Pilates, Gyrokinesis and Yoga by the Ionian Sea: A 4-Day Movement Retreat in Zakynthos

A typical day starts at 8:00am with Pilates led by Mariana, gradually evolving towards more fluid, spiralling GYROKINESIS® practices. At 10:00am there is a long, nourishing brunch. From 11:00am the time is free — swim, read, rest, head to the beach, go for a walk, or stay exactly where you are. An afternoon snack arrives at 2:30pm, optional private sessions or free time follow at 3:00pm, and at 5:00pm Laura leads gentle or restorative yoga designed to complement the morning practice and wind down the day. Dinner, prepared by the private chef, is at 7:00pm. Across the retreat there is also a boat trip day and a trip to the beach or a hike.

What separates this from a standard yoga week is the progression built into the movement itself. The practices evolve across the four days, moving from the strength and precision of Pilates towards the spiralling, fluid movement of GYROKINESIS®, before slowing down with restorative yoga in the evenings. Mariana is a guest teacher from Mariana Movement Pilates; Laura is the resident yoga and movement guide, with over 23,000 hours of teaching in the UK and internationally. Nikita, a leadership and mindset coach with a background in business, start-ups and wellness, facilitates the retreat.

The setting is two private villas in the rural north of Zakynthos, entirely to yourselves, with white stone, big skies, infinity pools, outdoor terraces and views out over the Ionian Sea. The villas are a five-minute walk apart. You practise outside overlooking the water and eat long meals together on the terrace. Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) is the nearest gateway, with seasonal routes from the UK, and return airport transfers can be arranged for €59 per person.

Food is a deliberate part of the week. A private chef prepares a generous brunch and dinner each day, plus an afternoon snack, with fresh, colourful food and plenty of it. Tea, coffee and snacks are available throughout the stay. One evening meal is left free so you can explore local restaurants, and that one is covered by you.

The retreat is small — between 8 and 16 participants — and welcoming to solo travellers. Everything is optional, and the schedule deliberately leaves space rather than packing every minute. Rooms range from a shared ensuite with no sea view up to a private ensuite with your own terrace and sea view, all in the same two villas with the same food and practices for everyone.

What's included

- 3 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Daily yoga classes - Twice-daily practice: morning Pilates evolving into GYROKINESIS®, gentle restorative evening yoga with Laura - Excursions & activities - Optional private Pilates and movement sessions with Mariana - Luggage storage - Parking - Wifi connection

What's not included

- Flights costs - Travel insurance - One evening meal (not provided, so you can explore local restaurants) - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Airport pickup and drop-off (optional upgrade, €59 per person return)