Surfing Retreats with a Transformative Twist
Brand founder Lindsey Holland, 36, was inspired by the transformative power of surfing to start her own retreats, Marnie Rays. After a solo surf trip three years ago, Holland felt revitalized and wanted to share that feeling with others. Now in its sophomore year, Marnie Rays offers surf trips in Portugal and has announced two new locations for 2024: Ubud, Bali for a unique retreat combining surf, skate, and breathwork, and North West Greece for mountain biking, hiking, and paddleboarding. The retreats provide high-end accommodations, charismatic instructors, and renowned chefs to offer a sense of community and luxury to solo travelers.
A New Wave of London-Founded Retreats
These retreats, founded by female Londoners, cater to solo travelers who seek intimate and inclusive experiences. Unlike traditional wellness retreats, there are no strict itineraries or detoxes. The focus is on creating a convivial and welcoming atmosphere in emerging and cool travel destinations. These retreats offer unique activities such as culinary experiences curated by Matriarch Eats in Greece and cultural and yoga retreats organized by Pana in Africa. The new wave of retreats aims to provide efficient holidays with pre-planned itineraries to meet the demands of time-poor city dwellers.
A Different Approach to Wellness
These retreats prioritize personal well-being and relaxation in a fun and inclusive way. Guests can expect to have a laugh, dance, enjoy good food, and meet welcoming locals. The retreats offer a chance to reset and rejuvenate, providing a break from the fast-paced and exhausting modern life. As more people prioritize unique experiences and adventure travel, the demand for these curated solo trips continues to grow. Travel restrictions being lifted has also contributed to the increased interest in retreats. With people spending more on travel, these London-founded retreats are expanding to meet the rising demand.
Upcoming Retreats
Several retreats are already scheduled for 2024:
- Pana’s yoga retreat in Ghana from October 20 – 27, which includes yoga classes and tours of the Volta region
- Marnie Rays’ surf and wellness retreats in Portugal from June 6 – 11 and 11 – 16, and a skate and surf retreat in Bali from October 1 – 8
- Matriarch Eats’ culinary retreat in Corfu in September, with Athens dates to be announced
- Villa Lena’s seasonal retreats in Tuscany, offering culture and arts experiences throughout the year
These retreats provide unique opportunities for solo travelers to relax, explore new destinations, and connect with like-minded individuals. Prices and itineraries vary depending on the retreat.
