Early Bird Price
(until 31 March 2026)
from R55,500 β R66,500 per pair
from R55,500 β R66,500 per pair
Retreat for Couples, Partners & Besties
20-24 August 2026 / 1-5 November 2026
Hosted at Sashwa, an intimate wellness sanctuary in South Africa, this four-night African Safari experience nourishes your mind, body, soul and significant relationship.
Begin Your Journey
Take the first step towards a stronger, more connected relationship
at a luxury eco-lodge with two master facilitators.
Retreat for couples, partners and besties: 20-24 August 2026 / 1-5 November 2026
5 days and 4 nights at Sashwa River Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa
Standard Price
(1 April 2026 to July 6 2026)
from R63,500 β R76,500 per pair
from R63,500 β R76,500 per pair
8 Pairs Maximum
Private en-suite Garden and Riverfront Suites
Secure Your Place with 50% deposit
Full refund if cancelled before June 30th 2026
** All pricing is charged in South African Rand (ZAR). Foreign currency amounts will vary according to your bank exchange rate at the time of payment.
Is this Retreat for Us?
This retreat is for you if:
Meaningful Experiences
Every moment is thoughtfully designed to bring you closer together with peak
once-in-a-lifetime experiences, while embracing the natural beauty of the African bush
The Architecture of Relationship
We treat your relationship as a living system, not a problem to fix. Guided by Shelley Lewinβs book,Β Uncomplicated Love, the retreat is built on the Architecture of Relationship framework, which understands that 1 + 1 = 3. You, Me, and the dynamic co-created; that living βUsβ is the focus here. With twenty years as a couple counsellor and global leadership coach, Shelley – The Relationship Architect – helps you design and renovate relationships with clarity. Personally, professionally, and relationally, this framework becomes your shared guide. Each person receives their own signed copy.
Enneagram-Informed Insight for Any Pair
Whether you arrive as partners, siblings, friends or collaborators, the Enneagram offers a shared language for compassion, emotional maturity and conscious relating.
Before the retreat, each of you receives a comprehensive Enneagram report, followed by a joint Couple/Colleague Relationship Report exploring alignment, tension and relational dynamics. Professionally debriefed by Enneagram specialist Sav Goldridge, this process offers practical insight into understanding yourselves and each other with greater ease.
Sashwa, River of Stars
This retreat is held at Sashwa – an intimate, architect-crafted sanctuary within a private reserve. Not a hotel, but a living landscape of beauty, stillness and wildness designed for deep rest and reconnection.
Your relationship is nourished by daily encounters with nature, safari drives and wilderness walks, curated contemplative spaces, and shared access to a creative studio, wildlife hide, quiet pool and open sky.
Sashwa becomes a silent co-facilitator – grounding, regulating and expanding your capacity to meet your relationship with greater presence, openness and emotional spaciousness.
A Nervous-System Reset
Everything at Sashwa is designed to support calm, clarity and connection.
This includes plant-based, seasonally inspired meals; optional daily yoga, breathwork and mindfulness; restorative sauna, gym, yoga decks and outdoor star-gazing baths; and a gentle rhythm that allows space for rest, conversation and integration.
This is not a retreat that overwhelms. It is a physiological and psychological reset – opening the doorway to emotional and relational renewal.
Two Masters Facilitators
This is not a typical couples or pairs retreat. It is a deeply held relational experience guided by two practitioners whose combined expertise is rare to find together.
Shelley and Sav offer two complementary lenses – relational architecture and Enneagram intelligence – creating depth, clarity and genuine relational transformation.
Working with both of them means you are seen from multiple angles, deeply held, and supported with a level of attunement rarely found in retreats.
Plant-Based Culinary Dining
At Sashwa, nourishment begins in the soil. Food is not an add-on – it is part of the transformation.
World-class, plant-based meals are grown and prepared with care, many ingredients sourced directly from the lodgeβs permaculture garden. Designed to restore rather than stimulate, the food supports deep rest and emotional spaciousness.
Generous, nutrient-dense and satisfying, meals are protein-rich and never leave guests feeling deprived. Snacks are available throughout the day, and personal preferences or supplements are welcome.
Your Retreat Experience
What To Expect
- 4-night immersive relational retreat designed for pairs: couples, partners, best friends, siblings or collaborators.
- Daily facilitated sessions grounded in relationship science, and the Architecture of Relationship framework.
- Personal Enneagram report for each participant, plus a Couple/Colleague Relationship Report, professionally debriefed by Enneagram specialist Sav Goldridge.
- Guided practices for communication, emotional regulation, conflict de-escalation and reconnecting after rupture.
- Intimate group size (6β8 rooms only) ensuring safety, depth and spaciousness.
- A gentle daily rhythm that balances learning, reflection and rest, without overwhelm or over-scheduling.
Sashwa Sanctuary Inclusions
All guests enjoy full access to Sashwaβs wilderness wellness offerings, including:
- Three wholesome, plant-based, seasonally inspired meals per day
- Healthy warm and cold beverages, including Painted Wolf conservation wines
- Snack-fridge access throughout the day
- Curated meditative and contemplative spaces for stillness and reflection
- A peaceful wildlife-watching hide
- Sauna, gym, yoga decks, and swimming pool
- Daily guided yoga, movement, breathwork and meditation
- Creative Studio for self-led creative expression
- Safari drives and wilderness walks with an experienced guide
- Laundry service
- WiFi access in dedicated areas
Your Guides
SHELLEY LEWIN
I am Shelley Lewin, a specialist in personal and professional relationship development. Since 2006, as The Relationship Architect, I have partnered one-on-one and two-on-one with growth-minded couples, senior decision makers in Fortune 500 companies and high-performing leaders, empowering them with the tools to build relationships where people can flourish. As the author of Uncomplicated Love: A step-by-step guide for building a thriving relationship, my writing is featured across print, digital media, TV, and radio. My signature retreats are based on βthe art, science, and practices of loveβ outlined in my book- providing a practical yet transformative framework for pairs to engage in immersive experiences designed to heal, strengthen and elevate their relationships.
I live in Cape Town with my husband of 20 years and my Burmese cat, Beanie, while our son pursues his dream of becoming a PGA tour-ready golfer in the U.S. I find joy in my work, nature, walking barefoot on Muizenberg Beach, listening to podcasts on human potential and deepening my understanding of what it means to love and lead authentically with our heads and hearts.
I am a lifelong learner, driven by a singular vision: to shape a future where we lead ourselves and partner each other with grace, compassion and humanity.
SAV GOLDRIDGE
I am Sav Goldridge, a master credentialled coach with more than 6500 hours of experience, which includes working with couples, families, C-Suite Executives, Leaders, individuals and teams within multiple organisations and industries across South Africa and Internationally.
Reading Sandra Maitri’s book, “The Spiritual Dimension of the Enneagram – Nine Faces of the Soul,β in 2011, marked the beginning of a profound resonance with the spiritual and psychological aspects of the enneagram. The pages of her book unveiled a deep connection to my Enneagram type, illuminating how I had learned to both survive and thrive by unconsciously disowning parts of myself. This profound revelation became a catalyst, propelling me onto a personal odyssey and a passionate love affair with the Enneagram. I have been blessed to be trained by some of the foremost Global Enneagram Teachers.
I am passionate about authentic expression, conscious connections with Self, others and the natural world and creating awareness of neurodiversity and the impact of trauma.Β As a neurodivergent thinker and speaker, I share my life story of overcoming challenges such as rape, extreme poverty and abuse, and thriving despite developmental trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
I live with my partner of fifteen years, two cats and Flame my corn snake, in a lush indigenous KZN coastal jungle.
My vision is to change the way the world engages and perceives loss, bereavement and neurodivergent thinkers.
- SHELLEY LEWIN - The Relationship Architect
-
SHELLEY LEWIN
I am Shelley Lewin, a specialist in personal and professional relationship development. Since 2006, as The Relationship Architect, I have partnered one-on-one and two-on-one with growth-minded couples, senior decision makers in Fortune 500 companies and high-performing leaders, empowering them with the tools to build relationships where people can flourish. As the author of Uncomplicated Love: A step-by-step guide for building a thriving relationship, my writing is featured across print, digital media, TV, and radio. My signature retreats are based on βthe art, science, and practices of loveβ outlined in my book- providing a practical yet transformative framework for pairs to engage in immersive experiences designed to heal, strengthen and elevate their relationships.
I live in Cape Town with my husband of 20 years and my Burmese cat, Beanie, while our son pursues his dream of becoming a PGA tour-ready golfer in the U.S. I find joy in my work, nature, walking barefoot on Muizenberg Beach, listening to podcasts on human potential and deepening my understanding of what it means to love and lead authentically with our heads and hearts.
I am a lifelong learner, driven by a singular vision: to shape a future where we lead ourselves and partner each other with grace, compassion and humanity.
- SAV GOLDRIDGE - Enneagram & Self Awareness Specialist
-
SAV GOLDRIDGE
I am Sav Goldridge, a master credentialled coach with more than 6500 hours of experience, which includes working with couples, families, C-Suite Executives, Leaders, individuals and teams within multiple organisations and industries across South Africa and Internationally.
Reading Sandra Maitri’s book, “The Spiritual Dimension of the Enneagram – Nine Faces of the Soul,β in 2011, marked the beginning of a profound resonance with the spiritual and psychological aspects of the enneagram. The pages of her book unveiled a deep connection to my Enneagram type, illuminating how I had learned to both survive and thrive by unconsciously disowning parts of myself. This profound revelation became a catalyst, propelling me onto a personal odyssey and a passionate love affair with the Enneagram. I have been blessed to be trained by some of the foremost Global Enneagram Teachers.
I am passionate about authentic expression, conscious connections with Self, others and the natural world and creating awareness of neurodiversity and the impact of trauma.Β As a neurodivergent thinker and speaker, I share my life story of overcoming challenges such as rape, extreme poverty and abuse, and thriving despite developmental trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
I live with my partner of fifteen years, two cats and Flame my corn snake, in a lush indigenous KZN coastal jungle.
My vision is to change the way the world engages and perceives loss, bereavement and neurodivergent thinkers.
Dates & Investment
20-24 August 2026 / 1-5 November 2026
(4 nights)
Riverfront Suite
4 Nights
Early Bird (until 31 March 2026)
Riverfront Suite: R66,500 per pair (R33,250 pps)
Standard Rates (1 April to 6 July 2026)
Riverfront Suite: R76,500 per pair (R38,250 pps)
Garden Suite
4 Nights
Standard Rates (until 31 March 2026)
Garden Suite: R55,500 per pair (R27,750 pps)
Standard Rates (1 April to 6 July 2026)
Garden Suite: R63,500 per pair (R31,750 pps)
Payment Terms:
- 50% deposit secures your suite
- Remaining balance due: 6 July 2026 (45 days before arrival)
- The retreat will run with a minimum of 3 pairs
- If the minimum is not met, all payments β including deposits β are refunded in full
Your place is held with care, and your investment is protected.
Includes:
Accommodation, plant-based meals, beverages, wellness facilities, guided yoga/movement/meditation, safari activities, all facilitated sessions, personal Enneagram reports, Couple/Colleague Report, and a professional debrief.
Excludes:
International flights to South Africa and domestic flights to Hoedspruit (HDS).
What Couples Are Saying
βAs first-time participants in Shelleyβs couples retreat, we walked away with new insights into ourselves and each other. The Enneagram component was incredibly valuable as it helped us understand not only our individual patterns but how they dance together within our relationship. It was a wonderfully warm environment that felt like home. Their presence and deep care allowed us to safely explore our relationship and create an aligned vision as a couple as well as for our family. The retreat gave us new language and tools to see each other with compassion and to navigate our relationship more consciously. Itβs a must for any pair who wants to grow closer, communicate better, and deepen their connection.βΒ N.E.
βAn absolute must for any couple at any stage of their marriage to either refresh, re-energise or restore. The Emoli cards were hugely helpful in identifying the root cause of emotional responses and what story we tell ourselves in that moment. I really loved that there was carved out time for the βusβ to nurture. Something very necessary in such a dynamic and ever-changing world where we feel like we are spinning and cannot keep up. Shelley is a natural facilitator who is able to read and meet each individual where they are with no judgement. I have not only been able to implement her techniques in my personal relationship but also at work with my colleagues and for this I am eternally grateful.βΒ B.A.
βI learnt invaluable insights into my own personality traits and how they interplay with my partnerβs personality. Your unpacking of the Enneagram styles & how they relate to each other and the interplay & blindspots I thought was great as it helped set the scene for the Couples report. Iβve had a few debriefs on this over the years and both of us thought that you were the best weβve experienced. The Enneagram Couples report was hugely valuable and insightful – lots of aha moments. It gave us the lenses to look honestly at our relationship and how we want to grow as whole individuals and how we want to show up for each other, our family and our loving relationship. Hugely grateful for the experience and looking forward to the next one Shelley!!βΒ E.E.
Join us at Sashwa, River of Stars
There is a place where time stands still and the magic of Nature unfolds in front of your eyes. A place where a river flows and sparkling sunlight creates starlight in its waters. Welcome to Sashwa River of Stars. Welcome Home.
Our carefully curated safari retreat is nestled in the wilderness of the renowned Greater Kruger National Park. Perched on the banks of the Olifants River, where the daily flow of wildlife can be witnessed on the floodplain below, our lodge offers a rare, tranquil sanctuaryβwith the freedom of a fenced campβfor a truly transformative safari experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this retreat only for romantic couples?
No. This retreat welcomes any two people who share a meaningful relationship – romantic partners, spouses, best friends, siblings, co-founders, colleagues or collaborators. The work is designed for pairs who want to deepen understanding, communication and connection.
Do we need to be in crisis to attend?
Not at all. In fact, most pairs attend because they value the relationship and want to invest proactively, not reactively. This experience is about renewal, clarity and strengthening the bond- not emergency repair.
What if one of us is nervous or more reluctant?
Many people arrive feeling unsure. The retreat is designed to be gentle, spacious and emotionally safe. There is no forced sharing, no pressure to perform, and no expectation to expose anything youβre not ready for. Most people settle within the first session as they discover this is about designing the relationship you prefer and not healing a broken one. The environment naturally softens the nervous system and your facilitators are experts in the relational space.
Is this therapy?
No. This is not therapy. It is a facilitated relational experience grounded in applied psychology, relationship science, the Enneagram, nervous-system awareness and high-skill coaching. It is suitable for healthy relationships that want clarity, growth and renewal, rather than clinical intervention.
How much will we have to share in a group?
As much or as little as feels comfortable. There are no forced disclosures. The retreat is designed with a balance of:
- small-group learning
- partner-only conversations
- optional laser sessions
- Safety, consent and emotional pacing are priorities
What if we disagree or get triggered during the retreat?
This is completely normal. You will be supported with tools to navigate difficult moments with ease and emotional regulation. Sav and Shelley are highly skilled at holding tension without escalating it, and the environment is built for restoration, not reactivity.
What does the Enneagram component include?
Each participant receives a personal Enneagram report, plus you receive a Couple/Colleague Relationship Report. This combined assessment is professionally debriefed by Enneagram expert Sav Goldridge and global leadership coach Shelley Lewin, offering insight into your individual patterns and the dynamic you create together.
What is included in the price?
Almost everything:
- Luxury accommodation at Sashwa
- All plant-based meals, beverages, snacks
- Safaris, movement, meditation, wellness facilities
- All facilitated relational sessions
- Individual and relationship Enneagram reports
- Professional debrief by Sav and Shelley
- Retreat workbook and materials
Not included:
- International flights to South Africa
- Domestic flights to Hoedspruit (HDS)
What is your cancellation policy?
A 50% deposit secures your place. The balance is due 45 days before arrival.
If the retreat does not meet the minimum of 3 pairs, your full payment – including the deposit – is refunded. If you personally need to cancel, we can discuss transferring your booking to another pair or a future retreat if notice is provided.
(We can refine this based on your preferred policy)
How physically demanding is the retreat?
The retreat is intentionally gentle. Movement sessions are optional and accessible. Safaris and nature walks are leisurely and guided. The emphasis is on rest, clarity and connection, not physical intensity.
Do we need prior experience with the Enneagram or personal development?
No prior experience is needed. Everything will be explained with clarity and simplicity. All levels – from curious beginners to seasoned introspective lovers – are welcome.
Is the retreat LGBTQ+ friendly?
Absolutely. This retreat is inclusive and designed for all types of relationships built on care and consent.
How do we get to Sashwa?
You will fly into Hoedspruit Airport (HDS). We will provide transfers to Sashwa once your flights are booked. International guests can fly into Johannesburg (JNB) then add a connection flight or drive to Hoedspruit.
Can we arrive early or stay longer?
Subject to Sashwaβs availability, yes. We can connect you directly with the Sashwa team to arrange additional nights.
What is the group size?
To preserve intimacy and depth, the retreat is capped at 6β8 pairs only.
Is Sashwa in a malaria area? Do we need malaria tablets?
Hoedspruit and the surrounding Lowveld region are considered a low-risk malaria area. Most travellers do not require prophylaxis, but recommendations can vary by season and by your personal health profile.
Best practice:
- Consult your travel doctor or GP before travelling.
- Use standard precautions such as insect repellent and long sleeves at dusk.
Sashwaβs environment is well-managed, and many guests visit without taking tablets but please follow the advice of your healthcare professional.
Will we have free time?
Yes.
The schedule is spacious and intentionally designed to avoid overwhelm. There is time for rest, integration, creativity, reading, or simply reconnecting in nature.