When is the time to seriously improve your health & fitness?
3-9 November 2024
Once again The Root is taking place at the foot of Mt. Taygetos, in the picturesque village of Kardamili. Come and experience the best of hiking and wellness.

A retreat for demanding individuals who seek an experiential way to leave the weight of the daily routine behind and spend some valuable “me-time” in pristine mountain nature, yet enjoying the sights and sounds of the sea.
The Root is a 7-day comprehensive retreat that focuses on total self transformation via 3 key elements weight control, detox massage and stress management.



The essential core of the program is the daily uphill trek on stunning and clearly marked mountain trails. Your wellness is supplemented by 2 daily yoga sessions, a massage, body empowerment and evening talks.
Diapori Suites, Kardamili
A newly built (2020), 25-rooms boutique hotel, just off the village with swimming pool, and awesome views to the ocean’s big blue.
2.5h-3h driving distance from Athens
ACCOMMODATION
For the needs of our retreat, we have privatized “Diapori” a beautiful boutique hotel, of 25 guest rooms and suites, located just off Kardamili in West Mani, Peloponnese (https://diapori-hotel.gr). We will be spending our time in this great, new property by the seaside where we will find refuge after our days exploring the beautiful Mt. Taygetos’ slopes and forests surrounding us.
HEALTHY CUISINE
We have our own chef, Emilios, who will be preparing locally inspired recipes using the freshest of ingredients packed with nutritional value. The emphasis is on vegetarian/ vegan menus. During our week together we will avoid stimulants in what we consume, so no caffeine and no alcohol will be served or found anywhere in the premises. It is also prohibited for you to bring any!
COMPUTERS/PHONES
Yes, there is Wi-Fi in your bedrooms. However, we ask you to minimize use of telecoms’ technology during the hikes and in all public spaces. For planning purposes, we suggest you make any necessary calls in the privacy of your room.
PREPARATION
There is no need for enhanced training for our retreat, but for best results we will ask that you build up your cardiovascular capabilities in the meantime. Our hikes are really beautiful though some are challenging and range from 9kms to 13kms (3.5h to 5h duration). In addition, we ask you to reduce your caffeine/alcohol intake two weeks in advance of the program, for better results.
CALORIES INTAKE
We do not count calories but our philosophy is to eat healthy, with enough nutrients to provide all necessary energy for your daily activity. Be assured we can also work around your needs and personal goals.
WEATHER
The weather is expected to be mild with temperatures between 12ºC early morning to 25ºC at midday. Scattered showers may also be encountered during the hikes. This is the time of the year that all seasons may be present in just one day. Hence, please see below our list of proposed gear and clothing.
WHAT TO BRING
NECESSARY TO HAVE
- 1 Trail-running shoes with an aggressive sole. Buy these in time and break them in, wear them a few times before our trip (A sturdy sole is very important – as all trails are rocky)
- 1 Camel pack with bladder – at least 1.5lt, ideally 2.0lt
- 1 Walking / trekking sticks (preferably telescopic)
- 3 Long sleeved, light colored, quick dry shirt
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Buff (neck protection)
- 3 Hiking socks (smart wool or similar)
- 1 Sunhat
- 2 Long pants
- 1 Warm fleece jacket
- 1 Sandals for walking around the property
- 1 Lightweight rain jacket
- 3 T-shirts (dry-fit)
- 1-2 Yoga attire
GOOD TO HAVE
- 1 Sunscreen
- 1 Sunglasses
- 2 Shorts
- 3 Sweat clothes/comfortable clothes
- 1 Sleeping attire
LAUNDRY
In order to preserve the ecosystem, your personal laundry will only be done twice a week (on Tuesday and Thursday). You can pack accordingly.
PAYMENTS & CANCELLATION
Booking & Cancellation Terms:
50% of the cost is required upon booking and signing in.
The balance is usually due 1 month prior to arrival.