CRETE

Crete holistic retreat: Body, Mind  & Anti-inflammatory diet

Dreaming of a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Do you need to regain your balance and immerse yourself in a journey towards inner peace and well-being? Then I, Iben Ordrup, nurse, body and psychotherapist, invite you to my unique 8-day retreat in the authentic village of Angeliana in Crete. Here you will immerse yourself in a holistic lifestyle that combines physical wellbeing, mental clarity and a deeper understanding of yourself.

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The retreat is a combination of body therapy, yoga and anti-inflammatory nutrition. Under my guidance, you will be taken through a journey towards inner peace and renewal. Doina Olaru, our skilled yoga teacher, will lead you through yoga classes, while our wonderful hosts, Vasillis and Maria, will make your stay luxurious, comfortable and indescribable.

You can look forward to:

🧘‍♀️ Two daily yoga classes with views of the Cretan landscape
🏡 Authentic and luxurious accommodation in Dalabelos by the sea
🍲 Healthy and anti-inflammatory diet with organic ingredients
🌞 Time for personal reflection and relaxation
👥 Individual coaching conversations
💆‍♂️ Body All Mind body treatments and massages
🌅 Mesmerising sunrises and nature experiences

Are you ready to invest in yourself and your well-being? Join us in Crete and let this journey be the start of a new, healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

I look forward to welcoming you to Dalabelos and sharing this authentic experience with you.

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Meet me, Iben Ordrup 

I love helping people find balance and wellbeing through various therapeutic methods. My own journey began many years ago when I experienced stress and challenges that forced me to look inwards and find new ways of thinking and developing.

This personal experience has given me a deep understanding of the challenges you face and I use this insight to guide you on your journey.

On my retreats, I emphasise creating an environment where you can feel safe and seen. I believe that true success comes when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and open. That's why I'm always available for conversation and support, and I make sure there's room for both community and individual reflection.

As the leader and organiser of this retreat, I am dedicated to creating an authentic experience. With my experience in body therapy, psychotherapy, yoga and meditation, I combine my professional expertise with personal experiences to ensure you get the support and guidance you need. I'm here to help you through every little part of your journey - from buying flight tickets to daily activities and retreat coaching. I pride myself on creating a safe, inspiring and nurturing environment where you can find peace, recharge and grow at your own pace.

My training in body therapy and psychotherapy has given me the tools to work holistically with both body and mind. This combination of knowledge and experience enables me to offer a holistic approach to wellbeing.

Besides organising retreats, I love immersing myself in nature, exploring new places and learning about different cultures. These experiences enrich my work and give me new perspectives to share with you.

I look forward to meeting you and sharing this authentic experience with you. Together we will create memories that will last a lifetime and take steps towards a healthier, more balanced life.

Give yourself a gift - a break from everyday life

At the retreat, you can focus on yourself and rediscover your inner balance. Together, let's take care of your body and health.

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Upcoming Crete retreats, prices and booking

Spring 2025

Spring 2025

Dates: 31/5 - 7/6 2025

Number of seats: 16 seats

Autumn 2025

Autumn 2025

Dates: TBD

Number of seats: 16 seats

Booking your stay

The package includes 7 nights' accommodation in a shared double room, all anti-inflammatory meals, two daily yoga classes, individual coaching and Body All Mind body treatments.

Shared double room per person EUR 1950.

Single room can be purchased for extra EUR 575 

A deposit of EUR 1000 is payable upon booking. For bookings made after 1 March, the full amount is payable upon booking.

The balance will be charged on 2 month before.

Yes please, I'd love to reserve a seat as soon as possible.

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The people you'll meet in Crete

Iben Ordrup
Nurse, body- and psychotherapist

Iben Ordrup

I bring a deep understanding of both body and mind, based on my own experience of life's challenges. With my background as a nurse and therapist, my goal is to help you achieve balance and wellbeing through targeted treatments and guidance.

Doina Olaru
Yoga instructor

Doina Olaru

Doina is a passionate yoga teacher who masters Hatha and Yin Yoga to create a harmonious connection between body and mind. As one of the best massage therapists in Crete, she is known for her skill and empathy. Doina will guide you through yoga sessions that strengthen both your physical and mental health.

Vasillis og Maria
Hosts at Dalabelos

Vasillis og Maria

Vasillis and Maria welcome you with a warmth and hospitality that will make you feel at home at Dalabelos. They live and breathe the Cretan way of life and are almost 100% self-sufficient with produce grown according to organic principles. Their farm is a true gem where Maria herself produces yoghurt, feta cheese, jam and herbal extracts of the highest quality.

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Discover Dalabelos - and recharge your batteries in Crete

Imagine waking up to the sunrise over the Cretan landscape, breathing in the fresh Mediterranean air and starting and ending your day with a yoga class. Surrounded by olive groves, lush fields and the peaceful atmosphere of Dalabelos, you can let go of your worries and embrace the beauty and tranquillity of nature.

Dalabelos is more than just a place to stay - it's an experience

The charming little houses and your hosts, Vasillis and Maria, welcome you with a warmth and hospitality that will make you feel at home from the first second. They live and breathe the Cretan lifestyle and grow almost everything they serve on their own land. Their passion for ecology and sustainability is reflected in every meal and cup of herbal tea you enjoy.

Vasillis and Maria invite you to become part of their lifestyle through activities like music, harvesting the fields and cooking. You'll get a taste of authentic Cretan life and a deeper connection to the island's rich culture and beauty.

Vasillis and Maria's commitment to quality and sustainability makes every moment at Dalabelos a memorable experience. Enjoy their homemade yoghurt, feta cheese, jams and herbal extracts, all made with love and respect for nature.

All in all, there is a perfect balance between guided activities and alone time where you will experience a holistic approach to health and personal development. This retreat is designed for those seeking deeper self-awareness, physical wellbeing and an opportunity to unplug.

Dalabelos Estate Crete 000363

Book the stay that suits you best

All rooms at Dalabelos are beautifully and locally decorated, each with its own kitchenette, bathroom and private garden or balcony. Whether you choose to stay alone or share a room with someone else, you'll find a space that perfectly suits your needs.

Remember to be respectful of the tranquillity and make time for yourself during the retreat. This is your opportunity to immerse yourself, find balance and enjoy the silence.

Dalabelos is beautiful and sensuous, with plenty of places to sit and immerse yourself alone or with others. Whether you're looking for peaceful moments in nature or cosy conversations with other participants, you'll find the perfect space for it.

STUDIO COTTAGE
Rooms available

STUDIO COTTAGE

Ideal for 2 guests
Room size: 25 m2

1 bedroom | 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed or 1 double bed (king or queen) and 1 sofa bed

View: Sea view | Garden view | Mountain view

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8 days on the retreat - health, balance and self-awareness

Your 8-day retreat is carefully planned to ensure you have the most balanced and enriching experience. Here you will immerse yourself in a holistic lifestyle that combines physical wellbeing, mental clarity and a deeper understanding of yourself.

Daily programme

  • Morning meditation & yoga: Start your day with inner peace and clarity.
  • Healthy meals: Enjoy nutritious and delicious anti-inflammatory meals prepared with local ingredients.
  • Talks: Learn about diet and health and get practical tips for an anti-inflammatory lifestyle.
  • Guided tours: Discover Crete's beautiful nature on hikes and excursions to the beach.
  • Individual talks and treatments: Personalised coaching and body treatments to support your individual journey towards wellness.
    Afternoon meditation & yoga: End the day with reflection and contemplation to integrate the day's experiences.

Give yourself the gift of attending this retreat

Where you will experience a holistic approach to health and balance. Come home with renewed energy, inspiration and tools to look after yourself and your wellbeing in everyday life.

Your anti-inflammatory diet in Crete

All meals at the retreat are prepared by Dalabelos' local kitchen in close collaboration with me, Iben Ordrup.

What you can expect:

  • Fresh, local produce: All meals are based on Dalabelo's rich supply of fresh ingredients, ensuring you the highest quality and flavour.
  • Healthy and nutritious diet: We focus on anti-inflammatory foods that promote health and well-being.
  • Customised body analysis: Get a comprehensive body analysis showing your BMI, body fat percentage, water percentage, muscle mass, bone mass, basal metabolic rate, metabolic age, abdominal fat and a physical assessment.

When you change your diet and work with your body, there are often a number of different reactions. Some will feel an increase in energy, while others will become more quiet or emotionally vulnerable. It's important that there is space for you to feel exactly how you feel, without having to spend energy being nice or worrying about what others think. This holiday is your opportunity for self-indulgence. Enjoy it and use it in the way that suits you best.

Remember to let us know about any allergies or special diets! We offer the option to choose 100% vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free and more.

Discover the benefits of an anti-inflammatory diet and how it can improve both your physical and mental health. Our goal is for you to leave with renewed energy and knowledge to continue a healthy lifestyle.

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Body All Mind Treatments

I, Iben Ordrup, is a trained Body All Mind body therapist, nurse and psychotherapist.

As founder and owner of Iben Ordrup Body & Psychotherapy, I work with mental health for both individuals and companies. In 2017, I resigned from my position as Nordic Research Director to have more time for myself and my family. This decision led me to dive deeper into body therapy, where I found greater peace and self-awareness.

The treatments I offer provide increased wellbeing and tools to make decisions and manage stress. Using my own experiences and extensive knowledge, I strive to create a greater understanding between your physical and mental health.

In my treatments, I work with the whole body and breathing to create both physical and mental release.

Body All Mind Body Therapy

My treatments are based on proven theories and techniques, including:

  • Massage the muscles: Relieves tension and promotes relaxation.
  • Joint movement: Increases flexibility and reduces stiffness.
  • Pulsating movements: Stimulates circulation and energy flow in your body.
  • Breathing techniques: Improves your oxygen intake and calms your mind.
  • Acupressure and zone pressure: Targeted pressure relieves pain and tension.

Benefits of the treatment

The combination of these techniques stimulates circulation and promotes blood flow in your body. This helps to relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation in tendons and reduce swelling around joints. The improved blood and lymph circulation has a cleansing effect both physically and mentally, making this treatment an important complement to the anti-inflammatory diet.

More details

  • Duration: 30 minutes per treatment.
  • Favourable prices: As a participant of the "Crete Retreat: Body, Diet & Mental Balance" you get the opportunity to purchase Body All Mind treatments at a favourable price.
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Yoga in Crete - Connecting mind and body

Every morning and afternoon we gather to practice yoga under the stars, surrounded by the majestic beauty of the mountains and overlooking the clear sea.

Morning and afternoon Yoga:

  • Morning: Hatha yoga
  • Afternoon: Yin yoga

Vores dygtige yogalærer, Doina Olaru, guider os gennem en blanding af traditionel Hatha og Yin yoga. Herunder kan du læse mere om disse to yogaformer.

Hatha Yoga

Hatha yoga is based on the classical yoga postures. The word 'Ha' means sun and 'tha' means moon in Sanskrit, symbolising the dualities of life. In Hatha yoga we balance strength with flexibility and movement with meditation. Each pose is held for a longer period of time, performed at a steady pace, focusing on correct movement and conscious breathing. Pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation are essential elements of Hatha yoga, helping to work with the whole person at once.

Yin Yoga

Yin yoga consists of simple seated and supine poses held for 3-5 minutes. This practice works especially with the connective tissue and the body's meridian pathways, focusing on creating grounding and an uplifting energy flow. Our instructor calmly guides you into the poses through mindful breathing, helping you to let go and find peace. Yin yoga promotes presence and relaxation that you can take with you into your everyday life.

Meet Doina Olaru

Doina Olaru is not only an experienced yoga instructor, but also one of the best massage therapists in Crete. She offers the following massage treatments:

  • Rejuvance: A natural anti-ageing facelift.
  • Lymphatic Drainage: A treatment for detoxification and strengthening the immune system.
  • Holistic Oil Massage: A deep relaxation massage for the whole body.

Doina has years of experience in yoga and massage, and her dedication to health and wellness shines through in every session.

FAQs and practical information

When you change your diet and work with your body, there are often a number of different reactions. Some will feel an increase in energy, while others will become more quiet or emotionally vulnerable. It's important that there is space for you to feel exactly how you feel, without having to spend energy being nice or worrying about what others think. This holiday is your opportunity for self-indulgence. Enjoy it and use it in the way that suits you best.

Remember to bring a few good books. We also encourage you to minimise the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices so you can truly relax and be present in the moment.

If you cancel no later than 3 months before departure, you can get a refund minus administration costs of EUR 140.

If you cancel later, the amount will NOT be refunded.

The stay is a combined holiday where you are the tour operator for insurance purposes. Should war, natural disasters, snowstorms or epidemics occur, this is considered force majeure and the right to compensation will be cancelled.

Therefore, check your travel insurance and your cancellation module. If your insurance does not cover you, you can buy a supplementary module with Gouda travel insurance.

With good insurance cover, we can all relax and enjoy our stay, looking forward to yoga, treatments, sun, sea, hiking and delicious food.

Your investment: EUR 1940 - 2420. The price of our retreat depends on your wishes and choices.

This journey is for anyone seeking peace, renewal and deeper self-awareness. Whether you are a beginner or experienced in yoga and bodywork, you will find value and joy in this retreat.

Yes, everyone is welcome to join the retreat. We believe that both men and women can benefit from the techniques and methods we offer.

Absolutely. Many of our participants choose to travel alone to immerse themselves and focus on their personal development. You will find a supportive community here.

  • Stay at Dalabelos
  • All meals prepared with local and organic ingredients
  • Daily yoga sessions (Hatha and Yin)
  • 1:1 body analysis and individual talks
  • Body All Mind body treatments
  • Guided tours and activities
  • Any additional body treatments beyond those included
  • Flight tickets to and from Crete
  • Travel insurance and cancellation insurance

Crete has a mild Mediterranean climate. Most months the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxing by the pool or beach. You may want to check the specific weather forecast before travelling to pack appropriate clothing.

Yes, we can accommodate special dietary needs such as vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, etc. Remember to let us know about your allergies or dietary needs well in advance of your stay.

Bring comfortable clothes for yoga, swimwear, sunscreen, personal toiletries and any medical necessities. We also recommend bringing a notebook for reflection and notes.

Hairdryers and irons: All rooms are equipped with hairdryers and irons for your convenience.

Washing machines: Washing machines are available in the villas so you can wash your clothes as needed.

Pool towels: We provide towels for use by the pool.

Eco-consciousness: Clean towels and bed linen are delivered every 3-4 days. If you need extra, you can simply ask for them.

Filtered drinking water: There is filtered drinking water in the rooms, which is topped up daily to ensure you always have access to clean water.

Kitchenette: Feel free to bring your own herbal tea to prepare in your private kitchenette.

Yes, Wi-Fi is available at Dalabelos, but we encourage using the retreat as an opportunity for digital detox and maximum relaxation.

Yes, Dalabelos has a swimming pool and there is access to various wellness facilities. Some treatments can be booked at a favourable price as a retreat participant.

Dalabelos Retreat Center, Angeliana

Rethymno, 74052 Crete, Greece Google map - Dalabelos

The Greek currency is EURO. In principle, you do not need to spend money during your stay unless you want to purchase massages, excursions or other services at Dalabelos. You can withdraw money from ATM machines and pay by card at Dalabelos.

There are a few bicycles that can be used free of charge. Mountain bikes are available for hire. Otherwise, you can order a taxi/bus.

The clock should be set forward one hour.

Wear light and loose-fitting workout clothes for yoga and remember sunscreen, I recommend factor 50. Drink plenty of water on arrival. The air in the aircraft is dry and you should drink more than you expect.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs encourages you to check if you have travel insurance that covers COVID-19 related expenses before travelling. If your insurance does not cover, Gouda Travel Insurance offers coverage Gouda Travel Insurance.