Once a year, people from all walks of life come together to slow down and embrace the peace that comes with disconnecting from the madness of the hustle.
Leaving the daily grind behind, they meet at Elandskloof Farm in Riviersonderend for the Retreat Yourself Festival.
Also read: Reconnect with nature during the Retreat Yourself festival
Not just your typical outdoor festival, Retreat Yourself is a holistic experience with a curated pop-up village designed to foster connection, introspection and inspiration among all who partake.

What to do
Different wellness pillars are represented in the Retreat Yourself Village venues. The Soul Centre is where people go to connect with themselves through various ceremonies, workshops, meditations and more.
The Yoasis is an exquisite outdoor sanctuary devoted to yoga and movement, and the Sacred Sweat Lodge provides a space to practice ancient Native American purification ceremonies.

But it’s not all meditation and mindfulness; there are also disco balls and dancing.
The Roller Rink welcomes all to don some skates and take a spin around the decks; the Forest Stage entertains with a host of performing acts, musicians and comedians; and the Secret Dance Floor rings out with the finest selection of dance music underneath the stars.

Industry specialists lead workshops and speeches throughout the days. There is no obligation to attend all or any.
The beauty of the festival is that you can really make it your own and customise your experience. Explore what thrills you and abandon the rest.
Everyone is welcome
As an event that celebrates diversity and inclusivity, Retreat Yourself extends a warm welcome to retreaters of all ages and stages, inviting individuals, families and friends from every corner of life to join in on the fun.

Run by experienced and qualified childminders, The Kids Club serves as a base for the younger visitors, providing a diverse range of activities tailored for children aged 1 to 15.
When they’re not at the club, kids can enjoy family movies at the village cinema, daily yoga classes, the roller rink and more activities.
What to eat
At The Market, the bustling heart of the village, you’ll find delicious food, fashion, crafted treasures and entertainment for all to enjoy.
Retreat Yourself is a proudly meat-free festival; however, The Market offers many delicious vegetarian and vegan options for you to explore.
If you’re up for dining out, The Restaurant is a riverside pop-up eatery that offers food, drink, jazz, and culinary masterclasses.

Book a spot at the ever-so-popular Dinner Banquet and Champagne Brunch, and make a toast to friends, old and new.
Where to stay
The Retreat Yourself Village provides diverse accommodation options, from countryside cottages to glamping bell tents, ensuring all attendees’ needs are met.

Additionally, participants are welcome to bring their own camping gear, which is available on a first-come, first-serve basis with every festival ticket.
Tickets
Your Retreat Yourself 2024 ticket is the key that unlocks your five-day adventure! It gives you full access to classes, a variety of talks and workshops, sound journeys, all entertainment spaces and much more.

With so much on offer, Retreat Yourself can perhaps seem like an overwhelming number of options to choose from, so here are the basics.
Details:
- Location: Elandskloof Farm, Helderstroom
- Date: 29 February to 3 March 2024
- Cost: Festival tickets from R1450 for adults | R650 for children aged 1 to 3
- Tickets: www.ry.howler.co.za
- Contact: [email protected]
For more help navigating your Retreat Yourself experience, visit retreatyourself.co.za.
Also read:
Escape your daily routine and Retreat Yourself at Elandskloof Farm
Picture: Supplied