12 Best Yoga Retreats in Croatia [2023]
Are you looking into yoga retreats in Croatia? Look no further, this post is a roundup of the highest-rated, most popular, and some of the most dreamy retreats….ever.
Croatia is so much more than “the Game of Thrones film location” (confession: I have not actually seen GoT). Anyway, Croatia is a BREATHTAKINGLY beautiful country with crystal-clear waters, lush green forests, ancient architecture, and captivating history. It’s the perfect place to unwind and forget all about your responsibilities.
In this post, we will take a closer look at the best Croatia yoga retreats and how to choose the right one for you. This way you can start planning your perfect 2023 wellness vacation 🤩
In a hurry? This retreat is my top pick because it takes place on a quieter island covered in lush forests, and a national park. Perfect for recharging.
The 10 Best Yoga Retreats in Croatia
1) 7-Day Divine Summer Yoga Island Holiday
⭐ 5/5
Location: Veli Iz, Croatia (a small island off the coast of Zadar)
Dates: July 16 – July 22, 2023
Highlights/Key Info: Incredible instructor, gong bath, location
If you are daydreaming about basking in the Mediterranean sun, taking swim breaks in the Adriatic sea, and meandering picturesque cobblestone streets on your yoga retreat, then this is the one for you.
Begin each day with a meditation and vinyasa flow, spend your day exploring, paddleboarding, boating, or getting a massage, and close out your evening with a gentle Yin or Tibetan yoga class.
There will be one optional sunrise mountain walk and meditation and one gong bath included. Vegan/vegetarian Mediterranean breakfasts and dinners are included. The property aims to provide an environment free of toxins, so no meat, smoking, alcohol, or synthetic-cosmetic products are allowed!
Stay at Korinjak Hotel on Iz Island (take the ferry or the catamaran from Zadar) which has a beautiful outdoor yoga shala and 2 indoor shalas. It is the only 100% vegetarian/vegan hotel in Croatia.
With the island’s laidback atmosphere, crystal clear waters, and average summer temps of 82 (28 C), Iz is the perfect place for a relaxing and tranquil yoga retreat.
2) 8-Day Serene and Detoxifying Holistic Yoga Holiday on Mljet Island
⭐ 4.9/5
Location: Mljet Island, Croatia
Dates: September 23 – September 30, 2023
Highlights/Key Info: Cooking class, excursions, quiet island
This retreat emphasizes self-nurturing, self-care, and living a holistic lifestyle for your well-being.
There will be 2 yoga classes per day; the morning session will be an hour and 30 minutes dynamic and energizing class, and the evening session will be a one-hour restorative practice. All yoga classes are suitable for all levels.
Various excursions (hiking, attractions, etc.) are included as well as one cooking class with the retreat chef. There is actually a cooking class because so many retreat participants loved the food and wanted to know how to prepare it so they decided to include one class with the chef!
Each day your next day’s schedule with activities, tours, and excursions will be brought to your room or will be given to you during tea time (I mean… how sweet is this).
Mljet Island is covered in lushes green forests of pine trees (including Mljet National Park), with salty turquoise lakes, and surrounded by crystal clear sea. You will take advantage of the amazing nature and spend time learning about and indulging in forest bathing.
For a well-rounded, joyful, nature-heavy, and restorative holiday, this is a great yoga retreat choice.
3) 6-Day Sun, Sea, Sweat, and Soul Yoga Retreat
⭐ 4.8/5
Location: Villa Vela Luka, Brač Island, Croatia
Dates: September 16 – 21, 2023
Highlights/Key Info: Nina Butler retreat! Day trip to Split, 3-hour guided SUP yoga session, 2-hour bicycle adventure around Brac Island
At this Nina Butler retreat, you will practice yoga twice daily – a dynamic Vinyasa flow in the morning, and a restorative Yin in the evening. Nina is a highly experienced and renowned instructor who can lead beginner and advanced yogis.
The middle of the day is reserved for optional excursions or your own personal free time to rest or explore. One massage and a daily brunch buffet and a nightly dinner at Nina’s favorite local restaurant are included.
You will stay at a stunning villa right on the beach. You have a choice of shared or single rooms, all with ensuite baths and a balcony overlooking the sea. Brač Island is considered a ‘hidden gem’ on the Dalmatian Coast. It’s just off the coast of Split and remains unspoiled by tourism.
4) 8-Day Sailing, Kayaking, Hiking, and SUP Yoga Holiday
⭐ 4.45/5
Location: Dubrovnik and southern islands
Dates: September 8 – 15, 2023
Highlights/Key Info: 3 nights on a catamaran
On this retreat, you will split your time between land and sea. You will explore southern Croatia and all the Dalmation Coast has to over. While on land, you’ll spend most of your time in and around Dubrovnik, and while at sea you’ll explore the southern islands and their amazing beaches.
Yoga (Hatha and Yin) and adventures are suitable for all levels. Also enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, cycling, sailing, and hiking. Visit quaint villages, try local wines, cheeses, and olive oils, and take dips in the incredible blue water of the Adriatic Sea.
This is a well-programmed and super well-rounded retreat for anyone hoping to do a lot more than just yoga in Croatia.
5) 7-Day Yoga, Culture, Customs, and Culinary Retreat
⭐ 4.6/5
Location: Suncokret in Dol Sveta Ana, Hvar Island, Croatia
Dates: Dates in June, September, and October 2023
Highlights/Key Info: Cultural excursions, culinary workshop, location (!)
Immerse yourself in the Hvar way of life at this customs and culture-focused yoga retreat. Connect with yourself through yoga and breathwork and connect with the culture through engaging cultural outings and activities.
You morning you will begin your day with an exploratory yoga Sadhana practice that combines asana, mantra, pranayama, guided meditations, and supportive journaling assignments. You will connect all of your senses and energy centers.
Quickly following your morning sadhana you will be swept away for a cultural outing. This may be a guided tour of the town, a harvesting experience, sightseeing, a production facility tour, or another historical or architectural site visit.
Also included are a culinary workshop, yoga in a hidden spot in nature, one secret sunset adventure, and lots of free time in the afternoon.
You’ll stay in one of three charming stone cottages nestled into a secluded hilltop on Hvar. This is a great retreat for anyone looking for a yoga experience that will also bring them closer to the local culture.
6) 8-Day Yoga and Meditation Retreat in Basina, Hvar Island
⭐ 4.9/5
Location: Maya House in Basina, Hvar, Croatia
Dates: 4 retreats in September starting every Saturday (2023)
Highlights/Key Info: boat tours to ancient towns and famous beaches
Practice yoga and tour Croatian islands! That’s basically the gist of this lovely retreat. Each day will look a little different but will consist of two yoga classes, meditation, free time, and a tour to a remote beach or a historic town.
During your free time enjoy nature walks, solo exploration of the beautiful island of Hvar, or rest at the villa. This retreat emphasizes a balance between yoga, activities, and rest. At night you will have an evening restorative class, dinner, and free time.
On one excursion, you will take a boat trip to the neighboring island Brač to see the famous beach – Zlatni Rat.
Hvar island is said the be the sunniest of all the islands in the Adriatic Sea. It’s known for its vast fields of lavender, gorgeous beaches, ancient olive trees, and lush vineyards.
7) 3-Day Weekend Short Break Wellness and Yoga Holiday
This is one of the most popular yoga retreats in Croatia.
⭐ 4.95/5
Location: Maya Yoga House, Sveti Križ, Croatia (north of Zagreb)
Dates: Every Friday/Saturday/Sunday year-round
Highlights/Key Info: Agnihotra fire ceremony, incredible host
This wellness retreat is the perfect add-on to any trip to Croatia! It’s only two nights/three days and will leave you feeling relaxed and connected to nature. That way you can get back to your busy travel itinerary feeling fresh!
You will have two yoga classes per day, participate in a daily Agnihotra fire ceremony (fire ritual from India), and spend a whole day visiting a 5-star spa in Slovenia – just across the border. A spa day and another country!
The retreat is located in the beautiful Croatian countryside and just 30 minutes from the capital.
8) 7-Day Transforming Experience With Yoga and Adventure
⭐ 4.85/5
Location: Five Elements Retreats in Rovinj, Croatia
Dates: Weekly, June – September 2023
Highlights/Key Info: They offer 2 different programs. The Sun program is more active, while the Moon program is more gentle (Each one every second week).
Five Elements Retreats in Rovinj, Croatia offers an amazing retreat that is a combination of yoga and various adventure activities. Retreat participants can enjoy kayaking, biking, hiking, SUP, windsurfing, a boat tour, and more.
Mornings are for practicing diverse styles of yoga, listening to inspiring lectures from your host, Marin, and enjoying brunch together. Most days you will go straight off to an excursion after brunch, but some days you will have time to relax, swim, and go at your own pace. In the evening you’ll dine as a group at local restaurants and then have free time to explore the charming old town and soak up the summer tourist atmosphere if you wish.
This retreat aims to provide a taste of Croatia’s rich history while also taking participants to beautiful hidden beaches, sharing the best sunset views, and reserving mornings for slower movement and meditation.
9) 5-Day Rejuvenate Body and Mind Meditation and Yoga Holiday
This is one of the most popular yoga retreats in Croatia.
⭐ 4.7/5
Location: Ražanj, Croatia
Dates: Dates in May, June, and September 2023
Highlights/Key Info: Lots of free time for solo exploration or resting, meals not included
This retreat aims to provide a peaceful space for relaxation and recentering. They claim to be a minimalist retreat, a place to recover and avoid overstimulation.
Most days you will practice yoga twice daily – all yoga is restorative (Hatha and Yin) and combined with meditation. Also included is a meditative walk to the chapel at “Punta Planka”.
Beyond that, you are free to do what you wish with your time. Sub-Art Yoga is happy to help schedule excursions or spa treatments if you’d like. Optional excursions include boat tours, city tours, or a trip to the National Park Krka Waterfalls.
Ražanj is a small fishing village on the Dalmatian coast, just north of Split. It’s quiet, and secluded, surrounded by olive groves, pine tree forests, picturesque bays, and, of course, the Mediterranean Sea. The retreat house is located right on the water and each floor has its own kitchen where you can cook up your market finds.
10) 5-Day Hiking and Yoga Retreat
⭐ 4.7/5
Location: Ražanj, Croatia
Dates: November 1 – 5, 2023
Highlights/Key Info: Hiking, national park, meals not included, fall retreat
This lovely retreat combines two of my favorite things, yoga, and hiking. Each day you will practice “Zen” yoga once or twice. Zen yoga combines gentle asanas with breathing exercises, corrective exercises, massage, and meditation. It includes elements of Hatha yoga and Chinese Qigong exercises.
Each day will be a different hike excursion, including one full day to the famous Krka National Park to see its amazing waterfalls. The yoga classes and hikes are suitable for all levels.
Massage and other wellness offerings are available, as well as other optional excursions and paddle board rentals on-site.
Ražanj is a perfect location in Croatia for both hiking and yoga. Breathe in the salty air and feel the sea breeze on your skin, relax by the sea, and swim in the rejuvenating and stress-relieving sea water! Private and shared accommodations are available in the retreat house.
11) 7-Day Yogi Explorer – Yoga and Soft Adventure Retreat
⭐ 4.6/5
“As a psychologist from the states, I was burnt out post COVID and desperately needing to recharge….I can’t say enough good things about this retreat! I wish all mental health professionals could take advantage of this fantastic opportunity :)”
Anonymous reviewer on BookYogaRetreats
Location: Dol Sveta Ana, Hvar Island, Croatia
Dates: Monthly dates through October 2023
Highlights/Key Info: Daily hiking, cycling, or sea adventure, cute accommodations
This retreat blends daily yoga with a daily “soft adventure”. Each gentle adventure to an inspiring location around the island is followed by free time at each destination. The activities depend on the season and the weather but ultimately will include a mix of hiking, walking, cycling, snorkeling, sea-kayaking, or paddle boarding.
The yoga and soft adventures are suitable for yoga and nature lovers who are in good health and physically able to participate in the activities described.
Some potential adventures include a hike to Stari Grad, cycling via Ager to Soline Beach, hiking to an abandoned settlement and free time in town, snorkeling in a crystal clear bay & a driving tour through the Lavender Villages.
The retreat center is nestled into a secluded hilltop of Dol, Sveta Ana, which remains unpopulated most of the year. The village features two restaurants and a cafe. Retreat participants will stay in adorable private stone cottages. Quite a dreamy retreat in my opinion!
12) 8-Day Sailing, Island Hopping, and Yoga Holiday
⭐ 4.55/5
Location: Split (start) to Dubrovnik (end)
Dates: August 2024 (two different weeks)
Highlights/Key Info: Trip to the Blue Caves, Green Caves, and Stiniva Bay. Book a multi-city flight flying into Split and out of Dubrovnik (unless you have other plans)
This luxury yoga retreat places slightly less emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation and more on moving, socializing, and exploring. You’ll spend the days lazing on the yacht, practicing yoga, and playing in the water and the evenings wandering the secluded villages on a different island each night.
Several cocktail hours on the boat included, as well as breakfast and lunch. Dinner is not included. The menu looks incredible. Each evening you’ll explore the town, go out to dinner, and check out the tavernas.
You’ll stay on a private yacht with four double-occupancy cabins (although you can book a cabin for yourself if you’d prefer). Plan on an unforgettable 8 days sailing the Adriatic! Truly an incredible retreat.
Reasons to go on Yoga Retreat in Croatia
Croatia is a popular retreat destination for many reasons. It’s stunning, first and foremost. It offers a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, which is perfect for practicing yoga and meditation. The weather from June – September is glorious.
The country is also home to many secluded and picturesque locations, including islands, national parks, and amazing beaches and coastal areas.
Croatia is a wellness destination. Not only are yoga and meditation popular (especially retreats), but Croatians live a relaxed and community-centered lifestyle. Croatia is also home to some of Europe’s best hot springs.
If you are in Europe, Croatia is easily accessible. If you are coming from the States or elsewhere, a retreat is a great excuse to make the trip to Croatia. Croatia has a well-developed tourism industry so organizing a yoga retreat is relatively easy and provides lots of opportunities like tours etc.
Overall, Croatia’s natural beauty, climate, relaxed lifestyle, history, and well-developed tourism industry make it an excellent retreat destination.
How to Choose the Right Croatian Retreat for You
Here are some tips to help you choose the right yoga retreat for YOU:
- Identify your goals: What do you hope to get out of a yoga retreat? Do you want to deepen your yoga practice, connect with nature, meet new people, or simply relax and unwind? Most yoga holidays in Croatia cater to all levels and several styles. If you are looking to focus on a specific style or for an intensive experience, you might want to look into yoga teacher training in Croatia.
- Consider the location: Croatia has varied geography including coastal areas, mountains, plains, and islands! Think about the type of environment you prefer and choose a location that matches your preferences. Also, consider the accessibility of the location and how easy it will be to travel there. 🏖️⛰️
- Consider the additional activities: most retreats will incorporate different wellness practices like meditation, breathwork, a traditional practice, or bodywork. Retreats will also usually incorporate additional activities from hiking 🥾 to cultural excursions, workshops, etc. Make sure the activities and the balance of yoga and activities that are offered match your interests and expectations.
- Research the teachers: Find out who will be leading the retreat and their qualifications and experience. Check if their teaching style aligns with your preferences and if they have any areas of expertise that you are interested in.
- Read reviews: Check online reviews from previous attendees to get a sense of their experiences and if the retreat is well-organized and delivers on its promises.
- Consider accommodations and meals: If accommodations are important to you make sure to check out where you will be staying. Also, check which meals are included so you know how much you will need to budget for additional food
Yoga Retreats in Croatia: FAQ
Croatia has a diverse climate due to its location on the Adriatic Sea and the country’s varied geography, including coastal areas, mountains, and plains. The coastal regions see average summer temps from 77°F to 86°F, and 41°F to 50°F in winter. The mountainous regions can see colder and harsher winters but overall Croatia has a pleasant climate with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures throughout the year.
Croatia is a European country, located in the southeast of Europe.
English is widely spoken in Croatia, especially in tourist areas, larger cities, and among younger generations. Outside of these areas, English proficiency may be lower, and it may be helpful to have some knowledge of Croatian or another language to communicate effectively. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Croatian phrases or bring a translation app or phrasebook with you when traveling to Croatia. NOTE: All of the retreats listed in this post are instructed in English.
Yes, Croatia is generally friendly to American tourists, and visitors from all over the world. Croatians are known for their hospitality and welcoming attitude toward tourists, and American tourists are no exception. The country is popular with American visitors due to its natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural attractions. As with any destination, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and cultural practices, but overall, American tourists should feel welcome and at ease while traveling in Croatia.
The best month to go to Croatia depends on your preferences and interests! The tourist season runs from June to August when the weather is hot and sunny. But this period can be crowded, and prices can be higher.
In the shoulder season months of May and September, the weather is still warm and sunny, but there are fewer tourists and prices may be slightly lower.
April and May, and September and October are the best time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports.
While Croatia and Greece are both popular tourist destinations in Europe with stunning coastlines and rich cultural histories, they have many differences in terms of their culture, cuisine, and traditions.
Generally, Croatia is known for its beaches, rich cultural history, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Specifically, it’s known for its Adriatic coastline (crystal clear water, rugged cliffs, and quaint villages), the walled city of Dubrovnik (UNESCO site), its 8 national parks, being the film location of Game of Thrones, and wine!
Wrap-Up
Croatia is a beautiful destination that offers an abundance of options for yogis seeking a peaceful, rejuvenating, or adventurous retreat.
Croatia also has a very rich history, is home to 10 UNESCO sites, and has 8 national parks. Its geography is vast from inland, to the coast, to the islands. There is no shortage of things to do and see if you’re wanting a little adventure.
I hope that this list of the 12 best yoga retreats in Croatia has inspired you to do something big for yourself! With so many amazing options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect retreat to nourish your mind and body.
