storyteller within
Journey into Sacred Expression
Women's Retreats
Villa Sumaya, Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
On the shores of the magical Lake Atitlan, beneath the watch of three majestic volcanoes, Villa Sumaya lies in a secluded cove and offers an eco-sanctuary dedicated to rejuvenation, holistic practices, and preserving Mayan tradition. Enjoy expansive views, comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, beautiful open spaces, on-site spa services, solar hot tub, pool, Mayan sauna and more in gorgeous natural surroundings. Villa Sumaya is an idyllic setting for refreshing perspectives, renewing energies and reviving inspiration.
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a serene setting
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Villa Sumaya is located on the shores of Lake Atitlan, outside of Santa Cruz La Laguna, with a private dock accessible by boat. Lake Atitlan is famed to hold a magnetic attraction for those travelers who seek to gain a deeper connection with nature and within.
The magical waters are framed by three sister volcanoes: Atitlán (11,598 ft), Toliman (10,360 ft) and San Pedro (9,908 ft), which create a panoramic vista from Villa Sumaya. The lake is dotted with small villages with local inhabitants of Mayan descent.
Indigenous women on these beautiful shores continue to wear traditional dress and create colorful weavings. Farmers grow coffee, corn, and pitaya fruit. Avocados, papayas, and jacotes are plentiful.
creating sacred space
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Our intimate women's retreat group will gather in sacred circle in the Tara Temple, located on the top floor of the Lotus House accommodation, a serene and cozy enclosed space with inspiring volcano-level views that offers the luxurious comfort to sink in, relax and reconnect.
During meditation, yoga, and our sacred self-exploratory writing circles, we'll gaze upon the green volcanoes and take in the sunset skies. All mats and props are provided. In addition to comfortable cushions, low chairs for the writing circle are available upon request.
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We will also use additional spaces - such as The Diamond Dojo and Sky Zendo - for movement and some circle gatherings.
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your accommodation
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Retreat guests will be staying in the gorgeous lake-view accommodation of the Lotus House.
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Lotus House is a beautifully designed three-level building with very comfortable rooms that are elegantly decorated with exquisite local touches and furnishings.
Tara Temple is on the top floor of the Lotus House.
All of the Lotus House rooms have private bathrooms with hot stone showers and private balconies with exceptional lake views. They are centrally located near the courtyard, dining room, gardens and boutique. Shared rooms (doubles, triples - depending on group size) and privates are all available. All rooms involve some stairs.
delicious meals & juice bar
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Embracing the values of slow-food preparation and culinary consciousness, Cafe Sumaya Sol offers delcious homemade vegetarian meals that blend local and international cuisine.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets are abundant and fish and chicken are available for an additional fee ($7/meal). Organic artisan coffee and a wide selection of herbal teas are available 24/7.
You can also treat yourself to exotic smoothies, kombucha, wine or cocktails, and raw homemade snacks and treats.
relaxation & rejuvenation
In the spaces between our yoga and group sessions in the circle, Villa Sumaya offers the space for integration, relaxation, spa treatments and restorative self-care.
There's plenty of cosy outdoor nooks for lounging, for a private journaling session or even a good old chat. During afternoon breaks, you could dip in the lake, swing in a hammock, lay on the sun deck, swim in the pool, take out a SUP, or soak in the solar-heated stone hot tub. You can also explore the nearby mapped nature trails of 30, 45 minutes, and one hour.
The on-site Harmony spa also offers rejuvenating bodywork sessions, including various massage styles, ayurvedic consultation, and energy work depending upon the available therapists at hand. The spa can accommodate four women in private healing rooms.
This is an opportunity to connect and re-treat yourself to the experience of going inwards and being fully present.
optional excursions
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Twice during the week, we will have a break for much of the day to allow you to soak in more of your surroundings, or just relax.
During these days, we'll offer optional excursion(s), such as a visit to a village or kayaking/hiking. Aimee will provide specific options catered to the group. You may also wish to stay back at Villa Sumaya for some extra relaxation, spaciousness, or for treatments.