If "men's retreat" makes you picture chanting in a forest while somebody talks about masculine energy, your hesitation is understandable.
That style does exist. Some people like it. Others would rather walk directly into the sea than book it.
The important point is that men's retreats are not all the same.
Some are spiritual or ceremonial
Some retreats include spiritual practice, ceremony, ritual, breathwork, meditation or language that feels more alternative.
That may be exactly what some men are looking for.
If it is not for you, that does not mean all retreats are off the table. It just means that specific style is probably not your fit.
Read the wording carefully.
The language on the website usually tells you a lot.
Some are yoga or wellness focused
Other retreats are built around yoga, mindfulness, massage, nutrition, spa time or general wellbeing.
Again, that may be right for some people and not for others.
If you are actively looking for yoga or meditation, great. If you are not, check whether those activities are central, optional or absent.
Do not book something you already know you will resent.
Some are personal-development led
Some men's retreats focus on coaching, group work, emotional reflection or personal development.
These can be serious, valuable spaces when well run. They can also feel too intense for someone who mainly wants a few days away, some activity and a bit of perspective.
The key is clarity.
How much group sharing is expected? Who leads it? What qualifications or experience do they have? What happens if you do not want to speak?
Some are activity-led
Many retreats are much more practical.
Walking, fitness, bushcraft, outdoor activities, cold water, cooking, navigation, challenge, good food, downtime and conversation around the edges.
This style can suit men who do not want the conversation to be the whole event.
Doing things together gives people a way to settle before anything more reflective happens.
How to tell what you are booking
Look past the word "retreat".
Read the itinerary. Check the photos. Notice the language. Look for clear information about activities, accommodation, group size, food, downtime and expectations around conversation.
If a retreat makes huge promises, uses language that makes you cringe, or will not say what actually happens, be cautious.
A good organiser should be able to explain the experience plainly.
Where Inner Man sits
Inner Man is not a spiritual retreat, a yoga retreat or an intensive emotional workshop.
It is a few days away built around shared experiences, activity, good food, downtime and natural conversation.
There is room to talk about things that matter, but no pressure to perform vulnerability.
So are men's retreats weird? Some may be, depending on your taste. Plenty are not. The trick is choosing the one whose style you would actually turn up to.
Published: 24 September 2026