Discover a Unique Retreat Experience
Immerse yourself in a transformative retreat that blends the invigorating practice of cold-water swimming with the calming discipline of yoga, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or entirely new to cold-water immersion, you’ll be supported to explore at your own pace—whether that means a mindful dip or a longer swim. Yoga sessions are open to all levels, helping you build strength, flexibility, and mindfulness in a welcoming, inclusive environment.
Guided by expert instructors, you’ll learn to embrace the cold with confidence and discover practices that nurture body and mind. Between sessions, nourishing meals prepared by our chefs will restore and energize you, while the chalet’s panoramic views of Lake Geneva, the Alps, and the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards provide space for rest and renewal.
This is a one-of-a-kind retreat, and space is limited—reserve your spot today!
RETREAT HIGHLIGHTS
● Daily yoga practices blending Hatha Vinyasa, Yin, and mindfulness techniques—accessible to all levels. Every class is designed to leave you grounded, open, and energized.
● Daily guided cold water swims in Lake Geneva (10–12°C), with expert coaching and full support for all levels—from mindful dipping to adventurous swims.
● Wholesome, creative meals prepared daily by our talented chefs, crafted with seasonal ingredients to restore energy and support recovery.
● Stargazing on the first evening of the retreat with a professional telescope—a shared moment of wonder that mirrors the retreat's purpose of awakening both inner stillness and a sense of connection to something vast and infinite.
● A cozy Swiss chalet with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, the Alps, and UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards—an ideal setting for rest and renewal.
● An afternoon on the Swiss Riviera, featuring a tour of Chillon Castle, a stroll along Montreux’s lakeside promenade, and a wine tasting in the Lavaux vineyards (castle entry and wine tasting not included in retreat price).
● Time to connect with a supportive, like-minded community through shared experiences, laughter, and growth.
● Space to pause, reflect, and recharge—whether in the water, on the mat, or simply soaking up the fresh mountain air.
SWIMMING
Led by an experienced open water swimmer and coach, these cold water swimming sessions offer a safe and supportive space to explore the invigorating practice of cold water immersion. With water temperatures between 10–12°C, participants are encouraged to move at their own pace—whether that means a mindful dip or a short swim close to shore.
Sessions begin with gentle preparation on land, focusing on breath control, body awareness, and safety. Once in the water, you’ll be guided to stay present with the sensations of cold exposure, learning to find calm, steadiness, and focus through your breath.
Cold water immersion can build resilience, improve circulation, and leave you with a profound sense of clarity and vitality. These sessions are designed to be both restorative and challenging, connecting you with nature, your own body, and the supportive energy of the group.Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
YOGA
The yoga practices are designed to complement the swimming sessions and support both body and mind.
Morning Dynamic Yoga Practice
In this steady, breath led Hatha practice, we’ll explore ways to prepare the body and breath for swimming. Together, we’ll stretch and strengthen key areas: shoulders, chest, spine, and hips to support fluid movement and ease in the water.
We’ll also work with breathing techniques to increase lung capacity, build confidence in breath control, and develop a deeper awareness of the breath. This practice is designed to leave you feeling calm yet energized and ready to move through the day with strength and flow.
Evening Yin Yoga for Recovery & Relaxation
In this calming evening practice, we’ll slow down and settle into longer held, floor based postures to gently release tension from the body and mind. Together,we’ll focus on the shoulders, spine, and hips - the areas that often hold onto the effort of the day or time in the water.
We’ll be supported by guided meditation to help us soften, relax, and reset. This is a space to come home to ourselves, find stillness, and allow the nervous system to rest and restore. Preparing you for a perfect night's sleep.
FOOD & DINNING
Throughout the retreat, you’ll be nourished by healthy and delicious meals each day, lovingly prepared by our in-house chefs. Their passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients and inventive cooking will keep you energized, restored, and inspired after time in the lake and on the mat.
Meals are designed to support wellness and recovery, blending flavours from diverse culinary traditions into vibrant, comforting dishes. From a warming post-swim lunch to a colourful evening meal, every plate fuels both body and soul.
We’ll begin with a welcoming dinner on arrival day and end with a closing breakfast. All dietary needs and preferences are catered for with advance notice.
AFTERNOON EXCURSION: Chillon Castle, Montreux & Wine Tasting
Discover the beauty of the Swiss Riviera on an afternoon filled with history and charm. We’ll visit Chillon Castle, Switzerland’s most iconic lakeside fortress, stroll Montreux’s vibrant promenade (including the Freddie Mercury statue), and conclude with a Lavaux vineyard visit for wine tasting against the backdrop of terraced vines and alpine peaks.
Please note: entrance to Chillon Castle and the wine tasting are not included in the retreat price and must be paid for by participants.
STARGAZING
On our first evening, we’ll gather under the night sky with a professional telescope to explore the moon’s craters, Jupiter’s moons, and perhaps even deep-sky objects. Beginning with wonder sets the tone for the retreat: grounded in nature, connected to each other, and inspired by the infinite above. It’s a magical way to open our time together, inviting curiosity and connection from the very start.
SCHEDULE
Day 1: Check-in (4–6pm), welcome dinner, opening circle, stargazing
Day 2: Morning yoga, breakfast, swim/dip, lunch, afternoon swim/dip, evening yoga, dinner
Day 3: Morning yoga, breakfast, swim/dip, lunch, afternoon excursion, dinner
Day 4: Morning yoga, breakfast, swim/dip, lunch, afternoon swim/dip, evening yoga, dinner
Day 5: Morning yoga, breakfast, departure
Need to confirm time we can check-in
LOCATION
Perched above Montreux and Vevey, Chalet la Varlope combines Swiss charm with modern comfort. The chalet features sweeping views of Lake Geneva, the Alps, and the Lavaux vineyards. A 100 m² pavilion provides the perfect space for yoga and group gatherings, bathed in natural mountain light.
The lakeshore, just minutes away, offers daily cold-water swims, while nearby trails through forests and vineyards invite peaceful walks and reflection.
Getting there
Address
Chalet La Varlope
Chemin de la Varlope 7
1823 Glion-sur-Montreux, Switzerland
By Car
Chalet La Varlope is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Geneva by car. From the A9 motorway, take the Montreux exit and follow the signs uphill toward Glion and Caux. Parking is available for guests at the chalet.
By Public Transportation
From Geneva Airport, take a train to Montreux (about 1 hour). From Montreux, transfer to the cog railway towards Glion (a 5-minute ride). The Glion station is about 600 meters from Chalet La Varlope—an uphill walk of about 7–10 minutes. If you prefer not to walk with luggage, we can arrange a pick-up from Glion station with prior notice.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
● 4 nights in a cozy Swiss chalet
● Daily escorted swims or dips in the pristine waters of Lake Geneva
● Transportation to and from the lake for swim activities
● Daily yoga classes
● Yoga mats and equipment
● Delicious, wholesome meals
● An organized local tour to explore the region
● A stargazing session, weather permitting
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
● Travel to and from the retreat location
● Travel insurance
● Entrance fees for Chillon Castle and cost of wine tasting during local tour
● Alcoholic drinks (participants are welcome to bring their own)