The Azure Horizon Retreat - Albania

Facts

  • Monday, 5 October - Saturday, 10 October 2026
  • Vlorë - A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Southern Albania
  • A small group of 8 to 12 women

Included: 

  • Daily Yoga and Meditation
  • Breathwork & Cold Plunge 
  • Indoor & Outdoor Pool
  • Sauna and Hammam
  • Hikes and Beachdays
  • Brunch, Snacks and Dinner. All made with fresh products from our Swiss/Albanian chef
  • Transport to and from the location from Tirana Airport.

Essentials of The Azure Horizon Retreat - Albania

Welcome, dear guest!

We warmly invite you to The Azure Horizon Retreat Albania in Vlorë, nestled in the sun-kissed hills of southern Albania. Surrounded by wild nature and endless skies, this is a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with yourself arried by the gentle rhythm of the Mediterranean.

Here, the softness of the landscape meets the warmth of Albanian hospitality. Flowing yoga sessions, soothing spa rituals with sauna and hammam, and long, unhurried moments by the pool create a deeply nourishing experience designed to help you unwind and recharge.

In this serene setting, you’ll find space to let go, ground yourself, and gain clarity not through intensity, but through ease. Lounge in the sun, cool off in our pool, or simply take in the scent of herbs and fresh mountain air drifting through the terraces.

With guidance from experienced hosts, you’ll be gently supported in reconnecting with your body and mind, while leaving space for your own personal rhythm.

This retreat is perfect if you long to combine relaxation, movement, and meaningful connection while discovering the authentic, untouched beauty of Albania, far from mass tourism.
Expect slow Mediterranean mornings, journaling in the shade, shared meals full of local flavors, inspiring conversations, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and deep, restorative rest.

We look forward to welcoming you to a place where lightness, warmth, and nature come together and where you can truly arrive.

Yoga

Find balance between effort and ease.
Start your day with Morning Meditation and Vinyasa Flow, synchronising your breath with the sunrise. Feel the energy of the surrounding nature as you stretch and strengthen your body.

In the evening, unwind with a 45–60-minute yin yoga or yoga nidra session. Release stress and tension as you are guided by the soothing sounds of nature and a carefully curated playlist.

Ice Bath

The 16th-century Stone Bridge of Brataj spans the crystal-clear waters of the Shushicë River a place where history meets nature, and the rhythm of the flowing river invites you to reconnect with yourself. Just a few minutes’ walk from our Villa, the river is easily accessible, allowing us to seamlessly integrate a refreshing cold-water plunge into your retreat program.

The water is crisp and invigorating, yet gentle enough for beginners and for those seeking a soft introduction to cold immersion. Guided every step of the way by our experienced instructors, the session includes mindful breathwork, careful preparation, and the invigorating dip itself. Sharing this experience with others fosters a sense of community and encouragement, making the practice both empowering and enjoyable.

Step into the Shushicë’s clear waters, and let its refreshing flow awaken your body, calm your mind, and reconnect you with the natural rhythm of this extraordinary Albanian landscape.

Nourishing Cuisine

The flavours of southern Albania come straight to your plate.

The aroma of freshly brewed morning beverages invites you to enjoy brunch on the terrace. The menu features locally sourced, seasonal produce. There are fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, homemade bread and everything else that a brunch lover could desire.

Our talented chef, Fortesa, with Swiss-Albanian-Kosovar roots, creates fresh, wholesome meals with a modern and healthy twist. From vibrant salads to hearty mains, each dish reflects the local landscape. Seasonal, nourishing, and crafted to energize both body and mind.

After a morning yoga session or a gentle start by the pool, a generous brunch is served to fuel you for the day ahead. Between meals, enjoy a selection of wholesome snacks and fresh treats.

In the evenings, we gather outdoors for a delightful barbecue, where fresh local ingredients are grilled to perfection. Surrounded by the mountains, river and terraces of our villa, this is a moment to share, relax, and savour the flavors of the Albanian countryside in a warm atmosphere.

Fortesa serves meals that are full of flavour, colour and vitality. A true celebration of contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with an Albanian twist.

Spa - a space for pure relaxation.

Take a dip in our elegant indoor-outdoor heated pool, which is perfect for a morning swim or a warm soak in any season. The hammam, sauna and spa are ideal for deep relaxation, helping to melt away tension and restore balance. If you're looking for something more relaxing, simply unwind in one of our peaceful indoor or outdoor lounges. Every space has been designed to help you relax, recharge and fully embrace the serene Mediterranean surroundings.

Optional activities

While there is plenty of time to relax and focus on yourself, you can also enrich your experience by taking part in a variety of optional activities.

Your home

If you long for tranquility, untouched landscapes, and a moment to reconnect with yourself, The Azure Horizon Retreat Albania invites you to slow down, soften, and gently return to what truly matters.

Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Albania, surrounded by wild nature and open skies, our Villa is a peaceful sanctuary where elegance, space, and warmth come together in perfect harmony. Here, time slows, and the rhythm of the mountains encourages you to simply be.

This retreat is an invitation to become gentle with your pace, your thoughts, and yourself. Spend unhurried hours lounging by the pool, soaking in the stillness, and discovering Albanian culture in a soft, authentic way, far from mass tourism in a country that remains beautifully undiscovered.

At the heart of the villa lies an elegant heated indoor-outdoor pool that seamlessly connects inside and open air. Whether swimming under the sun or unwinding in warm, steamy water in cooler months, the panoramic mountain views and tranquil atmosphere create a truly unique experience.

The villa is designed for deep rest and enjoyment: unwind in the spa with sauna and hammam, gather in cozy lounge areas or by the fireplace. Outside, private gardens and terraces with a BBQ invite you to slow down and savor the moment, surrounded by sweeping views of mountains and the nearby river.

Each room and suite is beautifully designed, offering comfort, elegance, and privacy, all with ensuite bathrooms, creating a space where you can fully relax and feel at home.

Just a short walk away, the historic stone bridge of Brataj spans the crystal-clear Shushicë River a quiet meeting place of nature and history. And while the retreat feels secluded, the turquoise waters of the Albanian Riviera are only about 40 km away, perfect for a day by the sea.

Here, we bring together everything a retreat should be: space, calm, and gentle connection in a place where you can truly unwind.

Come and experience the purest, most peaceful and inspiring form of southern Albania.

Rooms and Suite

Here, deep and restful sleep is guaranteed!
Designed for restful nights and serene mornings, your private sanctuary awaits. It features elegant décor and tranquil mountain views. Each bedroom has an en suite bathroom stocked with a selection of deluxe body and hair products.
Cocoon Double Room
A comfortable bedroom with a 140 cm French double bed.
- Private Cocoon Double Room CHF 2'590
Balance Twin Room
A bedroom with twin beds, ideal for sharing.
- Shared Balance Twin Room CHF 2'350 per person
(For single travellers)
Spa Suite
A stylish suite with a double bed and a freestanding bathtub.
- Shared Spa Suite CHF 2'490 per person
- Private use + CHF 290
Deluxe Suite
Our Deluxe Suite offers a cozy double bed and generous space.
- Shared Deluxe suite CHF 2'390 per person
- Private use + CHF 290

Prices per Person in CHF or EUR incl. Tax
All pictures are for reference only and the booked room may vary in size and furniture.

Schedule:
This programme is intended to provide a general overview and orientation. The final, detailed schedule will be available at the end of June.

Monday
  • 14:30-15:30 Arrival and check-in
  • 15:30 Welcome Apéro
  • 16:30 Welcome circle & grounding Yoga flow
  • 19:00 Dinner
Tuesday
  • 08:00 Yoga & Meditation
  • 10:00 Brunch
  • 10:30 Free time
  • 14:30 Programme
  • 17:00 Sauna & Relax
  • 19:00 Dinner
  • 21:00 Yoga Nidra
Wednesday
  • 08:00 Yoga & Meditation
  • 10:00 Brunch
  • 10:30 Free time
  • 14:30 Programme
  • 17:00 Sauna & Relax
  • 19:00 Dinner
  • 21:00 Restorative Yoga and Sound
Thursday
  • 08:00 Yoga & Meditation
  • 10:00 Brunch
  • 10:30 Free time
  • 14:30 Programme
  • 17:00 Sauna & Relax
  • 19:00 Dinner
Friday
  • 08:00 Yoga & Meditation
  • 10:00 Brunch
  • 10:30 Free time
  • 14:30 Programme
  • 17:00 Sauna & Relax
  • 19:00 Dinner
Saturday
  • 08:00 Yoga & Meditation
  • 09:30 Brunch
  • 10:30-11:00 Check out
  • 11:15 Closing Circle
  • 12:00 Departure
We know that the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so we may have to change the program a little. We also want to take your needs into account, so that you can enjoy the very best!

FAQ's

  • 5x nights accomodation 
  • Daily Yoga and Meditation
  • Breathwork & Cold Plunge 
  • Indoor & Outdoor Pool
  • Sauna and Hammam
  • Hikes and Beachdays
  • Panoramic Mountain & River Views
  • Brunch, Snacks and Dinner. All made with fresh products from our chef
  • Transport from Tirana airport and back

We’re passionate about combining yoga, mindful movement, and soulful hospitality and we’ve found the perfect setting at Azure Horizon in Albania. Nestled in a serene, hilly landscape, our villa overlooks a wide, untouched valley framed by gentle mountain ridges. Far away from the rush of mass tourism, this place offers a quiet connection to nature, where warm late-summer light and open horizons create a deeply grounding atmosphere.

Our retreat takes place in a luxurious private villa surrounded by rolling hills and expansive valley views. With its beautiful pool, spa area, and thoughtfully designed spaces, it invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and settle into a more natural rhythm of life.

This retreat is for you if you love intimate, small-group experiences and a balance of movement, relaxation, and connection. Mornings begin with grounding yoga sessions, followed by long brunches shared around the table, unhurried and full of flavor.

The days unfold gently: relaxing by the pool, enjoying the spa, exploring the surrounding hills, or taking refreshing cold dips. Occasional beach escapes add a touch of variety, while the calm energy of the valley remains your anchor.

As the evening sets in, you gather again outdoors for relaxed BBQ dinners under the open sky, meaningful conversations, and shared laughter. As the sun dips behind the mountains, the landscape softens into golden light, inviting you to fully unwind.

Every detail is thoughtfully curated so you can let go, feel cared for, and reconnect with yourself. Leave feeling grounded, inspired, and deeply renewed by the quiet magic of this special place.

Vinyasa and Yoga Nidra.

Both inexperienced and experienced yogis are welcome. As long as your're open to learning and adapting every level is welcome.

During this retreat, we will have the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim in the river. The river, which has cool, fresh water from the mountains, is perfect for this and only four minutes away.

Yoga Essentials

  • Please bring your own Yoga mat! 
  • (Yoga towel)
  • Comfortable yoga outfits 
  • A light scarf or wrap for meditation/Savasana
  • Reusable water bottle

Clothing

Light & breathable (daytime):

  • T-shirts / tank tops
  • Shorts / leggings
  • Light dresses or loose pants

Warmer layers (cool mornings & evenings):

  • Sweater or hoodie
  • Light jacket or windbreaker
  • Long pants

Extras:

  • Sleepwear
  • Underwear & socks
  • Swimsuit 

Footwear

  • Comfortable sandals or flip-flops
  • Sneakers (for walks or excursions)

Toiletries & Personal Care

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste
  • Sunscreen 
  • Insect repellent
  • Deodorant
  • Hairbrush

Wellness & Extras

  • Book or e-reader
  • Eye mask / earplugs
  • Small day backpack

Travel Essentials

  • Passport / ID
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Phone + charger
  • Power adapter (Albania uses European plugs, Type C/F)
  • Cash (Albanian lek; cards not always accepted everywhere)

Optional but Nice

  • Light scarf (sun or modesty in villages)
  • Snacks you love
  • Laundry bag

Weather tip

Early October in Albania is typically 20–25°C during the day, but can drop to 12–15°C in the evening, so layering is key.

The official currency of Albania is the Albanian Lek.

Yoga, Sauna and Cold Immersions can be mentally as well as physically challenging, so it's important to be in good physical and mental shape before you start the retreat. If you have any health conditions or injuries, it's important to let the retreat organisers know in advance so that they can make suggestions or alternatives for you if you need them. Cardiovascular Health: Ice baths can put a strain on the cardiovascular system, especially if you have underlying heart conditions. If you have any concerns about your heart health, it's important to speak to your doctor before taking part. Ultimately, the most important thing is to listen to your body during the retreat. If something feels too challenging or uncomfortable, it's okay to take a step back or ask for modifications. The goal is to have a positive and relaxing experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and energised.

Included: Brunch, Snacks and dinner, all prepared using fresh produce from the region.
Water, fresh tea and alcoholfree drinks are available all day. Extras are not included. 

Please complete the 'Booking Request' form. Once we have received your enquiry, we will send you a confirmation email and an invoice for the retreat.

Can't pay the deposit all at once? No problem! Just get in touch and we'll work out a payment plan that suits you.

  • Up to 100 days before the retreat: Full refund of the first payment/deposit.
  • From 99 days before the retreat: No refund of the deposit.
  • From 30 days before the retreat: Full payment is required, and no cancellations will be possible with no refund available.

Can't pay the deposit all at once? No problem! Just write to us and we'll work out a solution that suits you.

Infos coming soon. 

Extras: Massages, additional meals or beverages (wine, etc.)

Transportation: Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included and is the responsibility of the participant. 

Insurence: It's the participant's responsibility to make sure they have the right insurance. We suggest that participants get travel cancellation insurance and health and accident insurance.

 

The Experts

Fabienne

Yoga Teacher

Nives

Organizer & Ice Bath Guide

Book your spot now!

Spots are filling up fast – don’t miss out! Secure your place today and be part of it.

Larissa

Social Media Manager of Ice & Yoga

As a certified yoga teacher with a passion for health and wellness, she naturally aligns with the values that Ice & Yoga stands for: Community, balance, and mindful living.

Beyond her love for movement, Larissa is deeply drawn to everything creative, from writing to capturing moments that tell a story.
She believes that in today’s fast-paced world, it is more important than ever to carve out spaces of stillness and peace -something she not only practices herself, but also loves to share through her role at Ice & Yoga.
Supporting Ice & Yoga and its mission is something she truly cherishes.

Inga

Traditional Lithuanian Sauna Master

Inga is a passionate sauna master from Lithuania, dedicated to preserving and sharing the ancient Baltic sauna tradition known as Pirtis. A holistic ritual that nurtures the body, mind and spirit in harmony with nature.

Using natural elements such as birch branches (vanta), wild herbs, steam, honey and more, Inga creates deeply relaxing and cleansing experiences rooted in centuries of wisdom. With a deep connection to nature and an intuitive sense of each person's needs, she transforms each sauna session into a personal, healing journey.

Greta

Wim Hof Method Instructor

Greta is a certified Wim Hof Method Instructor, a physiotherapist and holds a Master's Degree in Health Sciences.

In her work, she observed that many physical problems stem from psychological tension and stress. When she discovered the Wim Hof Method, she found it to be a powerful tool for stress management and psychological control, helping to reduce pain, injury and illness. Her holistic approach increases body awareness, leading to improved physical and emotional wellbeing, greater strength and overall happiness for her clients.

Disclaimer

Please note that, as with any health and wellness practice, it’s important to approach activities like ice bathing and breathwork mindfully and responsibly.

We do not recommend participating if you are pregnant or have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Participation in ice baths and all related activities is at your own risk. You should only take part if you feel healthy and physically fit.

That said – your safety and wellbeing are important to us. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out anytime. We’re here for you!

Fabienne

Yoga Teacher

Her journey with body movement began in childhood as a competitive rhythmic gymnast, a passion she deeply loved. In 2017, after a personal loss, she found solace in yoga. Since then, she has completed over 750 hours of Yoga Alliance training and is now an RYT-500h certified teacher.

She is inspired by the way yoga connects the mind and body and hopes to help others explore this as well. Whether someone is a total beginner or an experienced practitioner, she is dedicated to finding the right class for them. Her goal is to create a joyful, transformative space where individuals can discover their potential. No matter where they are on their yoga journey, she is there to support them.

Nives

Eventmanager and Founder of Ice and Yoga Retreats

I have always loved the feeling after a good yoga session and the invigorating sensation of a dip in icy water. These experiences bring me immense joy and satisfaction.

My journey began with a degree in Hotel Management in Lucerne, Switzerland. For many years, I worked as an event manager, organizing a wide range of events and attending many retreats myself.

This year, I also started as a "safe-space" holder at Keen Wellbeing, where I help participants get into the ice bath. Combining my personal passions with my professional expertise, I am dedicated to creating unforgettable retreats.

Using my background in hospitality and event management, I design experiences that leave participants feeling recharged and inspired.

It gives me great joy to see people happy and fulfilled, whether it's after an invigorating ice bath or a delicious meal.
I can't wait to meet you! Love, Nives

Corinne

Head Chef

I'm Corinne, a passionate chef with a heart and a love for wild herbs.

My cooking is inspired by nature, characterised by curiosity and driven by a deep love of detail. I love cooking over an open fire and experimenting with different ingredients.

In autumn 2025, I will be immersing myself further in the world of wild flavours with an internship at Stefan Wiesner's restaurant in Entlebuch.
To me, cooking is about more than just food. It's a form of expression and an experience. It's also an invitation to pause for a moment.