Ibiza has long been known for its holistic approach to life in general. A true marriage of hedonism and spiritualism, balancing out the mind and soul. For those wishing to escape the hectic clubbing and beach parties, Ibiza has a staggering number of retreats to choose from designed to meet your every whim and desire when it comes to healing, detoxing and relaxing.
Here are some of the retreats that really stand out for me...
Carte Blanche Body Balance
Having left a comfortable job in London a year ago, an escape from the rat race was just what Louise Cameron, founder of Carte Blanche Body Balance, needed. Taking a leap of faith, she has quickly established a wonderful week long retreat which aims to allow you to take in the beauty of the island whilst providing you with a delicious and healthy menu prepared by her own chef, alongside relaxing yet challenging yoga and meditation. Throw in some creative workshops and walks in the Ibiza countryside and there you have the perfect recipe for a total recharge.
Insider Info - One of the venues for this retreat is the simply stunning Can Verru luxury villa in San Agustin. Sleeping up to 14 people, it comes complete with an astroturf football pitch - great for sunrise yoga sessions, an al fresco gym, a pirate ship and moroccan themed interiors. Hey, if it's good enough for Kylie and Kate Moss...
Pop-Up Fitness Retreat
This retreat brings the boutique luxury of their UK fitness experience to the magical white isle. Concentrating on improving your overall fitness whilst having fun in the setting of some of the most elite villas on the island, Olivia Cooney's retreats are very popular with the celebrity set. Also based at Can Verru, Olivia's retreat is more of a bootcamp, but the sheer quality of the accommodation and food makes it feel more holiday than drill sergeant!
Insider Info - One of the highlights of the retreat is a Q & A session with Ibiza Superfoods' founder and nutrionist Verity Smith who brings samples of her juices and explains exactly how she uses food as a therapy for healing the mind, body and soul. Verity provides islanders with detox juices delivered to your door and is a bit of a legend when it comes to sorting out your inner health. Brilliant stuff.
Ibiza Retreats
A one-stop shop for all things retreat focused, Ibiza Retreats was set up by yoga teachers and well-being coaches Suzie Howell and Larah Davis. Well known on the island as experts in this field, you can hand pick a package to fit your needs. Taking place in luxurious locations around the island or even in your own home, you can either choose one of their existing retreats like the luxury boutique yoga and detox or the yoga and horseriding retreat, or go for a bespoke retreat designed especially for you combining your preferences from over 100 different therapies, experiences and techniques.
Insider Info - Make the most of their consultancy service which supports you with developing your concept, refining your budget and itinerary to create an unforgettable experience. These girls know the island so well that their advice is solid gold.
The Ibiza Kitchen
Not exactly a retreat per se but one of the best retreat caterers in the business, Anne-Marie's food design is pretty spectacular. Her recipes are lovingly created using locally sourced organic ingredients and are often gluten, dairy and sugar free. Combining her love of health and wellness and using techniques gleaned from a stint in Asia learning about their culture and cuisine, Anne Marie clearly understands how important food is for your health and wellbeing without it being dull and boring.
Insider Info - Anne-Marie is also available as a private chef and she runs healthy food courses. After a talk by a nutritionist, you will learn to cook a number of supremely delicious and healthy dishes under her watchful care. And then you get to eat it. Absolutely fabulous!
So there you have it, a look into what else Ibiza has to offer when it comes to wholesome balance. It's not all rock and roll here and the island's beauty lends itself to relaxation and reflection.
Next week S is for Santa Gertrudis, a real life islander's social hub offering a wealth of great restaurants, shops and experiences...
WORDS | Leena Sharma
