Dominika, our sales and product executive jets off to Greece to see why everyone in the wellness world is talking about Euphoria Retreat. Here, she gives us her report:
What were your first impressions?
After a terribly early flight from London at 5.40am, I landed in sunny and unusually warm Kalamata (26 degrees at the end of October). The transfer only took an hour and I was given some snacks and water for the joruney. Upon arrival I was escorted to the reception and had a informal check-in and offered a cold non-alcoholic welcome drink. The receptionist gave me a show round of the retreat and facilities and then showed me to my room. I stayed in the Executive Deluxe room which felt really calm with warm colours, lots of wood and soft materials. Rooms are very modern with high tech gadgets but she explained how it all worked. The highlight of my room was the bed which was HUGE is size with the softest pillows and duvet. I slept like a baby for all 3 nights! No wonder the mattresses were specifically designed for Euphoria. There is also a pillow menu if you feel that the pillows are not right for your neck. After seeing the room I was taken to the spa where I was presented with my spa programme schedule, I could make changes and all my questions were answered.
What was the spa like and what was your favourite treatment?
I have to say that the spa facilities here are really special. The centre of the spa is the Kneipp therapy pool and all 4 floors are built around it in a spiral shape which represents the flow of life. The Sphere pool is very special. It is a dome shaped object, 3.5 metres deep which looks out of this world, almost alien like. It felt quite scary when I swam in it for the first time. Its walls echoed so it felt strange to hear my own voice so clear. Around the pool are various jets for everyone to use. You can also swim outside and enjoy the outdoor pool if you like. The relaxation area was an inviting space where you could chill with a book or a magazine and fresh water and tea is always provided. You will also find the gym, Pilates studio with reformer machines, sauna, steam room, salt room and 2 yoga Shalas.
My favourite treatment was the signature Hammam which is done in a private hammam room within the tepidarium. The treatment started by lying down on a warm marble bed and then the therapist applying the soap all over my body with relaxing massage moves. My body was scrubbed and I’m pretty sure that every single dead cell was removed! Then I was washed with a warm water and my favourite part of the treatment started. The therapist kept dipping a cloth in a bucket of soapy water, swooshing it in the air creating bubbles which she dropped on top of my body. Soon I felt like lying in a soft cloud (or as if I was in a washing machine). At the end of my treatment she applied a body lotion and my skin felt super smooth!
I also had a 3GL test. My appointment started with a naturopath explaining what it is and how antioxidants play a big role in our immune system. She said that is not just about the food we eat. A stressful lifestyle plays a big role in it too. She took a sample of my blood by a simple prick test. The results were ready the next day. My results were pretty good as she compared them against the table. She gave a couple of tips and suggestion how to raise it a bit, what food to eat, when and how. My daily smoothie and afternoon snack were based on these results.
What was the food like?
There is only one restaurant called Gaia with a wonderful outdoor terrace. Long tables invite people to socialise. But if you prefer privacy there are tables of two. If you are on a spa programme you have full board which consists of breakfast, a morning snack, lunch, a afternoon snack and dinner. Snacks are served in the spa’s relaxation area. All meals are a la carte and if you are on a specific programme such as detox or weight loss these are pre-selected for you. All dietary requirements are taken care of and there are lots of vegan options available too. I was worried that being in a wellness resort, portions would be small or choice limited but that is far from the truth at Euphoria. Portions are perfect and the selection of dishes is great. Foods with high antioxidants are highlighted on the menu. There are also daily specials. I would like to select the dish I loved the most but I cannot choose one, everything was delicious (but if I have to, I would pick the quinoa salad with peaches, cranberries and seeds).
What was the highlight of the trip?
I loved the fact that this retreat is very holistic. Everything from the design, colours, treatments and overall attitude screamed zen and calmness. Traditional Chinese medicine is one of the pillars and you can feel this influence. I’d recommend attending evening talks where you can learn more about 5 Elements and ethos of Euphoria. All staff were super friendly which puts you at ease. Actually everyone – staff and fellow guests - were very friendly, open and down to earth people. The retreat is compact in size but it never felt overcrowded. To be honest sometimes I had the pool or relaxation area all to myself. For an extra touch of luxury, there is a Californian hot tub on the top floor of the spa. Get in and enjoy those wonderful views. I would also recommend taking a walk in the forest just behind the retreat. The quiet, calm and clean air which smelled of pine trees and eucalyptus is a place to slow down that busy mind, breath and appreciate the surroundings. Also mobile phones are not allowed in the spa and the restaurant to support the overall experience.
Who should go?
I think that Euphoria is perfect for all types of guests. Singles, couples, guests who wish to target a specific health and wellness related issue or those who just want to relax for a couple of days, do activities and eat healthy foods. Euphoria provides not-in-your-face luxury where you can totally relax because everything else is being taken care of for you. Go now because everyone else will want to experience this Greek peace of wellness haven soon!
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