6 Day Authentic Yoga, Meditation and Culture Retreat in Ounagha, Essaouira, Morocco
Yoga, Meditation, and Culture Retreat
Welcome to La Vida Surf’s yoga, meditation and nature retreat in mystical Morocco - transformative experiences for everyone regardless of previous practice. Discover a perfect platform to reconnect with your body and empower your mind. Enjoy a unique week of yoga, meditation, journaling and workshops, immerse in vibrant Moroccan nature and culture, and nourish your body with healthy meals. Discover serenity at the intimate Villa Dar Zitoon, a boutique retreat nestled near the World Heritage UNESCO listed city of Essaouira. La Vida Surf invites you to experience what they are passionate about and have cultivated carefully within themselves over years of practice.
Meet the instructors
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Highlights
- Guided and silent meditations
- Moroccan Night with live music
- Complimentary massage and cooking class (from May 2025)
- Daily sunrise and sunset yoga classes
- Daily plant-powered breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet
- Conscious walk in the hills of Ounagha
- Trip to a Essaouira's beautiful colourful old Medina
- 5 nights in boutique accommodation in traditional Moroccan Villa
Skill level
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Yoga styles
Agadir–Al Massira Airport (US$ 92 per person)
Marrakesh Menara Airport (US$ 81 per person)
Essaouira-Mogador Airport (US$ 29 per person)
Accommodation
Facilities
- Swimming pool (outdoor)
- Air-conditioned rooms
- Concierge desk
- Dining area
- Environmentally friendly
- Fireplace
- Garden
- Kitchen
- Lobby
- Lounge
- Luggage room / storage
- Meditation garden
- Multilingual staff
- Picnic area
- Smoke-free property
- Terrace
- Yoga deck
- Yoga shala
- Board rental
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Internet access
- Laundry
- Parking lot
- Wireless internet
Villa Dar Zitoon
Here at La Vida Surf, they enjoy hosting retreats with attention to detail in small groups of up to 17 participants. You will be accommodated in one of the 8 boutique and authentically decorated twin, double and triple rooms. Each room has private ensuite bathroom.
Villa Dar Shajara is a traditional Moroccan house - Riad, with a private pool, a big garden and rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy contemporary comfort and complete privacy along with a chance to experience the authentic life of a local Berber village, known for its warm hospitality and tranquil vibes.
Resting on the hills of Ounagha, the garden of Villa Dar Zitoon is full of fruit and olive trees from which our villa got its name, Dar Zitoon, where “Dar” stands for a house and “Zitoon” for an olive.
Your home away
Witness every sunrise and sunset on the rooftop yoga shala with a stunning 360 view over the Ounagha hills and the city of Essaouira. Immerse yourself into yoga practice with the mountains and nature greeting you, with the white sails protecting you from the sun and a light breeze caressing the yoga session.
Take a dip into a refreshing pool, relax under the warm Moroccan sun and laze on a sunbed with a book from our library to read. Share delightful meals and tales from around the world in a sunny dining hall with a pool and garden view.
Enjoy a cozy moment around the fireplace in the living room, uniquely decorated in traditional Moroccan style. Once the last light disappears over the horizon, explore a magical star map of bright Moroccan sky, and if you are really lucky - see a shooting star.
Program
Program
La Vida Surf's founders have chosen this location for the outstanding nature and vibrant culture of Morocco, therefore it is natural for us to incorporate the unique combination of these elements into your retreat. With La Vida Surf, you will enjoy both a relaxing wellness retreat and an active vacation, through practicing daily yoga, integrating with nature and experiencing the highlights of Moroccan culture.
La Vida Surf's retreats are created for everyone regardless of previous experience. All they ask from you is an interest in self-reflection, transformation and good times. They are not here to tell what you will feel but to provide a platform for self-development, peace of mind and body, as well as the tools necessary for continuing your practice on your own once you return from the retreat.
Daily yoga classes
You will begin your mornings with journaling and meditation, followed by a gentle flow, vinyasa or hatha yoga class to open your body, mind and spirit. Each class lasts 90-120 minutes and takes place at the rooftop yoga shala with a stunning 360° views of both sunrise and sunset.
The classes follow a classical yoga protocol including pranayama (breathing), asana (seating or dynamic posture) and savasana (relaxation).
Your evening classes are designed to calm down and restore our body and mind after an active and vibrating day. You will engage in a calm Yin or Restorative yoga practice including relaxation and meditation. Donating a moment to full relaxation during each day is as important as the active lifestyle. We invite you to release and rejuvenate during the evening classes.
Wednesday workshop
Elevate your experience with our curated additional workshop, designed to deepen your practice and enhance your well-being. From guided mindfulness sessions to rejuvenating breathwork or dancing, our workshop offers a harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and modern mindfulness.
Nature walk & Mindfulness
Integrate with nature during a silent walk through the hills covered with ancient Argan trees and wild plants. Open the senses and allow the elements to forge you.
Take a short magical journey through the long-established Berber villages, sit down for a mindful exploration of senses.
How your day will look like:
Day 1 – Arrival & grounding
- 15:00 Check-in opens (welcoming mocktail)
- 16:30 Welcome tea ceremony, opening circle & Gentle Yoga
- 19:00 Dinner
- After dinner – sacred silence & stargazing
Day 2 – Connection & Exploration
- 07:30 Morning Yoga (journaling, meditation, pranayama, Dynamic asana)
- 09:30 Breakfast
- 11:00 Nature walk & mindfulness
- 13:30 Lunch & free time
- 17:00 Yin Yoga (meditative practice with work on deeper tissues in our body)
- 19:00 Dinner
- After dinner – sacred silence & stargazing
Day 3 – Cultural Immersion & Relaxation
- 07:30 Morning yoga
- 09:30 Breakfast
- 10:30 - 16:00 Excursion to Essaouira, lunch out in the city
- 17:00 Yin Yoga
- 19:00 Dinner
- After dinner – sacred silence & stargazing
Day 4 – Deepening the Experience
- 07:30 Morning yoga
- 09:30 Breakfast
- 11:00 Special Workshop (e.g., Movement, Breathwork, or Yoga Philosophy)
- 13:30 Lunch & free time
- 17:00 Yin Yoga
- 19:00 Dinner
- After dinner – sacred silence & stargazing
Day 5 – Celebration & Community (Moroccan Night)
- 07:30 Morning yoga
- 09:30 Breakfast
- 11:00 Free time
- 13:30 Lunch & free time
- 16:00 Moroccan Cooking Workshop
- 19:00 Moroccan night (Tajine feast, Berber music and dancing)
Day 6 – Departure & Integration
- 07:30 Yoga & closing circle
- 09:30 Breakfast
- 11:00 Check-out & goodbyes
Included excursions
Culture Excursion
Experience the magic of Essaouira on a day trip from our yoga retreat. Wander through the charming medina, explore the bustling souks, and soak in the coastal vibes.
Enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant, savoring the fresh seafood and Moroccan flavors, all while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem. A perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and the lively ambiance of this coastal gem awaits.
Moroccan Night with Cooking Class (starting from May 2025)
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Morocco during our special Moroccan Night. Dinner is served with a touch of authenticity, as flavorful tajines—vegetarian or fish, depending on availability—are presented in traditional clay dishes. Before the feast, you'll join a hands-on cooking class, where you'll learn the art of preparing these delicious dishes, gaining insight into the rich culinary heritage of Morocco.
The evening comes alive with the soulful sounds of a local band. Guests are invited to join the rhythm, learning traditional Berber dances and even trying their hand at playing the instruments. This lively and interactive evening is a celebration of community, culture, and joy.
Complimentary Massage
Enjoy a complimentary 30 minute massage by the on site massage therapist
Instructors
Vanessa Gagnon
Vanessa, a yoga, meditation, and paddleboard instructor since 2015, promotes love and non-violence in practice. Her inclusive classes focus on exploring each asana for body-mind unity and stress relief. Committed to mindful yoga, she integrates breath exercises, fostering balance. Organizing nature-inspired yoga retreats for three years, Vanessa sees yoga as a holistic journey towards inner harmony.
Isabel Carpenter
After training in Bali, Izzy has taught in studios across the world—from the UK to Australia to Asia. She believes in the holistic benefits of yoga and teaches a deeply embodied, spiritual practice. Her approach encourages students to fill their own cup so they can overflow into others. Drawing on her studies of yoga philosophy, she shares traditional teachings, including prānāyāma and āsana, to help students connect with their truth. Izzy creates a warm, loving space where everyone feels supported and empowered on their journey.
Retreat location
La Vida Surf's founders have chosen this location for the outstanding nature and vibrant culture of Morocco, therefore it is natural for us to incorporate the unique combination of these elements into your retreat.
Morocco is often described as the land of mystery and fascinating culture. You will soon experience what it means to stand on the vibrating grounds of Africa surrounded by ancient Argan trees, and to discover the vibrant and colourful old town of Essaouira.
Villa Dar Zitoon is located 20 kilometres from the famous city of Essaouir, 30 minutes from Essaouira Mogador Airport and 2,5h from Marrakech Menara Airport reachable by direct flights from major European cities.
Unique features
Activities
- Camel riding
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horse riding
- Kayaking
- Kitesurfing
- Massage
- Mountain walking
- Shopping
- Surfing
- Swimming
- Swimming pool (outdoor)
- Trail running
- Wave boarding
General
- Air-conditioned public areas
- Air-conditioned rooms
- Bar
- Barbeque facilities
- Beach
- Café
- Concierge desk
- Dining area
- Fireplace
- Garden
- Honesty bar
- Lounge
- Luggage room / storage
- Meditation garden
- Multilingual staff
- Picnic area
- Poolside bar
- Restaurant
- Special menu request
- Terrace
- Yoga deck
- Pet friendly
- Patio
Services
- Bicycle rental
- Board rental
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Hair dryer
- Internet access
- Ironing / ironing board
- Laundry
- Library
- Local market
- Room cleaning
- Tour assistance
- Wedding
- Wireless internet
Food
At La Vida Surf, you will be served meals with a purpose. You will nourish your body with plant-powered breakfasts, lunches and dinners. You will eat healthy, fresh, and organic food handpicked from the nearby region and provided by local farmers.
Your menu will consist of delicious vegetarian and vegan meals, inspired by yogic and Moroccan cuisine, with private chefs adapting their recipes to your dietary requirements and allergies. If you follow a pescatarian diet, you will be catered to a fresh fish of the day from the local fishermen for one of your dinners.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
The following drinks are included:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Detox juices
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Lacto-ovo Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten Free
- Organic
- Pescatarian
- Lactose Free
- Whole food
- Yogic
- Other dietary requirements on request
Things to do (optional)
There are numerous things to do in our region and La Vida Surf team will introduce you to what we are passionate about: surf adventures in the Atlantic Ocean, purifying hammam and massage treatments, conscious walks and hikes, nature trips to visit Diabat Dunes and the ruins of the Sultan's Palace from mid 1800's.
Surf Adventures
During your retreat, you will be also able to integrate with nature through surfing. You can test your skills in surfing, windsurfing, or even the thrilling art of wing foil. With the experienced team of instructors and guides you will learn the basics of surfing in its various forms and learn how to read the Ocean.
Hammam and Massage Rituals
One of the highlights of Moroccan culture is the ancient purifying ritual of hammam using a traditional combination of black soap and mineral-rich rhassoul clay. Enrich your wellness holiday by allowing yourself to be taken care of, washed and scrubbed, soaked in Argan oil, followed by a relaxing or tonifying massage or other wellness treatments.
Spa treatments
Complimentary 30min massage on site (possibility to extend)
Hammam & spa treatments available during the trip to Essaouira (not included in price)
What's included
- 5 nights’ accommodation
- 5 morning yoga classes
- 4 evening yoga classes
- 1 cooking workshop
- 1 yoga workshop
- Complimentary 30 minute massage
- Welcoming tea ceremony
- Nature walk and mindfulness in the Ounagha hills
- Day trip to Old Medina & Beach of Essaouira
- Moroccan night with cooking class and Amazigh band
- 5 healthy nutritious breakfasts
- 3 colourful lunches (one lunch out in Essaouira not included)
- 5 organic tasty dinners
- Wake up Moroccan tea
- Assortment of yoga equipment
What's not included
- Surf adventures
- Hammam and massage rituals
- Airport transfers
- Lunch on the day out in Essaouira
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Agadir–Al Massira Airport
134 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 92 per person
Marrakesh Menara Airport
141 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 81 per person
Essaouira-Mogador Airport
21 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 29 per person
Transfers
Private taxi service is available for arrivals and departures upon request for an affordable additional cost.
If you are traveling around Morocco before or after the retreat, a private taxi service is also available in any other requested location.
The prices shown can be shared when arriving at a similar time with other guests.
Essaouira Mogador Airport
La Vida Surf is located 30 minutes' drive from the nearest local Essaouira Mogador Airport (ESU) which is served by international airlines operating direct flights on from major European cities.
Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK)
If you arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), commuting to Essaouira by bus is also very easy and safe, and La Vida Surf will help you along the way to find the right place. Book your ticket with local bus companies CTM or Supratours.
Agadir–Al Massira Airport (AGA)
La Vida Surf is located 3,5h drive from the Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA). There is bus services to Essaouira running from the city center of Agadir.
La Vida Surf Nature Retreats can also arrange private taxi transportation from Marrakech or Agadir for an additional cost. The driver will meet you at the airport or any other location in Marrakech at the requested time with the sign “La Vida Surf” and bring you directly to the villa.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 50% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through BookYogaRetreats.com. All major credit cards supported.