The practice of yoga can allow for numerous health benefits, from improved circulation and better sleep cycles to a general feeling of peace and balance. If you want to jump in head first with a yoga practice and leave the rest of the world behind for a while, a yoga retreat is a perfect place to start. But if you’re just starting out, will you be able to keep up with all the other yogis?
The good news is that there’s a huge selection of yoga retreats out there, including ones specifically suited to beginners. No matter your dream destination, here are some of the best yoga retreats for beginners in 2021.
Asia
Blooming Lotus Yoga Retreat, Bali
Known as “the Island of the Gods,” Bali has quickly become one of the most popular destinations in the world for invigorating yoga and meditation retreats in Asia. Tucked into a gorgeous tropical jungle just outside of Ubud sits Blooming Lotus Yoga.
Sitting above the holy river with views of the divine temple, this yoga retreat offers it all; from breathtaking views of a jungle paradise to dozens of yoga workshops. Designed specifically for beginners, Blooming Lotus offers four or seven-day retreats with daily classes of Vinyasa Flow Yoga and workshops on breathing control, posture, and meditation. For anyone looking to experience a beautiful country, culture, and yoga, this is the place for you.
- Length: 4 or 7-day options
- Experience level: Beginner and Intermediate
- Notable features: Delicious vegetarian cuisine, a private plunge pool, meditation options
North America
Treebone Resort, California
California tucked away in the USA, has become a hot-spot when it comes to holistic and natural living, and that, of course, includes a booming yoga scene. With the sea breeze in your hair and nature surrounding you, the Treebone Resort is the perfect place to relax and centre yourself.
The Treebone Resort in Bur Sur, California is the perfect destination for any beginner yogi that has a deep connection with the natural world. Visitors stay in yurts, a Mongolian-style circular tent, complete with heating, electricity, cosy beds, and private seaside decks. Ideal for beginners, this two-day retreat includes six different yoga sessions on a stunning outdoor platform, allowing you to connect with yourself, your body, and nature.
- Length: 2 days
- Experience level: Beginner and Intermediate
- Notable features: Views of the Pacific Ocean, afternoon massages, charming yurt glamping
South America
Yoga Mendala, Sacred Valley, Peru
Peru is a country known for its rustic landscapes and deeply-rooted history, and it may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of yoga. However, it’s also one of the most spiritual places in the world, particularly the closer you move to the Sacred Valley. Really, it’s no surprise yoga retreats have begun popping up all over the place.
Yoga Mandala is nestled quietly at the base of majestic mountains, right underneath a waterfall in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Everything about this wellness centre is deeply rooted in nature, from the wildflowers in the gardens to the construction of the building itself. Perfect for beginners looking to learn at a slower pace, this retreat offers various retreat lengths and activities, including morning yoga, healing circles, plant baths, and hikes.
- Length: 3 to 5 days
- Experience level: Beginner
- Notable features: Authentic Peruvian culture, eco-friendly facilities, day tours to Machu Picchu
Central America
Nautilus Boutique Hotel Wellness Retreats, Costa Rica
Known for its lush jungles and beautiful beaches, Costa Rica has become a popular destination for more than just wellness travellers. However, Santa Teresa, located in northwestern Costa Rica, is one place that attracts yoga enthusiasts from across the globe.
At Nautilus Boutique Hotel yoga retreat, yogis of all experience levels are welcome to enjoy the sea-side views, swimming pools, and 90-minute yoga sessions offered twice a day. Classes include Vinyasa, Yin, Hatha, and more, plus organic detox smoothies and a wellness breakfast of organic health foods are served daily. At this oasis of a yoga retreat, you’ll be able to sharpen your skills in a dreamy paradise that you’ll never want to leave.
- Length: 7 days
- Experience level: All levels welcome (geared towards beginners)
- Notable features: Wellness breakfast served daily, ocean views, and full body massages included
Europe
Villa Mandala Manor and Resort, Finland
When you think of Finland, you may not think of yoga. But from now on, you will. Just an hour drive from Helsinki in the city of Loviisa sits one of the world’s most iconic yoga resorts: the Villa Mandala Manor.
This yoga retreat is unique, focusing on stress relief and relaxation techniques for those with busy and high-stress lives. Hosting only five retreats a year, Villa Mandala focuses on allowing their visitors to experience a true stress-free environment. In fact, they are the world’s first wellness centre built using the Stress-Free Area concept. Surrounded by fields, forests, and a lake, you’ll be free to focus on practising relaxation and yoga without any distractions.
- Length: 4 days
- Experience level: All levels welcome
- Notable features: Traditional wood-heated sauna, biking and hiking trails, holistic wellness treatments
Australia
Swami’s Yoga Retreat, Kenthurst
It’s important not to underestimate the relaxation and peace that comes with Australia’s bushlands and wildlife. Just 55 minutes from the centre of Sydney, and situated on 60 acres of open brush, the Swami’s Yoga Retreat sits quietly, waiting for you to explore its serenity.
Perfect for beginners, this yoga retreat allows you to set your own pace with a non-compulsory agenda filled with meditation, yoga, pools, and saunas. With the grounds free to be explored, you get to decide which classes you’d like to participate in, and which ones you’d rather sit out. Plus, as a “build-your-own” retreat, you can stay for as many days as you’d like. So get ready to build your yogi skills in a stress-free environment down under.
- Length: Up to you!
- Experience level: Ideal for beginners, everyone welcome
- Notable features: Gym facilities, vegetarian meals, endless sun and pools
The most important part of beginning a yoga practice is to take things at your own pace. Practice whenever you can, and don’t let yourself get discouraged as you learn. If you’re looking to take your beginners’ practice to the next level at a yoga retreat, we hope at least one of these suit your practice and needs.
Have you been on a yoga retreat yet? Tell us what you thought and your recommendations for choosing the best yoga retreat for beginners!
