Why I’m hosting my next yoga retreat in Morocco
- Nicole Allen
- May 14
- 3 min read
When I first visited Surf Maroc on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, I knew it was somewhere special.
The salty breeze, the rhythm of the waves, the warmth of the people. It’s the kind of place that invites you to breathe a little deeper and move through your days with more intention.
That’s why I’ve chosen it as the home for my next yoga and surf retreat!
Whether you’re craving connection, adventure, trying something new, or just a week to reset, here’s a little glimpse of what’s waiting for you.
About Surf Maroc
As well as being guided by me throughout the retreat, we’ll also be looked after by the incredible team at Surf Maroc.
They’ve been running retreats here for nearly two decades and are known for creating the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home. Their team goes above and beyond to make sure everything runs smoothly from the moment you arrive to your final breakfast before heading home.
The location
Just outside the surf town of Taghazout, Villa Mandala sits tucked between the ocean and the mountains. It’s far enough from the crowds to feel peaceful, but close enough to dip into local life when you want to.
The retreat is a 10-minute walk from Banana Village (Aourir) and 5km south of Taghazout, both colourful, characteristic fishing villages, famous for their great surf and laid-back, friendly atmosphere. It’s 40km from Agadir’s international airport, and the artistic port town of Essaouira is just over 2 hours north.
The villa
Villa Mandala is where we’ll be staying, and honestly, it’s one of those places you don’t want to leave.
Designed with care and full of character, the villa has a relaxed, homely feel. Each room is unique, with colourful Moroccan touches, comfy beds, and a mix of shared and private options.
There’s a pool to dip into after surfing, plenty of outdoor spots to unwind with a book, and a big communal lounge for afternoon chats and herbal tea. Spa treatments – such as a traditional hammam or massage – can be organised and need to be booked and paid for via Surf Maroc’s Amouage hotel.

The food
Meals at the villa are prepared by the in-house chefs from local seasonal ingredients. Expect vibrant salads, warming tagines, homemade breads, and the kind of desserts that somehow make room for themselves, no matter how full you are!
Breakfast is colourful and plentiful, lunch is a lovingly packed picnic to enjoy by the sea, and dinner brings us all together at the end of the day to share stories under the setting sun.
On Thursday night, we head to Surf Maroc’s boutique hotel for their legendary BBQ – an evening of food, music, and connection, with cocktails, grilled favourites, and a pop-up souk to explore.
All meals, plus afternoon tea and cake, are part of the package. The chefs can cater to most dietary requirements, so please just let us know.

The yoga
Each day includes two practices – a 60-minute energising vinyasa yoga in the morning before breakfast, and a soothing 75-minute yin yoga and sound bath after your surf day or excursion in the afternoon.
We’ll practise in the villa’s rooftop shala, which is fully equipped and surrounded by beautiful views of the beach, ocean, and mountains.

The surf
Whether you’ve never picked up a board before or you’ve surfed a few times and want to build your confidence, this retreat is designed for both beginners and improvers.
You’ll get three mornings of surf lessons with professional coaches from Surf Maroc, and the option to carry on practising into the afternoon. The team checks the conditions each day to find the best local beaches for the group, and they know how to make it fun, relaxed, and totally pressure-free. All equipment is provided.

Beyond the mat and the waves
Two group day trips are also included in the retreat – one to explore Agadir’s vibrant souk and a local argan oil cooperative, and another to the sand dunes for a taste of Morocco’s desert landscape.
It’s a chance to soak up some local culture, pick up a few treasures, and experience a different side of this beautiful country.
Want to join us?
The Morocco Surf & Yoga trip is happening from 14th - 21st February 2026, and it’s my first mixed gender retreat! I’d love to have you there, but there are only a few spaces left!
Read more and book your spot here with just a £200 deposit.
Nicole
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