The 5 Best Pilates Retreats in Europe

Palacio Estoril Hotel in Portugal is one of the more luxury Pilates retreats in Europe, with its 5 star rating and a hotel full of historical glamour. Located just outside the capital city of Lisbon, the upmarket town of Estoril sits right next to the beach for unmissable views and a tranquil atmosphere, with the added benefit of the hustle and bustle of the city close by. With a whole host of activities and classes available, this retreat is perfect for solo travellers as well as groups with plenty of things to keep you busy and every opportunity to meet new people. As well as group Pilates classes, this beautiful retreat also offers Aqua Pilates if you are looking to try something a little bit different. After a busy day of activities, Palacio Estoril Hotel has a wellness centre spread over 4 floors with a state-of-the-art gym, indoor hydrotherapy pool, Hydromassage tubs and steam rooms with a whole menu of treatments also available.

This idyllic Pilates retreat in Europe is set on the private peninsula in the North of Crete overlooking the Aegean Sea. This retreat also offers that 5 star luxury experience with its boutique hotel offering all year round warm Mediterranean weather. Capsis Elite Resort makes the most of its beautiful location by hosting its morning classes on the outdoor deck with views over the ocean, how does Pilates watching the sunrise sound?. Each of the 68 suites offers a beautiful view of either the sea, gardens or pool, so there’s always somewhere to escape to for you to practice your Pilates moves for your next class. Unwind in one of the 8 swimming pools or go for a horse-back ride in the local fishing village of Aghia Pelaghia.

If you are looking for a more intimate Pilates retreat in Europe, look no further than the Shanti-Som in Spain. Located in Sierra de Las Nieves Nature Park near Marbella, this Asian-style retreat is like something from the back of a postcard, with waterfalls, fountains, streams and a mountainous backdrop. This retreat offers hints of luxury whilst maintaining the most authentic feel. What more could you ask for as a location for immersing yourself in Pilates classes? The mantra at Shanti-Som is to “reward, encourage and educate, but never judge you”, making this an ideal retreat for Pilates beginners who are wanting to give it a try. Spoil your senses after a day of core strengthening with a Deep tissue massage, Hot Stone, Lymphatic drainage or a Seaweed body wrap.

Galosol was the first active hotel in Madeira that offered fitness activities, filling the gap in the market for those looking to keep active whilst on holiday. With winters rarely dropping below 18 degrees, you can always make the most out of the outdoor swimming pool, as well as the natural lido and diving centre. This Pilates retreat in Europe offers the best of both worlds, with extreme sports and activities, as well as a sea front location with idyllic sunbathing spots and a beautiful spa facility. This retreat allows you to tailor your holiday by choosing 5 private sessions from a selection of classes such as Body pump, Yoga, Aqua fit, Zumba, Body balance and Ball Pilates.

As a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and winner of the World Luxury Spa Award, Sun Gardens in Croatia is a Pilates retreat in Europe not be missed. With a private pebble beach to relax on, and the Old Town World Heritage Site in Dubrovnik only 11 kilometers from the resort, you won’t be short of things to do. If you are a Game of Thrones fan, you can also visit where it was filmed! Hosted in the fully-equipped sports centre, you can get stuck in to Pilates, Yoga, Aqua aerobics and other classes that take your fancy. Following up your daily exercise you can treat yourself at the luxury spa for pleasantly surprising prices.