Serenity Retreat Reviews

5.0 Rating 202 Reviews
100 %
of reviewers recommend Serenity Retreat
5.0
Based on 202 reviews
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About Serenity Retreat:

An independent holiday company for solo travellers on a spiritual or self-development journey

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07921520166

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kim@serenityretreat.co.uk

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Serenity Retreat 5 star review on 9th December 2022
Sabina
Serenity Retreat 5 star review on 14th October 2022
Katy
Serenity Retreat 5 star review on 9th March 2022
Sue
Serenity Retreat 5 star review on 7th March 2022
Naz
Serenity Retreat 5 star review on 7th March 2022
Naz
Serenity Retreat 5 star review on 7th March 2022
Naz
Serenity Retreat 5 star review on 3rd October 2020
CJ
19
Anonymous
Anonymous  // 01/01/2019
Where to start...I did a Meditation and Mindfulness course with Kim at the Serenity Retreat. Kim's retreat has had a profound impact on me which has lasted long after the holiday. I say Kim's retreat because without Kim it would have just been an escape to another Greek island. It's clear Kim has a love of people and life. This is demonstrated in the care she shows in ensuring you have a relaxing retreat from the outside world. We were given the space we needed to have some time to reflect whilst also many opportunities to connect with others if we wanted to via optional dinners and activities. From the minute I stepped into my little beach front apartment filled with local honey and other essentials, I knew I was in a very warm environment. I had ample time to chill out on our secluded private beach and relax whilst also seeing a bit of the island on the boat tour and Aris' Herbal Walk. I'm thankful for doing the meditation and mindfulness course. The skills and coping mechanisms I learned and the experiences I had will stay with me for life. Kim is a really down-to-earth, practical teacher who is gentle in her style, letting people arrive at their own conclusions regarding meditation and its application to their lives. My favourite part was the connection we had with other participants in the meditation course. I didn't realise how much of a relief it is to share your worries with others and then understand that they also suffer at times too. The course taught me to accept myself a little more (still a daily struggle) and that has been a welcome relief. Another thing I loved about this retreat is that, unlike my other three trips to various Greek islands, this time I really felt I learned about Greek culture. Kim introduced us to many friendly locals, we took walks into the countryside and ate delicious, local cuisine cooked by welcoming families. Didn't realise how tasty home-made chips could be! I will definitely do another Serenity Retreat. Thanks Kim! ps. only one thing made my trip a bit 'testing' and that was the mosquito plague in my apartment block. The sleepless nights hunting down mosquitos were not so relaxing. I think I was in Thassoula? Anyway maybe some coils should be burned permanently in the corridors and on the balconies. Just a thought.
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Posted 9 years ago
Hi Emily - lovely review - thank you :) You'll be pleased to know that ALL of the Tassoula Studios now have mosquito net doors. You need suffer no more! It would be fabulous to see you again. Thanks for being so open and friendly and honest while you were with us xx
Posted 9 years ago
I really enjoyed my week in Nikiana; the apartment was really nice with a lovely patio and sea view; a few steps from the beach; I loved the small friendly town; there were plenty of tavernas and supermarkets and everyone was very friendly. I really enjoyed the course as well as the massages!!. The relaxed atmosphere was perfect and I met some really nice people during my stay. I will definitely be going back next year. Well done Kim!!
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Posted 9 years ago
Thanks Pat! It was great to catch up with again too. Thanks for taking the Greek plunge as well as the New Year plunge! x
Posted 9 years ago
The minute I arrived in Niakiana I felt completely at home, knowing this was the place for me. I cannot fault it at all, Kim's attention and organisation is amazing. I came back relaxed and stress free, something I have been looking for but unable, until now, to find. Without a doubt I will be back next year. Thank you Kim x Lynda B
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Posted 9 years ago
And I notice you've booked for 2015! A woman of action! Love it and love the review - thank you xx
Posted 9 years ago
A short time ago I wrote a review that I now realise missed out the most important feature which is that Serenity Retreat and in particular Kim, made me smile!
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Posted 9 years ago
Hi Barry - Well, as I said to you at the time, you're welcome back whenever you like, especially when you say such nice things ;)
Posted 9 years ago
A joyous week spent in a beautiful location with beautiful souls. Serentity Retreat provides the opportunity to soul search and develop spiritual awareness as well as making new friends. The laughter I shared with others this week was priceless. A very special holiday.
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Posted 9 years ago
Hi Shelagh - very glad you enjoyed your time with us. Thanks for the review :)
Posted 9 years ago
Thank you Kim - I needed to relax, unwind and recharge my batteries and that's exactly what my holiday at Nikiana did - and I'm managing to cling on to some of that calm now I'm back home - and trying to keep up with the meditation, which is so beneficial. Whenever I feel life trying to get back on top of me, I just look at a photo of that beach, and can hear the gentle lapping of the waves on the pebbles on the beach, and I'm back there... (wish I was!!!) Maria M
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Posted 9 years ago
Hello Maria! Lovely to see you again - and in the sunshine this time....! Am very glad you're finding the meditation beneficial and looking forward to seeing you next time (for TWO weeks). Be well x
Posted 9 years ago
Hi, I had a fantastic week, loved every minute apart from the 6.5 hour delay at Gatwick on the way out, but that wasn't Serenitys fault. The apartments were good, everything you need, any small issues just went away when you walked out on the balcony and took in the views and the sounds. I can't wait to go back, but next time it will be for 2 weeks. Rita Brown
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Posted 9 years ago
Hello Rita! Yes, that delay was excessive and you were very unlucky - it happens very infrequently.... But glad you enjoyed yourself once you made it to us :) Thanks for coming!
Posted 9 years ago
I enjoyed every second of my time at Serenity Retreat. Excellent company (there were only five of us during my week and we all bonded well); something for everyone; lots of giggles; peace; tranquillity; very reasonable prices when eating out; and above all time to think (or not), the list goes on! ....... and most impressive of all Kim's excellent organisational skills, her knowledge, and her very genuine and kind nature. xx
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Posted 9 years ago
Thanks Lindsay - we did laugh didn't we :) Thanks for a great week and your kind words xx
Posted 9 years ago
I loved my room with patio in front where I could sit and listen to the waves on the beach, which was right in front. The little village is a few minutes walk away and has excellent local produce. Everything is there, including a choice of nice tavernas. There are optional trips, I did a boat trip round nearby islands. Swimming off the boat in the turquoise sea was one dream fulfilled (even if the sea was cold!). The course on meditation/mindfulness was really interesting and I shall try and practice what I learnt. I already feel some benefits. Overall, excellent holiday run superbly by Kim.
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Posted 9 years ago
Thanks Ann - it was a pleasure to have you here. I especially enjoyed our chat in the coffee shop... Be nice to make it longer next time :)
Posted 9 years ago
After a tough personal struggle over the previous year - I had hoped to find a holiday to do some unwinding. I came across Kim's Serenity Retreat and felt it had been created just for my needs! I was SO excited about about the sound of it, I was even a little concerned it wouldn't live up to my expectations! But oh how it did and more! The idilic location - spectacular panoramic views from my bedroom! Our little pebble beach, just a few steps from the apartment was a lovely place to lie and soak up the sun. The local cafés and restaurants were also a lovely to sit and read in. My fellow Serenity Retreaters were engaging, lovely souls who I enjoyed many a chat, laugh and (delicious!) meal with! My day trip on the MS Christina was the perfect end to the week. Sunshine, some interesting local information, and once again a delicious lunch! I also went on a mountain bike ride to the waterfall - something I will always remember! What a lovely couple of hours on a Greek summer's evening! (Derrière has now recovered!) Kim... I cannot thank you enough for your words of wisdom that have, and will continue to help me. You are an inspiration and a total legend for creating this wonderful retreat! I have been raving to anyone who will listen about the importance of being present. Unfortunately life dealt a particularly hard blow on my return - my friend/co-worker/man who I'd loved for a year was killed in a bus crash in Ecuador along with his twin sister. The two of them were the best examples I knew of people who lived in the now. They didn't waste time on the past or the future - they were adventurers who loved life and didn't waste a previous second of it outside of the present moment. I do not exaggerate when I say visiting Serenity Retreat and meeting and learning from Kim has rescued me from what has, and will continue to be a really tough year. Thank you Kim!!
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Posted 9 years ago
Dear Lizzie - so sorry to hear your news. Yes, let's all delve into the moment and love the present while we have the opportunity to experience it. I hope to see you again x
Posted 9 years ago
On my first visit I had the best holiday ever, so visiting a second time seemed risky - could it live up to my memories and subsequent expectations? Completely. Serenity Retreat delivered a beautiful and tranquil location for my mind to clear; it grew my heart again; it gave my tired soul a space to renew and also delivered some great belly laughs with the company I found myself with. Kim's organisation and sensitive hosting ensured that I had the space when I felt it needed it and the company when I wanted it. I genuinely cannot recommend Serenity Retreat enough.
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Posted 9 years ago
Margaret - you are so very lovely with your compliments, let me take the opportunity to offer some to you.... You are such a delightfully positive and easy person to be around. It's a complete joy to be in your company - thank YOU!
Posted 9 years ago
From start to finish, every detail was thought of to make the stay as homely as possible. The welcome goodies, to include the Greek twist on what the bare essentials are, were a real treat, and the welcome card a lovely touch. There probably is nowhere else that I will ever stay that has a private beach and the sea in my back garden. You have to see it to believe it! The activities and optional trips are really well selected and definitely worth doing if you have the energy and curiosity, although the tranquility of Nikiana may lure you into a state of profound relaxation making you want to indulge in 'me time' instead. Kim's course, meditations and walks were really well organised and great for the soul, and the non-judgmental vibes put everyone at ease. She was on hand for anything we needed and more. Nikiana is a charming village with a very relaxed atmosphere, and the locals are friendly and accommodating. A chilled-out thumbs up from me!
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Posted 10 years ago
Thank you for such a lovely review. Brilliant to have met you, Silva - I think our paths may cross again :)
Posted 10 years ago
I can honestly say this was one of the best holidays of my life! - I have been on a journey and arrived back in the most amazing place - knowing & understanding myself so much better. A real tonic! An awakening! The people - Kim & all her amazing associates that all work together to bake that perfect cake! Truly inspriational :) The sharing - liberating! The place - beautiful, a haven of serenity, tranquility & calm. The course - Heal Your Life - was an incredible journey - one I didn't even know I needed to take. The facilitator Jane, a shining light! The mountain walks - Wow! - and Aris (the guide) you just want to bottle and bring him home along with all the knowledge he shares. The massages - Heavenly!..thank you Linda :) The guided meditations....I started to get it....Kim's words of wisdom (gems) will stay with me. 'Unhook & return to the breath'..... Perfect :)..what more can I say?
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Posted 10 years ago
Kate - what a big WOW! I love that you had such a good time and that you 'got it'... Thank you so much for being part of what we do and for baking such a magnificent cake x
Posted 10 years ago
I have just returned from the most amazing week in Nikiana at Serenity Retreat. I couldnt recommend this retreat enough. Nikiana is a tremendous place to visit and Serenity owner Kim Bennet is the ulitmate professional who caters for all needs to ensure her guests enjoy the experience of a lifetime. The accomodation I stayed in (Theos Apartments) was perfect. I had tremendous views of the beach and mountains from my huge wrap around balcony and the standard of cleanilineess was exceptional. I woudl recommend this retreat for anyone no mateer what age or gender who wishes to get away from the stresses of daily life to contemplate life in general or just to enjoy peacefullness in sunny surroundings in a very peaceful and tranquil safe environment. Thanks Kim!!!
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Posted 10 years ago
Thank you Abigail! It was great to have you here to kick the season off. Thank you for the belly laughs :)
Posted 10 years ago
I had a great week in Nikiana, the locals are very friendly and Kim is the perfect host, making you feel at ease from Day 1! Lovely weather, good food and good company :) I enjoyed the morning meditations and above all, swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea!
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Posted 10 years ago
And it was a complete pleasure to have you with us, Richard... You were a very easy to get on with guest - makes my job a piece of cake :)
Posted 10 years ago
It really is hard to know where to start - Kim, perhaps? A thoughtful, insightful and wonderful 'host' who has anticipated all your needs without you even thinking about it. The location? It grows on you and then gets stuck right under your skin so you don't want to leave and then you can't wait to get back. The sea views, the cafes, bakeries, tavernas, herb and orchid walks, boat trips - all wonderful. The accommodation? When you arrive and drop your bags it feels like it was tailor made just for you as a solo traveller - not grandiose, not pokey but just right. The courses and tutors? So well chosen on both fronts, they are varied, interesting and in depth, run by experienced people who care and are very accessible. Thank you, Kim, you have created something very special at Serenity Retreats.
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Posted 10 years ago
Janet - what a lovely review! Thank you. I was very happy to see you (again) and will be very happy whenever the next time comes about. It's a joy to have you around x
Posted 10 years ago
Just got back from my 5th Serenity Retreat holiday.......and looking forward to my 6th in September, which probably says it all really..... Kim has created a really special type of holiday which ticks all the boxes for me. Beautiful surroundings, lovely people, meditation, massage, interesting trips.......and also the freedom to do nothing at all if that's what you feel like..... Plus.....I saw dolphins in the bay this time! Rejuvenating. Five stars from me. Amanda
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Posted 10 years ago
Thanks Amanda - see you again in September and thanks for all the photo taking!
Posted 10 years ago
Serenity Retreat was exactly what I was hoping, a peaceful and welcoming place to deepen my meditation practice and plenty of free time to spend at the beach. It's nice to find a place that is comfortable and easy to go on your own and where you feel totally free to spend the time the way you like, alone whenever you want or with company from the other guests which most likely are open minded people with interesting stories. Some activities/trips were available and absolutely loved the boat trip and mountain bike ride to waterfalls. Very much enjoyed my stay and will definitely come back. Thank you Kim for a lovely week. Gaby
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Posted 10 years ago
Thank you Gaby - you were lovely to have around - thanks for trying out the mountain biking taster trip for me :) Kim
Posted 10 years ago
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at serenity retreat, I had no expectations going in and was pleasantly surprised on all occasions. The beach is directly on your door step and listening to the constant crash of waves is simply magical. Nikiana is the perfect place to take a step back, relax, re-evaluate and re-charge your batteries. I found there was a perfect balance of privacy and being social. A big part of my experience was meeting everyone who was staying that week (along with the locals!) I would highly recommend taking the boat trip, one of my highlights of the trip! Kim is there to support you and always goes beyond the call of duty to ensure everyone is looked after. Thanks Kim and well done for creating such a special place!
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Posted 10 years ago
Hello Zara - thanks for taking the time to write. It was lovely to have you and Silva with us. Be good to see you again :) Kim
Posted 10 years ago
It was the second time I stayed with serenity retreat. I absolutely loved it the first time and I even loved it more the second time! I enjoyed every single minute there. You find peace, time for yourself, relaxation, serenity and kind and supporting people and beautiful scenery. The care and support by Kim is affectionate, mindful and respectful. It is a place were you find rest for your soul and body. There you can experience the truth of R. M. Rilke's aphorism: “Let life happen to you. Believe me: life is in the right, always.”
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Posted 10 years ago
Hello Monika - it was FAB to have you back the second time. Very much looking forward to the third :)
Posted 10 years ago
Serenity Retreat is rated 5.0 based on 202 reviews