PREVIOUS COURSES

Almeji

previous courses hosted at Almeji

Staying Sane in a Crazy World
March 9th-16th 2025
maggie whiteley
“If you want to awaken all of humanity, then awaken all of yourself!” Lao Tzu
How do we manage our response to the current state of the world? It can be overwhelming. We can find ourselves swinging from doom-scrolling despair to head-in-the-sand denial, both of which increase our sense of powerlessness.  In this retreat we’ll use meditation, ritual, creativity, and group sharing giving you the chance to connect deeply so you can go home ready to make your unique contribution and become a beacon of hope.. You will know and trust what you have to offer, be it big or small, and let it shine out.  […click arrow to read more…]

You are not powerless. It’s time to wake up. Wake up and cultivate joy and inner stillness so you can be fully present for yourself and others. Wake up your deep wisdom spreading love in the face of hatred and greed. Wake up and be rebellious, firmly resisting what is unacceptable to you.

There is a seriousness of purpose in this course, however, with Maggie you can expect a lightness of touch in the delivery and a good dollop of fun and irreverent humour.

The Roots of Happiness
Course Full – march 29th-april 5th 2025
Judi Ledward & Caroline Cross
“The very source of all happiness is your beingness; be there!” Nasargadatta Maharaj
Our 21st century lives are full of distraction: 24 hour news, smart phones, long hours at work, family commitments. Within all the busy-ness it can be hard to find our centredness, a place from which we know who we are, how we feel, what we truly want, what next. On this course we will explore ways to connect with ourselves, others and our environment, to be fully present in our lives and our being. […click arrow to read more…]

Among the noise of doing it’s hard to stay with being, and being present. We may stay busy and distracted to avoid feelings unfelt, thoughts that torment us, fears about the future. What we lose by staying plugged into our handy technology is living life fully in the present moment.

When we are present in our bodies, feelings and experience we can be fully who we are and wholeheartedly ride the tides of life. We can let go of ways we haunt ourselves about the past and of fears and fantasies about the future. By dropping into rather than avoiding our felt experience we can discover what we need and move through suffering to happiness. We can savour the beauty, pleasure, creativity and aliveness available to us in big and small ways in the present moment.

We will use movement, music, song, creativity, meditation, the power of the present moment, the therapeutic process of the group and personal work if wanted, to discover and dissolve obstacles within us, and fully inhabit ourselves and our lives.

Walking in the Sierra de Ronda
May 11th-18th 2025
Enrique, Gaucin
Enrique’s walks will take you through some of the most beautiful and yet least known parts of the mountains around Ronda. Nestled between three national parks, the Serrania de Ronda has both exceptional beauty and environmental value.  You will enjoy a full range of mountain, valley, river and forest landscapes – and the flora and fauna they contain – and visit Andalusia’s charming whitewashed villages.  Walking through these villages and  the surrounding hills is like travelling back in time.   You will come away steeped in both natural and human history. […click arrow to read more…]

The walks that you will do are moderate in difficulty with a combination of wide tracks and narrow paths with a stony surface underfoot at times. 

Located close to the town of Ronda, the capital of the region, this is the perfect setting for all kinds of outdoor activities and offers a magnificent historic, cultural and gastronomic experience.

The Poetry of Land and Soul
May 11th – 16th 2025 (5 days)
Rebecca Faro & Rafael Anderson
A Creative Cultural fusion… In a five day writing, storytelling with movement retreat, we will start exploring our inner landscapes, connecting to ourselves, and asking the following questions… What are our stories that make us who we are? How do we connect to our bodies to help express our authentic voice? What do we want to write into the script of our lives? What whispers from our soul guide us there? All of these are explored through a blend of the healing power of expressive writing techniques, meditation, self-inquiry and tuning into our bodies and intuition – all within a supportive environment. […click arrow to read more…]

Then we turn towards the stories held in the outer landscapes…   We will immerse ourselves in this beautiful land through the rich tapestry of ancient stories passed down over the years.  We will visit the sites where these tales began and absorb the lives that once were lived here, in Ronda, and will be invited to write reflections that filter back to our own.

Rebecca and Rafael have a deep but light touch to their facilitation, making it an immersive, exploratory experience.  Come and fill your creative and cultural cup. No experience in writing or movement necessary just come ready to explore!

“Rebecca weaves her talents with calm, warmth & gentle encouragement making each experience meditative, contemplative yet freeing. I could not have placed myself in better hands.” Shell W, New Zealand

“Rebecca supports the clients to embrace their Inner Knowing . She taps into their narrative and brings forth their innate insights. She fuses together a blend of authentic movement, expression through the written word, poetry, drawing, sounding and music. I truly believe through the sessions with her she helped me to excavate my own being.” Glynis Judge

“We try never to miss Rafael’s presentations at the Nerja history society which are always the highlight of its annual program. Rafa kept us spellbound for hours as we learnt about the history of this amazing achievement so long ago. Few people are as skilled at weaving story, poetry, images and unexpected discoveries as Rafa.” Mel O’Gorman

Tai Chi – Qigong Energy
May 11th – 16th 2025 (5 days)
Simon Allen
Deep relaxation, inner peace, grounding, and vitality…  Simon will be facilitating a retreat week solely dedicated to Tai Chi and Qigong to enable you to dive deeper.  All aspects of human life – physical, emotional, mental and spiritual – depend upon our energy levels. This week will focus on helping you to either gain back your depleted energy, or empower you to reach higher levels of it.  […click arrow to read more…]

Tai Chi and Qigong is a body mind energy management system that comprises correct breathing techniques, balance and neuromuscular training as well as stress, and emotional management. Tai Chi elicits the relaxation response and balances the autonomic nervous system thus regulating respiration, heart rate, blood pressure and vitality in general.

With regular practice Tai Chi has been shown to increase lung capacity, improve physical posture, cognitive functioning and mental health. Medical research cites that Tai Chi has been observed to improve the quality of life for some people struggling with long Covid, COPD, chronic fatigue, PTSD, depression, and other medical and mental health conditions.

During this week by combining deep rhythmic breathing with slow effortless movements and relaxing your attention into the depths of your body, you can discover a deep sense of peace, connectivity and vitality. Negative energy can be unblocked and released, increasing your stamina and brain functioning, unlocking greater creativity, and giving you improved resilience in high-stress situations.

Tai-chi and Qigong is suitable for all ages, abilities and lifestyles, and Simon’s weeks are open to both complete beginners and those with experience.

Meaningful and Life-Affirming Relationships in a Changing World
Sept 7th – 14th 2025
course closed
Javier Rodriguez
Would you like to consciously explore the landscape of human relationships and deepen the awareness of self and others  in a safe container?  Do you want to learn how to build healthy, nourishing and intimate connections with yourself and others?  Our world is changing and with it the general quality of our life and our relationships. This particular workshop is aiming to  increase self awareness  and provide a set of skills and practices  to help you to become more comfortable with being.  We will be holistically weaving moments of group learning, sharing, enquiry work, skills practice together with movement,  fun, creativity and silence. […click arrow to read more…]

The heavy use of technology, our fast speed and our tendency to get busy is narrowing down  opportunities for deep intimacy, fulfilment and healthy relationships . As a result, we may  notice symptoms of social isolation around us, an inability to feel comfortable inside ourselves and an awkwardness in relating or enjoying time with others. 

Our human condition needs a sense of belonging and a capacity for authentic self -expression in order to grow and evolve as an individual. However, in the process of adaptation we learnt to sacrifice aspects of ourselves when our attachments with others were threatened .  

So deep down we are in a dilemma between a longing to be heard, seen and accepted, and the fear that if we are to become visible we may be hurt, rejected or may loose some significant relationships. However, hiding who we really are behind a mask, limits ours possibilities to be fulfilled in our interactions .

Authenticity is about bringing together our internal experience and outer expression, letting go of expectations of who we are supposed to be, and showing up in the world without necessarily compromising our connections with others.

In my experience being authentic has been found to be a key defining factor in  many areas of our mental health  and psychological wellbeing.

This particular workshop is aiming to increase self awareness and provide a set of skills and practices  to help you to become more comfortable with being. 

We will be holistically  weaving moments of group learning, sharing, enquiry work, skills practice together with movement,  fun, creativity and silence.

Exploring Mindfulness through Playful Art
June 8th – 15th 2025
Ignacio Lalanne
We will practice attending to our immediate experience through expressive and playful art with kindness and compassion. It will give you a natural sense of awareness in your life, enabling you to live your life more deeply, centred and at ease in the midst of the ups and downs of your life. It does not matter if you don’t consider yourself an artist or even especially creative. The course is all about process and exploration rather than the final product and outcome. […click arrow to read more…]

We will explore together the fundamental concepts of the ancient practice of samma-Sati (wise/right attention), most commonly known as mindfulness, through brief discussions, guided meditations, mindful movements and creating art.

My workshops have a unique, free-flowing exploration of presence and loving-awareness through art. They blend modern Western art and different traditions embedded within the spirit of Japanese zen art, which is all about inner stillness, spontaneity, self-expression and a deep sense of curiosity and wonder.

You will learn foundational skills of mindful-living:

  • greater concentration and focus
  • art practice as a path to mindfulness
  • learn some expressive & playful art techniques
  • rediscovering a sense of curiosity & wonder
  • root yourself in the present moment through guided meditations & body movements based on Qi-gong
  • how working with breath and body awareness can transform stress and anxiety
  • how to cope better with challenging thoughts and emotions

Together, we will experience the extraordinary power found in observing and being aware of the present moment as it unfolds around us.

The Smugglers’ Trails
JunE 8th-15th 2025
Enrique, Gaucin
Enrique’s walks will take you through some of the most beautiful and yet least known parts of the mountains around Ronda. Nestled between three national parks, the Serrania de Ronda has both exceptional beauty and environmental value.  You will enjoy a full range of mountain, valley, river and forest landscapes – and the flora and fauna they contain – and visit Andalusia’s charming whitewashed villages.  In this particular set of walks, Enrique will take you along the tracks and paths used by the smugglers who moved their contraband from Gibraltar – a major world smuggling depot in the 18th Century – through these hills to their distribution centres in Ronda. […click arrow to read more…]

The walks that you will do are moderate in difficulty with a combination of wide tracks and narrow paths with a stony surface underfoot at times. 

Located close to the town of Ronda, the capital of the region, this is the perfect setting for all kinds of outdoor activities and offers a magnificent historic, cultural and gastronomic experience.

Posture and the Art of Not Forcing
Sept 21st – 28th 2025
Richard Brennan & Kecia Chin
A fun-filled week blending the Alexander Technique and Yoga.  Grace and beauty IS to do with ‘how we look’…!!  But it is less about cosmetics, clothes and beauty salons and much more to do with the ease and flow with which we move through life.  Literally, it concerns our posture.  The freedom of movement we all seek is achieved by ‘not forcing’.  In this week you will learn how we tend to interfere with the body’s natural movements and gently remove the habits you may have picked up over a lifetime.  […click arrow to read more…]

As children we all had beautiful posture, ease, flexibility and graceful movement.  But as we grew older, many of us  gradually lost that ease and grace, as our muscles tensed in response to life’s worries, fears and concerns.  The postures we may have developed are actually unnatural, and are the seeds of ill-health in the future. The techniques learnt in this course will allow our bodies’ own healing processes to function, and also bring about a greater efficiency of energy and a happier outlook on life.

The core principle of both Alexander Technique and yoga is breath work and this will be covered in a new and exciting way which will help you to move through life with ease and joy.

What people have said who have done these courses in the past:  

  • ‘One of the best courses I’ve been on!’  MB
  • ‘Brilliant – would recommend it to anyone.’ CS
  • ‘Excellent, informative, helpful and motivational. We covered a lot in the time but we were relaxed and unhurried at all times.’ DM
  • ‘Just brilliant. Extremely useful.’  JB
  • ‘I did the same course last year and it was so good I wanted to do it again.’ MK
  • ‘Very enlightening.’ DB
  •  ‘Brilliant. I really learned a lot and it will make a difference to the rest of my life.’ RT
Pilates
Sept 28th-Oct 3rd 2025
Penny LIttle
“If your spine is inflexibly stiff at 30, you are old; if it is completely flexible at 60, you are young.” (Joseph Pilates)  Joseph developed his ‘Pilates Method’ in Germany in the 1930s, which focuses on spine lengthening, core abdominals, and coordinating movement and breath with focus and awareness.  Pilates aims to improve posture, ease of movement and stability, and it has proved to be so effective and enjoyable to its devotees that it is now practiced all around the world.  Pilates is beneficial for people of all ages and body conditions, and in this course we will dive deeply into the practice of Pilates, whether you are a complete beginner or more experienced practitioner. […click arrow to read more…]

The exercises are modifiable for every level, ability and movement limitation.  Penny is an experienced teacher of mixed ability classes and ensures that each member of the group is challenged and supported according to their individual capacity.  She has a deep awareness of how past injuries or current conditions can affect our alignment and movement, allowing her to tailor the exercises to her clients’ needs.

A typical class will incorporate breathing practice, movement, stretching and strengthening so that your muscles become more balanced, giving you strength, flexibility and stability. We do exercises in standing, sitting, lying down and in 4-point kneeling, using props such as balls and bands to aid in both stretching and strengthening.

Women’s Hiking
Oct 5th – 10th 2025
Course full
Course full

The Copper Forest
Nov 2nd – 9th 2025
A local Walking Guide
Our walks will take you through some of the most beautiful and yet least known parts of the mountains around Ronda. Nestled between three national parks, the Serrania de Ronda has both exceptional beauty and environmental value.  You will enjoy a full range of mountain, valley, river and forest landscapes – and the flora and fauna they contain – and visit Andalusia’s charming whitewashed villages.  This particular set of walks explores the Genal Valley’s unique ‘Copper Forest’ – a spectacular feast of yellows, oranges and ochres the region treats us to as the leaves fall from the chestnut trees. […click arrow to read more…]

The walks that you will do are moderate in difficulty with a combination of wide tracks and narrow paths with a stony surface underfoot at times. 

Located close to the town of Ronda, the capital of the region, this is the perfect setting for all kinds of outdoor activities and offers a magnificent historic, cultural and gastronomic experience.

Immersive Gardens Retreat
Postponed until 2026
Mhairi Clutson
A Relaxing Journey of Garden Experiences – Welcome to the Immersive Garden Retreat at Hotel Almeji, where nature’s beauty and tranquillity converge to offer you an unforgettable escape. Our retreat invites you to embark on a sensory journey through lush gardens, fragrant blooms, and the
soothing sounds of nature. Guided by a passionate tutor, designer & horticulturalist, discover beautiful gardens, immerse yourself in hands-on planting & creative workshops and learn how gardens can enhance our personal well-being and the surrounding environment. […click arrow to read more…]

Explore Beautiful Gardens – Our adventure begins in several stunning gardens, each unique in its design and flora. As you wander through these vibrant landscapes, you’ll gain an appreciation
for the intricate relationships between plants, seasonal changes, and the local ecosystem. Our tutor will share insights about garden design principles, plant selection, and sustainable practices that enhance both beauty and biodiversity.

Discover the Art of the Garden: A Journey to Well-Being – Embark on this enriching journey with us, where you will cultivate your gardening skills, unleash your creativity, and discover the myriad benefits that gardens bring to our lives and the planet. Together, let’s learn how to nurture our surroundings, enrich our well-being, and create beautiful spaces that flourish with joy and purpose.

Hands-On Planting Workshops – Immerse yourself in the tactile joy of planting during our interactive workshops. You’ll have the opportunity to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty as you learn essential gardening techniques, such as soil preparation, plant selection, and planting for the future. Whether you’re a budding gardener or looking to refine your skills, our sessions cater to all levels of experience.

Creative Workshops – Learn how to express your personality through plant choices and garden layouts, while fostering a deeper connection with nature. The workshops are designed to help you bring your ideas to life. Join us for hands- on sessions where you’ll learn essential principles of garden design, including inspiration, planning, colour theory, mood boards, plant selection, whilst exploring simple design techniques to elevate your outdoor space. In addition to design basics, we’ll provide practical tips on maintenance to ensure your garden thrives with minimal effort. You’ll discover how to create zones for relaxation, play, and productivity, transforming any outdoor area into a personal sanctuary.

The Impact of Gardens on Well-Being – Throughout this journey, we will discuss the profound effects gardens can have on our mental and emotional health. Research shows that gardening fosters mindfulness, reduces stress, and promotes physical activity. You will learn about therapeutic gardening practices and how spending time in green spaces can cultivate a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Sustainable Gardening Practices – As we explore the beauty of gardening, we will also emphasize the importance of sustainability. Discover eco-friendly practices that conserve resources, support
wildlife, and maintain healthy soil. Learn how integrating native plants and promoting biodiversity can help create gardens that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also beneficial to the environment.

At the Immersive Garden Retreat, we believe that nature has the power to heal and inspire. As you leave, we hope that you will carry with you the serenity of the gardens and the connections you’ve made with both nature and fellow guests.

Surrendering to the earth, opening to the heart
Oct 12th – 17th 2025
Leah Barnett
Subtle yogic and movement practices to help nourish the nervous system and calm the mind. This retreat will provide a space for you to explore sinking into the holding space that a retreat can offer so that the tensions and often ‘age old’ and outmoded holding patterns that live in our bodies can begin to unravel and release.  […click arrow to read more…]

Leah says…

“I believe that our greatest teacher is within and that our body knows best what it needs if we could only learn to listen. My aim is to help guide people to access the inner wisdom within each and every one of us by offering practices which promote the gentle release of tension and old, outdated physical and mental holding patterns which hinder us in our daily lives.

“Over recent years I have become interested in different movement practices including somatics and feldenkrais which I weave into my teaching with the emphasis on building inner awareness and cultivating kindness as we explore our inner experience.

“We will practice together twice each day (mid morning and late afternoon) focusing more towards opening and receiving with mindful movement in the mornings and letting go and grounding practices using the breath and sound in the afternoon practices.  Everything that is offered is by way of invitation with the emphasis being on developing our ‘inner ear’ so that we are more able to listen inwardly and respond to our own needs with kindness.

“This retreat is suitable for those who are interested in exploring slowing down and diving deep. Everyone is welcome.”

Twin Flame Alchemy
Oct 19th – 24th 2025
Lali Devi & Ingela Palmquist
Join us for a transformative retreat designed to help you balance your inner masculine and feminine energies; opening the path to attract your twin flame or elevate your current relationship into a twin flame union.  The most important aspect of this journey, however, is to discover our internal twin flame state—a divine union within ourselves and with the Divine. To facilitate this, we will work with and heal wounds that have been carried within us since we were in our mothers’ wombs. […click arrow to read more…]

Full details on Lali and Ingela’s website – click here

Each participant will receive personalized guidance based on their Human Design blueprint, detailing the specific wound they carry and the energies needed to heal it. This healing process will be supported by a combination of Grief processing around relationships, Sound healing, Meditation, and Breath work. Yoga or Qigong sessions will be offered to nourish and support the body, mind, and soul throughout the journey.

The retreat is held during a special time when the sun aligns with the frequency of Harmony, providing an additional cosmic support for our practice. To enable a greater expression of your inner genius you will receive information about your unique gift vibration that corresponds to the transcended wound by the end of the retreat.

This retreat is facilitated by Ingela Palmquist and Lali Devi. Lali is specialized in Wellbeing, with training in Yoga, Meditation, and Tantra traditions. Ingela is the founder of a Sound healing academy and is trained in Grief processing and Yoga therapy. Together, they host the podcast Awakening Waves.