Suryalila: A Dream Realised and Celebrated

Suryalila, like many big projects, began with a dream and a vision. My journey through yoga and Eastern philosophy spans nearly 50 years, shaping a lifelong passion and guiding my path from teaching in spiritual communities to founding Frog Lotus Yoga in Massachusetts, and eventually leading yoga teacher trainings worldwide. Each step brought me closer to creating a sanctuary for yoga, healing, and sustainable living—a dream that became Suryalila.

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Grazalema in southern Spain, Suryalila is a harmonious space designed to foster growth, freedom, and creativity. Our mission has always been to offer more than a retreat; it’s to create a sanctuary of beauty, warmth, and wellbeing, supported by a team embodying integrity, kindness, and care.

This journey has been enriched by the remarkable team who form Suryalila’s heart. Each member brings unique energy and dedication: from the welcoming smiles at the front of house to the nurturing organic meals served by our incredible team of chefs, our yoga teachers and massage therapists guiding guests to relaxation, and the cleaning and maintenance teams who keep every corner immaculate. Our office staff ensure seamless bookings, while the Shakti Boutique and Amrita Cafe add comfort and inspiration. Every person’s contribution helps us provide an authentic, nurturing environment that embodies our mission.

This year, our dedication was celebrated when Suryalila was named Best Yoga Retreat for the second consecutive year at the OM Yoga Awards. To make this honour even more meaningful, I was awarded Best Yoga Teacher Trainer. With nearly 50 years of teaching yoga and 25 years of leading trainings through Frog Lotus Yoga, this recognition fills me with gratitude. FLY has certified thousands of teachers globally, and many of our team members here have completed the training, living the principles of growth, self-awareness, and compassion in all they do.

Reflecting on these achievements, I see how Suryalila continues to evolve. We recently introduced the Pathless Path, an art-filled trail inviting quiet reflection amid nature’s beauty. A new sauna brings an added dimension of relaxation, and our Danyadara permaculture project continues transforming the land into a thriving ecosystem. Each upgrade reflects our commitment to creating an oasis that nurtures both body and soul.

Our mission—to support each other’s freedom, growth, creativity, and highest potential—guides everything we do. From weekly mission readings to the way we welcome our guests, we strive to offer an experience of profound beauty, wellbeing, and human warmth.

We are deeply grateful for the community we’ve built and for everyone who has supported us. Suryalila is not just a place to practise yoga; it’s a home for those seeking peace, connection, and transformation. We look forward to welcoming many more into our growing family and expanding the horizons of what Suryalila can offer.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. Your support and love are what brought us here, and we honour the trust you’ve placed in us by continually striving for excellence.

With love and light,

Vidya