To get an idea of what Suryalila offers, watch our Full Permaculture Design Course & Eco-building movie shot by the talented BBC filmmaker Michael Reilly
Discover Harmony with Nature: Introduction to Permaculture with Yoga Retreat at Suryalila
Next dates: TBC
Training certified by:
We, at Danyadara, are the nonprofit sister project of Suryalila, on a mission to fight desertification in Southern Spain using permaculture principles. Since starting in 2016, we have transformed an arid stretch of land in Andalusia into a green, organic edible landscape by planting a food forest with 5,000 saplings, creating a flourishing vegetable garden, implementing systems to harvest precious water, regenerating an organic olive grove, and managing the land to boost soil health.
Suryalila Retreat Centre is located on the site of an ancient olive oil mill nestled at the foothills of the stunning Sierra de Grazalema National Park voted the World´s Favourite Yoga Retreat in the Om Yoga Awards 2023 & 2024. Directed by master yoga teacher Vidya Heisel, Suryalila is listed as one of the ten best retreat centres in the world and has also been awarded a Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and Travellers Choice Award.
We are excited to share our journey with you on our Permaculture and Yoga retreat experience where you will live the magic of joining in a friendly community where all who come here are offered an experience of profound beauty, wholesomeness, well-being, human warmth, respect and care.
An introduction to permaculture as applied to lifestyle-based designs, focusing on the second permaculture ethic, people care. We will be looking at ways you can incorporate permaculture philosophy and design into your life, whether you live in the city or the countryside, and wherever you are on your life journey.
You will also be shown around Suryalila, and the Danyadara project, both of which showcase diverse permaculture designs including water retention systems, regenerative farming techniques, syntropic farming, natural building, bio-climatic dwellings, human waste disposal, gray water systems, and other alternative technology systems.
- Excursions: There are also optional extras to enjoy such as a trip to local beauty spots such as a walk along the El Bosque River; a scenic hike up a well preserved Roman road from Ubrique to Benaoca, or a visit to the Grazalema National Park.
- Daily yoga practices: Throughout the course, you will be welcomed into expertly taught Vinyasa and Restorative yoga classes held in Suryalila’s beautiful yoga shalas and spaces.
- World-class vegetarian food: Enjoy delicious and nutritious organic vegetarian buffets a day lovingly prepared with seasonal produce many of which are harvested from the garden, as well as access to a selection of fresh fruits and beverages.
- Great community spirit: Feel supported, nurtured and inspired within the arms of our creative, positive and international community where freedom of expression and respect for others are actively encouraged and held in the utmost regard.
TESTIMONIALS
What people say
about us
“Attending the Introduction to Permaculture course at Suryalila with Frances Osborn was an incredible experience. Frances has an amazing gift for creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, making everyone feel valued regardless of their level of knowledge. Her teaching style is clear and engaging, combining theory with practical examples in a way that truly brings the concepts to life.Over just a few days, we covered a wide range of topics, from the basics of permaculture principles to practical applications. Despite the breadth of material, Frances paced the course perfectly, ensuring we absorbed everything without feeling overwhelmed. The community atmosphere at Suryalila added so much to the experience, with a supportive and like-minded group of participants who made learning together a joy. I left feeling inspired, equipped with practical skills, and ready to start my own permaculture journey.”
Jonathon
“Fran, thank you for teaching with your heart” Ruud.
“Thank you for the fun, original and organic way of teaching. The good vibes and holding the group” Julie.
“I wish all my past teachers will learn something from your amazing way to pass knowledge. Thank you for educating me” Gil.
“Thank you for showing and embodying my ‘new’ philosophy – Permaculture. It feels so fulfilling to have the words to help live by” Ana.
“Thank you for sharing so much knowledge with us and for all your care and kindness” Elisa
“I loved the permaculture introduction course at Suryalila! Fran and Emilio are such knowledgeable and kind teachers. The pace was spot on, as was the mix between indoor/outdoor and theory/hands-on. I learned a whole lot and look forward to using permaculture principles at home. Highly recommended!”- Neville
