. Whether you’re navigating midlife changes, looking to rebuild your strength, or simply need a peaceful escape to breathe again, this experience is for you. No yoga or hiking experience necessary—just a willingness to unplug and reconnect.

WHERE IS THE RETREAT HELD?

We’ll gather on a private luxury mountaintop estate tucked inside the heart of the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains. Surrounded by ancient trees, winding trails, and wide-open sky, this serene setting offers the perfect backdrop for rest, renewal, and powerful breakthroughs.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

The closest airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, TN, about 1 Hour and 15 minutes from the retreat property. Detailed driving directions will be shared upon booking. Depending on group size, group shuttles may be offered at additional cost from the airport on designated arrival and departure days..

WHAT SHOULD I PACK?

You’ll receive a full packing list closer to the retreat. Essentials include breathable activewear, water shoes, hiking shoes or boots, a daypack, a sun hat, layers for chilly desert mornings, a swimsuit, and any personal items to help you feel comfortable and grounded.

DO I NEED TO BE “FIT ENOUGH” TO ATTEND?

Not at all. All fitness levels are welcome. Movement classes and hikes are designed with options and modifications, so you can honor your body’s needs each day. Whether you’re easing back into movement or already active, you’ll feel supported and encouraged.

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL ATTEND?

We keep the retreat intentionally intimate—12 participants max—to ensure a deeply personal, connected, and immersive experience.

WHERE WILL I STAY?

You’ll stay in a 6,000 sq ft lodge-style private estate with stunning mountain views, cozy fireplace, crisp linens, and spa-like bathrooms. Most rooms are shareable, but deeply restful—you can come solo or with a friend (we’ll pair you if needed). Private rooms are available for an additional fee.

CAN I BRING MY HUSBAND OR PARTNER?

This is a women-only retreat designed to support female connection, vulnerability, and empowerment. At this time, we are not accepting partners or spouses to maintain the sacred space we’ve created for women. However, we do have a retreat to the South of France that is open to partners and husbands. 

IS THERE AIR CONDITIONING?

Yes. The estate is fully equipped with modern comforts, including central heating and A/C, so you’ll be cozy and comfortable no matter the weather.

IS THIS RETREAT ACCESSIBLE FOR GUESTS WITH MOBILITY CONCERNS?

Due to the terrain of the property and the nature of hiking excursions, this retreat is best suited for women with moderate mobility and the ability to navigate trails and stairs.

WHAT KIND OF MEALS ARE PROVIDED?

Enjoy nourishing Mediterranean cuisine meals that highlight fresh, whole, seasonal ingredients. Meals are designed to support hormone health, blood sugar balance, and midlife vitality—while also being absolutely delicious.

ARE DIETARY NEEDS ACCOMMODATED?

Yes! We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other dietary preferences. Please indicate any restrictions when booking so we can tailor your meals accordingly.

ARE BEVERAGES INCLUDED?

Absolutely. Your retreat includes morning coffee and teas, herbal infusions, hydrating elixirs, and refreshing beverages throughout the day. This retreat does not include alcohol.

DO I NEED TO BRING ANY EQUIPMENT?

Nope! We’ve got you covered. All yoga mats, props, and equipment will be provided. Just bring your body, an open mind, and the willingness to show up for yourself.

ARE THE CLASSES MANDATORY?

Absolutely not. While we encourage full participation for the deepest transformation, this is your retreat. You’re always welcome to take breaks, journal, rest, or explore the grounds as needed.

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY?

We understand that life happens. Here’s our cancellation policy:

  • More than 90 days before retreat: Full refund minus a $350 administrative fee
    60–90 days before retreat: 50% refund of the retreat fee
    Less than 60 days before retreat: No refund

All cancellations must be submitted via email to Deb or Carrie. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.

WHAT IF YOU CANCEL THE RETREAT?

If we must cancel due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather emergencies, instructor illness, force majeure), you’ll receive a full refund of all payments made to us. We are not responsible for non-refundable flights or personal expenses—please ensure your travel insurance covers such scenarios.

CAN I TRANSFER MY SPOT TO SOMEONE ELSE?

Retreat bookings are non-transferable. If you cancel, your spot will be offered to the next person on our waitlist.

WHAT IF I WANT TO CHANGE ROOMMATES OR REQUEST A SPECIFIC ROOM?

You can note roommate preferences at booking. We do our best to accommodate, but changes made less than 30 days before the retreat may not be possible.

WILL THE ITINERARY CHANGE?

We curate the retreat schedule with intention and care, but sometimes changes are needed due to weather or logistics. Rest assured, any adjustments will maintain the integrity and value of your experience.

Registration

The mountains are calling!

We understand that life happens. Here’s our cancellation policy:

  • More than 90 days before retreat: Full refund minus a $350 administrative fee
    60–90 days before retreat: 50% refund of the retreat fee
    Less than 60 days before retreat: No refund

All cancellations must be submitted via email to Carrie or Deb. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.

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