Our 4th consecutive Yoga Retreat at Montanema, in the Agrafa mountains near Lake Plastira, offered us a setting straight out of a period movie. The mist spreading between the fir trees and the mountain peaks constantly descended and rose over the Anthochori gorge, while the sound of flowing water from every direction created a musical ensemble that soothed the soul and spirit.
The energy of this specific mountain is staggering, and its combination with daily yoga practice created the perfect conditions for a three-day weekend of relaxation and well-being. We have the advantage and joy of following the evolution of this place for many years. What fascinates us is the philosophy of a sustainable lifestyle, the authenticity of the people and the services provided, and the comfort felt by every guest. Everything you feel, eat, and experience is real. The people who welcome us every year do so with passion and love, maintaining high standards of hospitality and aesthetics.
Our group experienced a series of yoga practices with a specific flow—from introduction to peak and finally recovery—tailored to practitioners of all levels. Our yoga hall, with its unique view of the gorge, was particularly noteworthy. We also had the opportunity to hike the mountain and learn about the local flora and fauna through the vivid descriptions of our guide, Dinos, while discussing the history of the land and “hunting” for mushrooms. Upon our return, a surprise awaited us in the clearing under the oak trees: the fire was lit and mushroom soup was ready. After a mountain trek, what could be more beautiful than warm soup and the sense of community around the fire? The mist, combined with the sounds of classical music playing, created one of the most moving moments of our retreat.
Many continued their hike to the impressive Anthochori waterfalls, where the flow of water and the local morphology are truly captivating. Several lucky members of our group enjoyed the hotel’s unique spa, where oriental elements dominate a distinct wellness philosophy, featuring special treatments integrated into the natural environment. All oils, aromatics, and soaps are handmade using raw materials and herbs from the mountain. Those who emerged from the spa were truly glowing!
Montanema is a holistic experience that ranks as the ultimate winter destination in Greece. We followed the forest, became one with the mountain, and thought about life differently.
Fotini P.S. This was also my anniversary 60th retreat, held in a place that feels like home and that I have experienced in every season. Every period is special in this place.
Testimonials
“Unrepeatable excursion. Unrepeatable retreat. Our Fotini is unrepeatable. This is the 4th time in this wonderful place and everything is better than before; she surprises us every single time.” — B.B.
“I am so happy I decided to participate in this retreat! A wonderful destination, marvelous organization, an amazing experience. We decompressed and will continue with new energy. We thank both Fotini and Petros for everything they offered us.” — A.M. & V.A.
“Everything was wonderful. A unique experience in a magical place. Beyond your professionalism, there is love in what you do, and that is transmitted to us. Thank you.” — K.L.
“Wonderful destination!! As always, very good organization! I will continue these yoga retreats with you without reservation. You were both wonderful.” — M.K.
“This is my 3rd retreat with Fotini and Petros. Every time I attend the retreat with them it’s a new experience and new activities. Myself and my husband Micky really enjoy it. You always choose the right location. She is a perfect instructor and Petros is the perfect organizer.” — M.T.
“Magical place!!! Everything was wonderful once again. Gorgeous images, wonderful experiences and flavors!! Once more, we lived fantastic moments that will accompany our daily lives. Thank you so much for everything, Fotini and Petros. I look forward to our next meeting.” — M.A.
“What a joy to find ourselves on the mountain peaks, in the hearths of gods and nymphs. And all of this with the deepest sense of spirituality, where Fotini leads us. Bravo Fotini, Bravo Petros! A wonderful experience!” — K.D.
“Every time I come, I see your evolution and my heart opens. There is always trust, and as I let go, I see my own evolution as well. It was and is like being at home. Thank you for the journey.” — E.K.
“Thank you for a very beautiful experience! We were thrilled by the location and the walk in nature. Everything was organized and magical!! We will definitely meet at the next retreats.” — G.
“Wonderful experience! Starting from the organization, the place, the classes, and ending with the positive energy I received. I reconnected with myself… Fotini, you are an excellent teacher (name and nature). It will be my pleasure to participate in a future retreat! Be well and thank you for everything!” — M.G.
“Fotini is a beloved and wonderful teacher as always, Petros an excellent organizer; everything was organized to the last detail… But the magic that made this escape truly magical was the location!!! We never imagined we would stay in a gorge, on a stunning lush slope, in a place so beautiful naturally and energetically… Congratulations on your excellent choices and services that exceeded our expectations. Thank you so much for the peace and serenity we received. We will surely talk on your next trip.” — N.M., N.P. & D.
“Just like every time, we expected nothing less than this excellent organization. It is our first time in this place and I truly have no words to describe the beauty surrounding us. Regarding the organization, I have only the best to say for you, Petros and Fotini. It’s as if Petros has anticipated everyone’s individual needs and covers them, while Fotini travels us mentally and spiritually to other worlds. We thank you immensely once more for this unforgettable experience and hope many more will come. We love you!!” — N.K., S.M. & E.
“Fotini, until now my best yoga experience was with you during the Aegina sunsets on the beach. Then, I came here to this retreat and I confess it has exceeded my already high expectations. Wonderful place, amazing organization, the yoga with you is unique. This trip beautifully closes a particularly difficult year for me, and I thank you for that. We will meet again at a future retreat and on the beaches of our beautiful island. And when I move permanently to Aegina (in a few years, I hope), you’ll get tired of seeing me. Fotini and Petros, THANK YOU.” — K.P.
“Thank you very much for the beautiful and relaxing three-day weekend. Fotini, it was my first time practicing and getting to know Yoga through you. You inspired me to continue.” — M.K.
“Dear Fotini and Petros, thank you very much for the amazing weekend you gave us. I hope we meet again somewhere, on one of your travels, to relive unforgettable moments. Thank you.” — A.S.
“Second time… better than the first. I am very happy to have met you. What you offer us is unique and wonderful… Experiences. Thank you very much and looking forward to the next one.” — Z.F.
“Everything was wonderful.” — M.L.
“The important thing is life itself, not the descriptions of it. We lived a magical three-day weekend.” — E.K. & N.K.
“What I felt—the solace, the spiritual upliftment, and the euphoria that flooded my body from head to toe—is one of the things I will carry in my heart leaving this magical place. I felt as if I were in a movie… But what makes a place magical is the energy people put into it, not just the landscape; you do this every time in a special way, and as a result, every experience is unique… Namaste.” — S.I.
“Your aura and soul are reflected in every practice. Thank you for the way you teach and transmit all of this… We will surely meet again soon. Continue this whole journey… Gratitude, love, and faith… P.S. Petros rules!!” — N.
“Thank you so much for everything. We were thrilled by the variation in the Yoga practice. We missed the Yoga Nidra, of course, but the way the relaxation closed with Haris Alexiou’s ‘Prayer’ was wonderful. Best of luck in your next adventures.” — K.L.
“Another magical yoga retreat. Magical landscape in the mist. Amazing cardio yoga. Perfect hikes in the forest and to the waterfalls. Fotini, Petros, and little Dimitra, a big thank you. See you at the next retreat.” — M.Z.
“The experience from my first-ever retreat was fantastic. Everything was wonderful. The location was amazing—an escape to the heart of nature. Thank you very much.” — K.M.
“The place is wonderful, making you want to come back again and again. The energy of the land is unrepeatable. Fotini is always evolving, giving her best self and helping each person individually.” — K.D.
