strong
a dolomites performance retreat
overview
details
There is something extraordinary that happens when you step away from the noise, stimulation, and demands of everyday life and place yourself in nature.
This retreat has been intentionally designed as an opportunity for nervous system regulation—a chance to slow down enough for your body, mind, and spirit to come back into alignment.
Most of us spend our days operating in a constant state of doing: responding, producing, planning, caring for others, and moving from one responsibility to the next. Over time, this can disconnect us from ourselves. We may continue functioning, but often at the expense of feeling grounded, present, and fully alive.
In the breathtaking landscape of the Dolomites, surrounded by mountains, fresh alpine air, and the rhythm of nature, something begins to shift.
Through daily movement, intentional rest, meaningful connection, nourishing food, time outdoors, and moments of stillness, your nervous system is given the opportunity to soften and recalibrate. As the body feels safe, the mind becomes clearer. As stress begins to dissolve, energy returns. As the nervous system regulates, your truest self naturally emerges.
This is not about becoming someone new.
It is about returning to who you already are.
When the somatic body feels supported and regulated, clarity replaces overwhelm. Presence replaces distraction. Intuition becomes easier to hear. Decisions feel more aligned. Life begins to flow with greater ease.
This retreat is an invitation to reconnect with your essence—to remember what it feels like to move through life from a place of balance rather than depletion, from inspiration rather than obligation.
Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Dolomites, each day becomes an opportunity to restore, realign, and reconnect. Through movement, adventure, wellness, and community, you'll create space for the version of yourself that has been waiting beneath the noise to finally be heard.
This retreat is designed for those who crave more than a vacation.
It is for those who give so much to everyone and are ready to pour back into themselves. For those seeking movement without pressure, wellness without perfection, and adventure without overwhelm.
Whether you come alone, with a friend, or with a group, you will find yourself welcomed into a community of like-minded individuals who value growth, connection, exploration, and living fully.
No previous hiking or barre experience is required—just a willingness to show up exactly as you are.
Because there will never be a "perfect" time.
Because the mountains have a way of reminding us what really matters.
Because the conversations shared over dinner often become lifelong friendships.
Because the views you'll experience cannot be captured in photographs.
Because investing in yourself is never a luxury—it is a necessity.
This retreat combines movement, wellness, culture, nature, incredible food, meaningful connection, and authentic Italian hospitality into one unforgettable experience. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated so you can arrive, exhale, and fully immerse yourself in the journey.
Anyone can book a hotel. What makes this experience different is the people behind it.
Throughout the week, you'll be supported by four dedicated hosts who bring together local expertise, wellness leadership, and exceptional retreat experience.
Andrea and Jennifer will guide daily barre and movement classes, creating an empowering and welcoming environment for every participant, regardless of experience level.
On the ground in Italy, Elisa and Walter—both local Italians with deep roots and extensive experience hosting retreats throughout the country—will ensure every aspect of your experience runs seamlessly.
From logistics and cultural insights to hidden gems and authentic local connections, they bring a level of care and attention that simply cannot be replicated by traditional group travel.
The result is a retreat that feels effortless, personal, and truly immersive.
Imagine waking up to panoramic mountain views.
Beginning your day with movement overlooking the Dolomites.
Spending your afternoons hiking through alpine meadows, discovering charming mountain villages, riding gondolas to breathtaking viewpoints, or simply relaxing beside a heated infinity pool surrounded by peaks.
Imagine sharing long dinners filled with incredible food, local wines, laughter, and meaningful conversations.
Imagine giving yourself permission to slow down.
To reconnect.
To be inspired.
To remember who you are beneath the responsibilities, schedules, and expectations of everyday life.
This is your opportunity to experience the Dolomites not as a tourist, but as a welcomed guest—guided by locals, immersed in the culture, and surrounded by a community that will leave you feeling energized, empowered, and deeply fulfilled.
The mountains are waiting.
itinerary
DAY 1 Arrival & Welcome to the Dolomites
Welcome to Alta Badia.
Upon arrival in Italy, guests will be transferred from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Hotel Cristallo, where they will have time to settle into their rooms, explore the property, and begin unwinding in the hotel's renowned wellness oasis.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the heated infinity pool, panoramic spa facilities, and breathtaking mountain views.
Welcome Aperitivo
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
As the sun sets over the Dolomites, we'll gather on the panoramic terrace for a traditional Italian aperitivo featuring local specialties, live music, and our first opportunity to connect as a group.
Evening
Welcome Dinner
A beautiful first dinner together celebrating the beginning of our Dolomites experience.
DAY 2 Wellness, Exploration & Alta Badia
Morning Movement
Start the day with a workout with Andrea, followed by a leisurely breakfast overlooking the mountains.
The remainder of the morning is yours to enjoy:
Infinity pool Spa and sauna experiences Relaxation lounges Scenic walks Quiet moments of restoration Afternoon Adventure
This afternoon invites exploration at your own pace.
Guests may wander through the charming villages of Colfosco and Corvara, browse local boutiques, enjoy a mountain café, or venture to the spectacular Pralongià Plateau.
Accessible via the Piz La Ila gondola, the plateau offers panoramic hiking trails connecting some of the region's most iconic mountain refuges:
Club Moritzino Rifugio La Fraina Rifugio I Tablà Rifugio Bioch Rifugio Pralongià
Every trail rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and endless alpine scenery.
Wellness Ritual
Experience the traditional Alpine sauna ritual known as Aufguss.
6:00 PM Guided Ceremony
Evening
Traditional Ladin Dinner
An authentic culinary journey into the traditions of South Tyrol.
DAY 3 Passo delle Erbe & Mountain Chalet Experience
Morning
Start the day with a workout with Andrea, followed by a leisurely breakfast overlooking the mountains.
Signature Excursion
Today we journey to Passo delle Erbe, one of the most spectacular mountain passes in the Dolomites.
Surrounded by rolling alpine meadows, dramatic peaks, and pristine nature, guests will enjoy a guided hike through one of the region's most breathtaking landscapes.
Mountain Chalet Lunch
Following our hike, we'll gather for a traditional barbecue lunch at the hotel's private mountain chalet, surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the Alps.
Afternoon
Enjoy time to relax, connect, and take in the beauty of the mountains before returning to the hotel.
Evening
Dinner at Hotel Cristallo.
DAY 4 Corvara, Boè Gondola & Franz Kostner Refuge
Morning
Start the day with a workout with Andrea, followed by a leisurely breakfast overlooking the mountains.
Mountain Adventure
Today's adventure takes us to nearby Corvara, where we'll board the Boè Gondola and ascend into the heart of the Dolomites.
From the summit station, we'll embark on a scenic hike to the historic Franz Kostner Refuge, traversing one of Alta Badia's most dramatic alpine landscapes.
Expect incredible panoramic views, rugged mountain terrain, and countless photo opportunities along the way.
Lunch
Choose between:
A light mountain lunch at Franz Kostner Refuge A traditional alpine meal at Rifugio Boè Evening
Return to the hotel and enjoy dinner with the group.
DAY 5 Wellness, Connection & Celebration
Morning
Start the day with a workout with Andrea, followed by a leisurely breakfast overlooking the mountains.
A Day for Yourself
Our final full day is intentionally left open for rest, reflection, and personal exploration.
Spend your day however feels most nourishing:
Relax at the spa Swim in the infinity pool Explore local villages Enjoy independent hikes Schedule a massage or wellness treatment Connect with fellow retreat participants Simply slow down and enjoy the mountain lifestyle Optional Experience
Wine Tasting with a Local Sommelier
Discover the unique wines and traditions of Northern Italy through a guided tasting experience.
Farewell Celebration
Our final evening together features a special farewell dinner celebrating new friendships, unforgettable memories, and a week of transformation in the Dolomites.
DAY 6 Departure Day
Enjoy one final breakfast overlooking the mountains before checking out.
Group transportation will be provided to Venice Marco Polo Airport.
As we say goodbye, you'll leave with renewed energy, meaningful connections, and memories that will stay with you long after the journey home.
Until Next Time... The Dolomites have a way of staying with you—through their beauty, their stillness, and the moments of connection shared among the mountains. We hope this experience becomes one you'll carry with you for years to come.
strong
a dolomites performance retreat
host
liz plosser
Liz Plosser is a wellness leader, journalist, author, trainer, and nutrition coach with more than two decades of experience in health and fitness. She is the author of Own Your Morning and creator of Best Case Scenario, where she explores fitness, nutrition, health, and longevity.
Liz believes strength goes far beyond physical performance—it’s about energy, confidence, resilience, and feeling your best at every stage of life. In the Dolomites, she’ll bring this philosophy to life through strength, hiking, recovery, and connection.
room options
Double Room - single
- single occupancy | 1 king bed
- $5,126 per person | retreat price
- $500 deposit
Superior Room - shared
- shared occ. | beds separate in 2
- $4,166 per person | retreat price
- $500 deposit
for all rooms
Meals 5 breakfasts at the hotel
5 afternoon snack buffet featuring homemade desserts and fresh fruit 1 Barbecue lunch at a traditional mountain chalet
5 four-course gourmet dinners - including 1 authentic Ladin-themed dinner experience Activities & Experiences Daily yoga, barre, and movement classes, hosted by Andrea
One Guided hike to Rifugio Boe' & Franz Kostner
One Guided hike to a private mountain lodge at Passo delle Erbe + One Barbecue lunch at a mountain chalet
One Wine tasting experience
One Guided mountain excursion to Pralongia' High Plateau
Transportation & Services Ticket for the public gondola to get to the start of the hike for Rifugio Boe' & Franz Kostner Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle to the private mountain lodge at Passo delle Erbe
English-speaking local guide services during all scheduled tours
Taxes and VAT
Wellness Facilities Unlimited access to Hotel Cristallo's wellness facilities, including:
Adults-only wellness area
Heated outdoor infinity pool
Indoor pool with whirlpool
Panoramic sauna area
Relaxation rooms
Technogym fitness studio
Wellness refreshment area with teas, juices, fresh fruit, and healthy snacks
International airfare and airport transfer
Hotel early check-in or late check-out Italian lodging tourist tax ($4 a day)
Alcoholic beverages and drinks not specifically included in the program
Personal expenses
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Spa treatments and massages
Tips for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and porters (at guests' discretion)
location
description
Nestled in the charming alpine village of La Villa, Hotel Cristallo is a family-owned 4-star superior retreat surrounded by the breathtaking Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Combining contemporary alpine design with genuine South Tyrolean hospitality, it offers an atmosphere of understated luxury and complete tranquility.
Reconnect with yourself in one of the Dolomites' most impressive wellness sanctuaries. The expansive spa features panoramic saunas, heated indoor and outdoor pools, dedicated relaxation spaces, and breathtaking mountain views—creating the perfect environment to unwind, restore, and recharge after each day of movement and exploration.
Every meal is a celebration of the region. The hotel's gourmet restaurant showcases seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with refined interpretations of Ladin, South Tyrolean, and Italian cuisine, thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines.
Located in the heart of Alta Badia, the hotel provides direct access to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the Dolomites. Towering peaks, alpine meadows, charming mountain huts, and unforgettable panoramic vistas are all just moments from your door.
For generations, the Schanung family has welcomed guests with heartfelt service and meticulous attention to detail, creating an experience that feels both luxurious and deeply personal.
Natural wood, expansive windows, elegant alpine interiors, and inviting gathering spaces create a calming atmosphere where modern comfort meets mountain serenity—an ideal setting for slowing down and reconnecting with yourself.
faq's
accommodation
accommodations depend on your customized itinerary. We never stay at hostels or hotels below 4 stars. We strive to create an experience that ensures comfort, quality and safety
if you travel solo, we will match you with someone of the same gender unless you request a roommate. To request a roommate, make sure both you and your roommate add each other's names to the "Special Requests" section at booking or email at contact@yogandoretreats.com
your down payment is fully refundable until your spot is confirmed. Once your spot is confirmed you can cancel or transfer to a different trip for a fee and receive a Trip Credit for your remaining down payment up until 60 days prior to departure
activities
not at all. However, if you signed up for a listed activity and you cannot attend that day, we will not refund your payment
attendance
we understand that things can happen and that flights can be delayed. In general we will not be able to refund you for your trip paid, for any nights you are delayed. Please, promptly inform the person of our team who is on site and who can reschedule airport pick up and how to join the group
flights, insurance, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, wine
since we customize all our retreats, activities depend on the retreat theme and on the hosts requests
retreats can cap between 10 to 15 travellers but it changes from trip to trip
the trip brochure listing the detailed itinerary will be released at least 3 weeks prior to your trip start date including hotel and airport transfer information
also, before your trip, you’ll be invited to a group chat in what’s app to meet the other travellers and start exchanging information
payments
a 25% down payment is due at the time of booking
The down payment is refundable until your spot is confirmed at which time it becomes non-refundable (you will receive an email when your spot is confirmed)
The remaining balance will be charged 60 days prior to the retreat departure, unless you have agreed on a payment plan. If you book within 60 days from trip start, the full amount will be due at booking, but still refundable until your spot is confirmed
See all of our terms & conditions
See all of our terms & conditions Our cancellation policy is as follows: Your spot is pending: The 25% down payment is fully refundable Your spot is confirmed: The 25% down payment is non-refundable 60 days or less before trip start: 100% non-refundable
when the trip reaches the minimum amount of attendees. We recommend not booking a flight until your spot is confirmed
trip
We generally include accommodations, listed meals, your wellness classes, workshops, and guided activities relevant to the theme of your retreat. If listed, we also include ground transportation
flights, insurance, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, wine
since we customize all our retreats, activities depend on the retreat theme and on the hosts requests
retreats can cap between 10 to 15 travellers but it changes from trip to trip
the trip brochure listing the detailed itinerary will be released at least 3 weeks prior to your trip start date including hotel and airport transfer information also, before your trip, you’ll be invited to a group chat in what’sapp to meet the other Travellers and start exchanging information