5 retreats in Europe that are perfect for your gap year

Whether you're just about to graduate and taking the summer off before returning to real life - or you're deferring university for that gap year you've always dreamed of, planning to go travelling can be a minefield.

That's where retreats come in, they're a great way to experience lots of different things in a short space of time. Perfect for those who want to explore as much as they can.

House of VOGA retreat, Mallorca // Image courtesy of Prezzroom

House of VOGA, Mallorca

Yoga doesn't always have to be calm and slow, sometimes you just want to Vogue - after all, there's really nothing to it.

What sounds better than spending 5 days in Mallorca at an 80s themed retreat? It combines 80s themed dance classes with yoga, massages and delicious healthy food. Voga also offers excursions so that you get a chance to explore the island, outdoor film nights and morning meditation classes to start the day right. 

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The retreat occurs twice a year, with one in September (perfect for those who want a pre-uni break!)

For more information visit the House of Voga website

Lefay Spa Resort, Italy

Nestled in the heart of Italy with views of the stunning Lake Garda, Lefay is the perfect resort if you want to get away with a friend or maybe go off on a mother-daughter trip. The resort isn't just committed to your wellbeing, it's also passionate about the planet - making it ideal for those who are conscious about the environment.

It's open around the year, so you've got the chance to get away at the quieter times of the year if that's more your thing.

For more information visit the Lefay Resorts website

Italy // Image credit: Candre Mandawe, via Unsplash

ecoYoga, Scotland

Scotland might not be the first place you have in mind when you think of going on a retreat, BUT sometimes the best places really are the closest to home. The riverside retreat located in the highlands is committed to wellness and of course - yoga. 

With the chance to bathe in the fresh Scottish waters and breathe in the pure unpolluted air, it's a great place to go for a full emotional overhaul.

For more information visit the ecoYoga website

Retreats for You, Devon

Another close to home haven, Retreats for You is located in the picturesque North Devon. This retreat is great for the more creative types, and they often hold events for writers meaning they have a quiet place to think and write that novel they've been putting off for years. 

For more information visit the Retreats For You website

Dartmoor, Devon // Image credit: Red Zeppelin, via Unsplash 

Chateau de Mouillac, France

Claiming to be 'where health meets holiday', Chateau de Mouillac is run by a husband and wife team of emotional therapists. During your stay, you'll get the chance to chat with them - which is great if you've got things to get off your chest. Health is also a huge part of the retreat and all food served during your stay will be vegan and there's also a nutritionist on site to talk you through your diet. This retreat is the perfect getaway for those who just need some space, and to be cleansed (inside and out).

For more information visit the Chateau de Mouillac website.

These are just five of hundreds of thousands of retreats around Europe. There's one for every different type of person, whether you're into 80s music and dancing it out - to those who would rather meditate in silence. There's plenty of sites that offer user reviews, so it's worth exploring around before you go literally exploring.

Lead image credit: Marion Michele, via Unsplash