Spa days are great but relaxation and wellness retreats are better. Sometimes you need more than just a day to unwind and release yourself from the stressors of daily life. Fortunately, colourful New England offers an idyllic setting for exploring nature and reconnecting with your mind, body, and spirit.
Chakrasana, or Wheel Pose in New England (Photo: In Light Retreats)
New England may be most famous for its stunning fall foliage displays, but this part of the US offers inspiring nature year-round. From yoga retreats in the rolling hills of the Berkshires to up in the mountains of Vermont, here is a list of the best yoga retreats in New England that promise to send you home feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
In Light Wellness Retreats
FROM: $1,600/per person
In Light Retreats offers luxury yoga retreats and wellness trips in their beautiful villa in the Massachusetts Berkshires. Their retreats are about more than yoga—they emphasize fitness, meditation, and unwinding in nature. Their nutritional consultant is available to support you on your journey to a healthier and happier life, while certified yoga instructors help you progress in your Vinyasa yoga and meditation practice. You’ll spend your days enjoying yoga and meditation classes, three daily farm-to-table organic meals prepared by a private chef, meditative nature walks, guided hikes, and spa treatments. Rates include accommodation in private double rooms in a shared house or cottage, or a private luxury cottage. For an upscale, relaxing getaway where you can make new friends and reconnect with yourself, choose In Light Retreats.
Real Life Yoga
From $425/ per person
Real Life Yoga offers yoga retreats in Massachusetts for real people. Approachable instructors and accessible yoga classes will encourage you to take your first class or get back into your practice after a hiatus. Their retreats provide enough activities to fill your day without feeling overwhelmed. Instructors teach a variety of styles, from Kripalu to Hatha, Vinyasa to Kundalini, for all skill levels. Real Life Yoga provides a glamping experience at Windhover Performing Arts Center—rates include double and triple occupancy rooms in shared cabins, delicious locally inspired meals, herbal workshop, and excursions in the nearby Halibut State Park.
Sewall House Yoga Retreat
From $1,499/ per person
Sewall House Yoga Retreat has been offering personalized yoga retreats in northern Maine since 1997. Retreats take place in the William Sewall House; built in 1865 and remains a well-preserved example of the Greek Revival style. Beyond the architecture, the house has a history of healing: this was where William Sewall taught a young Theodore Roosevelt about the beauty and healing properties of nature. The instructor and owner of the retreat centre, Donna Davidge, is a yoga instructor who tailors the classes everyone’s individual needs and abilities. Retreats include vegetarian meals, twice daily yoga and meditation classes in the Ashtanga, Hatha, Kundalini, and Vinyasa styles, and excursions to lakes, hikes and mountains. The house has six private bedrooms, four bathrooms (three shared), and one room with a private bathroom.
Sunflower Bodyworks
From $1150/ per person
Instructor Kathleen Maroney-Hesser, owner of Sunflower Bodyworks, teaches Hatha style yoga, meditation, and exercises throughout the week at Medomak Retreat Center in Maine. The beautiful New England location offers a getaway from your busy routines in natural surroundings that promote community and connection with your mind, body, and spirit. You’ll have the chance to schedule your day, joining classes or silently meditating on walks along the lake. All meals are chef-prepared often using ingredients from Medomak’s two organic gardens. The accommodations are simple, traditional New England cabins with shared and private twin rooms that include comfortable beds, linens, and a writing table.
SUP Yo
From $307/ per person
SUP Yo offers a wonderful winter ‘snowga’ retreat in Killington, Vermont that will inspire you to explore the outdoors and connect with nature. Instructor Jana Olenio will offer daily Power yoga classes to help you enhance your mind and soul, while complementing your winter sports activities. This yoga retreat package includes full-day lift tickets to Killington Mountain, free ski shuttle to the slopes, and daily breakfasts. Hot coffee and cider bar with afternoon cookies are provided at no extra charge. Guests have the option of shared quadruple, shared double, and private double rooms at Killington Mountain Lodge.