What do we need this summer, apart from someone assuring us that COVID-19 will not continue having so much control over our lives? Holidays? The sun? The sea? To relax? To stretch (literally and figuratively)? Friends? Sunsets? Switching off completely? Optimism? All the above?

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What’s good is that now there is a different way to respond to this craving for physical and mental reset and uplift; different from the now classic triptych of sea–food and drink–sleep and repeat. And we have the constantly growing in popularity trend of holidays built around the principles of wellness and personal well-being to thank for this.

But don’t start thinking about all the things (extremely appealing of course) that large resorts offer. In recent years there is an increasing number of interesting retreats organised, with tight-knit schedules of yoga and Pilates classes by professional instructors, offering customised diets, excursions in nature, and all this set in idyllic locations that rank high in our must-visit holiday destination lists.

Why choose a retreat?

The gains of going on such a retreat overcome by far the obvious “battery recharge” that a few days on an island entail; at least that is what everyone who has had the retreat experience claims. Picture this: a yoga session with the sunset of Oia, in Santorini, in the background, followed by a delicious meal prepared using local ingredients, resting in a luxury room, meeting people from all over the world, who want a mental uplift, to rest, to enjoy the sea, to get in touch with their body – just like you.

In the brief time of a seven-day retreat, you can connect with nature, leave your stressful daily life behind, disconnect from technology and reconnect with the here and now, you can practice mindfulness and overcome your fears, improve your yoga practice, and get in touch with your body again, while tasting lovely, healthy flavours, making new friends, and, of course, exploring beautiful places and going swimming.

Is there a better place for the above than an island of the Aegean? We’ve put together a few of the most appealing options so that you can choose your yoga retreat with a breath-taking view.

1. Ano Koufonisi

The multi-talented, famous choreographer Apostolia Papadamaki, founder of The Happiness Retreat, invites us to spend a week that promises to transform us in the enchanting Ano Koufonisi. Yoga, breathing exercises, dance, and meditation are at the heart of this retreat that also offers fine vegan meals cooked using organic ingredients.

Find out more here: http://www.thehappinessretreat.gr/retreat/blue-bliss-2

2. Paros

Okreblue retreats promise a rejuvenating experience, while part of their philosophy is being in contact and supporting the local community of Paros, through sustainable practices. The sessions take place in Yoga Shalas with floors made of recycled materials, the rooms are all designed and built using ethical practices and local materials, while to prepare the meals they use whatever their own organic orchard produces. For this year’s summer various retreats are scheduled, suitable for all levels, with different themes emphasizing yoga practice and meditation.

Find out more here: https://okreblue.com/retreat/#scheduled-retreats

3. Santorini

How does it feel to do yoga and Pilates on one of the most famous islands in the world? Sky Pilates offers this experience, with accommodation in El Greco Hotel and Spa at Fira, with specialist instructors and also with opportunities for trips around the island (can someone visit and not explore Santorini?)

Find out more here: https://skypilatesandyoga.com/santorini-greece-yoga-pilates-retreats/

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

4. Amorgos

Meditation, yoga, relaxation, rejuvenation, and body strengthening at the Holistic Yoga Retreat that takes place on the island of The Big Blue. The participants will enjoy their stay at the luxurious Aegialis Hotel & Spa, with the amazing view, whose excellent location can become the ideal starting point for the exploration of this picturesque island.

Find out more about this and other retreats taking place at the Aegialis in Amorgos here: https://amorgos-aegialis.com/el/yoga_retreats/

5. Mykonos

Yoga Escapes offers the perfect balance between the gains of a retreat and the holidays at a destination like Mykonos. Yoga (with a view) remains at the core of the programme while staying at a luxury hotel and having a flexible schedule ensures that you’ll have your dream holiday.

Find out more here: https://www.yoga-escapes.com/yoga-retreat-mykonos/

6. 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.

Find out more here: https://longevity-escapes.com/eco-hotel-programs/8-day-yoga-detox-holiday-in-rhodes-island-greece-at-elysium-spa-resort/

7. Kos

Retreat life is not limited to the Cyclades islands and beautiful Kos with the varied landscapes is a great example. At the Yoga on Kos retreat, apart from have yoga sessions, you can meditate at the Asclepeion temple at sunset, go on walking and cycling excursions – and of course swim. The hotel you’ll be staying in is in a central location of the city of Kos, just steps away from the beach.

Find out more here:: https://www.yogaonkos.com/

8. At sea

A unique experience so that you can enjoy the combination of the Aegean and the islands to the max. This retreat takes place on a sailboat that leaves from Alimos or Lavrio every Saturday and for one week cruises the Cyclades or the Saronic islands (depending on the weather), where the yoga sessions take place.

Find out more here: https://www.bookyogaretreats.com/alt-travel-ltd/8-unique-days-of-sup-yoga-holiday-sailing-trip-around-greek-islands