Testimonials
Retreat Testimonials
“Yoga, Adventure and Absolute Joy
Totally loved our Yoga and Adventure week! The adventures were varied and exciting with different levels of difficulty (none of which were too strenuous or too easy). Their different locations enable us to visit the area's fantastic surroundings. The yoga classes, the venue, the food, the people, the atmosphere were all equally fabulous. I would definitely come back for Yoga and Adventure 2! Loved everything about it.
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“The adventure and yoga retreat at Suryalila must be the best thing that ever happened to adventure seeking yogis. You get to try all the fun stuff; canyoning, via ferrata, hiking, kayaking and cycling while getting to know like minded people. The yoga is of top quality, not to mention the tasty food and amazing scenery. Highly recommended!
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“Holiday of a lifetime
I stayed in a Yurt with my partner at the Adventure Yoga Retreat in October and it was truly the best holiday of my life, and my partner whole-heartedly agrees! The yoga was challenging both for beginners and more advanced Yogi's as the teacher, Lidiya, is a fantastic teacher with a wealth of experience and knowledge. She is so warm and nurturing, she puts you at ease straight away and she guided me to make great improvements in my practice. The food was stunning with a massive amount of variety and gave us great ideas to continue our veggie journey. I felt a general feeling of contentment throughout my time there and made connections with a wonderful group of people. I implore you to book this retreat NOW!!! It was the best thing I have ever paid for and I will remember it forever. I now have my happy place for guided meditations!
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“Wow! Very Special!
My yoga experience was very limited but I never felt out of my depth in the classes. Lidiya, the teacher, provided very clear instructions and offered varying difficulties of each 'posture'. The morning classes were held if a huge dome overlooking rolling, verdant Spanish countryside, with the glow of the morning sun helping us warm up for the day. I felt amazing after leaving the classes (mentally and physically) and as the week progressed felt that my abilities were improving.
Sandwiched in-between the classes were a collection of outdoor activities that allowed for us to stretch our legs and to enjoy the amazing local countryside. They included long hikes in the mountains; kayaking in warm, still, turquoises lakes; canyoning in dramatic gorges, with huge vultures circling overhead; 'via ferrata'ing' (climbing using metal 'steps' that have been 'bedded' into the rock) around the beautiful and historic town of Rhonda. All the activities were hugely enjoyable and massively memorable.
Throughout the retreat we were extremely well cared for by Lidiya. She nurtured us through the week as if we were a long-term friend, addressed any issues/questions we had and made the week extremely special.
Combining all of the above (and the amazing group of people) made for a perfect 'holiday' cocktail. I am a seasoned traveller and I can honestly say the trip ranks right up there in my top trips ever. I'll definitely be doing it again soon!
Enjoyed the most:
No one aspect of the trip shone above any other for me; I hugely enjoy all the activities and trips (including the very special hike on the last night) and the Yoga itself was calming, invigorating and eye-opening and I'm now well and truly hooked!
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“One of the best experiences of my life
I probably spent the best week of my life at Suryalila in the Adventure and Yoga retreat, and had an amazing time in all the activities planned by Lidiya. The combination of physical activities and yoga was amazing, and at the end of the week, I felt really energised - although sad it had come to an end! Suryalila is also in a gorgeous location, and the property itself is very beautiful. For one part, the sunsets and sunrises are magical… Furthermore, the food was always delicious and a great variety of dishes were served. And - most importantly, might I say - everyone I met was a pleasure to be around. I would recommend Suryalila to anyone who wants to have a refreshing holiday, feel healthy and fit, and meet great people.
As for the yoga classes, they were both fun and inspiring. I really enjoyed Lidiya's flow and how she integrated restorative poses even to dynamic classes - everything felt perfectly balanced. She also introduced us to various styles of yoga, which I particularly enjoyed.
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“Amazing week of adventure and yoga. I would highly recommend this retreat to everyone! Or at least those who are up for incredible hikes, amazing canyoning, beautiful bike rides, to just name a few activities. It is an action packed week, but includes a well earned rest day, but I felt incredibly energised from the week. The yoga twice a day was really good. Lidiya is an excellent teacher and group leader. The classes were demanding and challenging but never too much so. The food is really good.. I had read all the good reviews before I left and I wasn't disappointed!I shared a room in the main house with 3 others, it was very spacious, very clean and had beautiful art work and a big ensuite bathroom…There is one thing for sure… I will definitely be back. If you have any opportunity to visit this amazing gem of a yoga centre I would do it.
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“Amazing Adventure and Yoga Retreat
I had the wonderful experience of joining Lidiya on her Yoga and Adventure Retreat and what an incredible week it was!
I can genuinely say that this is a fantastic retreat experience- it topped all of my expectations! Lidiya has put such love into crafting this retreat!
Lidiya shared incredible Yoga classes every day, the sessions were true Yoga and she is a intuitive, passionate knowledgeable teacher - thank you so much Lidiya 🙏😊
Suryalila is a magical place, brimming with love. I met so many awesome people!
Each day was an unforgettable adventure. I had so much fun and the guides that joined us on the adventures were such lovely, fun guys. I feel so grateful for the whole experience. It's hard to put into words how brilliant it was!
I can't wait to return for another Adventure & Yoga retreat in the future. Thank you Lidiya, sending love to you
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“Amazing Adventure Yoga Retreat!
Suryalila Retreat Centre Team! I just want to say THANK YOU for one of the best weeks ever! Ronnie and I had such an amazing time. The spirit, energy, and peace is still with us. I have facilitated retreats, taught at retreats, but never had the luxury to immerse myself in one....WOW a must do for EVERYONE. Even my Husband who was slightly intimidated about a yoga retreat loved every minute. The adventures were a great mix of challenging, relaxing, and an opportunity to experience the lovely nature surrounding the area. Lydia's yoga classes were well thought out and complemented our daily activities…. and the food…well..I cannot say enough good things. Again, even my husband who is a sworn meat lover thoroughly enjoyed the plentiful, delicious, fresh food.
With Gratitude and Love
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“Yoga + Adventure Retreat - simply amazing
What a wonderful week - I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone! Every activity was planned with care and really good fun. The surrounding area is simply stunning, with fresh water swimming, beautiful canyons, rugged mountain hikes and climbs all featuring. Every day was different, I would struggle to pick a favourite.
I actually surprised myself by how much I enjoyed the yoga classes. I'm usually one to yawn my way through a 1.5hr class, but every morning I woke up excited to attend our 8am yoga! Lidiya is a fantastic teacher, attentive and inspiring, and each different style was taught really well. I felt that I really progressed throughout the week and was able to really push myself by the end. The acro class especially was a real highlight!
The Suryalila centre itself is also wonderful, with amazing sunsets, starry skies, rolling hills, hammocks, swimming pool, night-time guitar playing... Not to mention the delicious vegetarian buffet! I stayed in a yurt, which was most comfortable. Perhaps most importantly, I have returned home feeling really clear-headed and fully recharged 🙂 Thank you Lidiya - I will hopefully be back! 🙂
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“Adventure and Yoga Retreat
I actually think this is a perfect holiday. This was my second yoga and adventure here because I just loved it so much! Hiking, cycling, canyoning, via ferrata in Ronda, kayaking and trips to gorgeous local towns and villages PLUS twice daily yoga and GORGEOUS food. I recommend a tent because you have easy access to the outdoor showers and composting toilets, which are fabulous. If you wanted more there is a flamenco class, acroyoga, a sauna and a walk to visit a local artist's house. I have no doubt I'll be back for a third time!
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“Amazing Experience
Suryalila is such a magical place! Everyday I opened my eyes in bed, I couldn't believe this place is real. I joined the Yoga-Adventure Retreat with Lidiya and was overwhelmed by the amazing places Lidiya took us to, places in nature, on the mat and our minds. I met very inspiring people and got so much energy out of this retreat. The food was pure heaven and made me wanna hug the staff everyday. Suryalila will stay with me forever and I hope to have the chance to come back again
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“Adventure Yoga
An outstanding retreat - rising with the sun to enjoy Yoga practice followed by a fun filled day with activities in the beautiful local area and evening practice alongside enjoying fabulous sunsets. The retreat space is naturally stunning and the vegetarian food was delicious throughout the week, catering for my specific needs. I have returned home feeling well-nourished and a sense of being together again. Highly recommend this retreat for people that want to experience Yoga alongside exploring the delights of Southern Spain. The highlight of the trip was the Yoga practice itself - led by Lidiya; a kind and inspiring teacher.
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“I had the most amazing time on the adventure and Yoga retreat with Lydia, it really is such a brilliant week! The perfect balance of energising and restorative Yoga, incredible food, fun adventures and a great stay in the yurt at the stunningly beautiful Suryalila.
Lydia has an amazing energy, she is so warm and just wonderful to be around - her Yoga classes will leave you floating! 🧘🏼♀️
Can't wait for another one 😊🙏🏼💛
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“Suryalila's yoga and adventure retreat was such a brilliant way to spend a week recharging through yoga and mindfulness, as well as discovering and exploring the beautiful nature of Andalusia. I really found the week to be a perfect combination of time spent relaxing in the surroundings of the retreat center, the yoga shala, and the pool, and time spent adventuring in the many amazing trips we took out and about. Lidiya, who runs the retreats, is an excellent yoga teacher and wonderful, warm host. She offers a combination of dynamic vinyasa flow in the mornings and cooler, restorative practices in the evenings, and they are all clearly and thoughtfully put together, full of intention. We went hiking, climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking, and also had the chance to visit some beautiful villages and towns on the way. I really can't recommend the retreat enough and I hope I can come back to do it again!
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“Amazing Adventure Retreat
What a stunning place. It's incredibly relaxing and tranquil. The adventure retreat with Lidiya was out of this world and of amazing value. The food was one of my favourite parts as was yoga in the Om Dome.
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“Everything was perfect, excellent food, perfect facilities, incredible garden, everyone is very dedicated, friendly charming and our hostess as well as Yoga teacher (Lidya Petkova) was very caring and a wonderful yoga teacher. I will come back for sure to this place whenever i can !!!
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“Oh my god! This was the most amazing holiday! I can't recommend it enough. My fellow yogis were wonderful, our yoga teacher Lidyia was wonderful, the food incredible, the activities just challenging enough. I'm running out of adjectives! The adventure part was organised by Frank and we all loved it, he is a lovely man. The retreat centre is awesome, the volunteers were all lovely. It was just a perfect holiday!
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“Adventure Yoga - Incredible
This was my second trip to Suryalila after having such an amazing time last year.. I didn't think it could get any better, but it did! My best pal and I enjoyed 7 days of yoga and adventure excursions in the beautiful Andalusian countryside, organised impeccably by the divine Lidiya. We were blessed with the most wonderful group of people on the trip, all of whom made a lasting impression.. All the people we met at Suryalila throughout our time there were absolutely lovely.
The adventure trips met the abilities of everyone in the group, never feeling too difficult nor too easy. The programme had been tweaked from last year and enjoying a regenerating yoga session after a day's adventuring worked really well. Particular highlight was the spectacular cycle/walk/wild swimming adventure day.. So beautiful!
We stayed in one of the tents which were very comfortable, but get quite hot during the day.. Luckily you're kept busy, the salt water pool is spectacularly refreshing and the main building is always nice and cool.
The food.. Out of this world. I've never eaten so much, or so well. Incredible variety.. There should be a Suryalila cookbook!
Love the introduction of permaculture and the whole centre's approach to sustainability. They are mindful of their impact on the local Eco system and do their best to keep it to a minimum. Make sure you book a massage with Camilla if you get the chance.. Out of this world.
Overall, I can't describe Suryalila as anything other than paradise. Will be back again for certain
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“Amazing
I had a great time at the Yoga and Adventure Retreat. The people are nice, the food is amazing, yoga teacher Lidiya is fun, caring and dynamic and the programme was very balanced and allowed us to discover beautiful landscapes with locals. As a traveller who stayed in a lot of hotels, their Eco casa was also quiet and comfortable - other options in the house may be even more luxurious if that's what you prefer. The perfect recipe for a nice and relaxing holiday in a very beautiful setting that also pays attention to sustainability. Highly recommended!
Thank you Suryalila team.
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“Adventure + Yoga
This was my first trip to Suryalila, and my goodness it was amazing. I was part of the adventure and yoga retreat held by Lidyia. The balance of fun, challenging activities, stunning countryside and relaxation time was perfect for me. Lidyia's yoga classes were wonderful, with a strong focus on alignment, and intelligent flows and sequencing. The food was another highlight - plentiful and delicious, wholesome rather than worthy. I have honestly never felt more rested and full of energy after a holiday. I can't recommend this retreat highly enough. I stayed in a shared tent and it was super comfortable.
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“The most amazing and magical holiday
I want to thank everyone at Suryalila from the bottom of my heart for the most amazing holiday ever. This place is a little piece of heaven in the most beautiful location, with fantastic people. I spent a week there on the yoga adventure holiday and can't recommend it highly enough. 5 stars does not do it justice. Thank you Vidya, Harry, Marcella, Lila and especially Lidiya, for being an amazing teacher and guide. Also Katya for the fantastic thai massage. Namaste xxx
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“Amazing and enlighting experience
We chose the Yoga and Adventure program at Suryalila for having a week of yoga and activities like hiking, biking and kayaking in Spain with my wife and two adult children. The result was much better than expected: the place is enchanting, even though it is hot in August in Andalucía we enjoyed every moment, the rooms are simple but nice and tastefully decorated, the property is beautiful, the location, with the pool and the sunsets is just perfect. The activities and the team leading them: Lydia from Suryalila and Fran from Sierra Viva, are wonderful making the experience even more memorable. The added value is that you make many friends from all over the world during that intense week and you get introduced (at least for the first time for us) to a wonderful full board completely vegetarian and organic menu that makes you feel really good and ask yourself whether really vegetarian is better...
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“I had the most amazing time on the adventure and Yoga retreat with Lydia, it really is such a brilliant week! The perfect balance of energising and restorative Yoga, incredible food, fun adventures and a great stay in the yurt at the stunningly beautiful Suryalila. Lydia has an amazing energy, she is so warm and just wonderful to be around - her Yoga classes will leave you floating! 🧘🏼♀️
Can't wait for another one 😊🙏🏼💛
Thanks
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“I loved each and every class with you. It always hit exactly the spots I felt weak and I turned out to be stronger and transformed after every session. I could tell from the first class that you are such an experienced Yogi and loved the way you guided us. Even though I practice Yoga for a long time already, I learned new variations in your class,and the powerful bee breathing experience will stick with me forever :)
I am also grateful for the amazing places you brought us to in nature. I felt like being one with the canyon and the water. One of the best experiences for me.
P. S. Everyday is a new adventure became my Mantra till now ;)
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“We really enjoyed the yoga classes given by Lidiya on the adventure and yoga retreat. She took us through the poses with real attention and strengthened our practice, both in terms of connection to the pose and understanding of technique. The restorative sessions were healing and a great balance to the more rigorous morning sessions. We were also exposed to various other forms of yoga which were really fun and interesting to try. Lidiya was incredibly supportive and kind throughout. We can’t wait to come back!
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“What a week! I wish I could fully put into words how enjoyable, fulfilling and restorative time spent on the Adventure Yoga trip at Suryalila has been. Lidia has put together a balanced itinerary that stretched each of the people whilst respecting their individual abilities. I've been racking my brains to work out my favourite adventure, but I can't narrow it down! Highlights are swimming in the beautiful lake on the kayaking trip, abseiling through the canyon and conquering the rock climbing in Ronda. I had every confidence in Lidia and our guides (Frank, Tony and Ibrahim) abilities and local knowledge, which was really reassuring.Suryalila itself is a little slice of heaven. The food was beautifully prepared and plentiful.. You'll be amazed what can be done with vegetarian food no matter what your usual diet is! The salt water pool was perfect for cooling off without getting covered in chlorine. I stayed in a bell tent, which was perfectly furnished and had plenty of power outlets.. It was particularly nice waking up with natural light in the morning. The rest of the facilities and decor throughout the main building are impeccable and have a calming effect.
Yoga practice twice daily worked well and complimented our adventure trips. I learnt a great deal about my own technique and alternative styles. The evening's restorative sessions were varied and often intriguing.. The Om Dome is a spectacular place to start or end your day! The Shiva studio was a great place for the flamenco dancing, Vidya's incredibly interesting 'Yoga '101'' seminar and the magnificent Spanish guitarist.
Finally, the people were wonderfully calm, happy, gracious and welcoming! Harry made sure everything ran smoothly, Tam and the kitchen crew made amazing food, oh, and make sure you book time to get a deep tissue massage from Aoiffe.. Never experienced anything quite like it!
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“Absolutely wonderful
If you are a (bit of a) yogi, up for some outdoor activities and a foodie at heart: you should definitely join the Yoga and Adventure Retreat and stay at Suryalila! This is a real gift to give to yourself. I had an absolutely wonderful week, a truly superb experience. The driving force behind the retreat is Lidiya. She has amazing energy; is kind and attentive. A big shout-out to her empowering guidance. The quality of the yoga sessions was exceptional. Lidiya is very skilled. Both in teaching yoga as in organizing the retreat. The programme was well balanced. Body, mind and soul are nurtured. It’s a full agenda but not everything is compulsory. If you can, do join all the activities and yoga sessions though. You will not regret it! The highlight of the week: canyoning – an amazing experience. Getting to know and spending time with like-minded people and kindred spirits is a real bonus. Suryalila is a little place of paradise and the accommodation is full of character. I booked the Ananda Laxmi Double Suite. To have this very spacious room with its own ensuite bathroom all to myself was a treat. The food was absolutely delicious (both in looks and taste!). I bought the Suryalila cookbook and I’m excited to try out the vegan and vegetarian recipes at home. In more ways than one, Suryalila feels like a sanctuary. I highly recommend going to unwind and disconnect in the heart of Spain's Andalusian hills. I still feel so recharged, it was exactly what I needed. If you can: stay a day or two longer at Suryalila for some extra downtime and/or spend a few days exploring Seville or Malaga. Ask Lidiya for advice. I followed her tips and it worked out great for me.
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“Thank you so much for the most amazing retreat experience! The Yoga & Adventure Retreat lived up to all my expectations and I was so happy to reconnect with my body, nature and the wonderful souls who attended. I came back home feeling inspired, recharged and excited about life. Thank you for reminding me to ‘choose joy’. You have such a beautiful energy and I enjoyed learning from you. I hope to be back at Suryalila in the future! Namasté
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Yoga Testimonials
“Really moved me and inspired me to deepen my yoga practice ”
“The best yoga teacher I have ever experienced ”
“Lidiya, specifically, is not only an incredibly knowledgeable, creative yoga teacher, but she's also an excellent hiking and local guide. She truly cared for all of us on the retreat the whole time we were there. ”
“The yoga was inspiring, varied and enjoyable. ”
“Lidiya shared incredible yoga classes every day, the sessions were true yoga and she is a intuitive, passionate, knowledgeable teacher. ”
“Amazing teacher, world class ”
“Thank you so much for your great energy! I perceive you as such a humble, mindful and strong woman. You inspired me a lot before, during and after the week. ”
“Lidiya is an amazing yoga teacher and human being. She exudes warmth and caring in her practice. Having not done yoga in years, I came as a beginner and she made me feel comfortable and at ease. ”
“Lidiya's yoga classes are rich and full of depth. The intelligence behind her sequences left me leaving the class more aware than when I entered it. It is clear from her classes that she is constantly educating herself and incorporating the knowledge into her classes to our benefit. I greatly appreciate the practices, tools and techniques (including fascia work) that she shares as well as her sweet and gentle spirit. I wouldn't miss a class with Lidiya and I highly recommend you don't. ”
“We really enjoyed the yoga classes given by Lidiya on the adventure and yoga retreat. She took us through the poses with real attention and strengthened our practice, both in terms of connection to the pose and understanding of technique. The restorative sessions were healing and a great balance to the more rigorous morning sessions. We were also exposed to various other forms of yoga which were really fun and interesting to try. Lidiya was incredibly supportive and kind throughout. ”
“I loved my yoga classes with Lidiya. She is a patient and very experienced yoga instructor with a wonderful, calm nature. The classes were challenging (in a good way!) and you are able to enjoy them at your own pace. ”