2008 is now the fifth year I have been leading holistic retreats or ‘soul journeys’ to the Alpujarras in the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, Andalucia, Spain. Wide open spaces, high mountains, beautiful light, wild flowers and the lack of pollution in this area particularly appeal to me. This area has a tangible energy, or what the Spaniards call ‘duende’ or spirit, which is peaceful and expansive. There are wonderful walks and hikes in the Sierras above, interesting local markets, and Granada, with the world famous Alhambra, only a 40-minute drive away.

It has long been a dream of mine to own ‘a place in the sun’ - a holistic retreat in an idyllic and restful environment in nature, where small groups and/or individuals could gather to enjoy health and yoga breaks for rest and renewal. Combining this ideal location with my skills in teaching healthy lifestyles through exercise, yoga, great food, massages and pampering etc. is a passion which I already practise in the ‘soul journeys’ I offer.

Somehow finances didn’t really stretch to this dream of ownership until mid 2004 when a strong instinct took me to view land with a local agent. One of the properties was a small olive farm or finca of approximately 2 and a half acres situated 2k from the charming spa town of Lanjaron famous for its restorative healing water, and also near the centre where I presently run my ‘soul journeys’. On the land there was a ruin – an old stone ‘cortijo’ or farmhouse (ensuring planning approval), a spring, a sometimes running stream and six beautiful terraces of 72 mature olive trees. As I walked over the land a sense of deep peace and quiet filled me. Could this somehow be mine? With guidance and help a marvellous opportunity arose for me to raise the money to purchase this property. The deal was done! Since then my dream has gathered momentum and taken on an energy of its own.

With no habitable building on the farm (just the ruin) plus a depleted bank account, creative thinking was certainly needed. At this point the next step revealed itself. I was introduced to the concept of building something rather special - a yurt, which is the Turkish word meaning ‘home’.

A Yurt is a circular domed ‘tent’ stretched around a wood panelled frame. Comfortable and spacious, in hot weather the central dome is left open to the sky, the so-called ‘eye of heaven’. At night one can see the moon and stars whilst lying in bed! The structure is large - almost 40 square metres with Galician pine flooring, windows of Moorish design and a stable door. Equipped with comfortable beds, solar electricity and solar shower, eco-friendly toilet, wooden floors, locally crafted rugs and all home comforts, although under canvas it is definitely not camping! Screened windows and doors also ensure a blissful night’s sleep.

Captivated with this concept of creating a unique and appealing space in nature for people to gather and enjoy, fate stepped in, in the guise of Tom Tom the local yurt builder. Cancelled order . . . quick decision . . . and the last available yurt for 2005 was mine! In June 05 my yurt was erected, beautiful and stylish with the dome peaking out above the olive trees.

It looks as if it has always been there. To add to its comfort I have built a large deck or terrace with bamboo shade roof partially surrounding the yurt, creating a tranquil outdoor area under the olive trees perfect for morning and evening yoga and meditation and general relaxation.

To fully realise my vision of offering a beautiful ‘back to nature’ place, where small groups gather for holistic retreats of different types, more accommodation is needed. Two more yurts would be ideal. A swimming pool would also naturally be a complementary health and leisure feature, and a water storage tank or deposit is needed. If I am receptive to the energy of this unfolding dream I will be guided in what to do and when. I hope to remain open and move forward mindfully. I am also receptive to ideas, sponsorship, energy and practical help from any who read and are inspired by this vision.

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or phone Lainey at

within Ireland ....
landline: 01 239 0829
mobile:  087 931 8101

international ....
landline: +353 1 280 3635
mobile:  +353 87 931 8101