Discover the Secrets of Longevity on 6-Day Spring Ikaria Retreat.

10th – 16th May 2025, Ikaria, Greece

Reserve your space now

Rediscover Vitality in Ikaria Longevity & Yoga Wellness Retreat

10 – 16th May 2025

Escape to the beautiful, unspoiled island of Ikaria, Greece – an unspoiled haven where time slows and, life is lived to its fullest.

Known for its vibrant centenarians, this island boasts the longest life expectancy in Europe and holds the secrets to longevity, vitality, and happiness. On this transformative retreat, you’ll embark on an immersive wellness journey that combines mindful yoga practices, Ikarian-inspired movement, and ancient healing traditions.

Together, we’ll explore the roots of longevity through daily yoga and meditation sessions in the serene surroundings of Cavos Bay, with breathtaking views of the sea and dramatic rock formations. Discover how to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and experience life as the Ikarians do—one of the world’s few Blue Zones  where health, happiness, and community are paramount.

But that’s just the beginning! We’ll dive into the rich culture of Ikaria with:

  • Panigiria Dancing Festivals– Join the locals in traditional dancing celebrations that bring the community together through joyful movement and music.
  • Honey Tasting– Sample the island’s famous, nutrient-rich honey, known for its medicinal properties and connection to longevity.
  • Invigorating Hikes– Breathe in the fresh mountain air as we hike through scenic trails, taking in the island’s untouched landscapes.
  • Ceramic Workshop– Learn the art of pottery from local artisans, creating something unique to take home as a reminder of your journey.
  • Swimming in Crystal-Clear Waters– Refresh your spirit in the stunning turquoise waters, a perfect complement to your yoga practice.
  • Cooking Classes– Unlock the secrets of Ikarian longevity through hands-on cooking sessions featuring the Mediterranean’s most healthful ingredients.

This retreat is an opportunity to rediscover the vitality within yourself and form meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Accommodations include double or twin beds with either garden or sea views. If you’re open to sharing a room with a friend, let us know—it’s a wonderful way to build new friendships.

Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot now to ensure you don’t miss this extraordinary experience. By securing your deposit, you’re taking the first step towards a holistic journey of wellness, ancient healing, and the breathtaking beauty of Ikaria. Don’t miss the chance to reconnect with nature, community, and yourself in a place where simplicity and joy lead to longer, healthier living.

Join us for this Ikarian adventure, and leave totally body/mind rejuvenated and, with practical tools for lasting well-being, resilience, and joy. Experience the art of living well—rooted in nature, tradition, and a deep sense of community.

Coastal view with white buildings, blue sea, and mountainous shoreline under a clear sky.
Outdoor dining area with wooden tables set with plates, glasses, and napkins. Overlooking a scenic view of greenery and sea under a clear blue sky. Two people sit at the far end.
Rocky beach with several people sunbathing and relaxing. A makeshift shelter is built against large rocks, and the sea is visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
At the Ikaria Yoga Retreat, a group of people with colorful nail polish and bracelets places their hands on a table surrounding cards and stones arranged in a circle, creating a serene atmosphere of mindfulness and connection.
Sunset view over an ocean with a patio in the foreground, featuring lounge chairs and a partial roof structure. A person stands near the railing, experiencing tranquility at the Ikaria Yoga Retreat, as distant land is silhouetted against the sky.
Coastal view with a building overlooking a pebbled beach, several umbrellas, and the clear blue sea under a partly cloudy sky, perfect for an Ikaria Yoga Retreat.
A group of hikers with backpacks stands on a rocky path, overlooking a scenic mountain landscape and distant sea under the clear blue sky, reminiscent of an Ikaria Yoga Retreat's tranquil setting.
A group of seven people, soaking up the sun at the Ikaria Yoga Retreat, casually dressed in outdoor attire and hats, pose for a selfie amidst the rocky, hilly landscape. Two of them flash peace signs, capturing the spirit of their rejuvenating escape.

Thank you for organizing such an amazing retreat in Ikaria, Greece. Your kindness, compassion, and attentiveness truly made the experience unforgettable. We especially loved the adventurous activities you planned between the yoga sessions—they allowed us to explore Ikaria in such a unique way! We would join another one of your retreats in a heartbeat. Thank you again for making sure all our needs were met and for the wonderful memories!

Romeena and Jason

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What’s Included:

  • 6 Nights Accommodation: Relax in a comfortable room at the stunning Cavos Bay Hotel, located in Armenistis, Ikaria. Choose between a garden or sea view room for a peaceful stay.
  • 6 Greek Breakfasts: Enjoy six delicious, traditional Greek breakfasts, with fresh local ingredients to energize you for the day’s adventures.
  • Morning & Evening Mindful Yoga and Meditation Sessions: Participate in daily yoga and mindfulness sessions held in serene natural settings like the beach or hotel grounds, designed to deepen your practice and reconnect with your inner self.
  • Creative Freestyle Ceramic Workshop: Get inspired at Artemis Studio during a hands-on ceramics workshop where you’ll create your own pieces.
  • Longevity Cooking Class: At the authentic farmhouse wineyard by Karimalis Winery owners George and Eleni, featuring local longevity recipes.
  • Guided Mountain Hike: Explore the breathtaking Ikarian mountains with a professional guide. Light snacks and water will be provided to fuel your journey.
  • Excursion Transportation: All transportation for group excursions, including trips to workshops, hikes, and cooking classes, is provided to make your experience hassle-free.

What’s Not Included:

  • Flights to and from Ikaria. Flights to the island are not included, but assistance with recommendations for flights and ferry options will be provided upon request.
  • Lunches & Dinners. Lunches and dinners are not included, giving you the flexibility to enjoy local cuisine at nearby tavernas or during your excursions.
  • Daily Tax. A €3 per day room tax is to be paid at the hotel upon checkout, as per local regulations.
  • Transfers to the Hotel. Transfers to Cavos Bay Hotel are not included. However, a group pick-up and drop-off service will be organized from Ikaria Airport or the nearest ferry port for your convenience.
  • Optional Hike & Swim in the Canyon. An additional, optional hike through a nearby canyon with a refreshing swim is available for those who want to explore even more of Ikaria’s natural wonders. (This activity may incur an extra cost.)

Early Bird Prices

 

  • Single Occupancy ( private double room ) £1,625
  • Double Occupancy (two people sharing) £1,225 per person
Reserve your place now

Julia was one of the most amazing people I have met. Kind, attentive, helpful and interested in assisting everyone in their personal and individual quests. I was a complete novice and felt included, respected and valued. Nothing was too much trouble for Julia and the people in the group were all amazing and inspiring. I would recommend Julia to absolutely anyone from novice to expert. The retreat was fab, food great, talks and nature walks. Don’t let this one pass you by folks!!!

Carrena Marriott

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Meet your Teacher, Julia

Woman with red hair smiling in a sunny park, wearing a pink tank top and sunglasses on her head. thick green foliage in the background.

Meet Julia, your dedicated yoga teacher and holistic health coach for our upcoming retreat. With over 7 years of experience and a passion for holistic health, Julia’s teaching style prioritizes safety, mindfulness, and self-discovery. She guides you on an inner journey towards inner peace and offers a variety of yoga styles/ practices including; Hatha, Mindful movement flow, Somatic movements, breathing techniques, Yin and Restorative. 

Julia’s distinctive teaching approach blends strength and softness, fostering creativity and self-exploration within each student. Beyond yoga, she’s a holistic health coach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nutrition, lifestyle choices, and yoga for overall health and longevity. Join us for a transformative experience with Julia as your trusted guide.

Julia's Story

A Schedule on the Retreat

This is a sample itinerary of 6-nights / 7 days. There may be slight changes in timing, but the excursions are already booked, ensuring that we provide you with the most enriching and enjoyable experience of longevity activities.

Day 1: Saturday, May 10th – Arrival & Welcome

    • Afternoon: Arrive in Ikaria and check in to the beautiful Cavos Bay Hotel. Take time to settle into your room and relax by the sea-water pool with a calming welcome herbal tea.
    • Late Afternoon: Enjoy free time to explore the hotel grounds, take in the stunning ocean views, or unwind before dinner. Depends on the arrival, we might even 
    • Evening: Join us for a Welcome Dinner at the charming Mary Mary restaurant in Armenistis village, where you’ll get to know your fellow retreat participants and experience the warm hospitality of Ikaria.
Sunlit poolside scene with empty lounge chairs and umbrellas, overlooking a calm sea and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
Seaside village with white buildings and lush greenery on a hill, overlooking the blue ocean under a clear sky.

Day 2: Sunday, May 11th – Yoga, Ceramics workshop

    • Morning: Begin the day with a Spring Morning Energising Yoga Session, Breathwork at the hotel, either in the indoor space or outdoors on the beach, followed by a wholesome Greek breakfast.
    • Mid-Morning: Head to Artemis Studio for a Creative Ceramic Workshop in the beautiful village of Nas, where you’ll learn from local artisans.
    • Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch in Nas, overlooking the stunning Bay.
    • Afternoon: After returning to the hotel, head to Messakti Beach for a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters.
    • Evening: Wind down with Evening Yoga, followed by dinner at a local taverna in Armenistis.

Day 3: Monday, May 12th – Yoga, Cooking & Wine Tasting

    • Morning: Energize your body with a Morning Yoga Session overlooking the sea, followed by a fresh, healthy Greek breakfast at the hotel.
    • Midday: Head to Karimalis Winery for a Longevity Cooking Class and Wine Tasting with Eleni and George. Learn how to prepare traditional Ikarian dishes that promote vitality, all while enjoying their beautiful vineyard.
    • Afternoon: Free time to relax at the hotel or take a swim.
    • Evening: Evening Yoga, followed by dinner at one of the local tavernas in Armenistis.
Group of people smiling and posing outdoors under a pergola with a scenic background of trees and sea.
A group of people hikes on a steep, rocky trail surrounded by trees. Some hikers use walking sticks as they navigate the terrain.

Day 4: Tuesday, May 13th – Hiking Adventure to the Canyon

  • Morning: Start with an early breakfast before setting out on a guided hike through the breathtaking Charales Canyon. This 4-5 hour hike will take you through stunning natural landscapes, with a swim in a hidden lake to cool off midway.
  • Midday: Enjoy snacks and water during the hike, then stop for lunch in the village of Christos, where you’ll get a glimpse of local life in an authentic, timeless setting.
  • Afternoon: Return to the hotel for a swim at a nearby beach or enjoy free time to rest and rejuvenate.
  • Evening: Evening Yoga to ease the body after the hike, followed by dinner at a local taverna.

Day 5: Wednesday, May 14th – Yoga, Honey Tasting & Panigiri – Dancing Festival 

    • Morning: Start your day with Morning Yoga either on the beach or the scenic rocks by Cavos Bay Hotel, followed by breakfast.
    • Mid-Morning: Experience the rich flavors of Ikaria with a local honey tasting.
    • Afternoon: Enjoy a free day to relax, swim, or explore the nearby beaches and village at your leisure.
    • Evening: Prepare for an unforgettable night of local culture with a trip to a Panigiria Dancing Festival, where you’ll enjoy traditional Ikarian music, dancing, and a delicious dinner with the community.
Person in protective suit walking in a dry, rocky landscape with scattered colorful beehives on a hillside under a clear blue sky.
Person practicing yoga on a blue mat near a rocky shoreline with trees and lush greenery.

Day 6: Thursday, May 15th – Yoga & Farewell Celebration

  • Morning: A relaxing Morning Yoga Session, followed by a leisurely breakfast.
  • Midday: Enjoy some free time for yourself—whether you prefer to relax by the beach, indulge in some quiet time at the hotel, or join an optional hike with a guide into the Ikarian mountains.
  • Evening: Gather for a Farewell Dinner in Armenistis to celebrate your week of rejuvenation and new friendships.

 

Day 7: Friday, May 16th – Departure Day

  • Morning: Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel, followed by farewells as you prepare for your departure.
  • Late Morning: Check out and transfers to the airport or ferry port for your journey home.

 

Oceanfront view at sunset with a poolside terrace, lounge chairs, and a gazebo. Silhouetted person near the railing.

Julia is a wonderful yoga teacher, she’s very patient and spends time making sure everyone is comfortable and getting the most out of her classes. Her retreats are idyllic and include other activities alongside yoga to compliment and provide a lovely relaxing break from busy everyday life. I would recommend Julia to anyone looking for a friendly yoga retreat/class.

Helena Hall-Manning

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Benefits of Joining

By join this retreat you will be allowing to not only rejuvenate your body, but sharpen your mind’s clarity, nurture your spirit’s growth, fostering a sense of inner peace and contentment. You will also immerse deeply in the rich tapestry of Ikaria’s culture, learning firsthand the practices that have made it a global beacon for longevity.

It’s not just a retreat; it’s a holistic journey towards a balanced, enriched a long healthy and happy life.

Reserve your Place

Prices for Roots of Longevity Wellness Retreat, May 2025

To book your place, a non-refundable deposit of £255 per person is required, with the balance split into equal payments due by the 10th February 2025, and the 10th of April 2025.

  • Single Occupancy (private double room) £1,625 
  • Double Occupancy (two people sharing) £1,225 per person **

** Double occupancy is sold per room, so it is the responsibility of the main booker to ensure they have the required number of guests.  

What is included

  • 6 Nights Accommodation: Relax in a comfortable room at the stunning Cavos Bay Hotel, located in Armenistis, Ikaria. 
  • 6 Greek Breakfasts: Enjoy six delicious, traditional Greek breakfasts, with fresh local ingredients.
  • Morning & Evening Mindful Yoga and Meditations: Participate in daily yoga and mindfulness sessions held in serene natural settings like the beach or hotel grounds, designed to deepen your practice and reconnect with your inner self.
  • Creative Freestyle Ceramic Workshop: Get inspired at Artemis Studio during a hands-on ceramics workshop where you’ll create your own pieces. 
  • Longevity Cooking Class: At the Karimalis Winery owners George and Eleni, featuring local longevity recipes.
  • Guided Mountain Hike: Explore the breathtaking Ikarian mountains with a professional guide. Light snacks and water will be provided to fuel your journey.
  • Excursion Transportation: All transportation for group excursions.

What is not included

  • Flights to and from Ikaria. Flights to the island are not included, but assistance with recommendations for flights and ferry options will be provided upon request.
  • Lunches & Dinners. Lunches and dinners are not included, giving you the flexibility to enjoy local cuisine at nearby tavernas or during your excursions.
  • Daily Tax. A €3 per day room tax is to be paid at the hotel upon checkout, as per local regulations.
  • Transfers to the Hotel. Transfers to Cavos Bay Hotel are not included. However, a group pick-up and drop-off service will be organized from Ikaria Airport or the nearest ferry port for your convenience.
  • Optional Hike & Swim in the Canyon. An additional, optional hike through a nearby canyon with a refreshing swim is available for those who want to explore even more of Ikaria’s natural wonders. ( This activity may incur an extra cost. )

What is close by

  • Beaches are 5 to 10-minute walk takes you to the stunning blue-green waters of nearby beaches such as Livadi, Messakti, and Armenistis—perfect for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing by the shore.
  • Shops and Supermarkets. A 5 minutes on foot will bring you to local souvenir shops, charming ceramic studios, and a convenient supermarket in Armenistis for any essentials or unique gifts.
  • Tavernas. Within 5 minutes walking distance, you’ll find several cozy tavernas in Armenistis, perfect for evening meals where you can enjoy fresh, authentic Ikarian cuisine.
  • Raches Village. A 5 km drive brings you to Raches Village, a charming mountain village known for its free-spirited locals and close-knit community. This is a wonderful place to explore and witness how Ikarians live in harmony with nature and each other.

How to get around in Ikaria

I am organising a ‘group pick up’ on the arrival day – either at the Ikaria airport (  1hour and 50 mins drive ) or, of Evdilos Ferry port which is about 40 mins only.  We are staying in the place where we can walk to the 3 close by beaches, shops, tavernas on foot so you will not need a car.

However, if you decide to explore more, stay longer after the retreat, we suggest to hire a car ( scooters ) to see more of this unique island. There are number of hidden villages which are a full of character. You can share with your friends, easy 3-4 people per car. The price can varry depends on season and on insurance you take, but usually can be around £25 – £40 per day renting from a decent, reliable company. Let me know if you need any direct contact to a company. 

Flights & Ferry to Ikaria

There are multiple ways to get from the UK to Ikaria. 

  1. / Return flight to Mykonos directly with Easy Jet or BA. Airports: Luton, Stansted, Gatwick with BA. Then, take appx. 2 1/5 hours scenic ferry journey from Mykonos – Evdilos, Ikaria. Only about 45 mins by car to the Cavos Bay Hotel, Armenistis.)
  2. / Flights to Ikaria Airport ( JIK ) to Agios Kirykos, operated from Olympic Airlines from Athens.