
Pilates Retreat Fuerteventura
Villa Azul, Villaverde
November 3 - 10 2027
You are invited to join me at the island retreat of Villa Azul and enjoy a revitalizing early winter experience under the beautiful Canarian sun.
This is a truly magical retreat experience, that harnesses the special energy that can only be found in the volcano craters. You’ll find tranquility and calmness as you listen to nature all around you in one of the most unique landscapes on earth.
The retreat is 12 minutes drive from the epic sand dunes rolling down into the turquoise ocean and the breathtaking white-sand beaches.
Villa Azul has a peaceful and very homey atmosphere, themed rooms from around the world and lots of comfy chill-out areas. You can relax with a book in the garden, have a dip in the pool, chat with your fellow guests in the lounge or sit and enjoy the view to the sea from the balcony terrace.
The villa is also conveniently located for those wishing to get out and explore the island. There are walking paths and a bus stop close by.
What’s included:
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Movement
Every day will include one or two Pilates classes, either in the studio, on the veranda or in the sand dunes. You will also receive a Tai Chi and walking experience as part of your package.
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Nutrition
You will be served delicious and healthy vegetarian meals. Your brunch is included every day and your evening meal included for five days, allowing you time to explore the nearby tapas and seafood restaurants.
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Adventures
Harness the magical energy of this unique landscape with a Tai Chi class in one of the island's many volcanic craters at sunrise and visit the sand dunes for one of your Pilates classes.
Your Accommodation:
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Apartment for four
The Canaries Apartment: Two rooms sharing one bathroom. 2 single beds in each room (total 4 beds), kitchenette, terrace overlooking the pool. Perfect for a group of friends or to make new friends. £1000 per person
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Twin Rooms
The India Apartment is a twin room with kitchenette, garden terrace and private bathroom. The Saquarema Room has two single beds and a bathroom and the Bali Room has two single beds and a bathroom. £1200 per person.
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Double Rooms
The Machu Picchu Room, Queensland Room, Santa Fe Room and California Room all have double beds and private bathrooms. They are £1200 each for two people sharing the room and £1500 each for sole occupancy. Only these rooms are allocated for sole occupancy.
Your host: Rachel Garwood-Gowers
After 25 years of working in colleges and universities, I was feeling exhausted and worn out after the pandemic. The long hours, back-to-back meetings and high stress took a heavy toll on my mental health. So, I decided to take a break, gave up my job, bought a camper van and set off on a 3,000 mile journey with my dog Edmund. The trip was an incredible experience. It taught me how to find joy in the simple things, how to overcome problems, and how, even in my 50s, I could take on new challenges.
When I returned, I decided to turn my passion into my life, I trained to become a Pilates Instructor. I wanted people to experience that feeling of stepping away from the world, and dedicating some time for themselves, like I had on my journey. I also knew I wanted to start developing Retreats where there was more time to focus on the mind and body connection and where new experiences and memories could be made.
I’ve helped hundreds of people improve their mobility, alignment and strength already. I could never have found a more satisfying job. I am qualified to Level 3 in Mat Pilates and hold a further certificate in Reformer Pilates, awarded by Active IQ and I am insured through FitPro.
“Rachel is fab, she explains everything so clearly and makes each class suitable for all levels and abilities. I recommend Pilates (and Rachel) to everyone!” — Lucy Jobson














Weather
In November, the average daily temperature in Fuerteventura ranges from around 19°C (66°F) to 24°C (75°F). While the island may not experience scorching summer heat during this time, these temperatures still offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and beach visits.
There is plenty of Sun, with around 7 hours every day.
Included in your price:
Your group will have sole use of this really special retreat space and is only open to 14 people. Included in your price is:
10 x Pilates Classes
1 x Tai Chi experience at sunrise in a volcano crater
1 Pilates class in the sand dunes and a trip to the beach
7 nights accommodation
Mid-week towel change and bathroom clean
Swimming/beach towels
Brunch everyday
Five dinners
Tea, coffee and water throughout the day
Full use of outdoor spaces
Swimming pool
Access to exercise space outside of workshops
Not included:
Flights: from UK to El Matorral Airport (Fuerteventura)
Travel Insurance
Transfer cost: It is about a 40 min transfer in taxi costing approx. 60 Euros (option to share trip with up to three people)
Please note there is a 55 Euros surcharge for special menu options e.g. gluten free. Please request when booking
Optional activities:
Dolphin Watching Catamaran with Transfer and Buffet 100 Euros
Taxi to beach approx. 30 Euros each way for four people
Water Taxi to Isla De Lobos 30 Euros
Massage 55 Euros. Choose from relaxing or therapeutic and book with me before you travel
How to book
There are just 14 places available and your space can be secured for £150 with a further 50% of the total price payable 12 months before the retreat and the final payment in April 2027.