In recent years, more and more top-quality yoga, Pilates and meditation retreats have sprung up in breathtaking locations around the country, run by experienced instructors. They often include lovely and comfortable facilities, delicious organic food, nature and cultural excursions and the chance to meet like-minded individuals from around the world.

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Why choose a retreat

Beyond recharging your batteries, there are many benefits to reap from participating in a Greek island wellness retreat, according to the growing number of people who have tried such over the last few years. Imagine having a yoga session as you overlook the sunset of Oia in Santorini, followed by a delicious meal made with fresh, local ingredients and then a deep, restorative sleep in a luxurious room with gorgeous sea views. Just the thought of it is deeply relaxing!

During such a retreat you can get closer to nature, escape your stressful daily routine, detox from bad habits and technology and reconnect with the here and now, as you are skillfully guided to practice mindfulness, boost your yoga practice and get back in touch with your body. What better place to experience all this than on an Aegean island? We’ve gathered some of the most seductive suggestions to help you find your own yoga retreat paradise.

Ano Koufonissi

Apostolia Papadamaki, founder of The Happiness Retreat invites you to experience a week during which a body-mind transformation is guaranteed. Yoga, breathing exercises, dance and meditation form the backbone of this retreat, which also offers vegan meals cooked with organic ingredients.

Paros

Okreblue’s retreats aim to offer participants a real sense of renewal while supporting the local community via sustainable practices. Sessions take place in Yoga Shalas with floors made from recycled materials, while all rooms are designed and constructed according to ethical practices with local materials, and the food is made using their own organic garden produce. Different retreats are planned throughout the summer, suitable for all levels, with different themes that emphasise practical yoga and meditation.

Santorini

What’s it like to do yoga and Pilates in one of the most famous scenic islands in the world? Sky Pilates offers you the chance to find out. The retreat includes a stay at the El Greco Hotel and Spa in Fira, classes by qualified instructors and excursions around the island.

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Photo: Hans Vivek/Unsplash
Photo: Samuel Austin/Unsplash

Amorgos

Meditation, yoga, relaxation, regeneration and physical strengthening are all part of a Holistic Yoga Retreat organized on the “Big Blue” island. Participants enjoy lavish and comfortable accommodations and pampering sessions at the Aegialis Hotel & Spa, with stunning views, great dining and an excellent location.

Mykonos

Yoga Escapes promises to offer you the perfect balance between the many benefits of a retreat and a fun holiday in Mykonos. Yoga (with fantastic views) is the key benefit of the retreat, while luxurious hotel accommodations and a flexible schedule should ensure that you’ll have time to make the most of your dream holiday.

Rhodes

The eight-day BioAge Detox™ retreat run by BiOage Retreats was created for anyone who feels physically exhausted and in need of a good detox from their daily routine and unhealthy habits. Personalised meals recommended by a nutritionist, cleansing fresh juices, yoga and Pilates sessions for six days and access to the resort’s facilities in one of the island’s most popular spots promise an instant summer reboot.

Kos

Lush Kos with its diverse landscapes is the perfect place to enjoy nature, lovely swims and yoga. Meanwhile the Yoga on Kos retreat also offers sunset meditation sessions at the Kos Asclepieion, one of the most famous ancient wellness centres of Greece, together with hiking and cycling excursions. The hotel stay, organised by the instructors, is in Kos town, just a stone’s throw from the beach.

On a Sailboat

For a different kind of experience that combines visits to different Aegean islands and seafaring yoga sessions, opt for this retreat. The sailboat sets off from Alimos or Lavrio ports in Attica every Saturday, from where it travels across to the Cycladic or Saronic islands (depending on the weather) for eight days.

Read also:

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