Take sun salutations to a more literal level by holidaying in the rays and enjoying yoga classes while you’re at it! We know that not everyone is mad about a stacks-of-sightseeing stay – battery-recharging relaxation calls too. Fit into the latter camp? We’ve got some idyllic hideaways with your name on them. Come with us on a gentle journey around some of the best destinations for a yoga retreat...

Greece

Jet2holidays is the number one tour operator in the UK, but it’s also top dog (not just of the downward kind) for Greece getaways. Whether you’re after an island escape or a jolly somewhere on the mainland, we can provide the Greek goods. The sheer range of luxurious, wellness-centric hotels in Crete (hello, five-star Daios Cove and Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa) and Corfu means we naturally have choices in those destinations for those who practice yoga. But one place we ventured to that certainly had its finger on the active pulse was Lefkas. The quaint town of Vasiliki was the exact spot – we saw plenty of surfers and gym-goers take to the sand, though beach yoga classes were available too. So, if you’re seeking switch-off time in guaranteed warmth, it’s a winner!

Croatia

Croatia’s a country as captivating as they come. But reframe your search towards Split and the Dalmatian Coast – that's where Hvar, an offshore haven of an isle, waits to welcome you. Very much a hit with A-listers and Instagram influencers, the chic centre is awash with trendy beach clubs, gourmet restaurants and swish bars. That said, you can relish a dose of history up at the hilltop fortress and as you roam the 13th-century walls. Those with their wellbeing radars bleeping will be aware that this summery resort doubles up as the ultimate idyll for yoga. Practise by the water, morning or evening, with a class of others, or even mix it up and book SUP yoga on a paddleboard! You can really play things your way.

The Balearics

It shouldn’t surprise you that the bohemian Balearics made the list – and iconic Ibiza in particular. With the magnetism flowing from Es Vedrà, the rocky island just ahead, and good vibes channelling from the bygone-era Dalt Vila, this whitewashed wonderland is another ideal pick for utterly unwinding. Between Santa Eulalia and San Antonio Bay, you can bank on deep sighs signalling that you’re feeling rested. If you wanted specific pointers about where to stay, you can unpack your suitcase and don your leggings at OKU IBIZA or 7Pines Resort Ibiza, to name just two with soothing facilities and classes. Both are in our five-star Indulgent Escapes portfolio. The former invites you to embrace both yoga and Pilates if the mood takes you, and the latter also offers an aerobics studio for more zen-promoting stretching.

Austria

From airports such as Manchester, Jet2.com flies to Innsbruck, the capital of the Austrian state of Tyrol, almost all year round. That means, while it’s a skier’s paradise when the snow scatters, it’s bright and bold when it glints in the summer sun too. There are so many activities you can get stuck into once you’ve soared into the mountainous marvel, but you’ve got it – we're here to talk European yoga retreats. You might fancy just a casual session or two, or maybe the sound of a yoga festival piques your interest? Well, you’ve got options galore, with the fresh Austrian air to breathe in, no matter what you choose. If ever there was a place to perfect that mountain pose, hey?

Portugal

From hikers to bikers, surfers to dancers, Portugal caters for everyone. But what about if you want to unite body and mind? Even though the Algarve doesn’t shy away from shavasana, it’s Madeira you should make a beeline for, when yoga’s on the brain. This rugged, lush, year-round island is awash with leafy levadas primed for leg day. All about the poses? You can go from noon to night honing your techniques and movements here. You’ll even be able to pair this with meditation experiences and wine tasting, if you’d like a more rounded trip. Again, five-star properties stand out among our collection to facilitate the yoga. Prepare for scenery-rich pool days at Quinta Jardins Do Lago, and delectable afternoon teas to write home about at Reid’s Palace A Belmond Hotel.

Got somewhere in mind for a yoga retreat? All that’s left to say is namaste! Let the booking begin...