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Updated: Jan 27

Are you ready to begin a journey that will forever change your perspective on travel? Welcome to Torres del Paine, the true crown jewel of Patagonia! This isn't just another entry on your bucket list; it’s a chance to transform your spirit through an incredible adventure.


Picture this: the first rays of sunlight illuminating the impressive Cordillera Paine, transforming the landscape into a vibrant masterpiece. This breathtaking destination is not only known for its striking views; it’s about adventure, peace, and making unforgettable memories. Imagine starting your day with yoga, embarking on thrilling hikes through scenic trails, biking around the stunning Laguna Azul, and riding horseback alongside a real Patagonian cowboy. With this, you are invited to discover the enchanting wonders of Patagonia.


A photo of Laguna Azul in Torres del Paine National Park captured on an adventure retreat with Women's Quest in Patagonia, Chile. As Featured in the Anniversary Winter 2024 issue of EquuStyle Art & Travel Magazine at equustyle.com
The turquoise beauty of Laguna Azul in Torres del Paine National Park

Wake Up to Awe-Inspiring Views


Patagonia isn’t just a location; it’s an immersive experience for your body, mind, and spirit. Imagine beginning your day with yoga on the shores of a serene lake, surrounded by towering mountains and vibrant greenery. As you flow through your poses, the sunrise casts a warm golden light over the landscape, setting the stage for an extraordinary day filled with activities.


A photo Women's Quest hikers feeling enlivened by the peaks of Torres del Paine captured during an adventure retreat in Patagonia, Chile. As Featured in the Anniversary Winter 2024 issue of EquuStyle Art & Travel Magazine at equustyle.com
Women's Quest hikers feeling enlivened by the peaks of Torres del Paine

Once you are centered and energized, it’s time to discover the stunning trails that Patagonia offers. From exhilarating hikes through dense valleys to challenging treks leading to breathtaking viewpoints, every trail unveils a unique story.



Explore Patagonia's Wonders


A photo of a hiker reveling after hiking to the Base of the Towers in Torres del Paine National Park captured on an adventure retreat with Women's Quest in Patagonia, Chile. As Featured in the Anniversary Winter 2024 issue of EquuStyle Art & Travel Magazine at equustyle.com
Feeling sheer joy after hiking to the Base of the Towers

The pristine trails in Torres del Paine are perfect for every level of adventurer. Tie up your hiking boots and prepare to witness diverse scenery that ranges from dense forests to awe-inspiring mountain landscapes. For example, the popular W Trek offers a balance of challenges and spectacular views, allowing hikers to navigate rugged paths while enjoying destinations like the Base of the Towers, where three granite peaks rise majestically.


A highlight of your Patagonia adventure will surely be a bike ride around the dazzling Laguna Azul. Feel the refreshing Patagonian breeze on your face as you pedal along the edge of turquoise waters that gleam under the sun. Pause for a moment to drink in the vibrant colors and calmness of the lake; it’s a breathtaking view that will imprint itself in your memory.


Experience Patagonia on Horseback


If you want to connect with the culture of Patagonia, riding horseback with an expert Basqueano offers a deeper understanding of the region's heritage. These seasoned Patagonian cowboys carry invaluable insights about the land and its traditional way of life, allowing you to experience an authentic ride through picturesque trails.


As your horse navigates the rolling plains and secluded valleys, take time to absorb the sights and sounds around you. The rhythmic motion of the horse combined with crisp mountain air creates a unique connection to the wild around you. Did you know that over 80% of the terrain in Torres del Paine is accessible only on horseback?


A photo of a group of women horseback riding in Torres del Paine National Park captured on an adventure retreat with Women's Quest in Patagonia, Chile. As Featured in the Anniversary Winter 2024 issue of EquuStyle Art & Travel Magazine at equustyle.com
Discover the Magic of Patagonia on Horseback: Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure Awaits

Cruise to Grey Glacier


As your boat glides across the calm waters of Grey Lake, you’ll witness the striking beauty of rugged mountains and floating icebergs. Grey Glacier itself is a stunning sight, with ice formations that showcase the raw power of nature.The sight of icebergs glimmering in the sunlight is something truly special. For photography enthusiasts, this is your moment—every snapshot captures the essence of nature’s masterpieces in stunning detail.


The sound of ice cracking and shifting is mesmerizing. Each moment spent here captures the dramatic tale of ancient glacial movements, immersing you even deeper into this enchanting environment.


Cruising on Grey Lake
Cruising towards the massive Grey Glacier

Discover Valle Frances by Catamaran


One of the park’s hidden treasures is Valle Frances—a spectacular valley surrounded by colossal peaks. A catamaran ride invites you to the heart of this beautiful scenery.


As you glide along the pristine waters, take in the untouched nature around you. Upon reaching the landing point, you have the opportunity to hike through wilderness that feels like an exclusive secret. Expect to be captivated by the vibrant flora and fauna, including vividly colored wildflowers and majestic condors soaring overhead.


Paddle through the Straits of Magellan


The adventure doesn’t stop there. Next, set out to conquer the legendary Straits of Magellan. Kayaking provides an intimate connection with the environment as you glide over the calm waters, gaining a unique perspective on the magnificent scenery.


While navigating through the straits, keep watch for playful sea lions and an array of seabirds. Each stroke of the paddle pulls you deeper into the wonders of this stunning paradise.


Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure Awaits


Patagonia captivates with its enchanting landscapes. The diverse scenery, breathtaking views, and rich culture create a perfect haven for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking genuine exploration. Whether you're trekking, biking, or discovering Patagonia on horseback, every experience enriches your soul and connects you to the beauty of the Earth.


Now that you've seen some of the magic of Torres del Paine and the adventures that lie ahead, why hesitate? Break free from the mundane and create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Patagonia is not merely a destination; it’s a place that will redefine your notion of adventure travel. Unplug from the chaos of everyday life and forge a deeper connection with nature; this is a journey you won’t regret.


From sunrise yoga to exceptional hikes, biking, and the thrill of riding horseback, each activity contributes to a unique story that belongs only to you. Do not just fantasize about adventures—immerse yourself in them! Book your journey to Patagonia now and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.


Your invitation to explore Patagonia’s wonders is here. Will you answer the call?


 





Please read EquuStyle Art & Travel's Disclaimer https://www.equustyle.com/disclaimer 


All images Copyright Women's Quest -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Women's Quest.



A photograph of Colleen Cannon in Iceland with an Icelandic horse on a Women's Quest Ultimate Wellness Adventure Retreat.
Colleen Cannon with Women's Quest Icelandic Ultimate Wellness Adventure Retreat

EquuStyle: How did you become a World-Class triahlete?


Colleen Cannon: I became a World Class triathlete basically because I loved horses.. ha ha.

I would run to them as a child and then ended up cycling to them in high school. Then I competed in a small short triathlon in Huntsville, Alabama and I loved it. 


I was quickly picked up by NIKE and was on their first triathlon team and traveled the world and was able to win the World Championships, and then also was National champion 3 times, and top 3 in the world for a very long time.


All because I loved horses.


A photography of Colleen Cannon with Women's Quest in Iceland with and Icelandic horse and in front of a farmhouse with a rainbow in the sky.
Beautiful rainbows and Icelandic countryside.

EquuStyle:  In what ways did your career as an athlete influence or drive your desire to establish Women’s Quest as a leading wellness adventure retreats travel company for women?


Colleen Cannon: There is a long story about how I started Women's Quest. It is too long to write down.


The short version is that I was doing running clinics for Nike and for the Florida Distance runners club in Brevard, NC when I was in college. I loved that experience. 


As an athlete, I always gave inspirational talks for groups and I noticed that women really needed to come together and learn skills in a safe way. 


I retired from competing and started Women's Quest in 1992, to help empower, encourage, and explore and, of course, have fun and laugh. But also for women to try something new for the first time.


EquuStyle: When you established Women’s Quest, what were your initial goals? 


Colleen Cannon: The retreats have always been about transformation and balancing the Body Mind, and Spirit which is what I learned as an athlete.



EquuStyle: How have Women’s Quest’s adventures/retreats changed over time?


Colleen Cannon: I learned meditation from Deepak Chopra, and John Douillard and Jay Wilson and I used those skills and we incorporated them into our wellness adventure retreats. We also did lots of Louise Hay visualizations in the early days because she was also a mentor.


We trained the correct way because Dr. Phil Maffetone was my coach and he said you should be healthy as well as fit and that healthy was balancing the body, mind, and spirit. 


A photograph of Women's Quest participants enjoying the scenery with Icelandic horses nearby.
Iceland Exhilaration!

I also like to do the Heart’s Desire or find out what women want to do in their lives or their passions and to follow their hearts.

 

When you gain your energy back then you have the energy to dream and get clear on what you want and then your goals.


So, I incorporated all of this into the retreats. The same concepts are at each retreat but we go to different spots around the world.


EquuStyle: Is a certain level of horseback riding experience required to go on one of the two Icelandic adventures?


Colleen Cannon: Beginners to advanced riders


A photograph of a waterfall in Iceland taken during a Women's Quest Adventure.
Enjoy hiking to waterfalls.

EquuStyle: What are some of the highlights of the upcoming horseback riding adventures to Iceland this summer?


Colleen Cannon:  The water. We go into all the hot springs, swimming and soaking. The horses. You must be an advanced rider for the advanced trip or you can also be intermediate but I talk to each person to make sure they can ride with the herd. Riding with the herd is a HUGE HIGHLIGHT. Fairies are one of my highlights. 


The first trip in July we do horse connection, riding, equine-assisted coaching and IFS therapy with the horses. We hike to waterfalls, soak in warm rivers and hot springs, swim in pristine pools, and go kayaking – all while finding our inner zen with yoga alongside a herd of Icelandic horses.”


But all the trips, we have sound healing, the FLOAT with Unnar who created the Float. 

Here is the information and she has a sauna ceremony, plus we have sound healing while we are doing the float which is like watsu.


What you most like women to know about what to expect when they go on a Women’s Quest adventure/retreat?


The adventure of a lifetime, connecting with nature, the horses, swimming and soaking in the healing waters, and being with a group of like-minded women for a week of exploring. Plus hiking in Iceland is incredible and exhilarating.





Our Iceland retreat is a bit different. 

  • We ride with the herd 

  • We go to a hot spring every night

  • We swim in the pools

  • We hike and visit waterfalls

  • We visit a wool lady who tells us about how she gets the colors from Icelandic Herbs

  • We take an herb walk with Anna Rosa skincare who does amazing skin care made out of Icelandic herbs. 

  • We do sound healing with gongs and yoga each day + centered riding and the new trip with have Horse Connection work with IFS therapy instructor 

  • We spend time in and with the herd

  • We also do a FLOAT with Unnar called Flotheta.. so, so cool and they float us in the hot spring so it is like watsu (a form of aquatic bodywork used for deep relaxation and passive aquatic therapy) plus they play tuning forks

  • We also have music because that is so big in Iceland

  • We have great food that is made by Betta.


Experience the feeling of riding an Icelandic horse through a field of lupine flowers!




Testimonial from Kathleen Burke: Riding horses in Iceland with Women’s Quest is an amazing and transformational experience. Colleen created an environment where I felt safe doing challenging things. As a result I rediscovered joy, strength and trust in myself. All while seeing the natural beauty of Iceland and bonding with the amazing Icelandic horses and a wonderful group of women. A trip of a lifetime! Highly recommend!

To learn more about Colleen Cannon's journey with horses, read her recent blog post


 




Please read EquuStyle Art & Travel's Disclaimer https://www.equustyle.com/disclaimer


All images Copyright Women's Quest -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Women's Quest.


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