What to expect from Retreat Yourself 2023!
For a few short days each year, a village of endless possibilities comes alive and opens its gates to the outside world. This pop-up village invites individuals of all ages and walks of life to loosen the grip of modern society and take a leap of faith into the unknown. For it is in the unknown where we can truly find ourselves.
The village is a melting pot of interaction, introspection and inspiration. Stroll down the bustling streets and if you wish, make your way to one of the many carefully designed & uniquely activated spaces on offer.
Retreat Yourself focuses on 4 pillars: Music and Performance, Food and Drink, Learning, Culture and Wellness Yoga and Movement
So what can you expect from RY2023?
Its all happening at Elandskloof Farm, 29 March - 2 April!
SOUL CENTRE
This community space offers a private & safe sanctuary, where participants are given the space to go deeper within themselves, make meaningful connections with others and explore new practices. You can expect a variety of ceremonies, women-only workshops & talks, sound journeys, meditations, and classes throughout the weekend.
SACRED SWEAT LODGE
Find the Sacred Fire that burns for the Sweat Lodge Ceremonies during the festival. The Sacred Sweat Lodge can be found crossing a small bridge and amongst the forest tree guardians, close to the stone cottage. This Purification Prayer Ceremony takes place in a beautifully built dome shaped structure, called the “womb or temple” of Pachamama. This offering of Native American traditional technology, brings you ever closer to the Ancients, the Spirit realm, and all kingdoms of our Sacred Mother Earth….
THE YOASIS
The art of movement is at the core of the festival experience and requires a space that truly honours this. The Yoasis is a majestic and tranquil temple dedicated to movement. With mesmerising views of the Helderstroom valley, this is a perfect setting to practice your moving meditation or bath in a sound journey.
ROLLER RINK
A one-of-a-kind feature at Retreat Yourself, the Roller Rink is a space where movement and dance collide in a way that is fun and expressive. This fully floored space can be found at the foot of giant oak trees, so watch out for those falling acorns! This place is home to the much loved Roller Disco and doubles up as a movement space, where you can find primal flow, nia, pilates, kids yoga, acro yoga and much more.
FOREST STAGE
Found alongside the banks of the river & popular swimming spot, the Forest Stage is the meeting point for the weekend. With an abundance of natural shade and on the doorstep of the Market, this stage is the heartbeat of the village. There truly is something for everyone – melodic & downtempo DJs, singer-songwriters, stand-up comedians and live bands.
SECRET DANCE FLOOR
Dancing, music and self-expression are central elements to this unique festival experience. If you are looking to release some energy and dance under the stars, this late night attraction is likely to call your name. Showcasing sonic selectors in the realm of specifically curated dance music, this dancefloor gives those festival lovers an answer to their auditory yearnings.
THE RESTAURANT
A pop-up eatery under a canopy of trees, situated on the bank of the river – The Restaurant is a melting pot for food, drink, conversation and jazz. Book a spot at the ever-so-popular Dinner Banquet & Champagne Brunch, and make a toast to the town with friends, old and new. Or tempt your tastebuds at one of the many Masterclasses, where you can learn from top chefs at these live cooking demonstrations.
KIDS CLUB
Home base for our younger attendees, the Kids Club offers a wide variety of activities suited to children between the ages of 4-12 years of age. From the adventure course & soccer to tie-dye & story-telling, you can feel safe leaving your children in the hands of the qualified childminders with a wealth of experience. There are also a number of kid-friendly movies at the Cinema as well as daily kids yoga classes at the Roller Rink.
THE CINEMA
Whether you are planning a quiet night in or if you want to meet a loved one for a date, the Cinema has your movie-night covered. Indulge in a wide selection of films, including screenings of a variety of documentaries, classics, blockbusters and kid-friendly films.
THE VILLAGE MARKET
The heart of the village is undeniably The Market. This festive space is where all the villagers gather to fuel their bodies, enjoy the Forest Stage entertainment, grab a drink and browse through stores offering beautifully crafted items.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS & ACCOMMODATION
Your Retreat Yourself 2023 ticket is the key that unlocks your five-day adventure! Your ticket gives you full access to yoga & movement classes, a variety of talks & workshops, sound journeys, all entertainment spaces and much more. With an abundance of offerings at your disposal, you are invited to curate your own experience.