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YogaShala ValedeMoses

Vale de Moses

This dreamy Portuguese yoga retreat is calling your name

If you’re lucky enough to be able to fly away this summer, then Vale de Moses in Portugal is the ideal getaway for yoga fans and sun seekers. It’s the ultimate natural healing sanctuary, nestled in the stunning foothills of the Serra de Estrela mountains in the heart of central Portugal.

Practice yoga in a wooden and glass shala floating above edible flower and herb gardens, walk miles of endless paths in the surrounding pine forests, swim in cascading natural river pools, breathe pure mountain air, eat deliciously nourishing fresh veggie and vegan meals, receive healing treatments from compassionate therapists, star gaze and then sleep deeply each night in comfy rustic stone cottages or Soulpad belle tents. Or just find a nice hammock and chill out with your book.

There are retreats planned throughout the summer, led by Vale de Moses owner Vonetta Winter. This month, join her for the Cultivate Contentment with Vonetta retreats (July 1-7, and July 29-4 August).

But the centre is also opening its doors to more people this year…to practice, eat, walk and heal, regardless of your appetite for yoga. After the year we’ve had, you definitely deserve it!

OM readers get a 5% discount on retreats, just quote code ‘OmYoga2021’ when booking. Explore retreat options online at: valedemoses.com

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Pop up yoga

Beach yoga at Neverland London

Start your weekend right by getting stretchy on a Saturday morning with a 75-minute beach yoga flow class — in London! Every weekend (10.30am-11.45am) you can experience a fun and energising class with the Pop Up Yoga Club, with guest teachers bringing their unique styles to the sand…from Vinyasa to Yin, and Power to Acro, there’ll be something new to try each week.

With socially-distanced mat space and flexible booking terms at the Thames beach spot, Neverland, yogis can experience a little slice of paradise surrounded by palm trees and beach huts — getting a holiday fix without having to leave the country! Class tickets cost £20 and also include entry to Neverland London, plus a vegan treat to enjoy and re-energise at the end of the class. Running every Saturday in July.

Visit: popupyogaclub.com

skyros 2 isle of wight

Paradise island

Expand the mind, recharge the body and uplift the spirit on the Isle of Wight this summer

Skyros Holidays has a summer-long programme of creative retreats lined up — including yoga breaks — all set on the idyllic Isle of Wight.

Whether it's learning a new skill or honing existent talents under expert tutoring, there’s something for everyone — from yoga and mindfulness, to life coaching and fiction writing.

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(Each getaway is run as a multi-activity, so there's a chance to dabble in more than one speciality, if desired). Coastline walks, delicious meals and great company await too.

These covidly careful and yet creatively carefree getaways start at £295 for a weekend retreat, including full-board accommodation, masterclass and additional drop-in sessions. It’s time for that long-overdue holiday!

Visit: skyros.com

Om Magazine

First published in November 2009, OM Yoga magazine has become the most popular yoga title in the UK. Available from all major supermarkets, independents and newsstands across the UK. Also available on all digital platforms.