Ananda Yoga Retreats: Restorative Yoga Weeks in Ibiza & the Lake District

A typical Ananda day starts with a morning yoga session before breakfast — usually a stronger, more active class — and a second, gentler session in the late afternoon or early evening. Between the two there's a long free block: swim, read, walk into town, book a massage, or nap. The retreats are designed so you can do as much or as little as you want; the teaching caters to all levels, and reviewers describe the sessions as 'challenging yet gentle' and 'catering to all levels'.

Food is a big part of why people come back. It's vegetarian, cooked on-site, and described in reviews as 'nourishing', 'a true delight' and one of the main reasons guests book again. Meals are eaten together, which is how most of the socialising happens. One guest noted the week included 'dancing' as well as yoga, eating and talking — evenings are relaxed rather than silent or ascetic.

The teaching team is led by Madeline and Andrea, who are named in multiple guest reviews. Ananda describes its team as teachers, hosts, chefs and therapists who 'share the same passion for creating meaningful and memorable retreat experiences'. The retreat hosts also run workshops and discussions alongside the physical practice — one review mentions 'heartfelt conversations' as a highlight alongside the yoga itself.

The Ibiza venue is described by guests as 'serene' and 'breathtaking'. Ibiza retreats tend to be 5 days, with the Lake District retreats running a similar format in the UK. Both locations are proper residential retreats — you sleep where you practise, and all meals are provided.

What separates Ananda from other yoga retreat brands is mostly the length of time it's been running and the consistency of the reviews. Over ten years, with press coverage in national UK publications and a guest return rate that shows up over and over in the testimonials, it's a known quantity rather than a new venture. If you want a yoga week where the logistics are handled and you can just show up and practise, this is that.

What's included

- Accommodation at the retreat venue for the duration - Two yoga sessions per day (morning and evening) - All meals — vegetarian, cooked on-site - Teas, coffees and refreshments through the day - Use of yoga mats and props - Guided walk or excursion where scheduled - All teaching and workshops - Pre-arrival information pack and support

What's not included

- Flights and travel to the retreat - Airport or station transfers (ask the team to arrange) - Travel insurance - Massage and spa treatments - Alcohol and drinks outside of meal service - Personal expenses and shopping - Optional off-site excursions