Yoga Retreats Worldwide – Our Top 6 List

The best yoga retreats worldwide

Yoga has exploded in popularity over recent years and it’s not only classes on a weekday evening that have been gaining popularity. The newfound passion for yoga has lead to a number of retreats being set up worldwide, and now nearly every iconic holiday destination will offer some type of yoga retreat. But how do you know where to start when picking your yoga retreat? It could be based on a teacher you have heard about whose teaching you like, or simply located at your dream destination.

The duration can be anything from a couple of days to a couple of weeks, so if you’re new to a yoga retreat then it might be worth trying a short break before diving into a full 2-week stay. There’s also loads of variety in terms of what you do when you’re there. Each retreat offers different types of yoga, some offer yoga alongside other activities, some offer you the best in healthy, vegan and organic food, and others are more relaxed and still, allow you to drink alcohol and eat how you choose.

If you’re keen on a yoga retreat but aren’t sure your yoga skills are up to it then don’t let that put you off. Most retreats are accessible for people of all levels, the same as all yoga classes as the teacher will work with your individual needs to make sure you’re getting the most from your stay. If you’re ever unsure though then just get in touch with the retreat before booking, they’re always happy to help and advise.

To give you an idea of what types of retreats are on offer we’ve put together a list of some of the best yoga retreats worldwide – these vary in budget and in terms of what they offer, but they’ll certainly show you the variety of retreats that exist so you can find the perfect yoga retreat for you.

Jungle Bay Resort and Spa, Dominica

Jungle Bay is located in the small Caribbean nation of Dominica. The retreat is located on cliffs that look out on the ocean and while you’re there your home is a tree house that has an outdoor shower. The yoga studio is made of completely natural organic rock and because you’re so close to the sea you can always hear the waves and sounds of nature, making it a great place to really tune in and get back to basics. There are 3 different practice areas including an outdoor deck which is perfect for your sun salutations first thing in the morning.

Jungle Bay has a lot of different options for yoga lovers. There are daily classes, you can book a private afternoon yoga or meditation session and they offer a variety of retreat packages for you to choose from.

Jungle Bay Resort and Spa, Dominica

Kamalaya, Koh Samui

Kamalaya is located on the south-eastern tip of the island of Koh Samui in Thailand. It is an award-winning wellness sanctuary and holistic spa, so it’s definitely one worth checking out on your travels. The location is amazing – set on its own private beach it’s an ideal place to detox rest and relax.

The Kamalaya retreat offers everything from individual yoga programs to group retreats or you can simply visit for a class in between exploring the rest of the island.  If you go for one of their yoga retreat options their packages include full room and board as well as a personal wellness consultation, daily classes and activities, and full use of the resort’s steam cavern, swimming and plunge pools, and a fitness centre.

Kamalaya, Koh Samui

Cal-a-Vie, San Diego

If you like your yoga to come with intensity then this is the retreat for you. Cal-a-Vie is located just outside San Diego and is set up to be a bit like the South of France. They offer a wide variety of yoga and other fitness options such as hikes and gyrotonics to burn calories quickly and you’ll also have access to an Olympic size pool, metabolic conditioning and strength training.

The retreats offer meditation; daily massages and your meals will be prepared to suit your dietary and nutrition requirements.

Cal-a-Vie, San Diego

Alpine Aura, France

This is perfect if you love yoga and skiing!  Adventure Yogi offers Snow Yogi, which is a fun, intense healthy week in the French Alps that include skiing, snowboarding and yoga.

Located in Sainte Foy, the retreat includes vegetarian meals and local organic wine. Each day starts at 7 am with hatha yoga, before you spend the day skiing, snowboarding and generally enjoying the outdoors. Then, in the evening you can unwind in a sauna or relax by the fire before taking part in an early evening restorative yoga class.

Alpine aura, France

Feathered Pipe Ranch, Montana

Another US yoga retreat, this time in the centre of Montana. This retreat is located in the mountains where you will stay in cabins by the lake. There is a sauna, hot tub and bath house on site which you can use while you’re there.

The retreats are all about healing and really taking the time to focus on you. The week-long retreat includes all your classes and workshops, your accommodation and food, so you’ll have everything you need, meaning all you need to do is focus on you.

Feathered Pipe Ranch, Montana

The Orange Tree, North Yorkshire

This yoga retreat is a little bit closer to home! Set in the North York Moors this small retreat is led by brother and sister team Edward and Helen and teaches Hatha Yoga and mindfulness meditation. The weekend retreat offers yoga spaced out in a few sessions throughout the day and includes breathing techniques and a gong bath which is said to enhance relaxation.

Also included in your weekend is access to facilities such as an outdoor Jacuzzi and sauna, massages, all your vegetarian meals and yoga nidra before bed. If you have any time left then you can also go on one of the many moor walks around the location.

So there is just a sample of the amazing yoga retreats that you can find around the world. There are so much more out there offering all types of yoga and activities for you to enjoy. Whatever your preference you will find something that will meet your needs and you can plan the yoga retreat of your dreams.

The Orange Tree, North Yorkshire