08.04.2026 - 11.04.2026 · Sintra, Portugal

Where Europe’s most ambitious marketers design their 2026 AI Visibility System,
together, in magical Sintra.

Join an intimate retreat to elevate your marketing strategy, connect with world-class peers and reimagine your work,
inspired by The Future CMO and featuring Mark Schaefer as special guest.

Private villa, world-class marketing minds

Step away from daily noise and join an intimate group of forward-thinking marketers and founders.
In an inspiring villa surrounded by nature, you’ll reconnect with what truly matters in marketing: trust, creativity, and meaningful innovation.

Highlights:
• Strategic sessions on AI, storytelling, and emerging tech.
• Conversations that matter – with Mark Schaefer and peers.
• Nature & reflection – sunrise walks, chef-prepared dinners, open discussions.
• Connection & clarity – new energy for your next professional chapter.

Your Villa in the Heart of Sintra

11 on-site rooms (7 standard, 4 superior) with balcony and/or forest views

Glass meeting room for strategy, creativity and deep work

Event tent on a wooden deck for group sessions

Garden and pool with iconic views of Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle

Optional: sauna, massages, and local experiences

Built on the ideas of The Future CMO

This retreat brings the core principles of The Future CMO to life – trust as a strategy, technology as an enabler, and visibility as a craft.
You don’t have to read the book to benefit, but you’ll feel its spirit in every conversation and session.

Discover the book → https://www.amazon.com/Future-CMO-Modern-Trust-Visibility-ebook/dp/B0FNLBZGB9

Powered by The Future CMO Community on Skool

Every participant gains access to Joeri Billast’s private Skool community — a space where marketers, founders, and creators explore AI, marketing strategy, and visibility together.
It’s where ideas shared in Sintra keep growing long after the retreat ends.

Explore the community → https://joeri.link/future-cmo-skool

Special Guest

Mark Schaefer – Futurist & Bestselling Author

Mark W. Schaefer is a futurist and the bestselling author of some of the world's most beloved marketing books. He is the author of the world's first book on influencer marketing ("Return On Influence"), the bestselling book on personal branding (“KNOWN”), and seminal books like "Belonging to the Brand," "How AI Changes Your Customers" and "Marketing Rebellion" which are used as assigned texts in more than 50 universities.

Mark's books seamlessly blend significant research with gripping storytelling, humor, and remarkable insights, positioning him among the most respected authors in the genre. His books have been translated into 20 languages and appear in more than 800 libraries.

The popularity of his books propelled Mark into a career as a captivating keynote speaker. He has spoken in more than 50 countries and on major stages such as SXSW (three keynotes), Social Media Marketing World (10X) and prestigious annual events like the American Bar Association, American Bankers Association, and the European Union's business think tank.

He is a globally recognized educator, business consultant, and innovator (with seven patents). His well-known blog {grow}, is one of the most acclaimed marketing blogs of the world and his Marketing Companion podcast, now in its tenth year, is in the top 1% of all business shows on iTunes.

He holds advanced degrees in marketing and organizational development and has worked with prominent companies such as AT&T, Microsoft, Pfizer, Allstate Insurance, Adidas, and numerous other global brands. He was the host and producer of Dell's first podcast. Mark is a faculty member of the graduate studies program at Rutgers University and has lectured at many universities including Oxford and Princeton. He has appeared as an expert marketing resource in the WSJ, New York Times, Wired, Forbes, Fortune, CBS News, and many other global media outlets.

Early Decision: 1490 euro
Standard Price: 1690 euro
Last Spots: 1890 euro
Bonus: the first 4 confirmed participants receive a free upgrade to a Superior Room.
The Future CMO Retreat (Sintra, Portugal)
8 April 2026 (evening)
start date
11 April 2026 (morning)
end date
Limited to 12 participants to keep the experience personal
and high-quality.
Hosted in Casa do Valle, a private villa overlooking the castles of Sintra.
Accommodation included
All meals included
No VAT if billed as a businessls included
Apply here >>
Already part of The Future CMO community?
Join the group here >>

Let's meet in Sintra

We can't wait to see you
Sintra Old Town

Don't just take our word for it

”A cool place. I’d love spending days here, discussing AI and the future, not just another conference.”
Francisco Quartin de Macedo
”Been several times to Sintra. Beautiful old architecture, green everywhere.”
Juxhina Malaj
”I love Sintra. You can walk and talk and feel really good and it’s beautifully green.”
Oleg Fomenko

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know before joining.
Why Sintra?

Sintra combines nature, history and tranquility just outside Lisbon, making it ideal for focused retreats.

How do I get there?

Sintra is 25–30 minutes by car from Lisbon Airport. We recommend Uber or Bolt.

Where exactly is the retreat?

At Casa do Valle, a private villa in Sintra Old Town. Exact address shared after booking confirmation.

Is there an online version of the retreat?

We are exploring an online version. At this moment, the focus is on in-person experience. Participants will receive recordings afterwards.

What’s the weather in Sintra in November?

April in Sintra is mild and refreshing. Expect daytime temperatures between 17 °C and 20 °C, cooler evenings, and occasional spring showers. Pack light layers and comfortable shoes — part of the retreat experience is enjoying Sintra’s nature, sunshine or mist alike.

Who is this retreat for?

For founders, marketing leaders and decision-makers interested in AI and strategic growth.

What is included in the price?

Venue, accommodation, all meals, program sessions, and follow-up materials. Flights and public transport not included.

How many participants?

Maximum 12 to ensure depth and connection.

Do you offer a payment plan?

Yes. You can secure your spot with a deposit and pay the remaining balance in one or two installments before the retreat. Once your application is approved, we’ll send you the available payment options and timelines.

Is there an online version? Are the retreat sessions recorded?

We are exploring an online version. At this moment, the focus is on in-person experience. Participants will receive recordings afterwards.

Why this price?

This is a pilot group price, which covers venue, accommodation, meals, and a curated experience with expert guests. Future editions may have higher pricing.

Are there benefits to joining as part of the pilot group?

Yes. Pilot group participants get priority access and special benefits for future retreats.

What is the price of the retreat?

Early Decision: 1490 euro
Standard Price: 1690 euro
Last Spots: 1890 euro
Bonus: the first 4 confirmed participants receive a free upgrade to a Superior Room.

Can I join as a local from Portugal?

Yes. Especially if you’re looking to expand your international network in an informal setting.

Can I bring my partner or team member?

Yes – a limited number of shared-room packages will be available for partners or team members who wish to join. Each participant still needs to apply individually so we can ensure the right group fit and experience balance.

Can I get an invoice?

Yes, all participants receive an official invoice. If you register as a business outside Portugal, no VAT is charged (reverse charge). For private participants or Portugal-based companies, VAT applies according to local regulations.

Do you offer discounts or payment plans?

We occasionally offer early-bird rates for members of The Future CMO community. Beyond that, we keep pricing simple and transparent for all participants.
Payment plans are available – you can reserve your spot with a deposit and pay the remaining balance in one or two installments before the retreat.

I have food allergies or special dietary needs. Can I join?

Yes, please share your dietary preferences or allergies during registration. We’ll take care of it.

Other retreats

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