The 4th consecutive Yoga Retreat in Montanema, Agrapha-Plastiras Lake, had a setting taken out of a historical film, in store for us. The mist and fog were spreading among the pine trees and mountains. You could see it emerge from Anthochori canyon, and hear the flowing water all around you, creating a setting which would soothe your mind and soul.
The energy of this mountain is just amazing, and the combination with every-day yoga sessions, created the unique conditions needed for 3-days of relaxation. We have had the opportunity to watch the space evolve through the years. What really fascinates us is the philosophy around a sustainable way of life, the authenticity of the people, and the quality of the services they offer which make the guest feel welcome and comfortable. Everything you see, feel and eat is real. The people welcome us year after year with love and happiness. No one can deny the high standards of hospitality and aesthetic.
We practiced yoga, with a structured flow of movements, from the start to the climax and finally the cooling down, adjusted of course on everyone’s fitness levels. The unique views over the canyon from our yoga class is truly remarkable. We also had the opportunity to hike on the mountain, get to know the flora and fauna of the area, and through the vivid descriptions of our tour guide Dinos, we learned the history of these lands, and foraged for mushrooms. On our return a surprise awaited us in the outdoors oak tree grove. A bonfire had been lit and the mushroom-soup was ready. Nothing better than a hot soup after a relaxing hike, and of course the feeling of relaxing with good company around a fire. The misty landscape and the classical music playing created one of the most intense and moving moments of this retreat.
Many of us continued their hike to the extraordinary Anthochori Waterfalls where the flow of the water and the morphology of the area will take you away.
Some lucky ones from our group had the chance to enjoy the spa services of the hotel, with the oriental element prevailing and also witness a different philosophy of wellbeing based on special therapies, adjusted to the surrounding nature setting. All the essential oils, aromas and soaps are home-made with raw materials and herbs from the mountain. Those who came out of the spa were sparkling!
Montanema offers a universal experience, making it the ultimate winter destination in Greece. We took a hike through the woods, became one with the mountain and saw life differently.
Fotini
P.S It was my 60th retreat in a place I feel like home and have lived through many seasons. This Peace us fresh Special
