France Retreats
Imagine stepping away from the relentless pace of daily life into a sanctuary where ancient wisdom meets the gentle beauty of the French countryside.
At the Ashram de Yoga Sivananda, just 100km south of Paris, you’ll discover what a true yoga retreat feels like: a complete immersion in practices that have transformed lives for thousands of years.
Whether you’re curious about yoga for the first time or you’ve been practicing for years, experienced teachers welcome you exactly as you are. As your practice progresses, any stress you’ve been carrying begins to dissolve and the tranquillity you’ve been seeking comes within reach. This is where body, mind, and spirit finally get the renewal they’ve been waiting for.
A Space for Inner Peace and Renewal
The Ashram de Yoga Sivananda is nestled in the countryside of the Loire Valley region of France. An ashram is a sanctuary dedicated to yoga, meditation, and self-inquiry, intentionally removed from urban noise and distraction.
Here, stillness comes naturally through daily practice, nourishing vegetarian meals, time in nature, and the simple rhythm of ashram life. The ashram offers an authentic introduction to classical yoga – through yoga poses and breathing exercises, meditation and mantra chanting, philosophy, relaxation, and mindful living in community.
Whether you are joining your first yoga retreat in France or have been on this path for many years, you will find a supportive environment to rest, learn and grow, guided by experienced teachers and held by a community dedicated to sincere spiritual practice.
A Nourishing Daily Rhythm
The day begins early with morning meditation, mantra chanting and a reading, helping to bring clarity to the mind and a peaceful start to the day.
The morning continues with a classical yoga class, followed by a nourishing vegetarian brunch.
Afterwards, guests help with simple daily tasks around the ashram as a way to practise mindfulness in action.
In the afternoon, there is time for rest, reading, walks in nature or personal reflection.
A second yoga class takes place later in the day, followed by dinner.
The day concludes with evening satsang – meditation, chanting and an inspiring talk on yoga philosophy or spiritual life.
This rhythm of practice, rest, study, nature and community helps you experience yoga as a balanced way of living.
Rooted in Tradition
The Ashram de Yoga Sivananda is part of a network of yoga centres that have maintained authentic teaching standards across more than 25 locations worldwide, offering a complete system for nurturing your whole self.
The teachings are rooted in the lineage of Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and his disciple Swami Vishnudevananda, who founded the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres in 1957. This tradition presents yoga as a complete way of life through five essential points: proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking and meditation. Together, these practices support physical health, mental balance and spiritual growth.
Since opening in 2003, the Ashram de Yoga Sivananda in France has offered a peaceful setting where these teachings can be studied and practised in daily life. Guests are invited to experience classical yoga and meditation in a way that is structured, accessible and deeply rooted in tradition.
The historic manor house and a variety of modern structures offer a range of accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets, including private rooms, shared rooms and dormitory-style accommodation.
From May to September, camping is also available for guests who enjoy being close to nature.Â
Meals at the ashram follow lacto-vegetarian and Ayurvedic principles, using wholesome ingredients that support clarity, balance and wellbeing.
As a non-profit organization, the ashram aims to make authentic yoga teachings accessible while maintaining a high standard of instruction, hospitality and care.Â
Our France yoga retreats include time to rest, absorb the teachings and enjoy the surroundings. The ashram grounds and the natural beauty of the Loire Valley offer space for quiet walks, reading, reflection and time outdoors. Guests may also explore the region during free time, including the famous Loire castles, gardens and nearby countryside.
On site, the library offers yoga texts and spiritual literature for personal study, while the yoga shop provides books, practice items, meditation cushions, mats and other supports for continuing the practice at home.
For guests interested in Indian spirituality, the ashram grounds include a temple and several shrines, cared for by an Indian priest. Visiting these spaces is entirely optional, and many guests simply appreciate them as part of the peaceful and contemplative atmosphere of the ashram.
The journey toward renewal begins with a single decision: to prioritize your inner wellbeing.
The Sivananda Ashram in France offers programs throughout the year, from weekend introductions to extended immersive stays. You’ll return home with more than pleasant memories. You’ll carry practical tools, renewed energy, and deeper self-understanding.
Investing in a yoga retreat is investing in your long-term wellbeing, peace of mind, and spiritual growth. The perfect time to begin? Right now.Â
The retreat team is happy to help you choose the programme that fits your needs and experience level.
Yes. You do not need previous experience in yoga, meditation or ashram life. The teachers give clear guidance and offer variations in the yoga classes, so each person can practise according to their ability. Beginners are welcome, as are experienced practitioners wishing to deepen their practice.
Yes. Programmes are offered in French and English, with translation provided so that guests can follow the teachings and take part fully. This bilingual environment creates a warm international community, welcoming guests from France, Europe and around the world.
