Posts Tagged ‘yoga holiday’
Costa Rica – Nature and Yoga Holiday
- Who is this holiday for? Suitable for all with a love of yoga and nature
- When to go? Best time of year is November to March
- Price? From £1,995 per person
- Type of Holiday? Guided nature tour including a stay at yoga retreat
To make a reservation or for further information – Contact Us
Volcanoes, cloud forests, beautiful beaches and an abundance of wildlife. Costa Rica really is as close to paradise as it is possible to get. It is also the only country in the world not to have an army. This just about sums up the philosophy of Costa Rica – peace, love and being at one with nature. This wonderful private tour ending with a stay at a yoga retreat in the Costa Rican mountains really is a yoga holiday you will never forget.
Day 1 – Arrive in Costa Rica
Arrival at Juan Santamaria International Airport. On arrival you will be met and we will provide you with a private guided transfer to the San Jose area outskirts. You will be staying your first night at the La Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge & Spa.
Arenal Volcano
Humming birds
Beautiful Waterfalls
Explore Cloud Forest
Day 2 – Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens
On the way to the Poas Volcano National Park, stunning scenery will unfold as you pass through coffee, sugar, fern and strawberry plantations. Poas Volcano is considered the largest active crater in the world, about 1 mile (1.6 km.) wide and 320 meters deep, with frequent geyser-like eruptions. You will find trails that lead through cloud forest stunted and twisted, not only by volcanic emissions but the rigors of the cold and windy high altitude habitat. Continuing with the tour, the next stop is at La Paz Waterfalls Gardens. The main attraction is the panoramic viewpoints of five magnificent waterfalls that feed the La Paz River, although the hummingbird’s garden, which is full of these wonderful birds feeding and flying in all directions, is mesmerising.
Overnight at the Sarapiquis Rainforest Lodge.
Breakfast and lunch are included today.
Day 3 – Sarapiquis
This morning a two-hour river cruise will take you into the thick of the jungle. You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the monkeys, crocodiles and hundreds of species of birds that inhabit the jungle along the Sarapiqui River. In the afternoon you will be provided with a walking tour to Tirimbina Biological Reserve. Six miles of trails cross the reserve and it is the ultimate rainforest experience.
Overnight at Sarapiquis Lodge.
Breakfast is included today.
Day 4 – Arenal Volcano
Today we will be making our way towards the Arenal Volcano (3 hour drive). The Arenal Volcano is considered one of the most active volcanoes in the world; it has been active since 1968 when it suddenly exploded, destroying all vegetation that covered the cone. Nowadays, trees and vegetation are starting to regenerate in some areas of the volcano’s base. Volcano hot springs are the result of rainwater heated by magma in the Earth’s interior. Once heated, the waters rise to the surface, taking with them minerals found in the earth’s rocky crust; the water helps to relax muscles, clean pores and rejuvenate the skin. We visit the Eco Termales Hot Springs and walk through lava paths while admiring the imposing perfect cone, then take a dip into the natural mineral hot springs that descend from the volcano.
Overnight at the Arenal Nayara
Breakfast and dinner are included today.
Day 5 – A free day around Arenal
You will have this day at leisure for you to explore and enjoy the area on your own. Just in case they are required, our transportation and guide are available, however entrance fees, extra cost activities and meals are not included.
Overnight at the Arenal Nayara
Breakfast is included today.
Day 6 – Cloud forest
A morning transfer from the Arenal Nayara Hotel to the area of San Ramon, specifically the Villa Blanca Hotel. Villa Blanca is located in the middle of the Costa Rica cloud forest, offering great country-side scenery and a private cloud forest reserve. In the afternoon you will take a tour to the El Silencio de Los Angeles. A walk through these cloud forest trails is a very special experience, with a mass of life everywhere.
Overnight at the Villa Blanca Hotel
Breakfast is included today.
Day 7 to Day 12 – Ama Tierra Retreat
Today you will be taken to the Ama Tierra Resort, where your guide will leave you in the caring hands of Bob and Jill. At Ama Tierra you can nurture yourself with delicious organic foods, professional massage and energy balancing therapies. Take a tasting tour of the organic greenhouse or find serenity on a hike to the stream or by relaxing in a hammock. In a rural locale, surrounded by authentic Costa Rican people, you can glimpse the local culture.
Ama Tierra, is a life-enhancing facility nestled on 8 acres in the Costa Rican mountains. This special eco-resort features 10 private casitas, tastefully designed with unique decor to allow you to enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. Each suite comes with its own Jacuzzi tub, private terrace and garden with outdoor seating. Hardwood furniture and a ceiling made of teak brings the ambience of the forest into your room.
During your stay you will enjoy a daily Yoga Class (one hour). You will also have plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery and explore the nearby attractions.
Breakfast and Dinner are included during your stay.
Day 12 – Return to San Jose
Today you will be met by our guide and transferred back to San Jose (about 2 ½ hours). On arrival you will check into the Corteza Amarilla Hotel for your final night in Costa Rica.
Overnight at the Corteza Amarilla Hotel
Breakfast is included today.
Day 13 – Depart Costa Rica
A private transfer takes you from the hotel to the Juan Santamaria International Airport in order for you to catch your international departure flight.
Yoga Retreat, Costa Rica
Lots of wildlife
Yoga Room, Costa Rica
Enjoy the scenery
Costs excluding flights per person
Two People travelling (twin/double room) from £2,345 per person
Two people travelling (Single rooms) from £2,995 per person
One person travelling from £3,575
05 Apr 2010 – 17 Apr 2010 – £1,995 per person (Available)
17 Feb 2011 – 01 Mar 2011 – £2,095 per person (Available)
Flights
The best way to get to Costa Rica is with American Airlines via either Miami or Orlando. We do not sell flights but can give information on times and prices.
The price includes the following features:
Accommodation as described
Tours and guiding as mentioned above
Meals as shown
The price does not include the following:
International flights
Departure tax (currently USD$25 payable at the airport)
Drinks
Meals not mentioned
Tips to Drivers, Guides, at restaurants etc.
Items of personal nature such as telephone calls, telegrams, table drinks and laundry.
Travel Insurance (Compulsory to have before departure)
When to go?
Costa Rica is a tropical country and experiences only two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is generally between late December and April; the wet season lasts the rest of the year. The highlands are cold: San José and the Central Valley get an ‘eternal spring’ with lows averaging 15°C (60°F) and highs averaging 26°C (79°F). Both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts are pretty much sweltering year-round – get ready for some bad-hair days. Temperatures vary little between seasons; the main influence on temperature is altitude.
Thailand – Absolute Sanctuary Retreat Koh Samui
- Who is this holiday for? Suitable for people looking for an authentic spa and yoga retreat
- When to go? The best time to visit is February to late June
- Price? From £949 per person
- Type of Holiday? Luxury yoga retreat and spa
To make a reservation or for further information – Contact Us
If you are looking for a luxury yoga holiday, then Thailand is the place for you!
Absolute Sanctuary is a stunning, Moroccan-inspired boutique resort designed specifically with your well-being in mind. Located on the beautiful Thai island of Koh Samui it offers charming gardens, tranquil fountains, the peaceful sounds of flowing water and bright yet soothing colours throughout. Blending luxurious accommodation with a wide range of vibrant detoxification programs, inspiring Yoga retreats, spa-based healing therapies and a health-food restaurant serving tantalizing, nutritious cuisine, Absolute Sanctuary caters to those seeking a journey back to balance, rejuvenation and wellness. Whether it’s all this you’re after or if you just want to escape and unwind, immerse yourself in the tranquillity of a tropical island and indulge in the comforts of modern amenities, Absolute is the place for you.
Yoga at Absolute, Koh Samui
Sunset in Koh Samui
Thai Beach
Wonderful Rooms
Inspired by the stunning architecture of Morocco, Absolute Sanctuary boasts 38 luxurious rooms, each featuring vibrant yet soothing colour themes, unique decorative details and modern amenities to ensure that you never want for anything. Absolute Sanctuary is nestled into the hillside with a stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand on Cheong Mon Peninsula. All the elegantly spacious rooms feature comfortable beds and linens, en-suite bathrooms with stylish tiling, air conditioning & ceiling fan, desk, safe, mini-fridge, hair dryers, telephone and a small terrace where you can relax and enjoy the view. They provide a range of locally made bathroom amenities with which you can pamper yourself even more.
We offer a 10 day yoga holiday program at the Absolute Sanctuary, but can also book any of their range of holidays. Contact us for full details.
The yoga programs are designed for anyone wanting a healthy, invigorating holiday but who do not want to miss out on their daily yoga practice or for beginners who simply just want to take up yoga. There are a wide range of classes taught by internationally-trained yoga teachers. Think of it like your own customized yoga retreat!
The 10 day yoga holiday includes unlimited yoga classes at the Absolute Yoga Centre, 3 A la Carte Vegetarian Meals per day, 1 x 90-min Thai Massage or a 60-min Aromatherapy per day, pool, steam room and mini-theatre access. The yoga centre is spacious with wood-floored yoga space and natural light through floor to ceiling windows. A variety of yoga classes are offered including Hot Yoga, Vinyasa, Yin, Detox, Hatha and Hot Flow. There are between 20-30 classes per week all conducted by experienced and certified international teachers. As an added bonus you also get a voucher for use at the Absolute Detox & Spa Centre and an additional 10% discount on all Detox & Spa Treatments.
Thai Culture
Massage in Koh Samui
Great Thai food
Thai Market
Costs per person excluding flights to Koh Samui
Yoga Holiday in Superior rooms
10 nights from £949 to £1,099 per person based on two people in twin/double room.
Single room supplements are available.
We have rates on all lengths of stay plus the Absolute Sanctuary offers Detox and Spa packages.
Flights
We do not sell flights but can offer advice on routes and times.
The price includes the following features:
Accommodation for 10 nights in a superior room
Round trip airport transfer from Samui Airport
Unlimited Yoga Class at Absolute Yoga Centre
3 A la Carte Vegetarian Meals
1 x 90-min Thai Massage or 60-min Aromatherapy per day
2 x Fresh juices or smoothies per day
Pool, Steam Room, Mini-Theatre Access
Bt 4,000 Voucher at Absolute Detox & Spa Centre
Additional 10% discount on all Detox & Spa Treatments
The price does not include the following:
Your international flights to Koh Samui – call us for further details.
Any treatments / classes not mentioned
Expenses of a personal nature
Travel insurance
When to go?
The best time to visit the Samui group of islands is during the hot, dry season from February to late June. From July to October, during the southwest monsoon, it can rain intermittently, and from October to January, during the northeast monsoon, there are sometimes strong winds. However, many travellers have reported sunny weather (and fewer crowds) in September and October. November tends to get some of the rain that also affects the east coast of Malaysia at this time.
Sri Lanka – Neptune Ayurveda Retreat
- Who is this holiday for? Suitable for adults wanting a true Ayurveda experience
- When to go? All year around. January to April has the least rain
- Price? From £657 per person
- Type of Holiday? Ayurveda retreat holiday
To make a reservation or for further information – Contact Us
Relax and unwind on this amazing ayurveda holiday in Sri Lanka.
Ayurveda as the name implies (Ayu: life, Veda: Knowledge) is the “Art of healthy living”. Ayurveda is the oldest complete medical system in the world with a history of nearly 5000 years. The traditional medicine was developed by ancient sages through keen observation of life and its functions. In Ayurvedic philosophy the development of each of us from birth is governed by the varied combination of the five basic forces of nature – Water, Fire, Air, Earth and Ether. The most significant advantage of Ayurveda is that there are no side effects or adverse reactions from this treatment. Apart from a healing science, it is also the art of perfect healthy living.
Situated close to Beruwala on the west coast, Neptune Ayurveda Village is a health resort exclusively for Ayurveda guests. With a calm and serene setting the whole resort, which is close to the beach, was created to be conducive to the Ayurvedic way of life. The wonderful landscaped gardens and numerous ponds provide a soothing and rustic environment that is ideal for a programme of Ayurveda while friendly staff make you feel at home.
Neptune Resort
Meditation
Ayurveda treatments
Yoga on Holiday
The 20 air-conditioned bungalows are tastefully furnished and provide a haven for guests seeking relaxation and peace. All rooms have a garden terrace, mini safe, hot water, piped music, hair dryer and telephone.
The Ayurveda treatment area features ponds, water features and landscaped gardens in order to provide an especially soothing environment. There are 12 spacious individual treatment rooms, a doctor’s consultation room and a unique Yoga and meditation room in the middle of a large pond.
On your arrival at Neptune Ayurveda Village you will receive a welcome foot oil massage followed by a meeting with the Consultant Chief Doctor who will examine you and provide an individual treatment plan based on pulse diagnosis. The selection and frequency of treatments will be at the discretion of the chief doctor while they will be administered daily by well-trained friendly therapists under supervision from two resident physicians.
There are three different programs offered at the Neptune Ayurveda Village -
Rejuvenation & Relaxation, Weight & Stress Management, and Ayurveda Panchakarma.
Ayurveda Rejuvenation and Relaxation program
A combination of treatment over seven to 28 days that includes, Face Massages, Head Massages, Foot Massages, Different Body Massages, Shirodhara, Steam Bath, Herbal Water Bath, Steam inhalation, Special Treatments, Flower Bath, Ayurvedic Medicine and Herbal Teas, Acupuncture and Pinda Sweda.
Stress management and weight management programme
This programme is performed though nutrition, fitness, behaviour and medical management over a minimum of 14 days. It includes a combination of Cleansing Therapies, Uda Wartana, Face Massages, Head Massages, Different Body Massages, Steam Bath, Herbal Water Bath, Shirodhara, Pinda Sweda, Flower Bath, Acupuncture, Special Treatments, Foot Massages, Steam Inhalation, Special Diet and Herbal Teas, Yoga, Meditation and Special Medicines.
Ayurveda Panchakarma program
Lasting from seven to 28 days. Treatments include a combination of Ghee Therapy, Suitable Cleansing Therapies, Nasal Cleansing, Bowel Cleaning or Chest Cleaning, Facial Massage, Foot Massage, Head Massage, Body Massage, Shirodhara, Herbal Steam Bath, Herbal Water Bath, Flower Bath, Herbal Medicine, Shirovasthi, Akshitharpana, Pinda Sweda, Acupuncture, Yoga and Meditation.
- Please note that Ayurveda Panchakarma is not for beginners.
Local Wildlife
Wonderful beaches
Ayurveda treatment
Explore Sri Lanka
Costs per person excluding flights
1 Person (Single room) / 2 People (double/twin room)
1 Week from – £863 / £657
2 Weeks from – £1,614 / £1,258
3 Weeks from – £2,366 / £1,858
4 Weeks from – £3,115 / £2,459
Flights
Wedo not sell flights but can give advice and routes.
The price includes the following features:
Full board inclusive of all therapy at the Neptune Ayurveda Village (Please note that this does not include alcohol, which is not served in the village)
Transportation from the airport and return by air-conditioned vehicle.
The price does not include the following:
Your international flights
Expenses of a personal nature.
Any other services not specified above.
Travel Insurance.
When to go?
Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate. There are no seasonal variations. The bi-annual monsoon rains provide the only seasons. Colombo and the South West experience rain from April to May and September to October. The East coast gets its share of rainfall from November to January.
India and Nepal – Buddhist Trail Holidays
- Who is this holiday for? People with an interest in the history and culture of Buddhism
- When to go? The best time to visit India and Nepal is from October to April
- Price? From £1,650 per person
- Type of Holiday? A guided tour of India and Nepal visiting sites important to Buddhism
To make a reservation or for further information - Contact Us
Our Buddhist Trail tour lets you walk in the footsteps of Buddha, discovering the sacred places and teachings as you travel. A private tour with an English speaking guide and great quality hotels throughout, this is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Buddhism and experience these two wonderful countries. Experience the culture and history of Buddhism and meet the people whose lives today are still governed by this ancient wisdom.
Day 1 – Arrive in Delhi
A warm welcome on arrival by our representatives and a transfer to the hotel for your overnight stay.
Overnight at the Connaught Hotel or similar
Day 2 – Delhi
After breakfast enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi visiting Qutab Minar, one of the tallest towers of it’s time and Humanyun’s Tomb- one of the forerunners of the Taj Mahal. We drive past India Gate and President House and other government buildings before visiting the Red Fort, the symbol of mighty the Mughal empire and Jama Masjid, one of the biggest mosques in India.
Overnight at the Connaught Hotel or similar including breakfast
India Gate, Delhi
Explore Varanasi
Visit Bodhgaya
Qutab Minar
Day 3 – Delhi to Patna and Vaishali
Early this morning, we will be transferred to the airport to board a flight to Patna. You are met on arrival and taken to check-in at your hotel. We then set out for an excursion to Vaishali where Lord Buddha gave important teachings. At the time of the Buddha, Vaishali was a very large city, rich and prosperous, crowded with people and with abundant food. There were said to be seven thousand seven hundred and seven pleasure grounds and an equal number of lotus ponds.
Overnight at the Maurya Hotel or similar including breakfast
Day 4 – Rajgir
After breakfast you travel to Rajgir and check-in at your hotel. Rajgir is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site as the Buddha spent 12 years here, and the first Buddhist council was hosted here at the Saptaparni caves. Lord Buddha often went into retreat at the Jivkamaravana monastery in a beautiful orchard. One of his most devoted and prosperous devotees, surgeon Jivaka also lived here. The rich merchant community here soon became the Buddha’s followers and built many structures of typical Buddhist architecture. We also visit Nalanda University. Founded around the 3rd century, this university was a centre for profound studies of the Buddha-dharma for more than a thousand years.
Overnight at the Indo Hokke Hotel or similar including breakfast
Day 5 – Travel to Bodhgaya
This morning we travel to Bodhgaya, stopping en-route to visit the Mahakala Caves. This is where the Buddha did the severe penance that resulted in the familiar image of him as a skeletal, emaciated figure. After years of extreme self-denial at Mahakala, he realised its futility and walked down to Bodhgaya, where he eventually achieved nirvana under the Bodhi Tree. We arrive at Bodhgaya and check-in at the hotel for your overnight stay.
Overnight at the Indo Hokke Hotel or similar including breakfast
Day 6 – Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya, beyond any doubt is considered the most important site of Buddhism, the other three being Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini in Nepal; Sarnath near Varanasi, where he preached his first sermon (”The Turning of the Wheel of Dharma”); and Kushinagar near Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, where he passed away. A giant Buddhist resort of international monasteries and temples has grown up around the imposing Mahabodhi temple, which holds the worlds most revered tree, an offshoot of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha sat.
Overnight at the Indo Hokke Hotel or similar including breakfast
Day 7 – Travel to Varanasi
After breakfast, we leave Bodhgaya and head towards the city of Benares, better known as Varanasi. A legendary city considered to be one of the oldest in the world. Varanasi is generally believed to be about 3,000 years old and was a commercial and industrial centre famous for its muslin and silk fabrics, perfumes, ivory works and sculpture. During the time of Gautama Buddha, Varanasi was the capital of the Kingdom of Kashi.
Overnight at the Ideal Tower Hotel or similar including breakfast
Day 8 – Varanasi and Sarnath
We enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges River, before a visit to Sarnath (Isipathana-Mrigadeva) the very well known “Gazelles Park” where the Buddha turned for the first time the wheel of dharma, and the first sangha of history was formed. After attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya, the Buddha went to Sarnath; and it was here that he preached his first discourse in the deer park to set in motion the ‘Wheel of the Dharma’. It is in this place that the stream of the Buddha’s teaching first flowed. Overnight at the Ideal Tower Hotel or similar including breakfast
Day 9 – Kushinagar
After an early breakfast we head to Kushinagar, the place where the Buddha died. This event is called “The last Great Nirvana” (Mahaparinirvana). We visit the Mahaparinirvana Stupa, which is built on the place of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana and the place of his cremation, which is a short distance away. Close to the Mahaparinirvana Stupa is located a 1500 year old image of the Buddha as he attained Parinirvana. The Mahaparinirvana Stupa is surrounded by ruins of ancient monasteries.
Overnight at the Royal Residency Hotel or similar including breakfast
Day 10 – Savatthi
A morning drive brings us to Balrampur. On arrival we check – in at our hotel. In the afternoon we get to visit the extensive ruins of this ancient city and the Jetavana Monastery. The Buddha passed the greater part of his monastic life in Savatthi.
Overnight at the Lotus Nikko Hotel or similar including breakfast and dinner
Day 11 – Lumbini
After breakfast we cross the border and enter in to Nepal. We head for Lumbini, the place where the Buddha was born more than 25 centuries ago. Lumbini is in the foothills of the Himalaya, where the Buddha is said to have lived till the age of 29. Also here is the Puskarini or Holy Pond – where the Buddha’s mother took the ritual dip prior to his birth and where he too, had his first bath.
Overnight at the Lumbani Hokke Hotel or similar including breakfast and dinner
Day 12 – Lumbini and Kapilavastu
Today we visit the Palace where Prince Siddhartha lived for more than 29 years. Here he saw sorrow and pain, disease and death. Finally when he saw a radiant happy Sadhu who had conquered all these, he decided to renounce all worldly riches and pleasures to seek truth and embark on the path of salvation. The place holds significant value for Buddhist pilgrims and has several Stupas. Archaeological excavations have revealed stone caskets containing relics believed to be that of Buddha’s.
Overnight at the Lumbani Hokke Hotel or similar including breakfast and dinner
Day 13 – Return to Delhi
After breakfast, you transfer to Gorakhpur railway station to board a train to Delhi. No visit to India is complete without experiencing a train journey. You will be travelling in 2A class. This provides seats by day, convertible to bunks at night. Coaches are not divided into separate compartments, but are open-plan, with berths arranged in bays of four (two upper, two lower) on one side of the aisle, and in bays of two along the coach side above and below the windows on the other side of the aisle. Each bay is curtained off for privacy, and an attendant distributes pillows, sheets and blankets in the evening.
Overnight onboard train
Day 14 – Depart Delhi
On arrival in Delhi you will be met and taken to the airport in time for your flight back home.
Vaishali Stupa
Take an Indian train
The Taj Mahal, India
The Buddhist Trail
Costs per person excluding flights to India
Min. 2 people travelling from £1,650 per person (twin/double rooms)
Single room supplement from £550 per person
If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal, this can be arranged as we have great deals on trekking packages and tours of the country. Call us for details.
06 Nov 2010 – 19 Nov 2010 – £1,479 per person (Available)
04 Dec 2011 – 17 Dec 2011 – £1,535 per person (Available)
Flights
We do not sell flights but can give you information on times and airlines.
The price includes the following features:
Accommodation on twin sharing basis
All hotels are on Bed & Breakfast basis except in Sravasti where hotel includes breakfast and dinner
Transfers, guided sightseeing and excursions in air condition transport
Airfare from Delhi to Patna
Services of local English speaking guides as per the program
Monuments entrance fees (single entry) during guided sightseeing
Train fare from Gorakhpur to Delhi in 2nd A/C class
Assistance on arrival & departure
All currently applicable tax
The price does not include the following:
Your international flights
Visa’s for India and Nepal
Expenses of a personal nature.
Any other services not specified above.
Travel insurance.
When to go?
We advise avoiding the height of summer when temperatures can be extremely uncomfortable. The height of winter will be cold in the northern regions. The best time to visit India and Nepal is from October to April. Around this time, the usually wet areas of Northeast become dry, making it easier to travel there. Visiting Nepal during this time you can expect great visibility, the air is fresh and the weather is good.
Spain – Yoga Holidays in Andalucía
- Who is this holiday for? Anyone wanting an intimate and friendly yoga holiday
- When to go? The ideal months to visit are April, May, June and September and October, although all year is possible.
- Price? From £210 per person
- Type of Holiday? Yoga retreat in rural Spain
To make a reservation or for further information email lizyoga@hotmail.com
With great weather, superb food and a wonderfully friendly people, Spain is a great destination for a yoga holiday.
The Casa Blanca Yoga and Reiki Therapy Centre is in the province of Almeria, Andalucía. Surrounded by orange and lemon groves and views to the mountains, combined with the weather this is tranquillity at its best. The ideal destination for a yoga holiday.
Liz Stanford is your resident teacher. Her style of Hatha yoga involves slow and purposeful movements and breathing with an emphasis on releasing tension and resistance in the body, raising your energy levels and so making the postures easier. Consistently setting the standard in teaching, Casa Blanca has gained a number of awards in recent years. In 2005, it was recognised as a ‘Renowned Yoga Institution’ by the Satyananda Yoga Research Centre in Kerala and in 2006 they featured in the Footprints guide book ‘Body & Soul Escapes’. In 2008, Liz was recognised as a Distinguished Teacher by Yoga Alliance International.
Yoga in Spain
Beautiful gardens
Yoga in Andalucia
Local beach
Casa Blanca is a traditional Spanish manor house built over 150 years ago in the village of Arboleas. It has been lovingly restored by Liz and Paul who have kept the traditional charm and character of the building. Your accommodation is in twin rooms located in the main house. The village of Arboleas is situated around thirty minutes drive from the beaches of Mojacar and Garrucha and only an hour’s drive from the airport at Almeria. Alicante airport is about a two hour drive away. We advise hiring a car for your stay, as this gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding area, which has plenty to offer. The centre is situated just 10 minutes drive away from the centre of the village with bars and restaurants where you can sample the local cuisine. Also very popular are the local markets where you have your choice of locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables or just about anything else that may take your fancy.
Included in your stay are twice daily yoga sessions (morning and early evening) with Liz and in the one week package, up to 4 Reiki sessions are included. If you have time, trips to one of the local beaches can be arranged, or maybe an excursion into the country to see the Saliente monastery. Alternatively, you may wish to visit a Moorish stronghold on a cliff top or just stroll through the villages and colourful open-air markets.
A sherry pourer
A twin room
Flowers in Cordoba
An Easter parade
Costs per person excluding flights
7 nights – £635 sharing a twin room
7 nights – £665 single room
Weekend Rate (Thursday to Sunday)
3 nights – £210 sharing a twin room
*Special offer for 4 or more people on weekend rates* – only £170 per person
Flights
We do not sell flights but can give advice on the best options and times.
Car Hire
The price of your 7 nights includes transfers to and from Almeria airport (this is not included in 3 night package). We strongly advise hiring a car on arrival as this will give you the freedom to explore the beautiful countryside, history and beaches of the surrounding area. Driving in Spain is safe and easy. A week’s car hire starts from just £75.
The price includes the following features:
Accommodation for 7 nights (3 nights if weekend break) at Casa Blanca
Transfers from Almeria airport on the 7 night package only (100 euro return for 3 night break)
All vegetarian food & drinks
Local trips – 2 per stay on average, 1 on the 3 night break.
Morning and early evening yoga sessions
Up to 4 Reiki sessions per week stay (Not included in 3 night package but are available at extra cost of 25euro per session)
The price does not include the following:
Flights
Transfers from airports other than Almeria (No transfer included in 3 night package)
Car Hire
Travel insurance
Expenses of a personal nature
When to go?
Spain can be enjoyable any time of year. The ideal months to visit are April, May, June and September and October. At these times you can rely on good-to-excellent weather, yet avoid the high heat and the main crush of tourists that arrive in July and August, but there’s decent weather virtually year round.
France – Yoga Holidays in the Pyrenees
- Who is this holiday for? Anyone with an interest in Yoga and well-being
- When to go? The retreat is open from mid May to mid October
- Price? From £295 per person
- Type of Holiday? Yoga retreat in the south of France
To make a reservation or for further information visit http://www.yogafrance.com/
A self catering yoga holiday in the foothills of the Pyrenees. Relaxed, friendly and suitable for all levels of yoga.
A peaceful valley in the foothills of the French Pyrenees provides the location for the beautiful 17 acre estate of Domaine de la Grausse, the ideal retreat for a weeks holiday of Yoga and relaxation. In 1772, the Vicomte de la Grausse abandoned his ancient Chateau Fort, circa 12th Century, built on a rocky bluff to defend the narrow pass into his valley. Re-using a lot of the stones and wooden beams from the old chateau fort, he built a small rural chateau, complete with a fortified tower and a magnificent wooden spiral staircase, on the valley floor just below the rock face. Today, Domaine de la Grausse has been fully restored and modernised. It lies in a small tranquil valley surrounded by wooded hills, wild-flower meadows, green pastures and bordered by a bubbling tree-shaded brook.
A wonderfully relaxing yoga holiday. You can do as much or as little as you like. – P. Boundy, Aug 09
Wonderful yoga location
Visit local markets
The yoga room
Spring Cottage
Dagmar is your resident Yoga teacher. With over 25 years of teaching experience, originally training with the British Wheel of Yoga in the UK, Dagmar develops her classes over the weeks holiday to enhance the skills of all her students from beginners to the most practiced. Dagmar has studied and is influenced by the Iyengar, Viniyoga, Sivananda and Desikachar methods and incorporates elements of each in to two one hour sessions every day. Morning classes are from 9:30 to 10:30 am and evening classes from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. There are two large fully equipped yoga studios. One is situated on the top floor of the chateau, with French windows overlooking the estate and the spring-fed lake. The other yoga studio is located in a renovated stone barn which is partly built into a dramatic vertical rock face; a perfect cool location for warm summer days. To help you unwind and de-stress, Dagmar also offers guided meditation on Monday and Thursday evening from 9:30 to 10:00 pm. This can be an ideal yoga holiday introduction for beginners or a different approach for the adept.
A wide range of holistic treatments can be booked and paid for locally. There are dedicated rooms to provide the following individual treatments:
- REIKI – an ancient hands-on healing system, based on channelling universal energy.
- GENTLE MASSAGE – A relaxing massage combining elements of Swedish, Shiatsu (Pressure Points) and Asian techniques to achieve full body balance. The natural healing powers of essential oils penetrate the skin and enhance both physical and mental well-being.
- ENERGETIC MASSAGE – A traditional relaxation massage incorporating long, smooth strokes to major muscle groups to promote relaxation, improve circulation of the life-energy and create an overall sense of well-being. The energy circuit is opened and the energy can flow again. For stress, headaches, tiredness, etc.
- ASIAN PRESSURE POINT MASSAGE – For stress, muscular pain or restrictions in the circulation of life-energy.
- TACHYON TREATMENT – Using TLC BARS (tachyonised crystals), energy will be directed to the painful areas, or pressure points in the body. This treatment is particularly effective for acute health problems, e.g. back pain, migraine, etc., and chronic physical and mental problems.
- FOOT REFLEXOLOGY – Thumb and finger pressure are applied to specific points on the feet bringing welcome relief to corresponding regions of the body.
The Accommodation
Spring Cottage
Guest accommodation is in two self-contained traditional stone barns, beautifully converted and restored to a high standard using original materials. There are three bedrooms; two on the first floor with a double bed and twin beds respectively, and one on the ground floor with twin beds. Each bedroom has its own en-suite walk-in shower and WC. It has a fully equipped kitchen/dining room, with timber ceiling and views of green meadows and rolling country side. You may often see deer coming down to the lake to drink in the early morning! The spacious, cool and comfortable lounge has the unusual feature of local stone walls containing in-bedded fossilised sponges from a past era. French doors lead from the lounge onto a terrace bordered by a rock garden filled with flowers to attract a multitude of butterflies; ideal for ‘al fresco’ dining or drinking.
The Grange
The ground floor was originally the manger, stables and winery. It has now been converted into 4 double and one single bedroom, all en suite. The first floor, which used to be the hay loft, has been converted into 2 double bedrooms, two fully equipped kitchens and a large lounge which opens onto a full length balcony for dinning and relaxing in full shade. A spacious terrace adjoins the Grange, for those guests who wish to relax in the sun. It has a pergola fitted with a semi-shading roof for those who prefer to avoid full sun.
One of the bedrooms
Beautiful rooms for yoga
Relax by the lake
The Cottage
Costs per person excluding flights and transport
16th May to 4 Jul – £355 Single or £295 shared
4th Jul to 26th Sep – £415 Single or £355 shared
26th Sep to 10th Oct – £355 Single or £295 Twin / Double
All prices are for a 6-night, one-week self-catering yoga holiday beginning on a Saturday. We are able to arrange car hire for collection from your arrival airport or train station. Call us for details.
Flights
We do not sell flights but can give advice on the best options and times.
The price includes the following features:
Self-catering en-suite accommodation;
2 yoga sessions daily (except Saturdays and Sunday morning);
2 meditation sessions weekly.
The price does not include the following:
Travel to Domaine de la Grausse.
Food.
Travel Insurance.
Holistic treatment (Reiki, Massage, Reflexology, etc).
When to go?
The seasons in this part of France are much more pronounced than English seasons; summers are hotter; winters are colder; spring suddenly bursts open and autumns are like an Indian summer:-
May & June: Spring flowers and snow-capped mountains. Usually sunny, in the mid to high 20C, but with occasional showers. Evenings can be cool, so bring a sweater.
July & August: The hottest months, but the countryside is still beautifully verdant. Temperatures often up to mid 30C. Occasional rain, or a dramatic evening thunderstorm.
September & October: The summer heat has passed, but it is still warm and sunny. This settled weather often lasts well into November and even December.
How easy is self-catering?
Guests have the use of 3 spacious kitchens, each equipped with an oven, hob, microwave, fridge and freezer. You are provided with basic supplies for your arrival day…tea, coffee, milk, juice, bread, cheese, biscuits, honey, fruit and, of course, a bottle of wine!
There is a small village shop/cafe/bar just 10 minutes walk away, or 5 minutes on one of the bikes. Which sells a good range of groceries including fresh produce, bread, etc. A little further on, you can buy delicious fruit pies from the renowned Croustades de Clermont, baked daily in their wood-fired oven. In the next village, Maury, there is an excellent delicatessen specialising in regional products.
The nearest town, Le Mas d’Azil, is 5 miles away. It has two supermarkets, a butcher, a baker/patisserie, chemist, newsagent, etc., plus a bank with cash machine. There are also two restaurants, a cafe and a good Pizzeria, for take-away or dine-in.
Italy – Yoga Holidays in Casperia
- Who is this holiday for? Anyone looking for a relaxed and friendly yoga retreat
- When to go? The yoga retreat is open from mid March to the end of October
- Price? From £470 per person (see below prices in Euro)
- Type of Holiday? Yoga retreat in rural Italy
To make a reservation or for further information visit http://www.sunflowerretreats.com/
A truly unforgettable experience, this Yoga holiday in the heart of the Sabina Mountains, will allow you to unwind, relax and physically, mentally and spiritually recharge. Just an hour and a half from Rome, the tiny medieval village of Casperia, with cobbled streets too narrow for anything but pedestrians, sits atop a hillside surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and forest clad mountains. The village of Casperia, with fewer than 350 inhabitants, is one of the last villages in Italy untouched by mass tourism. The medieval structure and atmosphere of the village give you a unique feeling of being in a historic place in time-gone-by. Casperia is a hilltop village where you can watch the changing scenery from every angle. The night sky is a star covered phenomenon not to be missed.
My first ever yoga holiday but certainly not my last. I’m coming back next year. – S. Dawson, Jul 09
Yoga in Casperia
The Yoga deck
Casperia Streets
Great yoga in Italy
Your holiday will be a unique experience where you can choose to simply relax or select from the many relaxing or active experiences on offer. Locally, you can arrange excursions, treatments or activities – whether you take part is up to you.
On your yoga holiday you can choose to:
- Practice yoga daily
- Spend the day revitalising your body and mind at open-air roman baths and wild hot springs
- Relax and recharge mind, body and soul by choosing from a large selection of holistic therapies
- Enjoy the sauna, created exclusively for guests in the village of Casperia
- Enjoy the friendly and social atmosphere during meals in excellent Italian restaurants
- See the beautiful Sabina countryside on horseback
- Swim at the local pools, or discover unspoilt mountain streams where you can spend hot afternoons bathing and resting in the beauty of nature
- Relax with a good cappuccino or an afternoon tea in local village cafes
- Take a walk across the mountains or valleys, or visit other neighbouring medieval villages and stop to enjoy the local cuisine
- Cycle on panoramic country roads, discovering the area and stop for a dip in a stream
- If you like to paint or take photographs, bring your own equipment and you will be inspired by the amazing variety of scenery
- Experience an Italian cookery class using local organic products
- Learn Italian; Italian lessons can be arranged for those who want to begin to learn the language or brush-up their Italian
Whether you take part in any of the activities and excursions that are available is your personal choice. Local payment is required.
The accommodation at the resort is for a maximum of 20 people per week. There are three different accommodation options available for your stay.
Option 1 are the Village Houses
Accommodation is in characteristic traditionally-furnished medieval village houses. They have breathtaking panoramic views and are in supreme locations in the village of Casperia. Each house has a small terrace where you can have your meals, read or sunbathe. Shared bathrooms and kitchens are provided, with facilities that are characteristic of a traditional Italian village house, rather than bang up-to-date. Single travellers will be accommodated in rooms for two people of the same sex although single rooms may sometimes be available with payment of single room supplement.
Option 2 is Casa Latini
Casa Latini is a lovingly renovated 13th century building for the exclusive use of Sunflower Retreat guests and is elegantly furnished in boutique-style with a Latin and Eastern influence. One level boasts a thousand-year-old cave which has been converted into an unusual luxury bathroom.
There are two private levels: each level has a twin-bedroom, private lounge and en-suite luxury bathroom. There is a small single loft room en-suite with skylights and another small twin loft room en-suite with skylights and panoramic views. Please note that the twin loft room has limited headroom for tall people and can get hot in midsummer.
A spiral staircase on each level leads to the terrace area, where you can enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the rolling valleys and mountains of Sabina, and experience the wonderful sunset each evening over Casperia. There is also a communal lounge and dining area with a kitchen for self-catering.
Twin lounge rooms may be booked as a single by paying a single supplement.
Option 3 is Casa Bella Vista
Casa Bella Vista is a beautifully restored 13th-century historic house located on the walls of the village. It has a large kitchen on the ground floor, with an open fireplace and dining area. The house is tastefully decorated in a chic style, with travertine marble floors. The first floor lounge has panoramic views over the Sabina hills from its balcony windows. The second floor bedrooms and bathroom also feature marble floors and fittings and have the same stunning views.
The Yoga Studio
Yoga in Italy
The Holistic Room
Yoga in Casperia, Italy
Costs per person excluding flights and transfers
Accommodation Price per person and (Single Room Supplement)
Prices in Euro will be converted to Sterling at time of full payment at current exchange rate
Medieval Village House - €510 (€110)
Casa Latini (Twin room with lounge) – €650 (€150)
Casa Latini (Twin Loft) – €540 (€110)
Casa Latini (Single Loft) – €540
Casa Bella Vista – €620 (€150)
All prices are for a 6-night, one-week holiday beginning on a Thursday.
Flights
We do not sell flights but can give advice on the best options and times. Transfers to Casperia can be arranged from the airport if there are a minimum of two people and cost £40 per person each way. Alternatively, it is quick and easy to use the local rail system.
The price includes the following features:
Accommodation and breakfast at the lounge-cafe
Fresh linen and towels.
1 yoga class daily (Friday through Tuesday).
A guided walk in the Sabina mountains.
All-week use of bicycles.
The price does not include the following:
Your international flights.
Holiday fees do not include flights or transfers – call us for further details.
Excursions, treatments or activities, other than the yoga classes.
Expenses of a personal nature.
Travel insurance.
When to go?
Italy is at its best in spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November). During these seasons, the scenery is beautiful and the temperatures are pleasant. Temperatures will rise in the summer months (June-September) but due to the altitude it is not uncomfortable in Casperia.
Privacy Policy
Prana Holidays is committed to safeguarding your personal information. Whenever you provide such information, we are legally obliged to use your information in line with all laws concerning the protection of personal information, including the Data Protection Act 1998.
Our website contains hyperlinks to websites owned and operated by third parties. These third party websites have their own privacy policies, including cookies, and we suggest that you review them. They will govern the use of personal information you submit or are collected by cookies whilst visiting these websites. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the privacy practices of such third party websites and your use of such websites is at your own risk.
When you register on our website to receive a brochure or newsletter we may ask for personal information about you. This can consist of information such as your name, e-mail address, postal address, telephone or mobile number. By entering your details in the fields requested, you enable us to provide you with the services you select.
Please note that sometimes on particular web pages we will require you to provide additional personal information, and sometimes sensitive personal information (e.g. if you’re paying a deposit or making a booking). This information will only be passed to the relevant suppliers if required and we never sell or pass your details to anyone not associated directly with your reservation.
Prana Holidays will use your personal information for a number of uses including, but not exclusively, for the following:
- administrative purposes, which means that Prana Holidays may contact you for reasons related to the service you have requested e.g. extra information required for visas or pre-trip paperwork required
- to analyse and improve the services offered e.g. post trip feedback
- to keep you updated of special offers and general information via our e-newsletter
Prana Holidays will keep your information confidential except where disclosure is required or permitted by law (for example to government bodies and law enforcement agencies). We will not pass your information on to 3rd parties for marketing or sales purposes. All information is kept securely and can only be accessed by the employees, or agents of Prana Holidays.
Worldwide Yoga Holidays & Retreats
Prana’s worldwide range of yoga holidays, yoga retreats and spa holidays includes something for everyone. Whether you want to travel to India and spend time in an Ashram, relax and take in some culture and yoga in Sri Lanka, pamper yourself in a spa resort in the Maldives or experience a mix of nature and well being in Costa Rica, we have a yoga holiday or spa holiday to suit. Click on the picture or link for full details, including holiday itinerary, holiday prices and the best time to travel. If you have any questions, Contact Us
