Yoga retreats for beginners: what happens each day

Do I need to be good at yoga?

No. Many yoga retreats welcome complete beginners. Teachers show you easier and harder ways to do each pose, so the class works for everyone.

If you are new, look for a listing that says it suits beginners or all levels. Tell the host about any injury or health condition before you book.

What kinds of yoga retreat are there?

• Gentle retreats, with slow classes and lots of rest.
• Active retreats, with strong classes and walks or other sport.
• Yoga with meditation, for a quieter, more inward few days.
• Yoga with a theme, such as stress, sleep, menopause or burnout.
• Teacher training, for people who want to teach yoga.

Should I go in the UK or abroad?

A UK retreat is easy to reach and often runs over a weekend. You might stay in a farmhouse, a barn, a house by the sea or a centre in the hills. See yoga retreats in the UK.

A retreat abroad usually lasts a week and gives you more sun and a bigger change of scene. It costs more in time and travel.

How much does a yoga retreat cost?

A weekend in the UK usually costs less than a week abroad. The price depends on the length, the place, the room and what is included, such as meals, classes and treatments. Flights are usually extra for a retreat abroad.

Each listing shows a “from” price and says what it includes. If something is not listed, ask the host before you book.

What should I wear?

Wear soft, stretchy clothes you can bend and move in, such as leggings or loose trousers and a fitted top. A very loose top can fall over your face when you bend forward. Yoga is usually done barefoot, so you do not need special shoes.

What should I pack?

• Soft, stretchy clothes you can move in, and layers for cool mornings.
• Your own mat if you like it, though most retreats lend one.
• A water bottle, a warm jumper and thick socks for rest and meditation.
• Walking shoes and waterproofs for a UK retreat.
• A notebook and a book, rather than a laptop.

Is a yoga retreat worth it?

For many people, yes. A few days of daily classes can teach you more than months of weekly ones. You also get rest, good food and time away from screens. If you are new to yoga, it is a calm, friendly way to learn.

It may not suit you if you want a busy, social holiday. Most retreats are quiet, with early nights.

How do I choose a yoga retreat?

Read each listing in full. Check what style of yoga is taught, how many classes there are each day and what is included in the price. Look at who the teacher is and how much free time you will have.

If anything is unclear, ask the host before you book. Then browse all yoga retreats or try meditation retreats if you want something quieter.

How booking works with us

We do not take bookings and we never hold your money. You send your question straight to the host, then book and pay them direct. There are no booking fees and we take no commission.