Ionian Sea Greek Island Retreat 2019

Ithaca, Greece

AR
Andrea Russell
  • Facebook verified
91 reviews
Aug 31 - Sep 7, 2019
Group size: 1 - 25
Ionian Sea Greek Island Retreat 2019
Ithaca, Greece

Andrea Russell
  • Facebook verified
91 reviews

Aug 31 - Sep 7, 2019
Group size: 1 - 25

About this trip

Ithaca is one of the smallest of the Ionian islands known for its serene natural beauty and ancient mythology. It is a stunning backdrop for practice, relaxation, and exploring ancient culture.  As the home of mythical Odysseus, Ithaca symbolizes the return to the haven, the discovery and the fulfillment. 


This retreat is held at Itha108, touted as one of “the most beautiful retreat centers in Europe”.  Envision yourself experiencing inspiring yoga and meditation classes, breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, relaxing on sun-drenched terraces, finding serenity in quiet shady nooks, and soaking up the peace and tranquility of an ancient coastline steeped in mythology.   


Each day will begin with an hour-long class devoted to meditation and mindfulness techniques.  After breakfast, the daily three-hour Ayurveda and yoga classes are intended to go beyond the general group classes you may experience back home.  Throughout the week, we’ll build progressively on Ayurvedic and yogic wisdom as well as anatomical, alignment and energetic themes.

Each afternoon there will be ample free time so that you can relax in one of the peaceful places within Itha108 or you may wish to explore the islands.  Itha108 offers many terraces and quiet places for relaxation as well as a library filled with Indian artifacts, books, board games and music.  Three pristine and picturesque beaches, all within a five-minute walk, provide opportunities for a beach stroll, swimming, kayaking, or sunning.  Nearby hiking trails abound.  Quaint villages are within easy reach for the culturally curious. Water taxis can take you to near by islands.

In short, this retreat is for those seeking tranquility and a balance of practice, adventure, culture, and relaxation amidst breathtaking island views and mythical surroundings.



WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?


This retreat will allow you to unplug from your stresses and responsibilities, from electronics and newsfeeds, and remember what is really important to you. You will get the time you need for introspection so that you can reset and come home to yourself. You’ll go deeper into your yoga and mindfulness practice and learn to create new habits. You will be awe-inspired by experiencing one of the most beautiful places on earth. You’ll also be part of an open and inclusive community of fellow spiritual seekers.

YOU’LL GET:

  • seven nights of luxurious accommodations at Itha108 retreat center
  • three nourishing, organic and locally sourced vegetarian meals per day
  • coffee, tea, fruit, nuts, cakes and biscuts
  • daily Ayurveda, yoga & meditation classes, including use of yoga mats, bolsters, blankets, straps and blocks
  • extensive library
  • infused olive soap with basil, lavender or sage
  • calendula face balm
  • group transportation to and from Kefalonia airport to Itha108

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE:

  • three gorgeous beaches are within a five minute walk from the retreat center
  • a magnificent 17 mile mountain range ideal for hikers and mountain bikers
  • kayaks and paddle boards are available to rent
  • there is a scuba-diving facility near by
  • cars, scooters and bikes are for rent
  • Homer’s Walk, an amazing walk through what are believed to be the ruins of Odysseus’ home as told by Homer in The Iliad and the Odyssey
  • Backgammon table, cards and other games
  • relaxing on the veranda, enjoying sea views
  • day trips to other islands by water taxi

YOU’LL LEAVE:

  • feeling rested and restored
  • remembering what is meaningful and important in your life
  • with a deeper understanding of your constitutional makeup and how to cultivate healthier habits and routines
  • with a deeper sense of your yoga and meditation practice as well as how to practice at home
  • with tools for working with the mind
  • having connected with fellow spiritual travelers
  • with memories that will last a lifetime

Schedule and Accommodations

THIS IS AN EXAMPLE OF HOW EACH DAY MIGHT UNFOLD:

  • 7am | Meditation & Mindfulness Practices
  • 8am | Breakfast
  • 9am to 10am | Ayurveda talk
  • 10am to noon | Yoga practice
  • 12:15pm | Lunch
  • 1pm to 6pm | Free time for exploring culture, excursions, beach, kayaking, hiking, solitude, etc.
  • 6pm | Dinner
  • 7pm to 8pm | Evening practice

ACCOMMODATIONS

Itha108 places an intentional emphasis on indoor-outdoor living ensures full use of the natural land and its treasures that extend to sweeping and hidden beaches below. The retreat center has seven luxury bedrooms in the main house and five Mongolian yurts that are staggered up between rocks, forests and winding walkways.


The center is designed specifically to provide the space for practice and relaxation, with varied spaces to explore, read, or relax. The charming library has a stone fireplace, with a gentle ocean breeze that comes through shuttered French windows. This opens to a fantastic minimalist terrace with views of the neighboring islands and the setting sun. The sun-soaked veranda at the front of the house has panoramic sea views, and the design elements include comfortable daybeds, traditional Rajasthani furnishings and lighting. Both indoor and outdoor yoga and meditation practice spaces are available for our exclusive use.


All of the guest rooms can be either single or double occupancy. Within the main house there are two rooms with a double bed (ideal for a couple or single) and four rooms with two single beds. The main house has en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning with mosquito nets, coco-mat mattresses, wood paneled ceilings and views across the Ionian sea.  Each bedroom has a unique identity.


The five Mongolian yurts are light and airy inside. They contain two comfortable single beds with mosquito nets, coco-mat mattresses, and plenty of shelving. The luxury yurts have en suite bathrooms. The two classic yurts share a bathroom carved into the rocks, with a sea grass roof.  Pathways and steps provide access to the yurt platforms, each with outdoor seating, positioned high among rocks and trees with beautiful sea views.

Meals

Food at Itha108 is fresh, nourishing, and made up of local produce. All vegetables are organic and sourced from the best of what Ithaca and neighboring Kefalonia has to offer. Plentiful, home-cooked menus blend traditional Greek cuisine with a contemporary style-simple, yet artfully prepared. Vegetarian fare is on the main menu, although freshly caught fish may grace the table at some meals.  Dietary needs can be accommodated.


Organic olive oil has been produced on Ithaca as long as anyone can remember. The olives are cold-pressed by the local press to preserve all their healthy qualities. This is a single press process, producing an oil that is pure and translucent, a beautiful pale green in color, slightly sweet to the taste because of its low acid content, a little peppery, and rich in Vitamin E. It’s a perfect accompaniment for salads, pasta dishes or dipping in bread.

Travel and Arrival

  • A valid passport is required and must be valid at least six months after the date of travel (March 2020). It’s highly recommended to obtain travel insurance.
  • Four weeks prior to departure for the retreat you must supply your flight information.
  • The neighboring island of Kefalonia is the closest airport with direct flights from Europe and indirect flights from Athens, Greece.  From Europe check RyanAir and EasyJet for low cost options.  From Athens to Kefalonia, an early morning or late evening flight with Olympia takes one hour.
  • Plan to arrive to Kefalonia (EFL) airport by noon on Saturday, August 31st.  Upon arrival at Kefalonia airport the group will meet at a restaurant just outside the arrival gate. We will depart from the airport just after noon and take a minibus to the port of Sami or Agia Efimia (approx. 1 hour). From there we will take a water taxi or ferry to Ithaca (10-30+ minutes) where we will take a twenty minute taxi to Itha108 our destination for the week.
  • Every effort will be made to accommodate your itinerary and include you in the group transfer however any person traveling outside the group will incur additional expense.
  • The group will depart Itha108 by 9 am on Saturday, September 7th for Kefalonia.  Your departing flight must be in the afternoon or later.

Weather and Climate

We will be enjoying a delightful climate during our retreat. This is the most comfortable time to be on the Ionian Islands, with reliably sunny days, sea water ideal for swimming and water recreation.  There will be easy access to island infrastructure like ferry service and water taxis. Temperatures in early September have a high of 85°F and a low of 65°F. Wind speeds are usually no more than a moderate breeze in the afternoon and evening.

What’s included

  • Daily Yoga Classes
    Each day you will enjoy 3 hours of yoga, meditation and Ayurveda
  • Luxury Accommodations
    7 nights at the pristine Itha 108 retreat center
  • Vegetarian Meals
    3 organic, locally sourced, vegetarian meals each day
  • Transportation
    group transportation to and from Kefalonia airport to Itha 108 retreat center
  • coffee, tea and treats
    daily coffee, tea, fruit, nuts, cakes and biscuits
  • Self Care Products
    olive oil soap infused with your choice of basil, lavender, or sage and calendula face balm

What’s not included

  • Airfare
  • Travel Insurance
  • Passport Fees
  • Off Site Excursions

Available Packages

Luxury Yurt Double

There are two Mongolian-style luxury yurts on the property nestled between the olive trees with stunning views of the Sea. They are spacious and have ensuite bathrooms.

$2,100
Luxury Yurt Single

There are two Mongolian-style luxury yurts on the property nestled between the olive trees with stunning views of the Sea. They are spacious and have ensuite bathrooms.

$2,600
Main House Villa Double

There are 6 bedrooms in the main villa: India, Jungaal, New York, White Room, Mango and Rass. Each room has its own bathroom and its own balcony with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

$2,100
Deposit: $500
Main House Villa Single

There are 6 bedrooms in the main villa: India, Jungaal, New York, White Room, Mango and Rass. Each room has its own bathroom and its own balcony with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

$2,600
Deposit: $500
Classic Yurt Double

There are two Mongolian-style classic yurts on the property nestled between the olive trees with stunning views of the Sea. They are spacious and have a shared bathroom.

$1,750
Deposit: $500
Stone House Single Suite
$2,600
Deposit: $500


Your Organizer


AR
Andrea Russell
91 reviews
Hi, I am Andrea! An Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga therapist & meditation teacher. I have been in private practice and teaching since 2000. My classes & retreats integrate Vedic wisdom, Ayurveda, meditation, breathwork, and a mindful approach to yoga asana that brings attention to anatomy, alignment, strength & inner awareness. These practices promote health in body & mind while inspiring you to live a more grounded and compassionate life in alignment with your true nature. P.S. Head over to www.andrearussell.com/about to learn more.

Reviews

LH
Beautiful setting, good food and amazing staff! Retreat with Andrea R never fails to amaze.
By Liza H for COSTA RICA RETREAT January 19-25, 2024 on Feb 05, 2024
I had a most wonderful time. The staff at Imiloa Institute were there and ready to take care of us. It was most memorable; as the flora and fauna and the accommodations made one feel like you were totally immersed in the jungles of Costa Rica.
By Debra B for COSTA RICA RETREAT January 19-25, 2024 on Feb 04, 2024
It was my second time being on Andrea’s retreat and I’ll be back next year. Her retreats are simply amazing from start to finish. Petra Madison, Wisconsin
By Petra K for COSTA RICA RETREAT January 19-25, 2024 on Feb 03, 2024
Such a special week with this sangha.
By Brie V for COSTA RICA RETREAT January 19-25, 2024 on Jan 28, 2024
Andrea is a masterful retreat host and Ayurvedic teacher! She and her assistant Shannel created such a lovely container for transformational growth. The Ayurveda talks were so informative and the meditations and yoga practices helped integrate the wisdom as a truly embodied experience. Imiloa is a beautiful retreat space set in the jungle, supported by friendly, stellar staff. The food was out of this world!
By Kelly P for COSTA RICA RETREAT January 19-25, 2024 on Jan 27, 2024
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References

My time at the Christine Center for Andrea's retreat was just wonderful. I came away not just feeling refreshed and centered, but with actual tools to move forward with...and so much to think about! Andrea embodies all of the things she talks about, you can see it...feel it. Her knowledge of Ayurveda, the body, nature, and how it all ties into each other, is incredible. Anyone who has the opportunity to experience learning from Andrea should make it a priority to do so!
By Shana M on 04 Oct, 2019