summer solstice
retreat
A vibrant Summer retreat surrounded by nature, community, adventure, and celebration.
From Friday 27th – Sunday 29th November 2026, join us at the beautiful Yanada Retreat in the McDonald Valley for three days of movement, connection, creativity, and rest. Together we'll celebrate the beginning of summer with yoga, meditation, kayaking, swimming in the river, creative workshops, a summer ceremony, nourishing vegetarian meals, and plenty of time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the valley.
Wake with dynamic morning practices, challenge yourself with 108 Sun Salutations, create, explore, laugh, rest, and gather in community as the days grow longer and the energy of summer returns.
With only 19 spots available, this intimate retreat is an invitation to step away from the busyness of everyday life, reconnect with yourself and others, and embrace the warmth, abundance, and possibility of the season ahead.
you are invited
Join your local yoga studio for a rejuvenating 3-day Summer Retreat at Yanada, a hidden sanctuary in the McDonald Valley. Together we'll welcome the season with yoga, meditation, kayaking, creative workshops, ceremony, and community, while enjoying the warmth, energy, and abundance of summer.
retreat highlights
• Summer Solstice Ceremony with Jennifer Lorena
• 108 Sun Salutations with Annika Saigi (optional)
• Yin Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga & Meditation Classes
• Opening & Closing Circles with Annika Saigi
• Watercolour Meditation Workshop with Karen Gruber
• Kayaking Adventure & River Swimming
• Cooking Workshop with Jeevi
• Restorative Yoga & Sound Healing
• Plenty of free time to swim, relax, read, journal or simply do nothing at all
• Pool with & beautiful natural surroundings
• All meals provided (vegetarian, with vegan and gluten-free options available)
daily flow
Friday 27th November – Arrive from 5 pm, settle into your room, enjoy dinner together, then ease into retreat with an Opening Circle, Yin Yoga and Guided Meditation.
Saturday 28th November – Begin the day with a Vinyasa Yoga, followed by meditation, kayaking on the river, swimming, creative workshops, free time to relax, and a Summer Solstice Ceremony in the evening.
Sunday 29th November – Start the day with 108 Sun Salutations practice, enjoy a laughing yoga class with Jeevi, then finish the retreat with Restorative Yoga, Sound Healing, a Closing Circle, and departure in the afternoon after some extra chill time.
about yanada
Yanada is a peaceful eco-retreat centre nestled on 38 acres of bushland in the beautiful McDonald Valley. During our retreat, we'll have exclusive use of the property, giving us space to slow down, connect, and fully immerse ourselves in the experience.
• Swimming Pool
• Comfortable hotel-style accommodation
• Dedicated Yoga Hall with props provided (just bring your own mat)
• Beautiful bushland surrounds with walking trails and river access
• Plenty of quiet spaces to read, journal, nap, explore, or simply do nothing at all
• Less than two hours from Penrith/Sydney, yet it feels a world away.
Whether you're joining us for the yoga, the river adventures, the connection, or simply the opportunity to step away from everyday life for a few days, Yanada provides the perfect backdrop for a summer retreat.
accommodation options & pricing
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twin/triple share
$1199 per person
A monthly payment plan is also avalible at checkout.
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Dorm
$1149 per person
A monthly payment plan is also available at checkout.
What Will We Eat?
One of the highlights of the retreat is undoubtedly the food.
Throughout the weekend you'll be nourished by the incredible Jeevi Ramtel, better known as the Laughing Chef. Originally from Nepal, Jeevi is a plant-based chef, certified raw food chef and instructor, and Laughter Yoga Master who has spent years sharing his passion for delicious, nourishing food around the world.
Jeevi is the regular chef for Happy Buddha Retreats and co-founder of the Raw Living Academy. Known for his warmth, joy, and ability to create meals that leave people feeling both satisfied and energised, he brings far more than just great food to the table. His approach is centred around the idea that food should nourish not only the body, but also the mind and spirit.
All meals throughout the retreat are vegetarian, locally sourced where possible, home-cooked, and prepared with care. Expect colourful, flavourful meals designed to leave you feeling nourished, grounded, and well looked after for the entire weekend.
Vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements can be catered for. Simply let us know your requirements when booking and we'll make sure you're looked after.
As an extra treat, Jeevi will also be sharing some of his knowledge during a special cooking workshop, where you'll learn some of the secrets behind his much-loved plant-based creations.
Trust us when we say nobody leaves a Yanada retreat hungry.
your retreat facilitators
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Annika Saigi
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karen gruber
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jennifer lorena
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Jeevi Ramtel
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Uncle Col
what will we get up to?
Below is a list of all the things we will get up to.
Please note that it is ALL OPTIONAL. If you want to lie in a hammock for three days overlooking the mountains and the bush with your favourite book, or sit in the pool till you are an actual prune, we support that too. You do you.
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Opening Circle
Our retreat begins with a welcoming Opening Circle, giving you the opportunity to arrive, settle into the space, and connect with the group. Together we'll share intentions for the weekend, participate in a guided meditation, and create a supportive environment for the days ahead.
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Yin Yoga
Slow down and unwind with a nourishing Yin Yoga practice. Expect long-held, supported postures designed to gently stretch the body, calm the nervous system, and create space to rest and reconnect.
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Guided Meditation
Throughout the retreat we'll explore guided meditation practices designed to cultivate presence, awareness, and a deeper connection to ourselves and the natural environment around us. Meditation is traditionally done seated, but if you prefer to lie down, that is always welcome too.
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108 Sun Salutations
A traditional yogic practice often used to mark seasonal transitions and significant moments throughout the year. This moving meditation combines breath, focus, and repetition in a powerful and energising way. Participants are welcome to complete as many rounds as feels right for them.
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Dynamic Morning Vinyasa
Wake up with an energising yoga practice designed to get the body moving and prepare you for the day ahead. Expect flowing sequences, mindful movement, and plenty of options for all experience levels.
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Water Colour Art Workshop
Join Karen Gruber for a creative workshop using watercolour paints. No artistic experience is required. This session is less about creating a masterpiece and more about slowing down, being present, and exploring creativity as a mindfulness practice.
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Kayaking Adventure & Swimming Holes
One of the highlights of the weekend. Local Elder Uncle Col will guide us along the waterways surrounding the property using his own kayaks, sharing stories and knowledge of the area along the way. We'll visit beautiful swimming holes and spend time immersed in the natural landscape of the valley. No previous kayaking experience is required.
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Laughing Yoga with Jeevi
Join Jeevi Ramtel, Certified Laughter Yoga Master, for a playful session designed to boost energy, reduce stress, and reconnect us with joy.
Through simple breathing exercises, gentle movement, and intentional laughter, we'll explore the powerful effects laughter can have on both body and mind.
No experience required. Just bring an open mind and a willingness to have some fun.
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Summer Solstice Ceremony
Facilitated by Jennifer Lorena, this special evening ceremony invites us to pause and honour the beginning of summer. Through reflection, ritual, connection, and community, we'll celebrate the season ahead and the energy of longer, brighter days.
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Restorative Yoga & Sound Healing
Our final practice together. Restorative Yoga uses props and fully supported postures to encourage deep relaxation and nervous system regulation. Combined with the soothing sounds of crystal bowls and other instruments, this session offers the perfect opportunity to integrate the weekend before returning home.
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Closing Circle
We gather one final time to reflect on the weekend, share any insights or experiences, and gently transition back into everyday life. A beautiful way to close the retreat and honour the connections formed throughout our time together.
As the days grow longer and the warmth of summer returns, we are reminded of nature's cycles of growth, abundance, and renewal. This retreat is an invitation to pause, celebrate how far you've come, reconnect with what matters most, and set intentions for the season ahead.
practical details
Check-in: 5:00pm Friday 27 November 2026
Check-out: 2:00pm Sunday 29 November 2026
Location: Yanada Retreat, McDonald Valley, NSW (approximately 1.5 hours from Penrith)
Parking: Available onsite
Bring: Yoga clothes, yoga mat, swimmers, journal, water bottle, walking shoes, slippers, sunscreen, a hat, and anything else you need to feel comfortable for a weekend away.
Accommodation, meals, towels, bedding, and yoga props are provided.
No previous yoga, kayaking, meditation, art, or cooking experience is required. All activities are optional, and you're welcome to participate as much or as little as you'd like throughout the weekend.
This weekend is for you. Do as you please and decide whenever you feel.
Payment Terms
Payment Options
Pay in Full
Full balance is due at the time of booking.
Your place is secured once payment has been received.
Payment Plan
Monthly payment plans are available.
Payments will be automatically charged to your nominated card until the retreat has been paid in full.
If a payment does not process, the system will continue attempting payment and a dishonour fee may be charged.
General Terms
Transfers
If you are unable to attend, your booking may be transferred to another person. The new participant will be required to accept the same booking terms and conditions.
Cancellations
If you cancel before 1 September 2026, all payments made (minus a $400 non-refundable deposit) will be refunded.
After 1 September 2026, no refunds are available as retreat costs and accommodation commitments have been finalised.
Missed Payments
If an instalment payment is missed, we will contact you. If payments are not brought up to date within 14 days, your place may be forfeited and any monies paid may become non-refundable.
Payment Methods
Payments can be made via credit card, debit card, or direct bank transfer (by prior arrangement).
Important Notes
• Places are limited to 19 guests.
• All prices include accommodation, meals, workshops, yoga classes, and retreat activities.
• Optional extras outside the retreat package are not included.
• No previous yoga, meditation, kayaking, art, or cooking experience is required.
• All activities are optional.
• By booking, you agree to these terms and conditions.
FAQs
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Of course! Please come as you are. We will look after you and have lots of options.
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Sure can. We will be sure to introduce everyone on the first night.
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All good! Just let us know by emailing info@ninyoga.com.au and we will make a note on your profile and give the chefs a heads up.
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No, but we will make a Whatspp group for all the guests, and carpooling can be a question you ask in the group!
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2 nights / 3 days accommodation at Yanada Retreat
All vegetarian meals (with vegan, GF and DF options available)
All offerings on the schedule
Use of the pool
Access to the yoga hall and meditation equipment
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Transport to and from the venue
Kayak hire ($20 per person)
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Yanada is in the McDonald Valley, about 90 minutes from Sydney. Full directions will be provided upon booking.
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Dorms sleep 5 people
Twin share rooms can be configured as king or singles
Triple rooms are two single beds and a trundle bed (trundle bed is the same mattress as the single beds)
All rooms have share bathrooms
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Yes! You can either:
Pay in full at booking, OR
Pay in 6 installments one month apart each. The cost depends on which option you choose.
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$400 of your payment is non-refundable.
If you cancel before 1 September 2026, we’ll refund anything you’ve paid (minus the $400).
After 1 April 2026, no refunds are possible, but you can transfer your booking to someone else.
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This retreat is intimate, capped at 19 guests maximum.
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Comfortable clothes for yoga and workshops
Swimwear for the pool/spa
Warm layers for evenings by the fire
A journal
Personal toiletries
Any snacks or drinks you like
