How to Choose a Yoga Retreat

There are a great many yoga retreats, and most of the listings look alike: a view, a mat, a smiling group. The photographs will not tell you whether the retreat suits you. A few plain questions will.

1. What will you actually practise?

"Yoga" covers a lot. Look for a clear description of the practice: which styles of asana, whether there is pranayama and meditation, and whether any of the philosophy behind it is taught. A retreat rooted in a tradition will say so, and will tell you where the teaching comes from.

2. Is it right for your level?

Many retreats say "all levels", which is fine if postures are offered with variations and nobody is pushed. If you are newer to practice, ask how the classes are adapted. If you are experienced, ask whether there will be anything to take you further.

3. What does a day look like?

You should be able to picture the day before you arrive: when practice starts, when meals are, how much free time there is. On our retreats, the day begins with meditation and yoga, the middle is spent outdoors or resting, and the evening brings a slower practice.

4. How many people will be there?

Small groups mean the teacher can see you. Ask for the number of places. We state ours plainly: six in shared rooms and four in private rooms on each retreat.

5. What is included, and what is not?

Accommodation, meals, classes and activities should be listed. So should what you need to arrange yourself, such as flights, visas, insurance and transfers. Surprises here are the most common cause of disappointment.

6. Where is it, and how do you get there?

A remote location can be wonderful, but know the journey. Ask for the nearest airport and station, and whether transfers are provided.

7. What are the terms?

Read the deposit, balance and cancellation terms before you pay. Consider travel insurance for anything abroad.

Our retreats

We currently run a five-day yoga and hiking retreat in the Austrian Alps and an eight-day yoga and Ayurveda retreat in North Goa, India. A retreat in North Wales is coming soon. Every detail, including what is and is not included, is on our retreats page.