Ready, Steady, Flow
The physical and mental benefits of yoga are well documented: strengthening and lengthening of the muscles, decluttering the mind and providing the tools to create calm and stillness in times of stress. There is something positive for everyone to find in yoga and it’s a wonderful activity to incorporate into any kind of holiday, or even focus your trip around completely. Whether you’re a fully-fledged yogi or more of a novice, we’ve narrowed down 5 of the best locations to free yourself from the every day, focus and... breathe.
The Valsana in Arosa, Switzerland
The naturally restorative properties of alpine air are legendary, so where better to press the reset button than in the heart of the Swiss Alps at The Valsana Hotel. Enjoy a nourishing yoga class as part of your ski holiday or immerse yourself fully in one of two retreats in 2020 with lauded instructors Zephyr Wildman and Alida O’Connor. Take your pick from a dynamic snowy escape in March, with peak yoga, skiing and hiking, or experience what the Alps have to offer in August with a relaxed week spent practising in the Valsana’s panoramic studio and enjoying guided hikes.
El Silencio Lodge in Costa Rica
Deep in the heart of a tropical cloud forest near the town of Los Bajos del Toro, the curious traveller will find El Silencio Lodge, a luxury sanctuary set within a 500-acre private reserve surrounded by flowing creeks and hidden waterfalls. Classes here take place on an outdoor deck, with nothing but the gentle sounds of babbling streams to distract you, you’ll be transported to a place of serenity and inner calm in no time at all. El Silencio is the ultimate haven in which to enjoy pure relaxation during an action-packed Powder Byrne itinerary or yogis looking for an extended stay can experience an immersive retreat filled with first-class yoga instruction, meditation, and spa treatments.
Porto Elounda in Crete
Discover another side to this stunning Cretan hotel with a luxury yoga retreat, including all the essentials you’ll need to completely unwind and destress - plus everything you didn’t know you needed! Whether you’re dipping your yogi toes or want to dive in head first, Porto Elounda run a number of programmes to suit everyone, starting with 3 day tasters all the way up to 2 week immersive experiences, including chakra balancing and Pranayama breathing practices. Alternatively private yoga instruction can be arranged through Powder Byrne as part of your family holiday. Whilst the kids are enjoying Scallywags and your other half is dozing by the pool, recharge your batteries and enjoy personalised, one to one tuition to finally nail that Chaturanga!
Aerial shot of Tri in Sri Lanka
Tri in Sri Lanka
About an hour outside of historic Galle in the south of Sri Lanka lies Koggala Lake, and on its shady banks, Tri, a sensitively designed, contemporary hotel, which marries ethical construction with chic, minimalist design. This secluded spot surrounded by tranquil beauty is the ideal place to reconnect with yourself and your environment. Practised on an outdoor, elevated platform, co-owner Lara Drummond’s unique style of ‘Quantum’ yoga will leave you feeling re-energised, relaxed and completely at peace. Tri is the perfect interlude for reflection during a more intrepid Powder Byrne adventure and a must for anyone seeking a few moments of calm in laidback luxury.
Poolside yoga mats at Polo Valley
If you’re looking for a cocktail of activity and relaxation, look no further than Polo Valley in Sotogrande, where you can play the fast and furious sport of polo by day and unfold into restorative poolside yoga sessions in the evenings. The quiet, isolated setting of the Guesthouse is an idyllic spot to stretch out those muscles after an exhilarating day in the saddle, with local instructors guiding as many sessions as you desire throughout your stay. The two activities of yoga and polo complement each other perfectly, blending physical exertion with mental rest, after a week at Polo Valley you’ll return home both challenged and relaxed...and booking your next visit!
