With its inspiring soul-stirring natural landscapes and well-established yoga retreats, Northern California offers the ideal backdrop for students seeking renewal and relaxation.
A three day wellness retreat in Nevada (Photo: BookYogaRetreats.com)
Between its rugged coastlines, ancient redwood and soaring mountains, it isn’t hard to see why Northern California is a popular spot for yogis in the know. From the misty beaches of Mendocino to the tranquil vineyards of Sonoma, Northern California blends breathtaking scenery with a thriving yoga community, making it a top destination for those seeking both inner and outer peace. The retreats here often integrate holistic practices like meditation, Ayurveda and nature-based excursions, making it a haven for anyone ready to recharge, reconnect and immerse themselves in transformative experiences. Whether you’re looking to deepen your practice or simply escape from the bustle of daily life, we’ve rounded up three of the best yoga retreats in the region, based on value for money, customer feedback and reviews, and itinerary.
Expanding Light Retreat Center
This three-day retreat focuses on Ananda Yoga, which uses asana and pranayama to awaken, experience and control subtle energies within the body. Set in a peaceful village in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the course includes three daily vegetarian buffet meals and two nights’ accommodation in an inn-style house with 12 rooms and shared bathrooms or accommodation in a private house with an ensuite bathroom. As well as yoga sessions, the programme teaches students to develop a personalised toolkit to navigate karmic tests and rise above challenges through a transformative healing ceremony. From $405 for 3 days, available in select months throughout the year.
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
A four-day retreat in coastal Sonoma Country (Photo:BookRetreats.com)
Located in the redwoods of coastal Sonoma Country in a spectacular 120-acre site squeezed between redwood, pine and oak forests, this mindfulness retreat does just what it says on the tin. The programme includes three nights accommodation, three daily vegetarian meals, yoga and meditation classes throughout the day and nature hikes with trusted local guides. Perfect for those looking to recharge and find inner balance, the four-day course takes place throughout the year. From $1,300 for 4 days, available in select months throughout the year.
Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm
A 25 day training course set in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada (Photo: BookYogaRetreats)
Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm boasts the largest and longest-running yoga training in the West, so rest assured, they know what they’re doing. Founded in 1969, the school offers a 25-day training course set in the foothills of California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range. Students can bring a tent to camp closer to nature or choose from three different cabin types, ranging from bunk-style dorms to more spacious cabins with private porches. The month-long residential follows the ancient Gurukula system, with a classical yoga curriculum including two daily yoga classes, meditation and pranayama sessions, kirtan and chanting and yoga philosophy sessions. From $2,850 for 29 days, available throughout the year.