The complete guide to company retreats in employee wellness programs
Tired perks don’t cut it – employee recognition trips do.
Source: Pexels
{Alt text: Scenic Lake with Wooden Sauna and Forest Reflection.}
Perks are everywhere – free coffee, pizza Friday’s, discount gym memberships. But honestly? Tired perks don’t move the needle anymore. Employees want more than surface-level gestures. They want to feel valued, recognised, and genuinely cared for.
That’s where employee wellness comes in. Both HR leaders and finance managers are realising that wellness isn’t just a box to tick – it’s central to retention, engagement, and productivity. The smartest companies are looking beyond fruit baskets and lunchtime yoga, investing instead in employee wellness ideas that make a lasting impact.
One idea that’s quickly gaining ground? Company retreats. When designed with purpose, retreats combine wellness, recognition, and culture-building in one powerful move. They’re not just a break from the office, they’re a chance to recharge, connect, and celebrate.
Even better, when retreats are positioned as employee recognition trips, they deliver double the value: rewarding effort while improving wellbeing. Done right, they transform a wellness plan from “nice to have” into a core business strategy that boosts morale, loyalty, and culture.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make company retreats a cornerstone of your employee wellness ideas strategy – and how to design trips that keep both your people and your finance team happy.
Table of contents
The complete guide to company retreats in employee wellness programs 1
Tired perks don’t cut it – employee recognition trips do. 1
Why wellness matters more than ever 2
What role do company retreats play in wellness? 3
Employee recognition trips as a wellness tool 4
From perk to strategy – building retreats into your wellness plan 6
10 practical employee wellness ideas to boost retreats 8
The case for finance and HR leaders 9
Common challenges with company retreats – and how to solve them 10
Why wellness matters more than ever
Wellness has shifted from a “nice extra” to a genuine business priority. HR leaders are under pressure to keep staff engaged and reduce churn, while finance managers are focused on the hidden costs of absence, turnover and low morale. Employees, meanwhile, are looking for something far more meaningful than token perks – they want proof that their company takes them and their wellbeing seriously.
The impact is measurable. The CIPD’s 2024 Health and Wellbeing at Work report shows stress remains the top cause of long-term absence in UK workplaces. Gallup’s global data links engaged employees with 23% higher profitability. So it’s clear that when people feel supported, the results show up in the bottom line.
The issue? Many wellness initiatives still miss the mark. Discounted gym memberships or an occasional mindfulness app are easy to roll out, but they rarely change how people feel about their work. Employees see through “tick-box” perks.
That’s why forward-thinking organisations are leaning into employee wellness ideas that feel shared, inclusive and connected to the culture – not just something employees do in isolation.
Company retreats are one of the strongest examples. They don’t just offer a change of scenery – they create space for teams to reset, bond and think differently. The best retreats tie personal wellbeing to collective culture, leaving people re-energised and companies with more engaged, motivated teams.
For leaders, that’s the win: a wellness initiative that’s easy to justify, simple to measure, and genuinely valued by employees.
What role do company retreats play in wellness?
Not every wellness initiative sticks. A free fruit basket might last a week, but the memory of a shared retreat can last for years. Retreats offer something different – they combine rest, recognition and connection in a way few other initiatives can.
At their best, company retreats deliver three things:
1. A reset for mental health
Stepping out of the everyday routine gives employees the chance to breathe, reset and think differently. No matter if it’s a quiet countryside setting or a well-chosen city break, the change of environment matters. Employees come back sharper, less stressed and more motivated.
2. A stronger team dynamic
Retreats go beyond individual wellness – they reinforce collective wellbeing. Shared experiences, whether structured workshops or informal downtime, help employees see colleagues as people, not just job titles. That sense of connection improves collaboration long after the trip is over.
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3. A culture signal
Perhaps most importantly, retreats show employees that wellness is not lip service. By investing in time away, companies send a message:
“We value you, we want you to feel recognised, and we’re prepared to back that up with action.”
In the current talent market, that kind of signal has real weight.
This is why retreats sit so naturally within a modern wellness plan. They’re not a distraction from work – they strengthen the very foundations of it. And when retreats are positioned as employee recognition trips, they double as both a wellness tool and a celebration of effort, loyalty and performance.
Employee recognition trips as a wellness tool
Recognition has always been central to motivation. But the way it’s delivered is changing. A quick “thank you” email or a branded mug doesn’t work for people who want more from their employer. Employees want recognition they can feel – something memorable that proves their effort is valued.
That’s where employee recognition trips can do all the work.
Unlike one-off rewards, recognition trips combine wellness and appreciation in a single gesture. They don’t just say “well done” – they give employees the time and space to recharge, bond with colleagues, and return to work energised.
Here’s why they work so well.
They create experiences, not transactions
Cash bonuses fade fast, but shared experiences leave lasting memories. A retreat built around wellness activities – from guided walks to group challenges – cements recognition in a way no M&S voucher ever could.
They support long-term engagement
A well-timed recognition trip can turn a high-performing employee into a long-term advocate for the business. It shows that loyalty and effort are noticed, not taken for granted.
They align individual and team wellbeing
Recognition doesn’t have to be about one person – whole teams can be rewarded together. Done correctly, employee recognition trips reinforce a culture where success is collective, and wellbeing is a shared responsibility.
They strengthen employer brand
- In industries where talent is hard to keep, stories of company retreats and recognition trips quickly become part of the company narrative. They show future hires that this is an organisation that invests in people, not just output.
Comparing recognition tools
Traditional recognition | Employee recognition trips |
Gift cards, branded swag, or one-off bonuses | Memorable experiences and shared stories |
Quickly forgotten, low impact | Long-lasting, emotionally resonant |
Focused on individuals only | Works for individuals and teams |
Transactional – “we gave you something” | Transformational – “we invested in you” |
Hard to connect with wellness strategy | Directly supports wellbeing, rest, and bonding |
For HR and finance leaders, this makes recognition trips more impactful than a simple morale booster – they’re a tool for the entire company. They help retain talent, improve wellness, and signal to the market that your organisation values people at every level.
Source: Pexels
{Alt text: Businessmen Enjoying Beachfront View at Sunset.}
From perk to strategy – building retreats into your wellness plan
Retreats shouldn’t feel like an optional extra or a nice-to-have. When placed at the heart of your wellness strategy, they become moments of transformation – shared, purposeful, and deeply impactful. Here’s how to build them in intentionally.
1. Define the why – align with strategic goals
Start with outcomes, not themes. Are you aiming to boost retention, refresh creative thinking, or reinforce culture? That clarity ensures planning stays purposeful and the retreat hits its mark.
2. Design with inclusivity in mind
Plan for different working styles, accessibility needs, and logistical realities. Hybrid roles? Neuro-inclusive schedules? Remote team members? A truly inclusive retreat is fair and will amplify wellness outcomes.
Quick guide to designing recognition retreats with intention
Step | What to work out | Why it matters |
Set clear objectives | e.g. reinvigorate team, bolster team connections, celebrate a milestone | Keeps the agenda tight, relevant and measurable |
Choose experiences that matter | Mix structured sessions with downtime, wellness activities or creativity sessions | Achieves both refreshment and reconnection |
Keep wellbeing front and centre | Choose venues offering walking routes, quiet breakout spaces, wellbeing workshops | Reinforces that wellness is not an afterthought |
Build feedback loops | Ask attendees immediately after and check in again later on impact | Captures sentiment and shows follow-through |
Measure more than satisfaction | Track retention, engagement, morale post-retreat | Demonstrates ROI in hard and soft metrics |
3. Treat booking and logistics like part of wellness
Planning shouldn’t be another stress point – for organisers or attendees. This is where you can adopt Roomex into your company operations.
- Central booking platform – manage all accommodation in one place, no juggling sites, rates or policies. That means less admin and more time on the experience.
- Exclusive Roomex rates & wide choice – access over 2 million workforce-friendly options (Premier Inn, Travelodge, Holiday Inn, Ibis) at competitive rates – saving up to 18%.
- Duty of care & real-time support – know where attendees are via live tracking, and lean on support via chat, email or phone if plans shift.
- Single invoice & RoomexPay – one invoice, one reconciliation point. No more out-of-pocket surprises – prepaid virtual cards streamline group spending.
These tools definitely reduce friction, but they also transform the retreat planning experience so you can focus on the people, not the paperwork.
4. Embed recognition into the experience
Recognition moments should be woven into the retreat – not added as an afterthought. Acknowledge accomplishments through:
- A surprise wellness add-on (e.g. group yoga in the morning, a gratitude circle)
- Speaker sessions highlighting team wins or personal journeys
- Shared rituals, awards or symbolic gestures that carry meaning
When recognition happens in real time and in context, it lands far more memorably.
5. Follow through with intention
Wellness doesn’t end when you return to the office. Follow-up is where the value compounds:
- Share photos, quotes, or key insights raised during the retreat
- Use Roomex Analytics to track travel spend, cancellation trends or policy insights post-event
- Ask: did people feel recharged? Did collaboration shift? Use that data to bring next year’s retreat into sharper focus.
This isn’t sheer indulgence, it’s about designing wellness around real outcomes and recognising teams with intention. By integrating retreats into your wellness plan with precision and using Roomex to simplify planning and execution, you’re turning a “perk” into a tool that builds engagement, culture and retention – while impressing finance and HR with efficiency and ROI.
10 practical employee wellness ideas to boost retreats
A retreat shouldn’t feel like a corporate away day but with a nicer view. The best retreats are immersive experiences, combining meaningful activities with thoughtful wellness design. Here are ten employee wellness ideas to inspire your next company retreat.
1. Nature walks & gentle outdoor challenges
Start the day with a sunrise walk or forest trail. The benefits? A mental reset, grounded energy, and informal discussion that beats any boardroom.
2. Guided group fitness or mindfulness sessions
Balance movement and calm with sessions like yoga, breathwork, or a meditation workshop. These moments of presence help combat stress and sharpen focus.
3. Health-forward, local-sourced meals
Wellness starts with what’s on the plate. Opt for healthy, locally sourced meals that fuel instead of fill. Informal group dining creates connection without requiring faff or stiffness.
4. Creativity & facilitation workshops
Bring in a facilitator or arrange a hands-on workshop – think art, journalling, team storytelling. The point? Let people explore beyond their daily roles and uncover new perspectives.
5. Digital detox blocks
Instead of expecting full tech sabbaticals – which can stress some employees – build in “tech-light” periods. Encourage people to step away from email, breathe, and connect with surroundings.
6. Wellness stations
A retreat isn’t complete without small comfort zones: calming corners with herbal teas, essential-oil diffusers, ambient playlists, or cosy reading nooks where people can recharge.
7. Peer recognition moments
Elevate employee recognition trips by weaving peer appreciation into wellness programming. A gratitude circle, peer-led shout-outs or group awards create emotional impact and reinforce team solidarity.
8. Light movement circuits
Set up flexible mini-activities like stretching corners, gentle group Pilates or mindfulness walks. These quick movements combat stagnation and keep energy flowing without pressure.
9. Reflective journaling prompts
Provide guided prompts for private reflection – on personal wins, new ideas, or team aspirations. Add this as a chill moment between sessions and you give attendees space to distil insights quietly.
10. Shared rituals with meaning
Closing rituals – like setting intentions for the year ahead, planting a tree, or building a collective symbol – anchor the retreat emotionally and create shared memories long after people return.
Why Roomex makes planning simple
Imagine designing a retreat that threads together these activities easily, and managing the details shouldn’t be another distraction. That’s where Roomex stands out:
- With over 2 million workforce-suitable accommodation options, including popular brands like Premier Inn, Travelodge, Holiday Inn, Ibis and more, you can find the perfect setting for every type of wellness activity – whether it’s a countryside lodge, urban boutique or a quieter meeting-focused space.
- You get this depth and breadth of options – all in one central booking platform – with Exclusive Roomex Rates, offering up to 18% savings, so you don’t have to compromise on location or budget.
The case for finance and HR leaders
Retreats are sometimes seen as a cost centre or a distraction from a company’s core mission. In reality, they’re one of the most efficient ways to improve engagement, strengthen culture, and reduce turnover. For HR and finance leaders, the impact is both cultural and financial.
For finance managers – clarity and control
- Smarter spending – retreats look expensive when booked ad hoc, but with Roomex’s Exclusive Rates companies can save up to 18% across group accommodation.
- One invoice, one process – multiple bookings consolidated into a single invoice makes reconciliation simple, with no more chasing receipts or piecing together fragmented spend.
- Real-time analytics – Roomex Analytics gives finance teams visibility of spend patterns, cancellation trends, and policy compliance. That means stronger forecasting and fewer surprises.
For HR leaders – retention and reputation
- Reduced churn – recognition-focused retreats show employees they’re valued. When people feel appreciated and supported, they’re less likely to look elsewhere.
- Culture signalling – retreats reinforce values and send a clear message: wellness and recognition are embedded in the way the organisation operates.
- Duty of care – Roomex’s live map tracks travel history and upcoming trips, giving HR peace of mind that staff are safe and supported while away.
For travel managers – less admin, more impact
- Central booking platform – instead of juggling multiple suppliers, everything is booked and managed in one place.
- Reservation checks – Roomex support confirms bookings with hotels in advance, reducing friction on arrival.
- Expert support – dedicated account managers provide strategic guidance, while customer support handles the day-to-day, freeing travel managers to focus on bigger priorities.
Retreats aren’t a soft perk like we’re all taught to think – they’re a strategic lever. With Roomex taking the friction out of booking, paying and reporting, HR, finance, and travel teams can deliver experiences that support wellness and recognition without draining time or budget.
Common challenges with company retreats – and how to solve them
For many organisations, the word “retreat” still sparks hesitation. Older, more traditional companies picture a week-long holiday on the company dime and worry about costs spiralling. Others fear lost productivity – teams offsite for two days when there’s a project deadline looming. And inclusivity? Some leaders are nervous retreats will leave hybrid, remote or neurodiverse employees feeling excluded.
The reality is, those fears are understandable. But with the right planning, retreats can be cost-effective, inclusive and strategically valuable.
Let’s tackle the big objections one by one.
Objection 1: “It’s too expensive”
The knee-jerk view is that retreats drain budgets. But the real cost is in turnover, disengagement and absenteeism. Replacing a single employee can cost upwards of 6–9 months of their salary – far more than the price of a retreat.
Solution: Budget forecasting is your best friend. Start small with a one-day retreat close to home. Use negotiated hotel rates (Roomex customers save up to 18% with Exclusive Roomex Rates) to stretch spend further. And don’t underestimate soft ROI – engaged employees deliver more, stay longer and speak highly of your organisation.
Objection 2: “We can’t take time away from projects”
Some managers panic at the thought of teams stepping away from their desks. But Gen Z and younger millennials – who now make up the largest share of the workforce – see wellbeing and recognition as non-negotiable.
If companies don’t make space for it, they’ll quietly look elsewhere.
Solution: Flip the perspective. A retreat isn’t “time lost” – it’s “time invested”. Research shows that employees who feel recognised and supported return to work more productive and creative. The fix? Schedule retreats during quieter business periods, frame them around strategy or planning sessions, and make the agenda count. A two-day investment can reset the tone for an entire quarter.
Objection 3: “Not everyone will feel included”
One of the biggest risks is planning a retreat that works for some but alienates others. Think neurodiverse employees overwhelmed by constant socialising, or remote workers who feel disconnected from in-person gatherings.
Solution: Design retreats with inclusivity in mind. Balance high-energy activities with quieter downtime. Offer wellness-focused options alongside social ones. And when in doubt – ask. Gathering employee input during the planning stage ensures the retreat reflects the team, not just the organisers. Tools like Roomex make it easy to find venues that suit diverse needs, from accessible accommodation to hotels with breakout spaces for quieter moments.
Objection 4: “It’s too much admin”
Booking hotels, reconciling receipts, tracking who’s where – this is the stuff that keeps finance and travel managers awake at night.
Solution: Automation solves the admin headache. With Roomex, all bookings flow into one platform. You get consolidated invoicing, real-time analytics, and a Duty of Care map showing exactly where people are. The result? Less time chasing details, more time focusing on the retreat itself.
The truth is, most of the old excuses don’t stand up anymore. The workforce has changed. Gen Z expects wellness and recognition to be baked into company culture, not tacked on. Retreats aren’t reckless spending – they’re smart investments in people.
Source: Pexels
{Alt text: Employees sat around a table discussing their wellness strategy.}
Making retreats part of your wellness strategy
Wellness is no longer a side project, it’s a core part of how organisations attract, retain and energise their people. Retreats take wellness and recognition off the page and put them into action. They reset teams and send a clear message: this is a company that invests in its people.
But the impact of a retreat depends on how it’s delivered. Without the right planning, retreats risk being costly, inconsistent or logistically messy. With Roomex, the stress disappears:
- Over 2 million places to stay – from trusted hotel chains to flexible apartments.
- Exclusive Roomex Rates – saving up to 18% on workforce-suitable accommodation.
- RoomexPay – no more out-of-pocket spend or painful reconciliations.
- One invoice – simplicity for finance teams.
- Duty of Care – full visibility of where your people are, and peace of mind if plans change.
- Analytics – real-time data on spend, savings and compliance.
The result? Retreats that are cost-effective, simple to manage and unforgettable for employees. Recognition trips that don’t drain resources but actually strengthen them. And wellness initiatives that move the dial on retention, morale and productivity.
Ready to see it in action?
Book a demo with Roomex and make your next retreat the most impactful part of your employee wellness plan.
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