5 Day Equine Healing & Yoga Retreat in Catalonia, Spain

Alaya Retreat Centre sits on a working wine farm in Catalonia's Alt Penedès region, where the main draw isn't the facilities but the horses. The retreat is built around the idea that horses are intuitive, grounded animals that reflect what's happening beneath the surface in humans. Over five days, you'll take part in guided, non-riding sessions with the herd—learning groundwork, practicing breathing techniques, and doing energy work alongside them. You don't need any horse experience, just a willingness to be present. The schedule changes with the weather and the mood of the group, and the founder Joyce emphasizes flexibility over rigid programming.

A typical day starts with a morning yoga class, which can be energizing or gentle depending on where the group is at. After brunch, you'll spend time with the horses: introductions, grounding exercises, trust-building activities, and guided meditations in their presence. Ellen, a Reiki practitioner, offers one-on-one energy sessions that are woven into the schedule. Afternoons leave room for journaling, silent walks through the vineyards, or simply resting by the pool with a book. Evenings bring a second, more restorative yoga class, often followed by a sharing circle or quiet reflection.

The retreat centre itself is a restored 19th-century farmhouse with thick stone walls that keep the rooms cool even in August—there's no air conditioning, and the property embraces that natural simplicity. The yoga shala is a large, open space with views over the garden, and the pool sits between the fruit trees and the wellness area. It's a homey, lived-in place with dogs, cats, chickens, and of course the horses wandering the grounds. Retreats are kept small, typically between 1 and 10 guests, so you're never part of a big crowd. The team—including teachers like Milou and Alex, who leads Kundalini yoga with singing bowls—brings a personal touch that you feel from the welcome drink onward.

What's included

- 5 nights accommodation - 4 nights accommodation (see room options) - 3 daily meals (brunch, snacks and dinner) - Water, tea and coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Daily equine healing sessions with the horses - Guided workshops (ABC breathing technique, animal communication) - One-on-one Reiki healing session with Ellen - Access to swimming pool, jacuzzi, and sauna - Free Wi-Fi - Free parking

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights costs - Travel insurance - Additional treatments - Additional activities not included in the itinerary