So you’ve mastered downward dog and tree pose but now you’re looking to add a little more zen for your next yoga session. Why not take yourself on a wellness retreat holiday? We’ve asked internationally touring yoga teacher and Back2Roots co-founder, Lara Zilibowitz, her top locations to take a break and work on striking the perfect asana (yoga lingo for ‘pose’).
Catch Lara teaching meditation at this year’s Wanderlust Festival.
Aro Ha New Zealand
Arguably one of the most beautiful views from a yoga space in the world… Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, located in the sub-alpine glacial valleys of Central Otago on New Zealand’s South Island, looks out over glistening lakes and snow-capped mountains. Aro Ha is dedicated to the art of healing, from its high-quality yoga and meditation teachers to the delicious, nutrient-packed vegan cuisine, using produce grown onsite and sourced locally. The style of the high-end resort is minimalist luxury with chic Scandinavian design touches throughout. For more info: aro-ha.com
Back2Roots Retreats French Alps Retreat
Envision the most picturesque fairy tale playground come to life, from roaring glacial rivers to glacial waterfalls, mighty snow-capped mountains, ancient pine forests and wild-growing strawberry fields, this is the Back2Roots retreat playground. This week-long retreat is an exploration of the heart of yoga and meditation, with a good dose of nature adventuring. The retreat is located in Samoens, at the heart of French Alpine majesty with lodgings in a cosy converted farm house, and food is local organic delicacies served from farm to fork. Not to forget the retreat has live music accompanying all sessions. back2rootsretreats.com
Manaltheeram ayurvedic resort india
In the country of its origin, it’s no surprise that India is bursting with yoga retreats and venues, catering to varying levels and areas of interest. Nestled in the Southern state of Kerala, Manaltheeram Ayurveda Beach Resort is a beautiful immersion into the world of yoga and its healing benefits. Sign up for daily yoga and meditation classes led by Indian teachers, to private Ayurvedic consultations, treatments and therapies by skilled Ayurvedic doctors (the science and medicine of yoga). The buffet spread is something to look forward to, with every Indian delicacy you could dream - prescribed according to your yogic constitution of course. For more info: manaltheeram.com
Pura vida retreat & Spa
With the most breath-taking views of the mountains, this dedicated health and wellness resort in Costa Rica’s Central Valley is world-class. Set on eight acres, and 4,900 feet above sea level, the retreat venue caters to all - from twice-daily yoga sessions, to Ayurvedic treatments as well as excursions to cloud forests, rivers, waterfalls and coffee plantations close by. Finish off the day with a hot plunge in the jacuzzi and delicious local cuisine. For more info: puravidaspa.com
The Sanctuary, Thailand
A short boat ride away from the full moon party madness of Koh Pangan’s Haad Rin takes you to this tranquil hideaway, perfect for rest, rejuvenation and healing. The Sanctuary’s detox programs are highly recommended, with options for fresh juices or healthy vegetarian cuisine. The Sanctuary holds three yoga sessions every day, run by experienced and qualified volunteers. These cover a range of styles and techniques and cater for all levels. The open-air studios are beautiful, with the sounds of birds chirping and waves crashing become the soundtrack to your session. For more info: thesanctuarythailand.com
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