3 Day New Year's Eve Special Yoga Spiritual Retreat in Torrelles de Foix, Barcelona, Spain

Accommodation

Check-in Time:

15:00

Check-out Time:

15:00

Alaya Retreat Centre is an inspiring, idyllic, and peaceful place that can accommodate yoga retreats, meditation groups, and workshops of all kinds. Its tranquil setting also includes many animals such as horses, dogs, cats, chickens, and more.

This beautiful ‘masia’ (wine farm) consists of three private villas, one large villa, and the 120-square-meter yoga shala. The beautiful 4×12-square-meter swimming pool is located at the far end of the garden between the fruit and palm trees. There is a wellness center with a Jacuzzi and a sauna near the swimming pool area as well.

They offer accommodation for everyone's budget. You can sleep in a suite with your private Jacuzzi, in a standard double room, or in one of their comfortable bunk beds. You can choose a private room or a shared accommodation.

Program

This retreat is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the Christmas hustle and bustle, reconnect with yourself, and enhance your best version. Surrounded by the exuberant nature that surrounds us, you will enjoy an ideal environment to relax, rejuvenate, and breath fresh air.

The Ceremonial concert “From Root to Heart” (on 31st December) will be led by Raffa Martínez, an artist who has been dedicated to the integration of art and spirituality through music for more than a decade. This concert is a ritual of sowing purposes. Around a heart-shaped floral mandala, guests sing, pray, and open an intimate and sacred space to celebrate from and for Love.

Full program of the retreat

Day 1 (30/12/24)

09:00 Yoga class
11:00 Brunch
12:30 Meditation
15:00 Snack
17:00 Yoga class
18:30 Introduction to reiki healing by Ellen
20:30 Dinner
22:00 Sharing circle by the fire

Day 2 (31/12/24)

09:00 Yoga class
11:00 Brunch
13:00 Meditation with horses
15:00 Snack
19:00 Opening circle
20:30 Dinner
22:30 Heart opening ceremonial concert

Day 3 (01/01/25)

09:30 Breakfast
11:00 New Year's Eve puja
12:00 Cacao ceremony and sacred chants
14:00 Lunch and farewell

Meditation with horses

Meditation and healing with horses combine the profound benefits of mindfulness with the intuitive presence of these majestic animals. In equine-assisted therapy, individuals engage in guided meditation sessions alongside horses, fostering a unique therapeutic environment. Horses, known for their sensitivity and ability to mirror human emotions, help individuals achieve deeper emotional insights and relaxation.

The meditative process around horses promotes a sense of calm and connection, enhancing mental clarity and emotional healing. Participants often report reduced stress, improved emotional regulation, and a stronger sense of inner peace. This holistic approach harnesses the natural bond between humans and horses, creating a powerful space for personal growth and healing.

Oljee (the heart of meditation with horses)

Ooljee together with Ginebra are the rescue horses living at the retreat centre. Ooljee is a remarkable gelding known for his profound ability to connect with humans on a deep, emotional level. His serene and calming presence is a cornerstone of the “Meditation with Horses” program.

From a young age, Ooljee exhibited a gentle and intuitive nature. His unique blend of calm energy and perceptive sensitivity made him an ideal candidate for therapeutic and meditative practices. Trained in natural horsemanship, Ooljee has developed a remarkable ability to sense and respond to human emotions, making him an exceptional guide for those seeking mindfulness and inner peace.

In the “Meditation with Horses” program, Ooljee plays a pivotal role. Participants often describe their experiences with him as transformative, noting how his presence helps them to ground themselves and find clarity. Ooljee’s intuitive responses to human touch and emotion allow individuals to feel understood and supported, facilitating a deeper meditative state and emotional release. Ooljee’s interactions with humans foster a unique form of communication that transcends words, teaching participants the value of presence, empathy, and mutual respect. Whether standing quietly beside someone in a field or gently nudging them towards mindfulness, Ooljee embodies the principles of the program through his actions and demeanor.

Beyond his work in meditation, Ooljee enjoys a peaceful life on the eco farm, spending his days grazing and forming close bonds with both his equine companions and human caretakers. Ooljee’s story is a testament to the healing power of horses and the profound impact they can have on human lives. Through his gentle guidance and unwavering presence, Ooljee continues to touch hearts and minds, helping individuals find peace and connection in the stillness of meditation.

Ginebra (the gentle guide of meditation with horses)

Ginebra is a full-bred Spanish horse celebrated for her exceptional gentle energy and her remarkable talent for holding space for the groups. As a central figure in the “Meditation with Horses” program, Ginebra’s calming presence is a beacon of peace and clarity for many participants.

Although she was abandoned and had a tough life before she joined us, Ginebra’s temperament has always been marked by her calm demeanor and sensitivity. Her natural inclination towards gentleness and understanding made her an ideal candidate for meditative and therapeutic practices. Ginebra has refined her ability to connect deeply with human emotions, making her a perfect partner for those on a journey towards mindfulness.

In the “Meditation with Horses” program, Ginebra’s role is pivotal. Participants frequently describe their experiences with her as deeply moving, highlighting how her tranquil presence helps them achieve a state of mindfulness and emotional balance, especially during moments of stress. Ginebra’s intuitive ability to hold space allows individuals to feel understood and supported, fostering a sense of calmness and resilience.

Ginebra’s unique approach to interaction transcends traditional communication, teaching participants the importance of presence, empathy, and mutual respect.

Her favorite pastimes include peaceful walks through nature and soaking in the tranquility of her surroundings, which she generously shares with those who come to learn from her.

Ginebra’s story highlights the powerful bond between horses and humans and the significant impact this connection can have on personal well-being. Through her gentle guidance and steadfast presence, Ginebra continues to help individuals find inner peace and a profound connection with the present moment during meditation sessions.

Instructors

Ellen Christiaanse

Ellen took her first yoga classes at age 14. At that age, she wanted to become a vet. After that, she was a bit distracted for about 30 years by doing a master's in psychology and a doctorate in Information Systems at Harvard and MIT, and working for many years in the academic and consulting world. From 2005 on, she started to focus again on what life was really about and educated herself in healing techniques. In 2008, she left her academic career as an Associate Professor of Information Systems to dedicate herself to building Alaya Retreat Center at Masia Cal Pau Cruset near Barcelona.

Location

Alaya Retreat Centre is located in a 150-year old renovated wine farm, “Cal Pau Cruset," just 45 minutes from Barcelona. The place is surrounded by vineyards and a large garden with fruits, olive, and almond trees.

Distances

Beach - 25 minutes
Barcelona - 45 minutes

+−

Features

Activities

Hot tub / Jacuzzi
Sauna
Swimming pool (outdoor)

General

Dining area
Garden
Kitchen
Terrace
Yoga shala

Food

Delicious, healthy, fusion style vegetarian food

Indulge in the exquisite vegetarian cuisine that is sourced locally, organic when possible and prepared using seasonal ingredients. Alaya's amazing buffets offer a variety of options including meat and fish for those who prefer it upon request. Come and savor a meal that is not only delicious but also sustainable.

The following meals are included:

Brunch
Dinner
Snacks
Drinks

The following drinks are included:

Water
Coffee
Tea
Alcoholic beverages

The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:

Vegetarian
Lacto-ovo Vegetarian
Organic
Regular (typically includes meat and fish)

If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation

Spa treatments

You can book the following for additional costs:

Massage therapy (1 hour) - 60 EUR
Reiki session - 60 EUR
Massage therapy (1.5 hour) - 99 EUR

What's included

All activities (yoga, meditations, ceremonies, music night)
Activities' materials
Access to shared areas like gardens, terraces, pool, and chill areas
2 nights accommodation
2 meals per day and 1 snack

What's not included

Flight
Airport transfers
Extra services like massages, individual sessions of reiki, sound healing, and anything not mentioned on the listing

How to get there

Recommended Airports

BCN

Barcelona–El Prat Airport

41 km

Transfer available for additional US$ 113 per person

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN). Transfers from and to this airport are not included but can be arranged for an additional 110 EUR for one way. Please send an inquiry.

If availed, Alaya Retreat Centre's trusted local driver Jose will be waiting for you at the airport with a sign saying ALAYA / CAL PAU CRUSET. He will be waiting in Terminal 1 in front of the cafeteria Go Natural or in Terminal 2 in front of the huge horse statue in Puerta B. For drop-off service from Alaya to the airport, it can be arranged on your arrival.

Arrival by train

From the airport, you can take a train or a metro to Plaza Catalunya or Sants in Barcelona. Then, take the R4 train (5.40 EUR) to Villafranca del Penedes. Ride a 10-minute taxi to Alaya Retreat Centre at Cal Pau Cruset for 20 EUR. The train runs every half hour. There are always taxis in front of the station.

If you are coming from Barcelona, you can also take the R4 train (the train runs every half hour) to one of these stations:

Arc de Ttriumf
Plaza Catalunya
Sants to Vilafranca del Penedes (52 minutes)

From these stations, you can take a 10-minute taxi ride to Alaya Retreat Centre at Cal Pau Cruset for 20 EUR. There are always taxis in front of the station.

Airport: Barcelona–El Prat Airport Airport transfer available: Barcelona–El Prat Airport (US$ 113 per person) Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.

Cancellation Policy

A reservation requires a deposit of 100% of the total price.
The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.

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