You have seen the most popular yoga destinations India, Bali, and Thailand–where would you like to go off the beaten track for your next blissful holiday? We have found a lovely commune for the yogi, surfer, conscious, and adventurous traveler in the Philippines. The Lotus Shores is a perfect getaway if you love to catch waves in the morning and join a yoga class in the afternoon.

The owner, Louise, grew up in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. In 2010, she visited, Siargao Island, for the first time for the holidays. From the moment she arrived, she felt at home. She fell in love with the waves of the ocean, and surfing became her new passion. She loved it so much that she didn’t want to leave the island ever again. In 2013, she started to build her own yoga/surf retreat with the help of her family. Her mission is to create a place that encourages deep listening and absolute presence–trust in self and in life. Louise believes that by creating these conditions in the mind and body, the process of healing, learning, and creating will be stimulated. Aren’t these wonderful ingredients to make the most of your retreat holiday?

The Lotus Shores is situated in a lush tropical garden full of beautiful palms and flowers. There are an organic garden and a swimming pool with a sundeck. The location feels remote, peaceful, and quiet, but it is very close to the beach, several surf breaks, and the little town of General Luna.

The restaurant offers a variety of unique plant-based delights inspired by the Ayurvedic kitchen. We really liked the tropical fruit bowl with papaya, pineapple, and mango with homemade coconut yogurt and edible flowers. Such a great start to the day!

The wonderful buildings are designed by Louise herself. She got lots of inspiration from her family, as they used to visit houses for sale as a hobby on the weekends when she was young. For the structures of the buildings, she was also inspired by Balinese bamboo architecture. Part of the building is made of indigenous materials, which blend beautifully into the natural environment. We really enjoyed the view overlooking the green garden while sitting in the open air communal building, with its spacious high ceilings.

There is an amazing retreat house with several private and shared rooms (maximum of 3 persons), or you can sleep in a private villa. All of the rooms are very comfortable and luxuriously furnished with hardwood furniture. The Yoga Dojo is a beautiful building surrounded by palm and banana trees. And when we opened our eyes after the sunset yoga class savasana, we could see the stars through the open roof! In this incredible studio, Louise shares her love for yoga and meditation with guests, islanders, and travelers. It is her radiant energy and heartwarming smile that gives these gentle flow classes this magical touch.

Beside three yoga classes a day, Lotus Shores offers several retreats from April through October. Keep this hidden gem in mind as a wonderful place to stay, or organize your yoga retreat!

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