YogaMagic Eco Retreat

Sleep in Rajasthani tented lodges or boutique suites at this eco-friendly yoga retreat, encircled by palm trees and paddy fields

Brushed by breezes coming in from the coast and surrounded by paddy fields full of egrets and grazing water buffalo, YogaMagic is a very rejuvenating place to be. Sleep close to the elements in tented eco lodges or splash out on a gorgeous suite. Laze in leafy gardens, surrounded by frangipani, papaya, palms and pineapple trees or lounge by the naturally filtered swimming pool. Daily yoga classes are held each morning in the light and airy yoga space, with evening classes twice a week. A range of healing therapies and Ayurvedic massages is on offer to bliss you out even further.

Phil and Juliet are your very relaxed yet dedicated hosts, eager to make you at home whether you practice yoga or not. Their place was a first for North Goa, which had become better known in previous years for its markets and beach parties, and is now popular as a holistic holiday destination. There are beaches, adrenaline sports, markets and sightseeing nearby.

Highs

• It’s just 2km inland, and far away from the more touristy beaches of Northern Goa
• It’s impressively eco-friendly, with solar panels, eco-composting toilets, paths made with pressed cow dung and buildings made from stone and bamboo
• The Indian fusion vegetarian food is utterly delicious
• The naturally filtered swimming pool is a gem, centred around a small island with waterfalls and streams
• You have a choice of luxury tents or stylish suites

Lows

• Though it’s surrounded by paddy fields and is usually very quiet, it’s still in North Goa, and noise from distant parties, temples or traffic can occasionally infiltrate the peace
• It’s a 30-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride to the beach
• There's no running water or power sockets in the tents - you get a compost toilet and a large urn to bathe with - but there are solar-heated open-air showers and running water a short walk away
• Mozzies can be a problem here, so bring plenty of repellent - however, the tents are now fully mosquito netted
• The focus on healthy food and drink means no alcohol is served