ExaRetreats Cyclades

Connect, Create, Rejuvenate in the Cyclades.

Greece Cyclades paid

Escape to the Cyclades for a unique wellness experience at ExaRetreats, where the healing power of nature meets expressive arts. More than just a beach vacation, this intimate retreat on the island of Ios is designed to be a soul sanctuary, fostering balance, well-being, and connection. You'll engage your body, mind, and heart through creative expression, reconnecting with your authentic self and life's purpose. Housed in a traditional stone house, the retreat offers organic, farm-to-table meals and the guidance of a native islander with decades of experience in expressive arts facilitation. It's an opportunity to combine a bucket-list destination with profound personal rejuvenation.

Highlights

Engage in expressive arts in a dedicated stone atelier.
Savor organic, farm-to-table Greek cuisine, including local cheeses and fresh fish.
Learn from a native islander with 30 years of experience as an EXA facilitator.
Experience a 'soul sanctuary' that blends wellness with a beach vacation.
Enact myths on a traditional threshing floor.

Good for

expressive arts enthusiastscreative individualswellness seekersnature loversthose seeking cultural immersionbeach vacationers

Setting

Perched on the stunning island of Ios in the Cyclades, the retreat offers an exclusive wellness experience. Guests stay in a traditional stone house, just a short walk from the beach. The natural beauty of the island, with its sun-drenched landscapes and Aegean Sea views, provides a serene backdrop for creative exploration and personal reflection.

The practice

While the specific tradition isn't named, ExaRetreats focuses on expressive arts (EXA) as a path to holistic wellness. This involves engaging creativity through various art forms to foster healing, self-understanding, and joy. Participants can expect hands-on sessions in a fully stocked art atelier, designed to help uncover their authentic selves.

A typical day

The daily rhythm at ExaRetreats Cyclades is centered around creative engagement and well-being. Days typically include expressive arts sessions in the stone atelier or on the threshing floor, balanced with time to enjoy the natural surroundings and the nearby beach. Organic, farm-to-table meals are a highlight, providing nourishment throughout the day.

Accommodation

Guests are accommodated in a traditional stone house, offering an authentic Cycladic living experience. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, and the venue provides free WiFi, towels, and housekeeping services for a comfortable stay.

What to bring

Given the warm Cycladic climate, pack light clothing, swimwear, and sun protection. Comfortable shoes for exploring and any personal art supplies you might wish to use could also be beneficial.

Address Aghia Theodoti, Ios, Cyclades, Greece

How to get there

To reach Ios, Greece, you can take a ferry from Athens, departing from Piraeus or Rafina ports. The journey duration varies from 3 to 10 hours depending on the ferry and weather. Another popular option is to fly to a nearby island, such as Santorini, and then take a short ferry ride to Ios.

Nearest airport: Santorini International Airport (JTR) (3 km)

The nearest airport is Santorini International Airport (JTR), approximately 3 km from Santorini Island. From there, you would need to take a ferry to Ios.

Nearest city: Santorini Island

Public transport: Ferries are the primary public transport to Ios from Athens and other Aegean islands.

Languages

English

Pricing

Pricing for retreats starts from EUR300.

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Jul, Jun, Sep

Avoid: Dec, Nov, Oct

Ios experiences a warm climate with an annual average temperature of 19.1°C. The warmest months are July, August, and June, while the coolest are February, January, and December. The driest months are July, June, and September, so expect plenty of sunshine during these times.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food can I expect during my stay?

You can look forward to organic and locally sourced Greek delights. Meals often include Greek goat yogurt, sweet figs, local cheeses, thyme honey, wood-oven baked bread with local olive oil, fresh salads, fish, and pomegranate juice. Vegan, vegetarian, and pescetarian options are available, and meat is also included.

How do I get to ExaRetreats Cyclades on Ios?

To reach Ios, you can take a ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina ports), which can take 3-10 hours. Alternatively, you can fly to a nearby island like Santorini International Airport (JTR), which is approximately 3 km from Santorini Island, and then take a short 40-minute ferry to Ios.

Are the expressive arts activities suitable for beginners?

Yes, the retreat aims to unleash each individual’s creativity, suggesting that all levels are welcome. The focus is on healing and self-discovery through expressive arts, guided by an experienced facilitator, making it accessible for those new to the practice.

What amenities are included with the accommodation?

Your stay in the traditional stone house includes air conditioning in the rooms, free WiFi, towels, and housekeeping. The venue also offers free parking, a kitchen for guest use, and tour assistance.