Unique Yoga Retreat Destinations
Within the last decade, yoga retreats have begun to spring up all over the globe. Dominating the scene are stunning destinations in and around Southeast Asia. India, the original nexus of yoga, as well as Indonesia, and Thailand are all well-loved locales to disconnect and unwind. If, however, the allure of a retreat off the beaten track calls, here are five unique yoga destinations to consider.
MOROCCO
In just a two-hour flight from Spain an entirely new continent awaits. For those in search of a little less downtime and a bit more adventure, look no further than Taghazout, a small fishing village tucked into Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Watch the sunrise (or set) as you fold into different poses from rooftop shalas. And when you roll up the mat for the day, Taghazout beach is less than a 15 minute walk from any part of town. Here, you can hop on a surfboard and put your skills to the test. Due to the consistent and varied waves, the bay attracts surfers of all levels, making it a perfect place to improve balance and mind-body connection both on and off the mat.
For more of a relaxing getaway, Marrakech also offers a plenitude of luxe yoga retreats. Explore the colorful, winding souks before you tuck into a “ryad,” a kind of traditional Moroccan house designed around a central garden. Away from the hustle and bustle of busy bazaars, ryads are tranquil spaces that often include a spa or bathhouse. Hammam, as it is called in Arabic, has been the typical Middle Eastern way to unwind for over two millenia, with options such as steam baths, massage, or kessa exfoliation.
CULTURE CONNECT: North Africa is home to the indigenous Berber people, and still honors many of their cultural traditions. All over Morocco, you can appreciate such traditions with tagine. A delicious, warm stew of meat and/or vegetables, “tagine” refers synonymously to the actual dish and the earthenware pot in which it is cooked. After simmering over hot coals for hours, it is the perfect meal to end a long day.
NICARAGUA
Looking for a yoga holiday but don’t want to spend a fortune? Nicaragua is frequently dubbed “the best kept secret” and the “hidden gem” of retreat destinations. Practice amidst diverse landscapes, grounding yourself in lush, tropical jungle, hidden lagoons, or on beautiful golden coasts. Outside the typical locales of wellness tourism, (ie: Bali, Mexico, Costa Rica) Nicaragua offers a quiet oasis of rejuvenation and tranquility–one that may not offer Michelin star gastronomy, but something much, much more satiating to the soul. As a small country, it's not hard to get around–which means exploring, volcanic hikes, and, of course, surfing are very accessible. Many retreat centers often also work hand-in-hand with locals, employing those from nearby pueblos. Interacting with small communities as a guest provides the opportunity to truly connect with Nicaraguan culture in a genuine and respectful way. What’s more, flora, fauna have been well-preserved in Nicaragua, making it an excellent option for a truly authentic experience.
CULTURE CONNECT: Temazcal, meaning “house of heat” in the indigenous Nahuatl language, is a spiritual cleansing and healing ritual native to Mesoamericans. (At times, women even gave birth in these ceremonies!) Mesoamerican tribes lived all over what is today Mexico and Central America. Many retreats in Nicaragua offer Temazcal, providing an even deeper way to connect to the land and her people through ancient indigenous practices.
PORTUGAL
With views boasting the rugged beauty of the Algarve, and the sound of the waves rocking you to sleep, it's not hard to see why Portugal is an incredible spot for yoga retreats. Locations are slowly popping up all along the coast; you can opt for luxurious eco-friendly hostels just outside Lisbon, or nature lodges situated in Albufeira. Either way, your shala is sure to neighbor the stunning blue waters of the Atlantic. If you’re looking for a getaway with more emphasis on overall health, retreats in the Algarve have begun to offer healing workshops alongside the traditional yoga + meditation. These sessions are created to help increase energy levels and harmonize chakras. Each program is specifically customized to you and your needs, allowing you to move at your own desired pace. If, however, you’re looking to get a bit more active, the beautiful island of Madeira now offers a running + yoga retreat. Each day, students have the opportunity to explore a new part of the island, which includes the ancient canals of Levadas and UNESCO World Heritage Laurissilva Forest.
CULTURE CONNECT: If time permits, it’s worth going into a local town to check out “Fado,” the traditional acoustic music from Portugal. Fado translates to “fate” or “destiny” and is deeply influenced by Arab and Afro-Brazilian styles. This poetic genre emerged in the mid 19th century as a way to capture themes of love, nostalgia, urban life, and connection to the sea. The performances are played with a 12-string guitar, highlighting the complex emotion, and are often accompanied by a “fadista,” a singer of fado.
SWITZERLAND
Crystal clear mountain lakes, untouched forests, and picturesque waterfalls are the standard fare in Switzerland. If mindfulness with a hint of mountain biking is your thing, look no further. With retreat destinations situated in small mountain villages, including the Alps, Switzerland is the place for yogis looking for a midday adventure on the side. After morning yoga and meditation classes, students can hike, ski, cycle, and, location permitting– paraglide. Switzerland is perfect for all true nature lovers, and depending where your retreat is located, there are opportunities to meditate on Lake Geneva, view the Matterhorn, or cozy up in an alpine lodge in a charming Swiss town. The emphasis on quality, locally-grown food and farmer’s markets are also an important part of the culture here, so rest assured that meals will be highly nourishing. A true melting pot, with influences from nearby Italy, Germany, and France, Switzerland may be small, but it has something for everyone.
CULTURE CONNECT: Sils im Engadin/Segl is a small village nestled in between Lake Sils and Lake Silvapana. Many writers, including Nietzsche, Kästner and Dürrenmatt, artists, such as Beuys and Chagall, and musicians, like Strauss and David Bowie found inspiration here. The enchanting natural light and wide open-spaces in the valley are the pinnacle of Swiss beauty, and can only truly be appreciated in person.
ICELAND
Ice is probably not what comes to mind when you think of yoga. Nonetheless, Iceland presents a landscape both incredibly stunning and radically different from the usual retreat destinations around warm beaches and tropical jungles. From glacial waterfalls, to black sand beaches, to geothermal springs, Iceland is a natural-wellness lover’s paradise. Students have the opportunity to practice yoga or even hike amidst these natural wonders, in all their stark, raw beauty. After a long day, many retreats also offer therapeutic mud baths as a way to relax and de-stress. The mud is rich in minerals, such as magnesium, bromine, and zinc, which can aid in exfoliating dead skin cells and detoxifying the skin–not to mention how relaxing they are! Depending on what time of year you visit Iceland, you may also be able to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. All in all, the white island is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself fully in peace, tranquility, and unparalleled access to some of nature’s most breathtaking vistas.
CULTURE CONNECT: Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, within a lava field, the Blue Lagoon is a volcanic spa that Icelanders have been visiting for decades. (After all–Sauna is an important part of the culture here). Guests can relax in the thermal waters or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, which includes access to a steam cave, mask bar, and massages.
