About Us

Welcome to Esta Vida — “This Life.”

We’re Russ & Sheila, partners in life, work, and adventure. Esta Vida Retreats was born from a love of movement, slow travel, and the deep sense of peace we found walking our first Camino in 2023.

Sheila brings years of experience running a fitness, yoga, and Pilates studio in the UK and, more recently, the west of Ireland, and Russ has swapped his IT career for a new life filled with trails, tapas, and a lot more sunshine. Together, we're creating a space for others to reconnect with themselves, whether that's through a rejuvenating retreat or the timeless rhythm of the Camino.

Why Galicia?

We fell head over hiking sandals for Galicia while walking the Camino. Its rolling hills, ancient villages, healing hot springs, and warm community captured our hearts. When we were offered the chance to house-sit in the region for six months, it felt like the perfect next step — time to explore, scout venues, and put our plans into motion.

Why Esta Vida?

Esta Vida means This Life — and that's our invitation to you:
To pause.
To breathe.
To reconnect with the simple joys of movement, nature, good company, fresh food and, a cheeky vino.

Whether you're joining us for a relaxing retreat with gentle Pilates, yoga, delicious food, and laughter… or a guided Camino walk with daily support, quiet reflection, and the beauty of the journey — we’re here to make sure you feel welcomed, nurtured, and inspired.

Who It’s For

Our retreats and walks are inclusive and open to all, but we especially welcome women 45+ looking for enriching experiences, shared stories, and soulful adventures.

Where We Are Now

We’re currently splitting our time between Ireland and Galicia — searching for the right retreat venues, walking more Camino routes, and preparing to welcome our first guests in Spring 2026.

This is just the beginning, and we’d love you to be part of it.

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With warmth,
Russ & Sheila
Esta Vida Retreats & Camino Walks

A man and woman standing outdoors in front of a white building with trees in the background. They are smiling, wearing sunglasses, with their arms around each other's shoulders.
Smiling woman and man in sunglasses near a body of water during daytime, wearing athletic clothing and backpacks, with a scenic background of trees and hills.
A smiling woman with blonde hair wearing sunglasses and a black tank top, taking a selfie with a man sitting on a bench behind her. The man has tattoos, wearing sunglasses, a straw hat, and athletic clothing. They are outdoors near a stone wall and grass, with snacks and water bottles beside them.