5 soulful yoga retreat destinations

Over the past year, many people have sought refuge in the peaceful practice of yoga. Now that travel is on the rise again, we discovered that one in four travelers will be prioritizing relaxation on their next trip. If you’re also looking to unite mind, body, and wanderlust, check out our selection of the world’s most rejuvenating yoga retreats.

COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali, Indonesia

Nestled in a lush tropical enclave, Shambhala Estate is the ideal place to relax in Bali. At this luxury yoga retreat, stone steps paved along meandering waterways lead to private residences, and infinity pools overlook the dense jungle canopy. A stay here is guaranteed to cleanse your body of the stresses of daily life – even without a round of yoga.

But if mindfulness is on your mind, Shambhala Estate has a full menu of holistic health offerings, ranging from meditation, Pilates, yoga, hydrotherapy, and more. Want a more personal experience? The estate’s internationally accredited teachers will happily craft an individualized wellness plan for you.

Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa, Taghazout, Morocco

Situated in the rustic fishing village of Taghazout, Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa is a 300-acre oasis of calm and fun. From focusing on your breathwork at seaside yoga workshops to losing said breath in an intense surf lesson, there’s no shortage of enjoyment here.

After a sun-kissed yoga session, tuck into healthy organic food at the resort’s restaurant and savor a selection of fresh food and juices to refuel after practice. End your day with a massage or treat yourself to a cocktail while gazing out at the sun as it sinks into the Atlantic.

Tri, Koggala Lake, Sri Lanka

Tri sits on the shores of the tranquil Lake Koggala, enclosed on all sides by sweet-scented cinnamon plantations. The resorts blend into its natural surroundings, thanks to its walls which are made out of wood from the local plantations. Only the occasional peek of a thatched roof or glimmer from the infinity pools give away its location.

The resort is the brainchild of Rob Drummond, who’s big on sustainability. Nature seeps into every space here, with geckos scuttling about and kingfishers perched by earth-tone pools. It’ll be tempting to simply kick back and enjoy the natural beauty,with a green juice in hand, but there’s also an array of wellness services to try. Rob’s wife, Lara, conducts yoga sessions in a treetop sala (hall) hidden among the bamboo groves, and her client lists includes Gerard Butler and Sienna Miller. Thanks to Tri’s proximity to the coast, you can soak away any lingering stresses in the roaring Indian Ocean.

Zenses Wellness and Yoga Resort, Tulum, Mexico

Zenses Wellness and Yoga Resort in Tulum is a sanctuary for those who love sun, sand, and soulful reflection. It’s a bohemian-chic yogi abode designed to cater to every taste while bringing you closer to nature.

Situated 1.5 miles inland from Paraíso Beach, this adults-only wellness retreat has poolside hammocks, refreshing outdoor showers, hidden reading nooks, and, of course, yoga. The best part? All sessions and equipment are free, but you’re welcome to tip the instructor. Once you’re done putting yourself in posture-aligning poses, it’s time to unfold into Savasana next to the pool.

Six Senses, Douro Valley, Portugal

Retreat to the mountains at this oasis of peace amid northern Portugal’s vineyards and sunbaked canyons. Vaulted ceilings reach down to meet your mountain pose at this 19th-century mansion-turned-hotel by the edge of the Douro River. The surrounding landscape is spectacular all year, with rolling hills awash with the rugged farmland colors and ancient manor homes.

The resort’s three-day Discover Yoga program aims to improve your mind-body balance, suitable for novices and advanced yogis alike. If you prefer to practice solo, focus on your breath while sitting in a bird’s nest swing or dive into a refreshing moment of poolside meditation. Top it all off with a dining experience at the on-site restaurant, accompanied by a glass of local wine.