Sashwa River of Stars Wellness Retreat Review

Sashwa River of Stars in review

I was recently fortunate enough to be invited on a Facilitators’ retreat at the Sashwa River of Stars Wellness Retreat in Kruger National Park.

Sashwa lies roughly 90 minutes from Hoedspruit Airport. The flight from Johannesburg takes scarcely an hour, yet the view soon shifts from city rooftops to sweeping mountains and wide-open terrain. We were even lucky enough to see elephants close to the airport, along with several impala, as we landed.

On arrival, our group was welcomed by the friendly staff, who transported us to Sashwa. After travelling along a few dusty, uneven roads, spotting giraffes and sharing our excitement about the stay ahead, we arrived as the evening air began to cool. I will not spoil the welcome ceremony, but within minutes it feels as though you have returned home after being away for far too long.

Private rooms and thoughtful details

We were each shown to our own private rooms. Every room had an en-suite bathroom, plenty of space for unpacking, and a personal yoga mat and meditation cushion to use throughout the stay. One of my favourite travel treats is finding a light left on in the room to welcome you-in this case, a salt lamp. Thanks to the daily housekeeping, I could enjoy that small luxury each evening after returning from the game drive.

Yoga and wildlife at Sashwa River of Stars

Our mornings began with yoga on the deck overlooking the Olifants River, followed by a wildlife activity, including guided walks, which are another personal favourite of mine. With knowledgeable guidance, we discovered hidden wonders such as rock fig trees, termite nests and other distinctive sights that are easily missed from a game vehicle.

Mealtimes were unhurried, healthy occasions centred on 100% plant-based dishes. For more Plant based meals – Dining at Sashwa.

When we were not taking in the surrounding natural sounds during our yoga sessions, we were on the back of a vehicle, fortunate enough to see rhino, elephants, a range of antelope and birds.

Facilities for retreat facilitators

A facilitator’s dream, Sashwa has considered everything required to make a retreat successful. If, like me, you run multidisciplinary retreats combining workshops, treatments and meditation with yoga, this venue offers it all.

Amenities include: a Yoga Shala, outdoor yoga deck, meditation room, creative studio, infrared sauna, gym facility, outdoor shower, stargazing, spa and treatment rooms, welcome room and deck area-ideal for workshop-related activities-a bird hide, swimming pool and several outdoor lounge areas.

My heartfelt thanks again to Sashwa and its exceptional staff; Dylan, for our exploratory, Ashtanga-based yoga sessions; and the fellow wellness facilitators, each of whom brought their own distinctive energy and enthusiasm.

An incredible experience that is well worth repeating!