Asheville, NC, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a peaceful and vibrant destination perfect for a yoga retreat. Known for its artsy vibe, organic food scene, and connection to nature, Asheville offers plenty of options for yogis seeking to deepen their practice, unwind, and recharge. Here’s a roundup of some of the best yoga retreats in Asheville, NC to help you find your perfect mountain escape.
1. Shoji Spa & Lodge
Why It’s Amazing:
Shoji Spa & Lodge is a luxurious, Japanese-style retreat offering both hot tubs in the forest and a unique yoga experience. Though not a traditional yoga retreat, Shoji hosts wellness weekends that incorporate yoga, mindfulness, and spa treatments. It’s a great option for those looking to combine yoga with relaxation in a tranquil mountain setting.
Highlights:
- Morning yoga classes in nature
- Private outdoor hot tubs with forest views
- Spa treatments, including deep tissue massages
- Rustic luxury accommodations in the woods
- Optional wellness packages combining yoga, spa, and outdoor activities
Best For:
Yogis who want to mix a little pampering and spa therapy with their yoga practice in a serene, luxurious environment.
2. Prama Institute & Wellness Center
Why It’s Amazing:
Located just outside of Asheville, Prama Institute & Wellness Center offers year-round yoga retreats in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. Their retreats range from intensive yoga workshops to more relaxed, restorative weekends that focus on yoga, meditation, and healthy living. The facility is eco-conscious, with a deep emphasis on mindfulness and sustainability.
Highlights:
- Vinyasa, Hatha, and Restorative yoga classes
- Meditation and mindfulness workshops
- Organic, vegetarian meals grown in their garden
- Group hiking excursions through the Blue Ridge Mountains
- Secluded, peaceful location just 20 minutes from Asheville
Best For:
Anyone seeking a deeply immersive yoga and meditation experience in a peaceful, natural environment close to Asheville.
3. Asheville Yoga Center Retreats
Why It’s Amazing:
Asheville Yoga Center is one of the most well-known yoga studios in the Southeast and offers weekend retreats, teacher trainings, and immersive workshops. The retreats are hosted at their beautiful eco-friendly yoga campus, located near downtown Asheville, and often feature special guest teachers, holistic wellness programs, and outdoor excursions.
Highlights:
- Weekend yoga retreats for all levels
- Workshops focused on mindfulness, anatomy, and specific yoga styles
- Certified yoga teacher trainings
- Studio offers over 100 weekly yoga classes, including Vinyasa, Yin, and Iyengar
- Central location with access to Asheville’s restaurants, shops, and nature trails
Best For:
Yogis wanting a professional yet laid-back retreat experience close to Asheville’s vibrant downtown scene.
4. OM Sanctuary
Why It’s Amazing:
OM Sanctuary is a peaceful wellness center located just minutes from downtown Asheville. The retreat offers yoga, meditation, and holistic wellness programs in a lush, green environment. With a variety of accommodation styles and a focus on rejuvenation, this is the perfect retreat if you’re looking to restore your mind, body, and soul.
Highlights:
- Yoga classes ranging from beginner to advanced
- Holistic wellness workshops, including breathwork and mindfulness
- Nature trails on-site and access to nearby Blue Ridge Parkway
- Organic, farm-to-table meals
- Beautiful, quiet accommodations surrounded by nature
Best For:
Those seeking a balance of yoga, wellness, and nature while staying close to Asheville’s amenities and outdoor activities.
5. Highland Lake Inn & Resort
Why It’s Amazing:
Located about 30 minutes from Asheville, Highland Lake Inn & Resort is set on 26 acres of serene landscapes, offering retreats focused on relaxation, yoga, and outdoor activities. The resort frequently hosts yoga and wellness retreats in their charming, peaceful lakeside setting, providing the perfect environment to unwind.
Highlights:
- Yoga classes in a lakeside pavilion
- Kayaking, canoeing, and hiking trails on-site
- Rustic yet cozy cabins and lodge rooms
- Farm-to-table dining with locally sourced ingredients
- Massage and spa services available on request
Best For:
Those looking for a relaxing retreat in a lakeside setting with access to yoga and other outdoor activities.
6. Well Being Retreat Center
Why It’s Amazing:
While located just outside of Asheville, Well Being Retreat Center offers immersive yoga and mindfulness retreats in a peaceful, rural setting. The focus here is on deep healing, with retreats that incorporate yoga, meditation, and silent reflection. The natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers enhances the calming experience.
Highlights:
- Yoga and meditation retreats with a focus on mindfulness
- Silent retreats for deep reflection and inner peace
- Nature walks along the river and through the forest
- Organic vegetarian meals
- Simple, peaceful accommodations with a focus on minimalism
Best For:
Those who want to deeply disconnect and engage in a mindfulness-based retreat with a strong focus on nature and silence.
7. Art of Living Retreat Center (Boone, NC)
Why It’s Amazing:
Though technically located in Boone (about 1.5 hours from Asheville), the Art of Living Retreat Center is a renowned wellness center offering yoga, Ayurveda, and meditation retreats. With world-class teachers and breathtaking mountain views, this is one of the top places to deepen your yoga practice while exploring holistic living and Ayurveda.
Highlights:
- Multiple yoga and meditation retreat programs year-round
- Ayurveda treatments and wellness programs, including Panchakarma
- Daily yoga and meditation classes in a stunning mountain setting
- Healthy, vegetarian meals with an Ayurvedic focus
- Holistic wellness workshops and nature walks
Best For:
Those seeking a full wellness experience that incorporates yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic practices in a mountain resort atmosphere.
How to Choose the Best Yoga Retreat in Asheville, NC
When picking your ideal yoga retreat, consider these key factors:
- Location: Do you prefer staying closer to Asheville’s vibrant downtown or immersing yourself in the surrounding mountains for a more nature-based experience?
- Yoga Focus: Are you looking for an intensive yoga retreat with multiple classes daily, or a more relaxed program that balances yoga with mindfulness, meditation, and wellness?
- Accommodation Style: From luxurious spa resorts to simple, eco-friendly lodges, Asheville offers a variety of accommodation options for different preferences and budgets.
- Extras: Many retreats offer additional activities like hiking, spa services, or workshops on mindfulness and wellness. Choose one that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure suited to your needs.
- Budget: Asheville’s yoga retreats range from affordable to luxurious, so consider what’s included in the retreat package (meals, accommodations, treatments) when planning your budget.
Final Thoughts
Asheville, NC, is the perfect destination for a yoga retreat, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and thriving wellness community. Whether you want a rustic escape in the mountains or a more luxurious spa experience, Asheville’s yoga retreats offer something for every yogi. Pack your mat, embrace the mountain air, and get ready for a retreat that rejuvenates your body and soul!