Could a Yoga Retreat in Greece be Your Next Girl’s Trip?

Are you like me and looking forward to the days we can travel freely again? I’ve led a handful of yoga retreats in Greece now and every time I’m there, I think, “this would be the perfect girl’s trip!” It’s been ages since I last went on a girl’s trip — and it was a disaster, lol. But I do have my favorite travel buddies who I’m always down to travel with. I’m a true Gemini at heart, I love a few days solo to explore, eat and do whatever I want, but I also adore the company of a good travel mate or two, and I love meeting other amazing, inspiring women — maybe that’s why I love yoga retreats so much? What about you?

girl's trip yoga retreat in Greece
Oh, how I miss these ladies!

I LOVE the greek islands and was daydreaming about planning another trip while looking over old travel pics. They’re so freakin’ beautiful — it’s the bluest water I have ever seen (I’m going to post a pic below so you can see), white stone beaches, and the most picturesque villages, tucked into their perfect tiny, little bays… I can’t get enough! How many hours have I spent sipping wine on the patio, telling stories by the pool, or swimming and lounging by the sea with new and old yoga friends. I mean, who’s counting?

luxury yoga retreat greece pool view
You see what I mean??? So blue! And how about this pool?

These Off-the-beaten-path Islands are Greece’s Best Kept Secret

The Ionian islands, on the west side of Greece, are a hidden gem. Well, Zakynthos is well known and has a bit of a wild party scene, but Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Ithaca are the perfect getaway — far away from the tourist hoards, drunk 20-year-olds, and honeymooners! Do I sound salty? LOL. I’m not, I promise!

I discovered Urania Villas a few years ago. At first, I was blown away by the gorgeous villas with the comfiest beds– I felt like a queen and I’m sure you will too. But then you go outside and each villa has its own pool with a jaw-dropping view of the sea. Then there is the yoga studio with the same gorgeous view, every prop you can imagine, and the option for AC (so perfect during summer in Greece) or you can open up all the glass doors and let the cool morning breeze in… they’ve thought of everything! After a day in the sun, walking into a cool yoga studio for a yin or restorative class is such a treat.

urania villas yoga retreat in greece
Me, Jason, my friend Angie and Urania

And the icing on the cake: Urania and her son, who take care of everything. They are so welcoming, kind, and generous. Have you ever wanted to have a Greek mama? Now’s your chance (I do hope she doesn’t mind me gloating about how amazing she is). And to have homemade Greek food for every meal, I’ve never been so spoiled.

Yoga Retreat in Greece? I Know That You Know You’re Worth It!

I don’t know about you but I adore having someone else prepare all of my meals with love and care. I’m usually the planner, when I travel with my friends or my hubby, so I love when someone else takes care of all the details, so I can simply relax — or do whatever I want! The structure of a yoga retreat makes life easy– especially when beach trips, boat trips, and sunset spots are already planned out (I don’t have to research because someone has already done it for me)– there isn’t any hemming or hawing about what to do(is that even how you spell that?). And it’s just nice to know that I have someone looking out for me and who will give me loads of great recommendations when I am exploring somewhere new, whether I’m traveling solo or with a posse. Can you relate?

Plan Your Next Girl’s Trip in the Greek Islands

Could a yoga retreat in the Greek islands be your next girl’s trip? I have an upcoming retreat in the Greek islands in 2022 — June 25 – July 2, 2022 at my favorite villas — Urania’s Villas. The retreat is basically built around all the things I love about yoga retreats, travel, self-care, good food, adventure, and an amazing sense of community. I’d love to host you, whether you’re flying solo or traveling with your girlfriends.

I’ve been to the Ionian Islands three times now and I am more than happy to share all of my favorite places with you (whether you’re joining me on retreat or not). I highly recommend visiting this little-visited group of islands– they feel like Greece’s best-kept secret.

Feel free to reach out with questions.

Love and Light,
Autumn

Rick Steves says “ This is a great time to travel to Greece”

yoga retreat in greece

Rick Steves says it’s time to go to Greece and we’re going to Ithaca for our June Greek Island Yoga Retreat. Thanks for the validation Rick Steves! Greece is cheaper than ever. According to Rick Steves article in USA Today “Hotel prices are down, the normally warm Greek hospitality has ratcheted up a few notches, and roads outside of Athens are essentially traffic-free, as higher gas prices have caused locals to cut down on inessential driving. The downsides (shorter hours at sights, reduced long-distance bus service, occasional strikes) are noticeable, but not reason enough for you to postpone a trip. All the things you’re looking for in a trip to Greece — mouthwatering food, deep-blue water, striking scenery and the thrill of connecting with ancient history — are all here waiting for you … at a cheaper price.”

Summer 2020 we’re hosting our Luxury Greek Island Yoga Retreat on the serene island of Lefkada at the gorgeous Urania Villas from June 27- July 6, 2020. And we’re offering the retreat at an awesome price (starting at $2298 USD).

Many are concerned about the influx of refugees in Greece and there is no doubt that their presence is visible on the mainland and near the island of Lesbos. The arrival of refugees in Greece, while taxing on local resources, hasn’t affected the communities on Lefkada or Kefalonia (both are in the Ionian). On the islands of the Ionian Sea it’s business as usual… beautiful seas, friendly people and delicious food. As a whole Greece remains to be a safe place to travel and is still recommended by USA Today, CNN, Time, Travel & Leisure, and the United Kingdom. Now is our opportunity to help Greece recover from its fiscal woes and support Greece’s tourism industry, which makes up a whopping 15% of their economy.

Are you traveling to Greece this summer? Here is a little travel advice summarized from the numerous articles I’ve read.

  1. Bring 3 types of payment (credit, debit, and cash).
  2. Keep an eye on your things and be mindful of petty theft, particularly in Athens.
  3. Avoid demonstrations and strikes. Most hotel operators will be able to inform you of any planned demonstrations/strikes/rallies, according to the USA today “most rallies involve zero violence”
  4. Buy travel insurance and read the fine print. Make sure it covers everything you want it to.
  5. Even if Greece returns to the Drachma it will likely be devalued and Greece will continue to be a great deal.
  6. Be prepared for occasionally long lines at the ATMs in Athens and choose ATMs within a bank or hotel.
  7. Be prepared to be welcomed warmly, tourism makes up 15% of Greece’s economy and your presence will be greatly appreciated.
  8. Plan on arriving in Greece 24 hours before your retreat or tour begins and don’t forget to confirm your flights.

Our retreat is hosted on the island of Lefkada characterized by it’s laid back vibe and unhurried feel, PLUS it’s also home to ancient ruins. Pretty awesome. And just like all of the other Greek islands it celebrates delicious local cuisine, stunning vistas, charming hamlets and secluded beaches. If you’re interested in joining us for a week of celebrating life’s simple pleasures, erasing the pressures of daily life and enjoying world class yoga, cuisine and accommodation take a look at our retreat.