Ephesian Essence:
A yoga immersion for deep transformation

October 5 - 12, 2025

Get ready for this one-off opportunity to journey from the temples of ancient Greece to the temple within. This unique retreat intensive will take place in the magnificent Ephesian Hills on Turkey's Aegean Coast. This won’t be your average retreat experience!

The Location

Ephesus Retreat, İzmir Turkey

Situated in the midst of history and the heritage of different cultures in the ancient city of Ephesus where the ancient goddess Artemis was worshiped. For thousands of years seekers and artists have been called to this place to find wisdom, mystery, community, and inspiration - and to encounter the ancestral energy and stories that vibrate alive to this day. Five natural lakes, extensive forest areas, fertile fields and extensive vineyards give this region a divine touch, and form the ideal setting for rest and relaxation.

Distance to / from:

  • İzmir International Airport – 69 km

  • Ephesus Ancient City – 5,7 km

  • Selçuk – 5 km

  • Şirince – 5,2 km

  • Kuşadası – 14 km

The Practise

Grounded in practice and self exploration

This retreat will be a unique opportunity to deepen your yoga practice both on and off the mat under the guidance of Luke Jordan, one of the world’s few Certified teachers in the Pattabhi Jois lineage of Ashtanga Yoga.

In this intimate setting Luke will share his subtle and nuanced understanding of this traditional practice based on his 25 years of experience. Guiding you individually in exploring new facets and depths that will provide a support for your own continued exploration when the week is over.

We will deepen our connection with yoga’s historical heritage and philosophical roots by reciting Vedic mantras whose meaning shed light on yoga’s intention and purpose. By drawing on decades of study Luke will, in his unique and irreverent way, share his understanding of what these teachings are trying to convey to us. Even though separated by millennia, we will discover that the ancient sages still speak to us with a fresh voice offering wisdom and guidance to us today.

The real magic though, is us – a bunch of unique souls coming together in the name of yoga on a spiritual quest. A gathering of equal yet unique individuals meeting with intention and creating a whole greater than the sum of its parts - and in the process creating a transformative crucible of community. Together we will give each other mutual support on this journey of self-discovery and re-discovery while having fun along the way.

This retreat welcomes all levels of practice - the only requirement is a courageous and curious spirit!

The Accomodation

Ephesus Retreat

On a hill surrounded by ancient trees and olive groves, all rooms are a fine balance between modern design and cozy feeling while promising an immersion in nature! Beautifully designed with natural materials - all with ensuite bathroom, wifi access, a small fridge, and a kettle with a selection of coffee and teas.

Rooms can be booked as a single for a premium, as double, or shared.

We will enjoy daily brunch and dinner family style, feasting on a range of Middle Eastern-style dishes all vegetarian/vegan. On our free afternoon you will have time to explore the area at your own leisure, get a massage, or simply chill by the pool.

You will have the opportunity to extend your stay at Ephesus Retreat for a friendly rate if you wish - just let us know!

  • ‘Luke created a safe nourishing space in which we were able to connect and deeply explore our inner worlds together. Finding ‘the juice’ within our own authentic asana practice along the way was a plus.’

    - Adnan

  • ‘Ive never practiced with Luke before his Sicily retreat, and I can honestly say that it was one of the best yoga experiences I’ve ever had. Luke is a fantastic, experienced teacher with the ability to bring together effortlessly a crowd of strangers to share a practice, life experiences and emotions.With Luke’s teaching I’ve not only improved my daily asana practice, but I’ve also discovered sides of my character I didn’t know. Chanting and practicing with Luke was magical - he knows how to create the right balance between challenge and support, to bring calm and support through his voice and adjustments. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to meet him - I left Sicily joyful and eager to find excitement in my life.’

    - Francesca

  • ‘My experience at Luke’s Sicily retreat was truly amazing. It was my first retreat and it exceeded my expectations. The venue was the most beautiful setting. I thoroughly enjoyed the daily yoga practice, as well as being introduced to non violent communication and to morning pages. I was surrounded with the most special group of people, who all came together with open hearts ready to receive, and it made it a magical experience. I left feeling enlightened and excited to put my learning into practice and into daily life. I am already looking forward to his next retreat in October.’

    - KA

  • ‘The Sicily retreat with Luke was the second retreatI attended with him within a year - I think that says it all. The food was delicious, the location beautiful, and the yoga just like the previous time was refreshing and profound. I learned so much, and thanks to workshops on non violent communication and singing mantras I was able to significantly expand my personal growth. I wholeheartedly recommend joining a retreat with Luke regardless of your yoga experience. He will help you through it all!’

    - Anne