Photo: Synergy Adventure has become a catalyst for healing, an invitation to push beyond our comfort zone, reconnect with our instincts and rediscover the power within – Laura Montesanti, founder and managing director of Synergy – The Retreat Show

The international trade show dedicated to wellness travel and the retreat sector, Synergy – The Retreat Show, has unveiled the theme for its 2026 edition: The Healing Power of Nature.

The three-day event – taking place in Istria, Croatia between 29 September and 2 October – will demonstrate how retreat leaders are designing programmes to reflect a shift in the industry towards nature as the foundation for wellness experiences, rather than structured, outcome-driven ones.

The event will showcase retreat experiences that combine the biological and psychological benefits of being in nature with human connection. This includes retreats in horse-riding, open-air breathwork and meditation, journeys in remote destinations, outdoor contrast therapy and grounding practices.

Professionals such as practitioners, travel advisors, independent properties and leading wellness brands will attend the event for networking meetings, panel discussions, demonstrations and activations.

Laura Montesanti, founder and managing director of Synergy, believes consumer demand for adventure is a key driver in the shift towards these experiences: “Adventure and ‘freedom retreats’ are surging. Journeys that blend movement, nature and self-discovery – tapping into our deep need to feel alive and untethered.

“There’s a growing understanding that true transformation happens when we step outside our comfort zones,” added Montesanti. “Adventure has become a catalyst for healing, an invitation to push beyond our comfort zone, reconnect with our instincts and rediscover the power within.”

Read more about the host location for the trade show, the newly-opened Pical Resort by Valamar, here.

Read a review of Synergy 2025 here.