RisingSoul Retreat
Reconnect with nature, self, and community.
set in the bohemian Balkan mountains of Bulgaria, RisingSoul Retreat offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and self within a vibrant, eco-conscious community. This non-profit initiative is dedicated to revitalizing a forgotten village, providing a sustainable and healing space for all. Guests are invited to embrace the simplicity of village life, reduce media exposure, and foster community connection. The retreat emphasizes ethical and eco-conscious practices, serving delicious, home-cooked plant-based meals. It's a place where international Karma Yoga Volunteers collaborate to create a safe and sacred environment, welcoming individuals regardless of race, faith, or financial status to explore yoga, health, and wellness.
Highlights
- Non-profit, eco-conscious community reviving a forgotten village
- Collaboration of international Karma Yoga Volunteers
- Emphasis on community connection and reduced media exposure
- Serves natural home-cooked plant-based food
- Offers free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda on specific days
Good for
Setting
Immersed in the natural beauty of the bohemian Balkan mountains of Bulgaria, the retreat embraces the simplicity and culture of village life. The atmosphere encourages community connection and a reduction in external "white noise" and media, fostering a peaceful environment.
The practice
RisingSoul Retreat offers a diverse approach to well-being, focusing on Yoga, Health & Wellness, and Plant Medicine. While a specific tradition isn't named, the emphasis is on collective yoga retreats and creating a healing space. Guests can expect practices designed to help them reconnect with their authentic self and Mother Earth, suitable for all levels.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat, but generally involves yoga sessions, opportunities for community engagement, and enjoying natural home-cooked plant-based meals. The focus is on embracing simplicity, reducing media exposure, and fostering connection within a safe and sacred space.
Accommodation
Accommodation details are not specified in the provided information, but guests can select their bed preference when booking.
What to bring
Pack hiking shoes, a swimsuit, and warm layers like a scarf, poncho, or cardigan for evenings, especially in spring or autumn. A head torch, water bottle, insect repellent, and a journal are also recommended.
How to get there
RisingSoul Retreat is located in Belitsa, Bulgaria. You can reach the area by flying into airports like Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, or Burgas, then taking a bus or train to Tryavna. Rental cars are also an option, and the retreat offers free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda on specific days.
Nearest airport: Sofia Airport (SOF) (84 km)
While the retreat does not explicitly state airport transfers from Sofia Airport (SOF), it is approximately 84 km away. Taxis can be arranged, and the retreat provides free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda once a day, Tuesday through Thursday.
Nearest city: Sofia
Public transport: Buses run to Gabrovo or Veliko Tarnovo, with connecting services or taxis to Tryavna. Trains are also available to Tryavna, particularly a scenic route from Plovdiv.
You can book directly through the retreat's website by selecting your bed preference and following their booking procedure.
Retreats start from EUR159. A 5% discount is offered for direct bookings made through the website.
Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.
Visit RisingSoul Retreat websiteClimate
Evenings and mornings can be chilly in the Balkan mountains, particularly during spring and autumn, so packing warm layers like a wooly hat and gloves is advisable.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What kind of food is served at RisingSoul Retreat?
The retreat serves natural, home-cooked plant-based food, with options available for vegan, vegetarian, Ayurvedic, organic, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.
Do I need to have prior yoga experience to attend a retreat?
The information suggests a welcoming environment for all, regardless of background. While specific beginner requirements aren't detailed, the focus on a "healing space" implies suitability for various experience levels.
How can I get to the retreat from the nearest airport?
The nearest major airport is Sofia Airport (SOF), approximately 84 km away. You can rent a car, take a bus to Gabrovo or Veliko Tarnovo and then a taxi or connecting bus to Tryavna, or take a scenic mountain train from Plovdiv to Tryavna. RisingSoul Retreat also provides free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda once a day, Tuesday through Thursday.
What should I pack for my stay at RisingSoul Retreat?
It's recommended to pack shoes for hiking, a swimsuit, a warm scarf, poncho or cardigan for chilly evenings, and a wooly hat and gloves for spring or autumn mornings. Other suggestions include a head torch, water bottle, insect repellent, journal, any personal medications or special foods, and cash in Bulgarian Levs.
Is there a discount for booking directly with the retreat?
Yes, guests who book directly through the RisingSoul Retreat website receive a 5% thank you discount.
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