Greece-Retreat~ The Sacred & Subtle

Lesvos, Greece Retreat ~ The Sacred & Subtle 

Dates: Oct 1-8, 2024
Location: Milelja Retreat Center, Lesvos Greece

Includes:
8-Days & 7 Nights Accommodations , All Delicious/Island Fresh Breakfasts & Lunches, 3 Farm-To-Table Dinners, , Daily Yoga & Meditation, Mantra & Music, Boat Cruise on the Aegean Sea, Therma Gera Hot Springs on The Sea, Island Bus Tour, Visit to Ancient Greek Temple Ruins, Salt Water Swimming Pool & Hot Tub, Sacred Geometry Drawing & Sessions, Practices for Heart/Mind/Spirit, Sessions on The Subtle Body/Chakras and Sound, and Plenty of Free time to Explore the Magical Island of Lesvos
, 15 Min walk to Beach and the town of Port Town of Molyvos…

Fly To: Athens, Greece ~ Then local flight to Mitilene (Lesvos), Greece
Hosts: Katrina Gustafson & Michael Shankara


Pricing

Standard Single: $2,540        Standard Double: $3,420 
Poolside Single:   $3,150       
Poolside Double:   $3,960

Gypsy Wagon Suite: $2,700 Single or $3,528 Double 


The Spirit Of Life~ Greece Yoga Retreat~ Karma Yoga center

~Overview~

The Sacred & Subtle~ A Retreat to Greece

Join Michael and Katrina as they journey back to the serene island of Lesvos, Greece. Find out why they keep returning to the sweet coastal village of Molivos on the Aegean Sea.

They are excited to bring their newest retreat Sacred and Subtle to their students. They are blending two of their greatest passions and teaming it with their love for yoga at one of their favorite places. Yoga and Meditation will be offered every morning, as well as a farm to table breakfast. A nourishing lunch is provided daily as well. Afternoons between 1-4 are free to do as you like. Michael and Katrina will offer a daily satsang (spiritual teachings) between 4-6. They will be covering what they are calling the Sacred and the Subtle. Michael will lead us in a discourse on Sacred Geometry with an opportunity to practice drawing some of these essential shapes. We will learn their importance and relevance in our life. Katrina will teach us about our energy bodies, specially our astral (electric) and causal (magnetic) bodies and how we can learn to increase our quality of life through caring for these subtle parts of our self. Often we gather at the pool in the evening for a star talk with Michael. But you are free to venture off on your own as well.

Dinner is provided for 3 nights at the resort and 4 nights are yours to explore dining at some of the local restaurants. If you like fish, its caught fresh daily. Lots to choose from. Not enough time to try them all.

The first of October is one of the best times to go for many reasons, but a big one is because the airfare is lower during this time, especially if you grab your tickets early.

In October the weather is lovely and the tourism has slowed down. It feels like a time long ago, very quiet, serene, and simple. The antiquated castle town bustles with little cafes and lots of local boutiques. Stroll the cobblestone roads and wander into one of the local artisans stores or head down to the beach and enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea. You can pack a picnic and walk through the olive orchards, or head to the hot-springs for a soak.

The resort is one of a kind with the freshest meals and local flavor. Each room is well appointed with wonderful balconies and patio views. You can choose from a variety of accommodations from a  poolside apartment to a private guest room with bathroom, or perhaps the charming Gyspy wagon with a private patio. Walk to town, sit poolside, watch the sunset, read a book…its paradise. Included in the package are 2 excursions to sacred waters (more info below).

This retreat is designed to allow for a spiritual reboot in a serene environment, with the best of mother nature. You won’t regret it. It’s sacred and subtle.

Milelja Retreat Center

The Milelja Retreat Center is located on the Greek Island of Lesvos in the eastern Aegean, a ten minutes walk to the sea and the small town of Molyvos. The Milelja Retreat center provides a calm and intimate atmosphere for Workshops and Retreats. With a sweeping view of Molyvos and the sea, our three acre property with its old trees and flower gardens, natural stone buildings harmoniously set into the landscape create a truly lush and unique character.

Owners Gisa and Detlef first came to Lesvos with their young children in 1985, and instantly fell in love with the island. The friendliness of its people and the warmth of the sun convinced them to stay. Almost 40 beautiful year later, they have created a sanctuary that seekers from all around the world are called to visit and restore their Mind, Body and Spirits. Their resort and retreat center is a magical place for reflection, healing, relaxation, and connecting into a more ancient way of being. Time slows down and your senses open up. You notice the stars, the sea, the olive trees, the people working and living a pure life. The food comes right from the farmers and the land and is grown with love. Gisa and Detlef are caring and wise souls and make each group feel welcome and like family.

Four Senses Day Spa 

Anna Liamo is the daughter of retreat owner’s Gisa & Detlef and the creator of Four Senses Day Spa that is located right with the beautiful grounds of the retreat center. Light up your face with gladness, celebrate your beautiful self with a day at her spa, reward yourself with authentic natural beauty products and luxurious body and facial treatments. At Anna-Liamo Day Spa, they will carefully listen to your needs, offer you high quality bespoke treatments and share with you our passion with all things beauty. Allow your beauty to radiant from within.

The Four Sense Day Spa offers facials, pedicures, massages, and body treatments all using botanicals grown from local farms and the local people. Anna is both trained in the German Health & Wellness Schools and the Ancient Greek traditions of the grandmothers. You can learn more and book a treatment here: Anna Liamo ~ Four Senses Day Spa 


The Island of Lesvos & Molyvos, Greece

This green island in the eastern Aegean sea is off the beaten track of mass tourism. It has the feel of authentic Greek life. Covered with olive groves and vast pinewoods, legend has it that this is where music first came to man. Poetry, Song and dance still play an important role.

Lesvos is the third biggest island of Greece with many different landscapes – a micro cosmos of its own. Many traditional villages nestle in the mountains, one visit is not enough to see them all. Lesvos is simply amazing and has been a favorite destination for romantics, artists and birdwatchers.

The island is blessed with healing hot springs, a big variety of birds and wildflowers, award winning beaches, a petrified forest, medieval castles, fine museums, and last but not least is famous for it’s unique cuisine with traditional dishes and local fish.

Molyvos where the Milelje Retreat Center is located, also known as Mythimna is one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Lesvos located 60 km west of Mytilene, the capital of the island. Molyvos is a traditional preserved settlement attracting thousands of visitors with its natural beauty and picturesque corners. Narrow alleys winding around the traditional stone built houses, the Turkish style fountains and beautiful mansions compose an idyllic setting.

The landmark of Molyvos is the medieval castle that stands at the top of the rocky cliff and is the second largest castle of Lesvos. Its entrance is quite impressive as well as the view to the Aegean. The archaeological collection, the numerous Byzantine churches and the neoclassical buildings witness a place of special importance. Plenty of accommodations, seaside taverns and nice cafes are found in the village. Some kilometres outside Molyvos is Eftalou, a stunning location with beautiful isolated beaches.

Molyvos is also famous for being home to the world’s most beautiful street. In 1965 it was declared a protected site by Greek authorities and it’s unique architecture, featuring homes made of stone and wood, which still remain the same in this rustic and picturesque village. The town is built amphitheatrically with a castle on top and traditional houses wrapping around the coastal road and the scenic harbour.

Eftalou Hot Springs, Molyvos

Clear Your Karmas 

The volcanic origin of the Island has left a very precious heritage – hot and healing mineral springs. The hot spring of Eftalou is only a few kilometers away from The Milelja Retreat Center. The spring water has a temperature of approx. 108°-115°. The spring is located next to the sea on the beach. You can enjoy the wonderful water in a big basin made of natural stone which is covered by a dome. The water contains radium, chloride and sodium among other minerals. A bath is highly recommended for visitors looking to connect with these deeply healing waters.  It is said that if you alternate plunging in the sea and hot springs 7-times that you will clear and heal your karmas. Worth a try 🙂 We will make a visit to these ancient near by springs with the group.

Therma Gera Hot Springs, Mytilini 

Therma Gera Spa in Mytilini is a wonderful day hot springs resort perched above the Gulf of Gera in Lesvos, Greece. It is an incredible vista over looking this mystic and ancient bay within the island. We will take a bus tour across the island, visiting some ancient Greek Temple Ruins from 500B.C. with an opportunity to meditate there and connect with the energy. You will see the Gulf Kalloni where the famed Pink Flamingos live and the rich mineral sea salt has been gathered for millennia. Arriving at the Therma Gera Spa we will spend a day soaking in the mineral rich waters and looking over the beaches of the bay.

There is a nice restaurant and cafe where you can order lunch, drinks, and sit comfortably as you look out at the stunning bay. There is also beach access and an opportunity to swim in the beautiful Gulf of Gera. This is a very special opportunity to soak, heal, restore and be immersed in the nourishing rhythm of the local community at these waters.

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Skala Sykaminia

~ Seaside Village  & Boat Tour ~

Departing form the scenic harbor of Molyvos, we will take a 1 hour boat tour on the Aegean Sea between the coasts of ancient Greece and Turkey. This is exactly where the epic Trojan War, Achilles and the Trojan Horse all took place. These shores are also where Aristotle and Epicurus lived and taught. You will get to see the stunning landscape of Turkey from a far and the volcanic mountains of the island of Lesvos from the mystic waters of the Aegean. We will arrive at the quaint seaside village of Skala Sykaminia.

Verdant mountain-sides rise behind the village and the inner harbor of fishing boats. The locales relax on the pristine benches with rows of trees lining the town square and waters edge. Harbourside, there are tables set for dining at the traditional Greek Tavernas. We will dine old-world style looking out to the sea in the shade of the trees. They still invite you into the kitchen to see what is being made and to choose the catch of the day if you eat seafood. And don’t worry they have all the food options for vegetarians, vegans, and other food needs. And just below the taverna is the famous landmark church of Panagia Gorgona (the Mermaid Madonna). You can explore the artisan shops, swim in the pristine waters, visit the church or have afternoon ouzo talking with the local people.


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Daily Schedule

  • Morning Beach Meditation (Optional)             7:30-8:30am
  • Breakfast   (Included)                                                8:30-9:30am
  • Daily Yoga                                                                 9:30-11:30am
  • Lunch (Included)                                                         11:30-12:30pm
  • Free Time   (Optional Excursions)                          1:30am-4:30pm
  • The Sacred & Subtle Sessions                             4:30-6pm
  • Dinner     (3 Included at Retreat Center)               6-8pm
  • Free Time                                                                      6pm on…
    • Island Excursions, Sunset strolls, Dinner, Pool Time, Beach, Bike Ride, Visit town, etc..

Included

Along with the daily retreat schedule with Katrina Marie and Michael the following packages are included

  • 8-Days & 7-Nights Accommodations
  • All Breakfasts & Lunches
  • 3 Farm-to-Table Dinners
  • Unlimited Tea, Coffee and Water Service
  • Daily Yoga and Meditation
  • Mediation and QiGong by The Aegean Sea
  • Music, Mantra, and Chanting 
  • Art and Sacred Geometry Sessions
  • Subtle Body, Chakras and Sound Sessions 
  • Shamanic Journey to The Soul
  • Talks on Ancient Greece, Yoga, Consciousness,  Astrology and Spirituality
  • Boat Excursion on the Aegean Sea to Charming Fishing Village with Tradition Taverna Meal on the Water
  • Salt Water Pool and Hot Tub
  • 15 Min Walk to Aegean Sea Beach & Port Town of Molyvos
  • Therma Gera Hot Springs by the Sea and Island Bus Tour to Ancient Temple Ruins
  • Eftalou Ancient Hot Springs and Karma Clearing 🙂 
  • Plenty of Free Time to Explore the Artisan Towns of Molyvos and Petra: Crafts, Shopping, Textiles, Food, Local Spices, Ancient Castles and Churches, Village Life, Olive Orchards, Beaches, Sea Port, Cobble Stone Roads, Sunsets on the Water…

Additional Options

Attendees also can venture on their own during free time and take advantage of activities like spa treatments, sailing, visiting ancient ruins, scooters, visiting of the biological reserve, a petrified forest, medieval castles, cultural museums, touring the olive orchards, and personal trips to surrounding towns, reserves & additional beaches. There are taxis, private shuttles, buses, and rental car options for travel to further destinations.

Accommodations

Retreat Center Rooms 

Milelja Retreat Center has three natural stone cottage houses nestled in the midst of terraced flower gardens, surrounding trees and view of the Aegean sea and the medieval port town of Molyvos. Rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, in suite bathrooms, outside terraces with reclining chairs, central heating, large windows and arched doors. The Poolside Suites have a Kitchenette and Living Room areas. Rooms can be set up for 1 or 2 guest with either 2 twin, 2 double beds or 1 Large Bed.

Standard~ Single 

  • Private Room w/ 1 Bed
  • Private Bathroom
  • Daily Cleaning
  • All Breakfast & Lunches, 3 Diners
  • Boat Excursion, Hot Springs, Ancient Ruins, Bus Tour…
  • Outdoor Patio or Seating Area with Views of the Town and Ancient Castle

 

 

$2,540 Standard~ Single 

Poolside Suite~ Single

  • Private Room w/ 1 Bed
  • Living Room and Kitchenette Space
  • Poolside Rooms with Balcony
  • 1 Private Bathroom
  • Daily Cleaning
  • All Breakfast & Lunches, 3 Diners
  • Boat Excursion, Hot Springs, Ancient Ruins, Bus Tour…
  • Outdoor Patio and Seating Area

 

$3,150 Poolside Suite~ Single 

Standard Double

  • Private Room w/ Large Bed or 2 Twin or Double Beds
  • Private Bathroom
  • Daily Cleaning
  • All Breakfast & Lunches, 3 Diners
  • Boat Excursion, Hot Springs, Ancient Ruins, Bus Tour…
  • Outdoor Patio or Seating Area with Views of the Town and Ancient Castle

 

$3,420 Double

Poolside Suite~ Double 

  • Private Room w/ 1 Large Bed or 2 Twin or Double Beds
  • Living Room and Kitchenette Space
  • Private Bathroom
  • Poolside Rooms with Balcony
  • Daily Cleaning
  • All Breakfast & Lunches, 3 Diners
  • Boat Excursion, Hot Springs, Ancient Ruins, Bus Tour…
  • Outdoor Patio or Seating Area with Views of the Town and Ancient Castle

$3,960 Poolside Suite~ Double

Gypsy Wagon Suite~  Single or Double 

  • Private Gypsy Wagon w/ 1 Bed
  • Private Bathroom
  • Living Area and Kitchenette
  • Daily Cleaning
  • All Breakfast & Lunches, 3 Diners
  • Boat Excursion, Hot Springs, Ancient Ruins, Bus Tour…
  • Outdoor Patio or Seating Area

$2,700 Single  or  $3,528 Double 

Retreat Pricing does not include, airfare or airport transportation. We will arrange for all taxi and shuttle services to and  from the airport, which will be paid for by attendees at time of pick-up.  Any additional excursions outside of the The Boat Cruise, Therma Gera Hot Springs, Eftalou, Bus Tour and Ruins are personal expenses.  If you would like to further discuss the retreat and/or rooming options, you can contact us @ Love@KarmaYogaCenter.com or 720-745-0184 (Michael).

How to Fly to Greece

While you can research flights to Mytilene, Greece using Flight Search Engines or a direct Airline Website, we recommend you book your tickets in stages for the best price. First book your flight to Athens, Greece (see below for more details). Then book the island hopper to Mytilene on the island of Lesvos. We recommend getting the International Flight as soon as you are able and then you have time for the Island flight as those are regular commuter flights. Many people fly to Athens and spend a night or two checking out the Ancient Temples and sites and then take the island hopper flight to Mytilene.

**We will happily assist and consult you on your flights to give our best recommendations. We can talk on the phone or meet at Karma Yoga Center ** 

Two Ways To Get To Athens, Greece

  1. One is a direct flight to Athens, Greece from a North American city such as Toronto, Chicago, or Washington D.C. This may be preferred as your layover will be in the United States- if for example you are starting in Denver, and you will directly enter customs in Athens.

2. The other option is to fly direct from Denver to another European city such as Munich, Frankfurt, Zurich, or Paris and then get a connecting flight to Athens. You will go through European Customs in the first City you land in and will not need to repeat this in Athens. Most European countries share a common customs agreement called the Shenzhen Zone and allow you to pass through customs once for all of your European travels. For this option, be sure to know if your checked baggage will carry all the way through to your destination in Athens, or if you need to pick it up and recheck it at your first European layover. Also, know that if you first flight from the United States is delayed, you could miss your connecting flight if you have a short layover. And, you will need to pass through customs in this city before re-boarding for Athens.

You may find a significant variation in costs dependent upon the destination country and city. Your search engine will route you to Athens first (you have to go there) and there will be a layover at the Athens international airport, then a connecting flight to Mytilene on a Greek Airline such as Aegean Airlines, Olympic Airlines or Sky Express. There are multiple flights a day from Athens to Mytilene and it is a 1-Hour flight. Once one the Island, we will arrange your custom-taxi pick-up at the airport, and it is a 1-hour ride through the gorgeous Greece countryside on the island.




About Your Hosts
Katrina Marie
The mermaid of the mountains, Katrina Marie seeks the heights of the peaks and the depths of the oceans in her practice. Through the wisdom of the heart, her purpose is to help guide others to open their own. She has studied in the temples of India, the pyramids of Mexico, and in the crucible of modern life. She finds the sacred in the rhythm of the seasons, the stars, and every second of life.

As the owner and founder of Karma Yoga Center in Denver, she brings the bhakti from all wisdom traditions to her yoga classes- singing, chanting, dancing, and journeys into the heart. Katrina fills every yoga session with love. She weaves in the teachings of her yoga mentor Saul David Raye and the cosmic knowings from the lineage of Evolutionary Astrology.

She shares her life journey with her half-side husband Michael Shankara and her two boys Max & Bo .

Michael Shankara
Michael is a certified yoga teacher, Mayan Shaman, Priest, and Astrologer. Initiated into the sacred wisdom of the Maya, Michael is the sole apprentice under elder, priest and shaman Dr. Don Miguel Angel Vergara- former director of the sacred Chichen Itza Archeology Site in Mexico. Michael is also a musician and sound healer, providing live music for yoga classes, retreats, journeys and mediations at Karma Yoga Center. Michael is a certified Crystology Healer and studies Soul Astrology, Astronomy, and the Mayan Calendars. He offers Energy Healings and Astrology Readings that integrate his shamanic and yogic trainings. Michael & Katrina also provide a free videos series on the  Full Moon called the Shaman and The Mermaid.