Boys To Men Retreat
Guiding young men through challenge, adventure and self-discovery
- 4 days
- 4 nights
- 9–16
- years old
- Ericeira
- Portugal
- 700 €
- all inclusive
The mission
Why does this retreat exist
Today's boys are growing up without a rite of passage.
Two age ranges
Nine to sixteen is a wide span, so in practice the boys are grouped into two age ranges. Challenges, coaching and conversations are pitched to suit where each group is at.
Modern boys face a world of endless screens, pressure and distraction — and far too few moments that ask something real of them.
Most boys don't need another lecture. They need challenge. They need guidance. They need strong male role models. And they need to feel part of something real.
This experience is designed to help boys reconnect to who they are — rather than conforming to external expectations.
I'm not promising to “fix” your son in four days. But we are creating an experience he'll remember for the rest of his life — one that plants the kind of seeds that grow into a strong, grounded, capable young man.
The outcomes
What the boys take home
Real skills and values that outlast the four days.
On the coast
Moments from the retreat
Surf, skate, sand and brotherhood on the coast of Ericeira.
Catching air
Skate sessions
Coaching on the ramp
Small wins, big high-fives
Brotherhood
Coastal adventures
Beach challenges
Play & sand
Ready to rollThe experience
What's included
Everything is taken care of — accommodation, meals, coaching and the experiences in between.
Reserve your week
Join the next retreat
Flexible dates available — get in touch to find the right week.
Reserve a place- Accommodation in the villa
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Surf lessons with Blue Ocean Surf School
- Skate coaching with Skateschool 36
- Beach challenges & cold plunge sessions
- Campfire circles & journaling
- Photos & videos to take home
The people
Meet the team
We believe young men don't just need instruction — they need presence, guidance and strong role models. Our team is here to create an environment of trust, challenge, brotherhood and growth.
Maxim Rettich
Founder & Host
54 years old and Dutch by birth, fluent in English and Spanish, and a certified breathwork facilitator. A father of two — a 9-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter — based in Ericeira, Portugal. His life journey has taken him across the world, shaped by a deep passion for sports, personal growth and the pursuit of something more meaningful.
Rafa
Skateschool 36 Ericeira — Coach
Years of skateboarding experience. "I love helping people build confidence on their boards, learn new skills, and most importantly, have fun."
Blue Ocean Surf School
Surf instruction — Ribeira d'Ilhas
Our school has taught thousands of students, and today we can assess and address bad techniques so students can improve and move forward in their surfing journey.
Apply now
Let us answer your questions
Have a question or ready to apply? Leave your details and a message below and we'll be in touch.
Boys to Men Retreat
Thank you for your interest in the Boys to Men Retreat in Ericeira, Portugal. Leave your details and a message below and we'll get back to you. If you'd prefer to speak directly, you can call Maxim J Rettich for a one-to-one conversation at +34 600 235 207.
Get in touch
Ready to take the next step?
Reach out with any questions or to reserve a place. Dates are flexible — we'll help you find the right week.
The retreat is held in English. Max also speaks German, Dutch and Spanish, so feel free to get in touch in whichever language suits you best.