Yoga retreat in the hills of Andalusia, Spain

About Suryalila

Suryalila, originally an olive hacienda, is a fabulous retreat centre located in the heart of Andalusia, situated between the charming white villages of Villamartin and Prado del Ray. It is less than an hour's drive away from the historic and beautiful cities of Cadiz and Seville and unspoilt sandy beaches.

Nestled serenely in a large open valley in the foothills of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, this majestic mountain range can be seen looming large on the horizon behind Suryalila. A striking part of the natural beauty of the property is the breathtaking vistas extending in all directions: rolling hills, fields of sunflowers and lakes.

With its beautifully decorated accommodation, expansive rolling hills, saltwater pool and nourishing meals, Suryalila offers it all.

Retreat programme

There will be yoga classes each morning and evening with Erin, one yoga-free day and no yoga on travel days.

Each day will begin with a morning class of meditation and a flowing asana practice to gently open the body and attune the mind to the breath. The classes will be suitable for all levels and yoga experience.

The afternoon class will be a more restorative class to delve deeper into the postures.

Suryalila has two inspiring, spacious and fully equipped yoga shalas. One with wooden floors, a beamed ceiling and plenty of light and air. The other is a magnificent dome yoga shala with breathtaking views across the rolling hills. There will be the opportunity to practice in both places during your stay.

This spacious retreat can accommodate two retreat groups so often there will be another retreat group alongside.

Between yoga classes there will be the chance to explore the surroundings or simply relax by the natural saltwater swimming pool or in a hammock in the shade.

Arrival to Suryalila is ideally on the afternoon of 6 July but can be anytime throughout the day but no later than 21.15. Departure is ideally after breakfast on 13 July but can be later. There will be no yoga classes on travel days.

Things to do

Suryalila is perfectly located to visit many of the stunningly beautiful and culturally rich towns and cities of Andalusia, as well as the white sandy beaches of Cadiz.

There will be time set aside each day to take in the stunning beauty of the surroundings. Perfect for hikes in the Sierra de Grazalema or walks along a wild river with waterfalls and bathing pools. Horse riding is also possible and massage treatments with local therapists.

Cultural trips can be arranged to Arcos de la Frontera, a dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white village); Cadiz, famous for its picturesque charm; Ronda, located in the middle of a stunning mountain range and Seville, one of the most beloved towns in Spain. Trips to Cadiz can be combined with a day at the beach with a picnic lunch.

Accommodation & food

Suryalila offers comfortable, vibrantly decorated accommodation in little houses each with their own kitchen and living room area.

There are different levels of accommodation to suit every budget, including doubles with private bathrooms, singles, twins and mini dormitories for up to four people.

Beautiful yurts and eco casas with proper beds, furniture, electricity and outdoor shower and compost toilet facilities are also on offer for those who want something comfortable but more affordable and to get closer to nature.

Throughout the day you will be offered three delicious vegetarian meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Suryalila kitchen prepares the most delicious and nourishing vegetarian cuisine, using the freshest seasonal, home grown and locally-sourced organic fruits and vegetables. Many sourced from Suryalila's own permaculture gardens.

Vegan, non-dairy, non-gluten diets can be catered for but dishes are cooked in a kitchen where these ingredients are used. For allergies and intolerances please check before booking as there may be a supplement charge.