Yoga Rocks: Crete, Greece
Photo: Yoga Rocks (Phil)
Elton
Photo: Heather Elton

Thoughts

Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. If any one imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. But if one loves
God, one is known by him.
– The Bible

Click any image above to open a larger media player | Photos: Heather Elton

Vinyasa Yoga Retreat: Yoga Rocks - Crete, Greece

24 – 31 October, 2010 | £ 795 pp shared; £1150 single accommodation

Yoga Rocks is the ideal setting for a yoga retreat. It's named after three rocks – triopetra – at sea on the southern coast of Crete. The resort is perched on a small cliff and overlooks the Mediterranean. Pristine beaches are just minutes away are the most beautiful and serene stretches of unspoiled rugged coastline in Crete. All rooms are en suite, spacious and have a stunning view of the Mediterranean from the balcony. Scrumptious vegetarian meals are delicious and take inspiration from the Cretan diet that is reputedly the healthiest in the world. Two yoga classes a day designed to take you to the spiritual heart of the practice.

The Venue

Yoga Rocks is located on a small cliff overlooking long beaches with a mountain backdrop. Pristine beaches are minutes away. Every spacious, en suite room has a stunning view of the Mediterranean from its balcony or terrace. There is plenty of time for relaxation, sun and fun. Pamper yourself.

The scrumptious vegetarian lunch and dinner are served buffet style with a stunning view. At all times guests are welcome to a wide range of teas, including medicinal Cretan mountain teas, as well as fresh coffee and fruit and nuts. For breakfast help yourself to muesli, fruit, freshly made yogurt, toast and local honeys and jams. Fertile mountain slopes and bountiful sunshine produce some of the tastiest fruit and vegetables, which, when prepared with love (and local olive oil) result in mouth watering yet healthy cuisine.

The retreat is non-smoking, alcohol free and vegetarian. There are tavernas within easy walk if you have any extra needs. For detailed information see: www.yogaholidaysgreece.com

The Yoga

Two yoga classes a day take place in a yoga shala overlooking the sea. Each day begins with a led Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Primary Series class that evolves during the week to Mysore self-practice. An afternoon class focuses on different aspects of Hatha-variations, pranayama and meditation. We'll study the inner and outer techniques of vinyasa that tie the poses together in a 'moving meditation'; develop the 'inner limbs' of yoga to develop focus and concentration skills that enhance clarity of mind; use the breath to feel safe enough to move through difficult poses and work honestly at your edge; shift energy in problem areas (hips & shoulders); restorative yoga; learn use yoga as a healing/transformational tool to move through fear and release hardness in the body; experience deep inner peace and insight; learn to be at ease in the present moment. It's a deep practice that moves beyond the physical experience to make the yogic inquiry authentic and relevant to real life. Develop a daily practice so inspiring you'll want to get on your mat as soon as you get home. Be a yogi for life!

This workshop will inspire and challenge all levels of yoga student. Participants have ranged in age from 19 - 60. Beginners are welcome as long as you have some yoga experience, are relatively fit and willing to try.

(There will be time for sightseeing, swimming, relaxation and therapeutic treatments.)

Payment Details

This retreat is being organized by Destination Yoga.

For further details and to book your place, please call them at: 0845 458 0723 or visit their website www.destinationyoga.co.uk/

Getting There

Most people arrive by air to Crete into Heraklion (HER) or Chania (CHQ) and then transfer to the retreat by land (about 1.5 - 2 hours). It is possible to get the ferry from the Greek mainland to Crete. Destination Yoga will arrange your flights and all transfers. Please contact them for details.