From the moment we were scooped up in Athens until our return trip to the airport, our group felt welcomed and cared for by Franz and Molly. They had planned a beautiful Greek adventure for us, and their enthusiasm was infectious. We were dazzled by the beauty of the grounds at High Groves-the orchards and trees, the magnificent decks and patios, the horses and goats-and charmed by the simple elegance of the house. Our bedrooms were bright and cheerful, and the house was immaculate. We enjoyed our delicious vegetarian meals outside overlooking the hillside or inside in the cozy dining room. The fresh greens and soups, along with traditional Greek dishes such as spanakopita and feta salads, were colorful, fresh, and beautifully prepared. Never has it been so easy to eat healthily! My favorite place was the yoga room, with its glorious view of the grounds and hillside. At night we practiced as the sun set, and in the morning we were welcomed by the glorious new day. Breathing the fresh air and overlooking the ancient hallowed grounds of our surroundings made class feel like a prayer, a celebration.

Each day was an adventure. Island trips to Spetsos, Poros, and Hydra (my favorite) offered historical and cultural experiences, beaches, shopping, delightful dining, and excellent people watching! The tours at Mycenae and Epidavras brought these ancient sites to life for us. We stood in the center of the ancient amphitheater in Epidavras and lay on the healing beds built 3000 years ago; we walked through the gates of Mycenae—the very ones that Agamemnon led his warriors through enroute to the Trojan Wars! Whether snorkeling at the Underground City, walking up hills and steps to ancient monasteries, or eating the best gelato in Napfoli, Franz and Molly made each day joyful and rich. We talked and laughed and giggled-and were at times so dazzled by our surroundings that we could not speak.

This was the trip of a lifetime, and I hope to come back to High Groves again very soon.

In September of this year I arrived at High Groves to immerse myself in leading a retreat for yoga and healing. It took only moments to realize that this sacred ground and amazing property held its own special secrets to encouraging wholeness and well-being.

Our guests were ushered to spacious and airy rooms (each with a private bath) while my co-teacher and I had a peek at the yoga studio and common areas. Every bit of this sprawling estate is a feast for the eyes and senses. Most especially stepping out on to the terrace with its spectacular views takes the breath away...and also grounds you in a sense of settling in and coming home. Witnessing the land and sky meeting on the horizon soothed my soul repeatedly!

The practice space in the repurposed garage is completely tricked out for yoga and exists beyond any level of wonderful you can conjure in your imagination prior to seeing it for yourself. The open doors and view of the mountains made early morning and evening practices seem magical. Being able to "take off" from this spot for hiking or nature devotions is perfect.

Franz and staff are expert at hosting groups of all sorts. My trust in the absolute highest standard of excellence for food, excursion planning and general hospitality and good fun is unwavering. Franz hosted us at Ebbio in Tuscany 3 years ago so I knew what a treat we were in for...but was still so overwhelmingly impressed and pleased at every turn throughout our 7 nights at High Groves.

Be sure to dip in the pool, visit the Grandmother Tree, thrill to the open air meals and gatherings on the terrace, hike to the high point overlook to the sea and listen (and look) each day for the companion sheep and their clanky bells that each of us concluded rang in the very sound of peace and love.

Hotel George's was the ideal venue for hosting our Yoga Retreat in October 2013. Located in the beautifully quiet and charming fishing village of Epidavros, the Yoga room is outstanding and by far the most beautiful Yoga space we've used for our retreats. Situated under the roof top of the Hotel, it has a stunning view directly to the waterfront and we were able to watch dawn breaking and the sun rising over the water during each morning practice. The location of Hotel George is also perfectly situated for short excursions to various places of interest, while at the same time has quiet beaches, cafes and a range of water activities all within a short walking distance. Our group was so enamoured by the place that several have already registered to return with us in 2014!