Greek Islands

Women’s Retreat

JUNE 26–28, 2026

THE RETREAT

Expansion + Connection + Sea

Join Olivia and The Balance community for an unforgettable 7-day Yoga & Islands Retreat from the coast Paros, Greece. This all levels Women’s Retreat is about exploring the Art of Receiving. Together, we’ll tune into the power of slowing down and letting go of the need to give, fix, or lead in order to simply receive. Sunlight, movement, support, sisterhood, nourishment.

Our private Paros villa will be our seaside sanctuary for the week, the perfect base for us to rest and reset between adventures. Expect gorgeous shared spaces, and cozy corners to journal or unwind alongside saltwater pools, and shaded terraces perfect for afternoon naps or late night gathering around the fire.

Our goal is to soak up as much as possible, as simply as possible. We have three boat trips to nearby islands to explore the unique character of each locale, enjoying boutique shopping, fresh island bites, and some snorkeling and swimming along the way.

Daily yoga & meditation will serve as a container for movement and self exploration, turning inward in order to honor what your practice needs each day. A variety of different vinyasa, restorative, and workshop offerings with Olivia will be available throughout the retreat.

DESTINATION: 37.1236° N, 25.2387° E

Cyclades Greek Islands

The Cyclades are a groups of islands known as the crown jewels of the Aegean Sea. Paros, our home base sits at the heart of this chain of islands popular for their sun-drenched whitewashed villages and sapphire waters. Naoussa and Parakia

Parekklisi Agiou Nikolaou. in Paros

Summer is a perfect time to explore the islands, as the days are long with warm light that follows you into the evening. The sea is inviting and warm, perfect for slow swims and salt-soaked afternoons, while the buzz of local life brings a lively rhythm to island villages in full swing.

Paros is an easy 3 hour high-speed ferry ride from either the Rafina or Piraeus Ports in Athens airport (ATH). You can also take a short (40 minutes) domestic flight to Paros national airport (PAS). Both options offer a senic transition from city to sea. Once you arrive in Paros, a private drives will escort you to our villa just outside Naoussa. The drive winds through traditional villages with glimpes of the sea. At the end of our retreat, return transfers will be arranged to PAS and the local ports.

ACCOMODATION & NOURISHMENT

Sashwa River Of The Stars

Sashwa opened their doors in October of 2024 and we have exclusive access to the entire retreat center just for our group. The property features 12 standalone suites, each with their own unique viewing decks and private en-suite bathrooms with air conditioning.

The Wholeness Center includes a full service spa, gym, and infrared sauna. You can also find a library, lookout deck, saltwater pool, and meditation on the grounds, all of which are free for us to use for the week.

Peter is the passionate conservationist behind our Retreat Center. What started as a personal love for Africa’s wild landscapes has evolved into a lifelong mission to protect them. Sashwa was created with the intention to transform the land into a protected haven for wildlife and a place that uplifts local communities. Multiple tribes are represented on the Sashwa staff.

Most of our meals will be plant-based, African-inspired cuisine made with seasonal ingredients from the on-site organic permaculture garden. We’ll enjoy a private cooking class with a local chef and sit for a reflective tea ceremony. The restaurant will also have nourishing bites available between meals. 

The Experience

YOGA & PROGRAMMING

We have twice-daily game drives to try and view as many animals as possible. After morning munches and sips, we’ll embark on a sunrise drive in an open air safari vehicles. Wilderness experts guide these conscious safaris and provide deep knowledge on the interconnectedness of the eco system.  Sunset drives are golden hour adventures to observe nocturnal cats as they awaken and enjoy sundowners watching the horizon.

Mid-week, we’ll embark on a full-day boat adventure up the Olifants River to the top of the Blyde River Canyon, the largest green canyon in the world, where we’ll swim in waterfalls, share a forest picnic, and walk through the heart of the mountain at Echo Caves.

Our cultural evening features the Roots of Rhythm show group, for a vibrant celebration of Limpopo’s tribes under the stars and gathered around fire. The night is a deep connection to the cultural heritage of the region, expressed through song and dance, energy and spirit. 

Of course, there is daily yoga & meditation to serve as a container for self reflection and to truly connect with the energy that comes alive in such a magical and wild place. A variety of different vinyasa, restorative, and workshop offerings with Olivia will be available throughout the retreat.

Itinerary

  • 12p Pickup from HDS for First Game Drive to Retreat Center

    1p Lunch & Settle In

    2p Lodge Welcome Orientation

    4p Opening Ceremony Circle

    6:30p Dinner

  • 7:30a Morning Practice

    9a Brunch

    10a Ferry to Antiparos to explore Portara, old town alleys + local olive press + pottery studio

    12p Seaside Taverna Lunch

    2p Return for Free Time

    7p Dinner in Naoussa + Nightlife

  • 7:30a Morning Practice

    9a Brunch

    10a Private ride to Parakia to explore Lefkes village + coastal walk to Piso Livadi

    12p Taverna Lunch

    2p Rest & Recharge at Villa

    7p Private Chef Dinner

    8p Sunset Bonfire

  • 7:30a Morning Practice

    9a Brunch

    10a Boat Day Excursion + Snorkeling

    12:30 Picnic Island Lunch

    3p Return for free time

    7p Nourishing Villa Dinner

    8p Sunset Bonfire + Optional Night Life

  • 7:30a Morning Practice

    9a Brunch

    10a Walk Into Town to for shopping

    12p Taverna Lunch

    2p Rest & Recharge at Villa

    7p Private Chef Dinner

    8p Sunset Bonfire

  • 7:30a Morning Practice

    9a Brunch

    10a Ferry to Naxos to explore Portara, old town alleys + local olive press + pottery studio

    12p Taverna Lunch

    2p Return for Free Time

    7p Dinner in Naoussa + Nightlife

  • 7:30a Morning Yoga

    9a Brunch & Closing Ceremony

    11a Check Out & Departure to PAS or Parakia Port

Investment

Your retreat experience includes everything you need to immerse yourself in this unforgettable journey. From accommodations to fresh, nourishing meals, and every adventure in between, it’s all taken care of. Just show up, and enjoy.

7 Days / 6 Nights (Oct 4 – Oct 10)

All-Inclusive Pricing

  • $3000 early bird (requires payment in full, limited availability)

  • $4200 (shared room)

  • $5800 (single room)

Secure your spot with a $1000 non-refundable deposit. Your remaining balance is due 90 days before the retreat start date, and flexible payment plans are available to make this investment work for you.

Cape Town Add-On (Oct 1 – Oct 3)

We are so excited to kick off our South Africa adventure with a 4 day / 3 night curated exploration of Cape Town before heading into the bush for our safari. This add on includes 3 nights boutique hotel stay in the heart of city, daily breakfast and two group dinners, all tours, cultural excursions, and guided activities, and direct one-way flights (2.5 hours) from Cape Town to Hoedspruit (safari departure point).

This experience is only available as an add-on to our Awaken Your Wild Safari Retreat and must be reserved at the time of deposit. Spots are limited and will fill quickly.

  • $1300 (shared)

  • $2000 (single)

Rooming Details
Traveling solo? No problem. Opt for a shared room, and we’ll match you with a roommate. Each spacious room comes with separate beds and private bathrooms for your comfort.

What’s Included

  • Accommodation at our luxury safari retreat center

  • Fresh, locally-prepared and seasonally inspired meals and snacks each day

  • All yoga practices, workshops, and meditations

  • Daily safari game drives and guided wilderness walks

  • Unlimited access to riverfront saltwater pool, sauna, and gym

  • Use of the Creative Studio on a self creative basis

  • Drinks, including local selection of Painted Wolf conservation wines

  • Transportation to & from Hoedspruit airport (HDS)

  • Custom retreat journal for reflection

This is more than a retreat experience, it’s an investment in yourself, your balance, and your well-being. Make this your opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and explore the landscapes of your inner wild.

 FAQs

    • International airfare to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS)

    • Travel insurance (recommended)

    • Spa and massage services

    • Souvenirs and purchases outside of retreat activities

    • Gratuity for the retreat center staff ($50-$100 recommended)

  • We will enjoy a mix of locally-sourced vibrant & nourishing vegetarian and meat options. Special dietary restrictions can be accommodated.

  • In earlt October, the South African bush is warm and dry. Expect sunny days with average temperatures around 82°F (28°C) and cooler mornings and evenings dipping to 52°F (11°C).

    This time of year is mostly dry ans layers are essential. Pack breathable clothing for daytime safaris and a warmer jacket for early mornings and sunset drives.

    A wide-brimmed hat, sun protection, and neutral colors are ideal for blending into the environment.

  • Not at all. While THE BALANCE retreats are always structured to included breaks for free time to journal, rest, or keep socializing if you choose, nothing is mandatory and you can take time to yourself as you need. This is your time to recharge.

  • A complete travel packet will be sent to you upon registration. This will include information on traveling to the retreat center and a packing list specific to your retreat.