Bliss & Stars

Nature, meditation, stars, and profound presence.

Costa Rica paid

Escape the everyday at Bliss & Stars, a truly unique retreat set within the vast, untamed beauty of South Africa's Cederberg Mountains. This isn't just a place to meditate; it's a sprawling 1,350-hectare off-the-grid sanctuary designed to feel like a home away from home, where every guest is treated as a friend. The remote location ensures complete privacy and freedom from distractions, fostering deep relaxation and a profound reconnection with nature and oneself. Programs thoughtfully blend meditation and movement with the unexpected delight of astronomy, encouraging a slower pace and a deeper sense of presence. Expect exceptional culinary experiences too, with meals crafted from garden-fresh ingredients and local farm produce, making the journey to this remote haven well worth it for a profound sense of peace.

Highlights

1,350-hectare off-the-grid property ensuring complete privacy
Unique program blending meditation, movement, and astronomy
Gourmet meals prepared with garden-sourced and local farm ingredients
Guests treated as friends in a 'home away from home' atmosphere
Remote Cederberg Mountains location for ultimate disconnection

Good for

nature loversthose seeking deep relaxationastronomy enthusiastsfoodiesindividuals looking to disconnect

Setting

Bliss & Stars is situated within a breathtaking 1,350-hectare valley along the Doring River, deep in the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa. This off-the-grid property provides an unparalleled sense of privacy and tranquility, surrounded by rugged natural beauty that encourages introspection and a deep connection with the environment.

The practice

While not tied to a specific tradition, Bliss & Stars integrates meditation with movement, food, and astronomy to guide participants into presence and stillness. The approach is designed to help individuals slow down, accept themselves, and experience greater joy and wholeness. Beginners are welcome, as the focus is on personal exploration rather Tthan adherence to a strict doctrine.

A typical day

Daily life at Bliss & Stars is crafted to foster presence and stillness, blending meditation and movement practices. Days include delicious brunch and afternoon snacks, culminating in a fine dining experience. The schedule also incorporates unique elements like astronomy, allowing for a balanced rhythm of introspection, activity, and connection with the natural world.

Accommodation

The specific accommodation types are not detailed, but the center emphasizes a 'home away from home' atmosphere where guests are treated as friends, suggesting comfortable and welcoming lodging within the remote, private setting.

What to bring

Given the remote, natural setting, consider packing comfortable clothing suitable for movement and meditation, as well as layers for varying temperatures. Essentials for enjoying the outdoors and potentially stargazing would also be beneficial.

Website blissandstars.com

How to get there

Bliss & Stars is located on Melkbosch Rug Farm in Clanwilliam, Western Cape, South Africa. It's a remote destination, approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Cape Town Airport. Guests can rent a car, arrange a shuttle service, or opt for a helicopter ride to reach the property. A 4x4 is not necessary.

Languages

English

How to book

For booking and travel arrangements, you can contact the center at [email protected].

Pricing

Retreats at Bliss & Stars start from USD3200. This price typically covers the program, meals, and accommodation, though specific inclusions should be verified with the center.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Bliss & Stars website

Location

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get to Bliss & Stars?

Bliss & Stars is quite remote, about a 4.5-hour drive from Cape Town Airport. You can rent a car, arrange a shuttle service, or even take a helicopter. A 4x4 vehicle is not required for the journey. For detailed travel arrangements, you can contact the center directly.

What kind of meals are served at the retreat?

The retreat offers an incredible fine dining experience, brunch, and afternoon snacks. Meals are prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from their own garden and neighboring farms. They can also accommodate various dietary needs including vegan, vegetarian, organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options.

What is included in the retreat price?

The pricing starts from USD3200, which covers the curated program blending meditation, movement, food, and astronomy, as well as all meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Specific details on accommodation type included should be confirmed directly with the center.

Are there any amenities available at the center?

Yes, Bliss & Stars provides several amenities for comfort, including A/C in rooms, free Wifi, a pool, towels, free parking, a kitchen, tour assistance, a restaurant, and housekeeping services.

How long are the retreat programs?

Bliss & Stars offers programs that are either 4-day or 5-day in duration, designed to provide ample time for rejuvenation and reconnection.