A YOGA & CULTURAL JOURNEY TO GRANADA, SPAIN

Tucked away at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in southern Spain, “Granada is an enchanting Andalusian city awash with an infectious European charm as well as a strong sense of mystery brought on by its storied history... [where] churches and other buildings now sit on sites that were once mosques, bath houses or other Islamic structures.... Though the days of changing dynasties and clashing cultures are long gone, what's left is a tangible sense of traditions deeply rooted in history.” (U.S. News & World Report)

Granada, formerly a Moorish empire, was the last city to be reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492. Its unique blend of Moorish and Spanish influences create an alluring and captivating atmosphere unlike any other place in the world.

The Alhambra, constructed on a plateau that overlooks the city of Granada, is a magnificent historical complex made up of a majestic palace, a Moorish fortress and exquisite gardens. Considered a masterpiece of Andalusian architecture and a wonder of the world, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate details, stunning courtyards and overall beauty. It is also one of the best-preserved palaces of the historic Islamic world.

Our home-away-from home will be a history-laden villa renovated with modern facilities located in the heart of the Albaicín, a historic neighborhood that is the oldest area of Granada. This neighborhood, located on the hill in front of the Alhambra, has some of the best views of the monument, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and sunset. 

Overlooking the Alhambra, our villa has a pool, beautiful indoor and outdoor areas and offers easy walking access to restaurants, cafes, markets, culture, art and music, as well as public transportation.

Highlights of this small, intimate, carefully curated, 5-night retreat:

• Daily, level-appropriate Vinyasa and/or Yin Yoga, meditation and breath-work with Christy
• Tour the iconic Alhambra with a local guide for a deep understanding of its historical and architectural significance and rich cultural heritage
• A visit to the Realejo neighborhood, Granada’s historic center and old Jewish quarter, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture
• Half-day scenic hike along Los Cahorros Trail in the Sierra Nevada National Park, known for its narrow paths along a deep gorge, cascading waterfalls, series of hanging bridges and stunning views
• A flamenco show in a cave within the Sacromonte, one of Granada’s most emblematic neighborhoods known for its gypsy culture and cave dwellings
• Ample time to explore on your own, experience a Moorish hammam spa, take a cooking or art class and enjoy down time at our villa
• Two delicious meals each day: All breakfasts are included, as well as lunch or dinner each day, offering a mix of homemade, plant-based meals at our villa and authentic culinary experiences around the city. All meals will be organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, low salt, low sugar (using only low-glycemic sugars) and locally sourced.

DAILY ITINERARY

Tuesday, October 21 (welcome refreshments & dinner included)

Arrive at our serene villa, nestled in the hills with breathtaking views of the Alhambra. Take time to settle in, exhale deeply, and come together for a lovingly prepared welcome dinner. We’ll gather in circle to open our retreat with intention and begin our shared journey in stillness and connection. Each evening, we’ll observe noble silence from bedtime till breakfast the following morning, allowing for quiet integration and rest.

Wednesday, October 22 (breakfast & dinner included)

Our first full day begins with an extended 2-hour morning practice—yoga, breathwork and meditation—to ground into our surroundings and gently awaken the body. We’ll focus on releasing tension from the hips, shoulders, and hamstrings, while building strength through the core and cultivating balance.

After a wholesome villa breakfast, we’ll head into Granada’s Realejo district, a historic and picturesque neighborhood shaped by Jewish, Muslim, and Christian influences. Meander cobblestone lanes, discover artisan shops and enjoy the charm of this ancient hillside quarter.

You’ll have time on your own for lunch and exploration before we meet again for a guided tour of the iconic Alhambra. Wander through its poetic gardens, intricate palaces, and shaded courtyards, absorbing stories etched in stone and tile.

We’ll return to our peaceful villa for a shared dinner with views of the Sierra Nevada bathed in twilight.

Thursday, October 23 (breakfast & lunch included)

We’ll greet the day with a short meditation and quick breakfast before heading to the charming village of Monachil, just 20 minutes away, for an adventurous 5-mile loop hike (1,181ft elevation gain) in the Sierra Nevada National Park. The scenic Los Cahorros trail winds through a river gorge and features hanging suspension bridges, narrow rock passages, use of ropes and handles in a few spots, and the option to dip into refreshing mountain waters near waterfalls.

After our hike, we’ll enjoy lunch together at a favorite local eatery in Monachil before returning to the villa for rest and integration.

In the late afternoon, we’ll reconvene for a slow and soothing restorative Yin Yoga session designed to calm the nervous system, quiet the mind, release muscle and deeper connective tissues, and invite the body and mind to fully unwind. By releasing into gentle, seated and supine supported poses held in stillness, we allow our vital energy to circulate more freely.

The evening is yours to savor. Perhaps you’ll choose a quiet and quaint restaurant tucked into a historic alleyway. Or join the locals in Granada’s beloved tradition of going out for tapas ("ir de tapeo”)—sampling small plates and soaking in the lively evening atmosphere.

Friday, October 24 (breakfast & dinner included)

Our final full day begins with another luxuriously long, 2-hour yoga session, layering in new movement patterns including twists, gentle heart-openers and backbends, and level-appropriate inversions. As always, you’ll be invited to move at your own pace and listen inwardly.

Following breakfast, the day is yours for independent adventure. You might enjoy visiting local artisan shops, experiencing a Moorish-style hammam bath, or taking a hands-on cooking class to learn the flavors of Andalusian cuisine.

In the evening, we’ll gather again for a flamenco performance set within the caves of Sacromonte—a neighborhood known for its rich gypsy culture, vibrant flamenco scene. cave dwellings and breathtaking panoramic views of the Alhambra, especially at sunset. We’ll follow the show with a celebratory farewell dinner to savor the best of Granada’s local gastronomy.

Saturday, October 25 (breakfast included)

We’ll close our time together with a final morning meditation and breathwork session. After a nourishing breakfast, we’ll share goodbyes as we carry the spirit of our time in Granada back into our lives.

PRICING & REGISTRATION

Double-Occupancy: $2495/person

Single-Occupancy (private bathroom): $3595/person

Included: Accommodations, two meals/day, daily yoga and meditation

Not included: Airport and other transfers, massage and spa treatments, laundry service, alcoholic beverages, tips. 

A non-refundable $750 deposit will hold your space. Subsequent payments are also non-refundable unless we're able to fill the space. 

Payment schedule: 50% of the remaining balance due 3 months prior to the start of the retreat; final payment due 2 months prior to the start of the retreat.

To register, or for questions, please contact Christy at christy@christybrownyoga.com.