Yoga and nature retreat to the Maluti Mountains, Clarens

Set on a game-farm at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, the Bokpoort Mountain Lodge is the idyllic sanctuary for a weekend of connecting within and with nature. Bordering the Golden Gate National Park (10 minutes from Clarens), this 1000 hectare piece of heaven is yours for a weekend of yoga, mountain hikes/runs/scenic horse-rides, picnics in the veld and so much more.

For the less-adventurous and for those needing to lie low for the weekend, the lodge boasts classy accommodation with carefully chosen finishes that make it beautifully nurturing and homely. Relax on one of the covered patios, around the pool deck, at the fire boma, or at the dam, enjoying delicious produce from the farmhouse kitchen whilst appreciating the historical sandstone charm of the recently restored farm buildings.

Although all weekend activities are optional, the weekend will start with a Friday evening sunset yoga class by lantern light, followed by a boma dinner around the fire. On Saturday morning you’ll start early with a light breakfast, and then set off on a 8km (approx 2 hours) hike/trail-run/horse-ride/game-drive (you choose) into the mountains to enjoy close views of wildebeest, zebra, eland amongst others. You'll end at the dam with a gentle yoga stretch class (and of course a dip in the icy crystal clear water for those willing to brave it) before being presented with a mouth-watering picnic spread at the dam. Saturday afternoon is yours to relax or explore the town of Clarens, with evening sundowners and canapés served at Sunset Rock close-by to the lodge. Saturday night’s dinner will be something really memorable as you sit under the stars, on the pool deck. Sunday morning will begin with a yoga class in the farm’s historical sandstone chapel, and you’ll then indulge in a delicious brunch, before departing for home from 12h00 onwards. The gallery in the link alongside will give a better idea of our venue for the retreat https://www.bokpoort.com/

Caitlin Hird (from Yoga Works) will be your guide on this retreat and will be leading you through 3 yoga sessions focusing on both mindfulness and movement. The yoga sessions are accessible for all levels even if you are new to yoga.

Activities: Yoga (3 classes), hiking/walking/trail running/horse-riding/game-driving, picnic, swim in the dam - all activities are optional.

Fitness: A reasonable level of fitness is required for the hike on Saturday, although there is the option to horse-ride or be driven into the veld on a game-vehicle (if preferred). The hike will take between 1 and 2 hours, along a well-marked trail in the veld.

Price: 4700 ZAR pp sharing. This includes 2 nights accommodation (with rooms serviced daily), all meals, 3 yoga classes, use of horses and game vehicle, tips for the staff (they are incredible) and exclusive use of the 1000 ha farm with its trails, dams, etc. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks, although they do have a fully stocked bar should you prefer to run your own tab for the weekend. For those who’d like to come a day earlier (i.e. on Thursday) the cost is R1600 for the night (dinner,  breakfast and lunch included). There is a lovely quiet area to work and fast WiFi in the cottages should you want make the most of it and spend the day working with a beautiful view.

Book: Fill in online form via ticket link, a 50% deposit secures your spot with the balance due by 19 May.

Food: The farmhouse kitchen caters for both vegan or vegetarian options, for all meals and in-between snacks

Transport: about 3h45 drive from Joburg. Everyone drives to the retreat in their own cars, if you don't have your own transport we'll find you someone who can take you in their car. Please consider carpooling!

COVID-19: in case of renewed travel restrictions bookings will be transferred to a new date. In case this is not possible, payments will be refunded minus a 5% handling fee. All precautions for social distancing and sanitising to be adhered to by all participants at the venue and during the activities.

Cancellation Policy:

·  5% handling fee is charged on all refunds

·  25% of total cost of stay is charged if cancelled 16 to 30 days before arrival date

·  50% of total cost of stay is charged if cancelled 8 to 15 days before arrival date

·  100% of total cost of stay is charged if cancelled 1 to 7 days before arrival date