A Solo Female Traveler's Guide to Yoga Retreats

Discovering the Magic of Yoga Retreats

Going on holiday alone can feel daunting, especially as a solo female traveler. But what better way to enjoy some time away than on a yoga retreat? It’s a safe, welcoming space for solo travelers to meet like-minded people, share experiences, chat over meals, relax, and of course, practice yoga and meditation.

My first yoga retreat was in 2012 when I was 35 years old. I was single and about to retrain as a primary school teacher. I craved something new. I have always loved the sun and traveling. In my 20s, I took a gap year to explore Asia and Australia. Back then, staying in hostels made meeting other travelers easy. The kitchen chats about where you’ve been or where you’re heading were the norm. You’d often find someone to tag along with on outings.

But traveling in your 30s is a different story. Sharing a dorm with 20 strangers? Nope. Not my vibe anymore. By that stage, I was looking for something more comfortable—like my own bathroom and a bit of space—without blowing my budget.

Enter yoga retreats.

What to Expect on Your First Yoga Retreat

Out of circumstance (read: no partner, no kid-friendly friends, no group holiday plans), I found myself looking for a solo holiday. A week alone at a beach hotel didn’t appeal to me. I wanted to do something that I loved. At that time, yoga was my passion. A quick Google search (thanks, Fairy Godmother Internet) led me to a yoga retreat in Fuerteventura. Sunshine? Tick. Beach? Tick. Yoga? Tick. Veggie food? Tick. It was perfect.

Let’s be realistic—booking something like this for the first time can be nerve-wracking. Anxiety creeps in easily. What if I missed my flight? What if no one talked to me? What if the retreat wasn’t what I expected? The spiral of “what-ifs” seemed endless. Here’s what I learned, though: those thoughts are just thoughts, not reality.

The Reality of a Yoga Retreat

Going away on a retreat is exactly what it says: a treat. You get to enjoy as much or as little alone time as you want. Fancy curling up with a book? Go for it. Want to swim, take a walk, or explore solo? Do it. If you prefer, you can hang out with the other guests. Many of them are also traveling alone. During yoga classes and mealtimes, you’ll naturally connect. Conversations can be light and breezy or more personal—it’s completely up to you. Trust me, you’ll find you have more in common with others than you think.

Yoga retreats are focused on community. The shared experience of practicing yoga, meditating, or even just being in the same space creates a unique bond. You’re not expected to be anything other than yourself—no demands, no pressure. Just the freedom to choose what works for you. It’s a chance to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with yourself, whether through movement, breathwork, or simply soaking up the surroundings.

A Typical Day on Retreat

What does a typical day on retreat look like? Imagine a day that includes yoga, meditation, breathwork, and some downtime for self-care. Think reading, getting a massage, or exploring the local area. There’s no rush, no deadlines, and no obligations. It’s just about doing what feels good. Sounds dreamy, right?

Overcoming the “What-Ifs”

Before my first retreat, I was full of worries:

• What if I missed my flight? Well, I’d catch the next one. Flights aren’t as scary as they seem once you’re on the plane.

• What if no one talked to me? Not a problem—everyone’s friendly, and conversation flows naturally. If you want some alone time, there’s always space to chill.

  
  

• What if the accommodation wasn’t what I expected? A bit of research ahead of time will answer most of your questions, whether about room options or shared vs. private bathrooms. Most retreat organizers are super helpful and experienced.

  
  

Once you're there, the logistics take care of themselves. Transfers, taxis, or exploring the area? Easy. If you’re nervous about venturing out solo, there’s often the option to join group outings. The world’s your oyster!

Why I Keep Coming Back

That first retreat opened the door to a whole new way of traveling. Since then, I’ve been to nine retreats across Spain and Portugal. I’ve even started hosting my own retreats in Scotland and Ibiza! The combination of sunshine, yoga, and good company keeps me returning. Many of the retreats I’ve been to have become places I revisit—it’s simply that good.

The Benefits of Yoga Retreats

So, what are the benefits of choosing a yoga retreat? Here are a few reasons why they stand out:

1. Personal Growth: A yoga retreat is a wonderful opportunity for self-discovery. You step out of your routine and into a space of reflection that allows you to re-evaluate your priorities.

   
   

2. Connection with Nature: Most retreats are held in beautiful environments that encourage you to connect with nature. Being by the sea or surrounded by mountains helps to rejuvenate your spirit.

   
   

3. Wellness Focus: These retreats often provide healthy meals, wellness classes, and dedicated time for mindfulness. This can greatly improve mental clarity and physical health.

   
   

4. Community Building: Sharing journeys and experiences with others can form lifelong friendships. There’s something powerful about embarking on this journey together.

   
   

Ready to Book Your First Retreat?

What’s holding you back? If you’ve been thinking about a yoga retreat, take the leap. It’s an experience you won’t regret. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, deepen your yoga practice, or take a break from the chaos of everyday life, a retreat could be exactly what you need.

Have questions or need recommendations? Drop me a comment, and I’ll be happy to help.

Let’s get exploring—you only live once!