Our Story
About Us
Discover Shanti-Som
Our Mission
Shanti-Som is designed to feel personal, grounded, and genuinely welcoming - an unhurried space where you can simply be.
Guided by expert knowledge and a science-backed approach, every detail supports long-term wellbeing, balance, and longevity.
It is a place to restore and reconnect, leaving with a clear mind, renewed energy, and a sense of wellbeing that naturally carries into your everyday life.
Our Ethos
‘Shanti’ means inner peace - a state of mental, physical, and spiritual harmony that brings a deep sense of serenity and contentment.
Inspired by traditional Balinese philosophy, we embrace a universal and inclusive way of living that nurtures balance, connection, and mindful awareness.
At our core, we are sincere and approachable, guided by a genuine passion for what we do. We treat every guest with equal care and respect, creating a space where wellbeing is thoughtfully supported and deeply valued.
Intentionally Intimate
Rather than building a large flashy complex, the owner wanted to create an intimate setting. This is reflected in our modest 15 room retreat. With fewer guests and more attention, you experience quiet luxury and meaningful presence rather than formality or crowds.
Shanti-Som welcomes you into an atmosphere of warmth, openness and connection. Whether you come alone or with a partner, you’ll feel part of a nurturing community that lifts you up and surrounds you with positivity. We are a Retreat that feels like coming home.
Science Backed Programs
We combine evidence-based wellness- nutrition, movement, mindfulness and therapeutic treatments- with genuine human warmth. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that lasting wellbeing comes from balance across mind, body, and spirit.
Through a thoughtful integration of yoga, meditation, natural therapies, and lifestyle coaching, we create space for meaningful, sustainable transformation. Each element is designed to support not only how you feel during your stay, but how you live and thrive long after you leave.
Expert Led Care
Ultimately, what makes our Retreat so special is our people. From the reception team who welcome you on arrival, to the restaurant team who prepare nourishing, thoughtful meals, and our spa and wellness practitioners who guide your treatments and therapies - every member of staff plays a part in creating a seamless, supportive experience. Together, they ensure you feel cared for from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.
Our expert team takes the time to understand your unique needs, goals, and lifestyle, creating a personalised wellbeing programme that feels deeply supportive rather than clinical. You are seen, known, and cared for as an individual, never as a number, allowing your experience to feel genuinely personal, intuitive, and considered throughout.
What is a Wellness Retreat
A wellness retreat at Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat is a dedicated time to step away from daily routines and focus on restoring balance in both body and mind. Blending mindful movement, nourishing cuisine, holistic therapies, and moments of stillness, it offers a supportive environment to recharge, reset, and reconnect with yourself. Whether you seek relaxation, improved wellbeing, or a deeper sense of clarity, the experience is designed to leave you feeling renewed, grounded, and inspired.
Why a Wellness Retreat
People go to a wellness retreat to step out of their usual routine and reset both physically and mentally. It’s a chance to slow down, reduce stress, and focus on your wellbeing in a supportive, distraction-free environment. You may be feeling:
Tired and lethargic
Stuck in life
Wanting to get into shape and have more energy
Needing inspiration and wanting to find passion
Completely stressed and overwhelmed
Needing space and alone time
Lacking direction or purpose
Established in 2011
Our Journey
Tucked away in the tranquil hills of Marbella is where Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat first began. Our vision was to create a sanctuary for rest, renewal, and reconnection - an unhurried space where wellbeing feels natural rather than prescriptive.
With just 15 rooms, we are intimate in scale, calm in atmosphere, and far removed from anything overly polished or pretentious. Overt luxury isn’t our focus; instead, we prioritise simplicity and authenticity, allowing you to relax without pressure or expectation.
With a growing community at the heart of our journey, Shanti-Som continues to evolve beyond its home in Marbella. We are expanding to a new location in Portugal, set to open in mid 2027 - this Retreat will carry the same heartfelt approach, complemented by a more contemporary design and an elevated sense of comfort and refinement.
Retreat Programs
Choose your retreat
Rooms & Suites
Find Your Room - Marbellaabout Shanti-Som
Frequently Asked Questions
Shanti-Som, Spain is in the beautiful Andalucía region, nestled in the countryside. Set in the peaceful hills above the quaint village of Monda, Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park.
Just a short 10 minute drive from the vibrant coastline of Marbella, and 40 minutes from Malaga airport, the retreat offers a sense of seclusion while remaining easily accessible.
Framed by mountains, forests, and open skies, its location provides a calm and grounding setting, ideal for rest, reflection, and reconnecting with nature.
Retreats at Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat don’t have fixed start dates, you can arrive on any day that suits you. Most programs are flexible, typically running from 3 to 7 nights (or longer), and begin on your arrival day with a personalised itinerary based on your program and preferences. We are open every day of the year.
Choosing a program at Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat starts with what you want to feel or change. Whether it’s rest, fitness, stress relief, or a full reset, each program is designed around a specific goal, so it helps to think about your priority before you arrive.
From there, consider how much time you have and how structured you’d like your days to be. Some guests prefer a gentle, flexible approach with space to relax, while others want a more focused schedule with guided sessions and therapies. The team will also help tailor your experience on arrival, adjusting treatments, activities, and pace to suit your needs.
Ultimately, the right program is the one that aligns with your intention and feels realistic, supportive, and enjoyable for you.
Our Retreat is recommended only for adults (18+) to maintain guest privacy and sanctuary environment.
Yes, solo travellers are actually very common at Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat.
Many guests visit on their own, and consistently mention that it feels welcoming, safe, and easy to settle in. Some even note that “many others” were travelling solo and that the small size of the retreat creates a friendly, inclusive atmosphere where it’s easy to connect, or enjoy your own space.
Because it’s an intimate setting, with shared spaces like communal dining and group classes, solo guests often naturally meet like-minded people. At the same time, there’s no pressure, so you can be as social or as private as you like.
Shanti-Som Marbella is located in Monda, 40 minutes drive from Málaga airport. We recommend hiring a car (there is ample complimentary parking) or booking a transfer (€85 one way). Please let our team know if you would like us to organise airport transfers.
We understand that plans can change. Cancellations made 30 days or more before arrival receive a full refund. Cancellations between 15–30 days before arrival are eligible for a 50% refund, while cancellations made within 15 days of arrival or non-arrivals are non-refundable.
With a growing community at the heart of our journey, Shanti-Som continues to evolve beyond its home in the Andalusian hills near Marbella. We are expanding to a new location in Portugal, thoughtfully set in a similarly secluded environment away from the busyness of everyday life.
Currently under construction and set to open in mid 2027, this retreat will carry the same heartfelt approach, complemented by a more contemporary design and an elevated sense of comfort and refinement.
Join our mailing list to stay informed on opening dates.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Guest Reviews
“This year I was at Shanti Som for the 4th time. What a treat and how wonderful to be here. After 5 days of yoga, meditation, massages, and relaxing in this beautiful luxury setting, I feel completely relaxed.”
Tanja B
Yoga Retreat — London, UK
“Wonderful place, just entering the majestic lobby regulates your energy. Friendly, helpful and professional staff. The food is healthy and delicious, and the spa treatments are everything a spa treatment should be. Rooms are clean and spacious. I had a room with a mountain view, a beautiful terrace, and magnificent views. This is a no-brainer whenever you need to rejuvenate, recalibrate, relax, or whatever it is that you feel you deserve.”
Helena D
Pilates Retreat — London, UK
“A true sanctuary! I’ve been to Shanti-Som a couple of times now, and every visit reminds me why I keep coming back. The moment you arrive, you feel taken care of. There’s a real attention to detail everywhere, from the beautifully maintained spaces to the thoughtful touches that make the whole experience feel personal and warm. The staff is amazing: kind, attentive and genuinely dedicated to making your stay special. The food is delicious and the activity program and spa menu both offer exactly what you need in terms of well-being.”
Claire R
Healing Retreat — Munich, Germany