This was a hard list to put together, as there are so many exotic and unique destinations offering the chance to completely destress and practice the elegant art of yoga whilst learning about different cultures and lifestyles. Our top 5 have all got that special setting to help you disconnect from the modern world…
SwaSwara a cgh earth experience, India
This beautiful retreat situated on Om Beach, Gokarna, in the birthplace of yoga, is a place to reconnect with nature and get in touch with your inner self. The divine surroundings are key to the experience, with a hilltop meditation area and a delicious menu consisting of produce grown in local villages. The focus of your trip will be around Ayurveda (alternative medicine with historical Indian roots), Yoga and Meditation.
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand
There are many incredible yoga escapes on the tropical island of Koh Samui in Thailand but this gorgeous retreat with its own lagoon pool for dreamy days bathing in the sunshine, surrounded by thriving natural wildlife and sandy beaches is our favourite. It is a sanctuary for health and restoration, with a cave that used to be in inhabited by Buddhist monks for meditation, super healthy cuisine, plenty of holistic treatments and activities, and of course yoga!
Como Shambhala Estate, Bali
Located near Ubud in Bali, this residential health retreat combines state of the art facilities with luxury accommodation in the middle of spiritual jungle and river scenery. With bespoke or pre-planned wellness programmes on offer, guests can make real steps towards changing their bodies and mental states in a unique and breath-taking setting. Activities range from yoga and Pilates to mountain biking and white-water rafting.
Silver Island Yoga, private island in Greece
“Where modern distractions become a distant memory” is the perfect description of this privately owned island situated a few miles from the mainland north of Athens. This eco yoga experience is in the most tranquil of settings, amongst 60 acres of rolling hills, olive groves and crystal blue sea. The island allows a maximum of 10 guests at one time, to ensure visitors can unwind in pure peace and serenity. Expect dawn and sunset yoga classes with the most experienced teachers.
Red Rock Yoga and Hiking Retreat, Utah
This special experience, run by Yoga in the Wild in the rocky desert landscape of Goblin State Valley Park, Utah, will be miles away from any notions you already have of a yoga retreat. Perfect for those who would love to get active and explore the outdoors alongside daily yoga and mediation sessions in a completely unique setting. Sleeping under the stars means your almost guaranteed some out of this world stargazing after your thrilling days of canyoneering and relaxation!