Wellness & Yoga Escape with Beach Hikes on Andros Island

The retreat runs out of Hotel Perrakis, set right behind one of Andros's best beaches and a short walk from two more. It's run by Elena, a yoga teacher with 33 years of practice and a Reiki master, who keeps group sizes to around ten people so she can adjust the pace to whoever shows up. You don't need any yoga experience—sessions are beginner-friendly but with options to push further if you want them. Each morning's practice is a little different: one day might be slow Hatha, another a more meditative Yin, always with the silver-blue Aegean in view.

After brunch, the rest of the day tends to be loose. Some guests spend hours on the sunbeds at Filo's Guesthouse across the road, others take the short path down to the beach for a swim (expect small fish to swim with you), and some book one of Elena's treatments—Thai massage, chakra balancing, or Reiki. One day includes a guided hike of about three hours on footpaths that wind through old settlements, gardens, and olive groves, with a chance to stop for a mushroom pastry at a local bakery on the way back. There's also a mandala drawing meditation one evening.

Elena trained in Hatha yoga at the Vasishta Yoga School in Kerala, India, and has done a 10-day silent Vipassana course. She brings that South Asian training together with Greek island warmth—guests regularly write that they left 'calm, rested, and restored' and that she felt more like a friend than a teacher. Her partner Miltos handles logistics and much of the food, and their dog Arsenoi usually joins for welcome hellos. Dinners are at a different taverna each night in nearby villages, which is a nice way to see more of the island while eating well.

Because the program is flexible, the retreat works as much as a beach holiday with yoga thrown in as a serious wellness week. Lunch isn't included—there are plenty of casual spots nearby, and many guests just grab something at the beach. The hotel itself is clean and comfortable rather than fancy, with a pool, sea-view balconies, and free Wi-Fi, though most people find themselves outside more than in. The ferry from Athens takes two hours from Rafina port, and Elena and Miltos will pick you up from Andros port and drop you back at the end.

What's included

- 4 nights' accommodation in a luxury hotel by the beach - Daily delicious homemade brunch in our hotel - 1 Greek traditional vegetarian dinner in our hotel (welcome dinner) - 1 Greek dinner at a local taverna on 3 other evenings - Daily yoga classes (Hatha, Yin, or Nidra) - 1 nature hike with a guide (approx. 3 hours) - Mandala drawing meditation workshop - Use of yoga mats and props - All activities and transportation as listed in the program - Free Wi-Fi at the hotel - Elena's guidance and support throughout the retreat

What's not included

- Airport transfers (we help you book a taxi and provide ferry guidance) - Flights and boat tickets - Lunch (there are many cafes and tavernas nearby) - Personal expenses - Additional treatments not listed (e.g., extra massage or Reiki sessions) - Travel insurance (highly recommended)