Yoga Retreat med Deepak & Emely in Akyaka Turkey
Immersion, Nature & Community
A week in Akyaka, Turkey — surrounded by mountains and sea in one of Turkey's most beautiful natural areas — where you immerse yourself in your yoga practice and experience something you won't forget.
Yoga and the community it has brought into my life have given me some of the best and most meaningful moments of my life. That's why I created OceanSoul — and why I'm inviting you to join me in Akyaka, Turkey.
It's more than a holiday — it's an experience that settles into your body and stays with you long after you've come home.
Have questions? Write to us at hello@oceansoul.dk — we reply quickly.
Travel safely with OceanSoul — We are a member of the Danish Travel Guarantee Fund (Rejsegarantifonden), and since 2022 we've been creating professional, thoughtfully designed travel experiences with a focus on safety and quality in every detail. Nearly 1,000 happy guests have already traveled with OceanSoul, and we can't wait to welcome you on your next trip!
More than a yoga holiday
Travel with Deepak from India and Emely from Denmark on a unique yoga retreat to Emely's hometown on the Turkish coast.
This retreat is about genuine, heartfelt yoga in beautiful, peaceful surroundings — a place where you can slow down, reconnect with yourself and truly feel the energy of nature.
Surrounded by mountains and sea, the small village offers a truly special atmosphere: calm, authentic and full of life, far from mass tourism and close to the elements.
Throughout the week, you'll experience authentic yoga guided by Deepak, who brings traditional Indian teachings, and Emely, who combines down-to-earth practices with her deep love for the place she now calls home.
You can expect a blend of yoga, meditation, pranayama, yoga nidra and community, as we share the best of what Akyaka has to offer.
Each morning begins with yoga by the beautiful freshwater river, and evening classes take place by the sea, in a village yoga shala, and at a sunset spot overlooking the entire bay.
Along the way, we'll also take you on trips to hidden gems in the area — including a local market and a boat trip.
All levels are welcome, but please note that the retreat will be both physically and mentally demanding.
This retreat is especially for those who want more than just a holiday — you'll connect, breathe, learn and experience yoga in its purest form.
Who is this trip for?
Come as you are. We'll take care of the rest.
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Yogis with some experience: You don't need to be an expert, but it's an advantage to have tried yoga before — so we can go a little deeper together
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Experienced yogis: Daily teaching and deep practice with traditional Indian teachings and inspiration for your continued practice
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Nature lovers: Outdoor morning yoga by the beautiful freshwater river and evening classes by the sea and the sunset
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Solo travellers: Many of our guests travel alone — and go home with new friends for life
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Those who want to skip the logistics: From the moment we pick you up at the airport until we drop you off again — all you have to do is show up
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Those who want it all: Yoga, Turkish food, sunsets and hidden gems far from mass tourism
The beauty of yoga and nature is that it brings people together across everything. Age, background, nationality — it all just disappears once the breath finds stillness. The one thing our guests have in common? They wanted something more.
Our guests are often the loveliest people — and many of them meet again, both on and off the mat, long after the retreat has ended.
"Emely is a fantastic yoga teacher. After a week in Turkey, I've gotten my yoga practice restarted and become super inspired. Emely brings the original yoga tradition into her teaching and offers great variety in the practice. She's a positive and lovely person to be around, and I'm already planning my next yoga trip—"
— Charlotte, Turkey 2026
Why OceanSoul
Why travelers choose OceanSoul
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A complete travel experience — you show up, we take care of the rest
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Local knowledge from Emely, who has lived in Akyaka since 2019
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Authentic yoga teaching from Deepak, an experienced yoga teacher from Rishikesh
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Yoga for those with some experience — outdoors, present, and with room to go deeper
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A small, warm community with max 15 participants from day one
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Everything planned — from airport to departure
"Emely is a skilled yoga teacher who manages to put together programs that suit all levels and ages. At the same time, she creates a warm and cozy space with her caring nature. With my warmest recommendations 🌸🧘♀️🤸♂️"
— Mathilde, Greece 2024
Elif Hotel – our base in Akyaka
The hotel is located by the crystal-clear Azmak river, surrounded by mountains and nature. Start your day with a swim in the river, or sit with your coffee on the balcony and let the calm sink in. It's exactly the kind of morning that sets the tone for an entire retreat.
The rooms are bright and comfortable — many with their own balcony and view.
Air conditioning, good sound insulation and peaceful surroundings ensure that you sleep well and wake up rested.
Beyond the river, the hotel offers a pool with a sun terrace, breakfast buffet, fitness room and 24-hour reception. And if you're in the mood for a bit more life, the sandy beach and Akyaka's charming town center with its lovely shops are all within walking distance.
Calm and nature right outside your door — and everything else just a few minutes away.
Your instructors
Deepak
Deepak, an immensely experienced yoga teacher based in the serene town of Rishikesh. Specializing in Hatha vinyasa Yoga, pranayama and meditation. Deepak brings a wealth of knowledge to his teachings.
He holds the master degree in yogic science
Deepak is 500 hours E-RYT
He is teaching in Rishikesh more than 10 years.
His deep-rooted connection to Rishikesh, a place steeped in spiritual heritage, has shaped his profound understanding of yoga.
With a gentle and patient demeanor, Deepak guides students on a transformative journey of self-discovery through the practices of Pranayama and meditation. His expertise in Hatha Yoga encompasses the art of balancing physical postures, breath control, and meditation techniques.
Deepak's classes offer a sacred space for individuals of all levels to explore inner peace, mental clarity, and physical vitality. If you seek a seasoned yoga teacher on a yoga retreat to deepen your practice and enhance your well-being, join Deepak on the path to holistic wellness and spiritual growth.
Emely
Emely Freja Petersen has lived in Turkey since 2019, speaks Turkish, and is excited to share everything this beautiful country has to offer.
She has spent many years living and breathing yoga and the surf lifestyle. Emely’s professional, warm, and inclusive teaching style—combined with her extensive experience in yoga and travel—has been deeply appreciated by her students all around the world.
Emely has more than 10 years of teaching experience and
is a Yoga Alliance Certified Teacher with an international background in yoga studies, including advanced training in India.
She holds a total of 550 RYT, including:
- 200 RYT in Hatha & Vinyasa from Sweden
- 300 RYT in Hatha, Vinyasa & Ashtanga, completed in Rishikesh, India with Deepak as lead trainer
- 50 RYT in Yin Yoga, specializing in the meridian pathways from Spain
Emely is also a two-time Danish & Turkish Champion in kitesurfing, as well as a certified Kitesurfing and Stand Up Paddle Instructor.
Academically, she holds an AP Graduate degree in Service, Hospitality & Tourism Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management.
Daily program
8 days – 7 nights – 2 travel days – 6 days with program
Day 1:
6:00 PM Welcome meeting at the hotel + welcome dinner
Day 2:
8:00–9:30 AM Morning yoga by the river.
Breakfast at the hotel. Short walk to explore the area.
4:00 PM Afternoon yoga with a view over the bay + sunset.
Dinner on the beach (sunset + feet in the sand)
Day 3:
7:30–8:00 AM Pranayama.
8:00–9:30 AM Morning pranayama + asana. Breakfast at the hotel.
11:30 AM–12:30 PM Boat trip on the Azmak river. Free time.
4:00 PM Departure by taxi to yoga in a cozy shala + dinner in a nearby village
Day 4:
8:00–9:30 AM Morning yoga by the river.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Boat trip to the stunning surrounding bays. Dinner in town
Day 5:
7:30–8:00 AM Pranayama by the river.
8:00–9:30 AM Yoga by the river. Breakfast at the hotel. Free time.
4:00 PM Departure to a viewpoint – sunset yoga overlooking the entire bay + local Turkish pancakes for dinner
Day 6:
8:00–9:30 AM Yoga by the river.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Trip to a local Turkish food market (walking distance).
Yoga-free afternoon.
Dinner in town.
8:00 PM Yoga Nidra at the hotel
Day 7:
7:30–8:00 AM Meditation by the river.
8:00–9:30 AM Yoga by the river.
Breakfast at the hotel. Free time.
4:30 PM Yoga + closing circle.
Dinner in town
Day 8:
No yoga. Breakfast and farewell hugs
Please note: We reserve the right to adjust the program if necessary, while always ensuring the best possible experience for our guests.
Information
Price: €1,000
The price is per person per retreat.
Upon registration, you pay a deposit of €300. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 30 days before departure. It is also possible to pay in several installments — contact us for more information.
The price includes:
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Shared double room at a lovely hotel by the beautiful Azmak river. (Single room available for a surcharge)
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Large traditional Turkish breakfast every morning
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10 x yoga sessions with Deepak and Emely
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Equipment you'll need for yoga (mat and block)
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Pranayama, meditation and yoga nidra
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Transport to yoga shalas/restaurants
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Participation in shared dinners and community activities with Deepak and Emely
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Trips to hidden local gems, including a beautiful sunset spot, a local market and a boat trip
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Member of the Danish Travel Guarantee Fund – travel safely with us
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The price is per person when staying in a shared double room (2 people). We will match you with another participant of the same gender.
Single room surcharge: €300 (must be specified at registration and is binding).
Not included in the price:
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Travel insurance
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Flight ticket (see the "Flights" section for recommended departure)
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Other meals
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Beverages
Please note:
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Teaching takes place in English
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This is an alcohol-free trip
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This is a vegetarian trip
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It's important that you're comfortable walking, as we sometimes walk to yoga locations, restaurants, etc.
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All levels are welcome, but it will be physically demanding. You're always welcome to modify or skip exercises — we also offer alternatives, but this is not gentle yoga.
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There is a maximum of 20 participants on the trip — we therefore recommend signing up quickly
You participate by submitting the registration form and paying a deposit of €300. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 1 month before departure.
Two weeks before departure, we'll send you an info email — remember to check your spam folder.
Participation in all activities is at your own risk, and travel insurance is important.
If, contrary to expectations, you're unable to participate, the deposit will not be refunded, but you're welcome to find another participant yourself who can take over your spot.
"It was a somewhat uncertain decision when I signed up for the trip in January, but it ended up being the most amazing, fun, zen, challenging and relaxing trip with the best people, led by a wonderful, calm and patient yoga teacher, Emely. Thank you for the guidance, good times and fun — I definitely recommend both you and yoga as the best thing for the mind. Namaste"
— Mette, Greece 2023
Flight information + airport transfer
Your flight ticket is not included in the price, so you'll need to book it yourself. If you need help, please feel free to contact us — we're happy to help you find the right flight.
You can fly to either Dalaman Airport (approx. 1 hour from Akyaka) or Bodrum Airport (approx. 1.5 hours from Akyaka). There are direct flights from most major cities in both Europe and the rest of the world.
We recommend checking Turkish Airlines, AJet or Pegasus.
Unfortunately, we cannot provide a fixed taxi price at this time, as prices vary due to inflation. We do not take any commission from the taxi company. The price will be approximately €80 from Dalaman and €120 from Bodrum.
If several of you arrive at the same time, we will of course make sure you can share a taxi.
A driver will be waiting at the airport with a sign showing your name upon arrival.
If you have any doubts or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
Email: hello@oceansoul.dk
WhatsApp (messages only) +4530118192
We are a member of the travel guarantee fund
Travel safe with us!
Further Information - Our FAQ
Weather
Early October in Akyaka is one of the most beautiful times of the year. Days are warm, usually around 24–28°C, with plenty of sunshine and a soft, gentle breeze. Evenings can be cooler, so a light sweater is nice to bring, but it’s still comfortable to sit outside and enjoy the calm atmosphere. The sea is warm from the long summer, perfect for swimming or relaxing by the water. What to Expect on an Outdoor Yoga Retreat Practicing yoga outdoors in October feels incredible. The temperatures are ideal – not too hot, not too cold – and the fresh mountain and sea air makes each session feel grounding and energizing. Morning classes often take place under a soft golden light, while afternoon or sunset sessions offer beautiful colors and a peaceful mood. You can expect: Comfortable temperatures for both dynamic and gentle yoga Fresh, clean air from the surrounding forest and the ocean A calm and quiet environment with fewer tourists Space to connect deeply with nature’s sounds and energy
Sustainability on the trip
In yoga, we connect deeply with the elements — the earth beneath us, the wind in the trees, the warmth of the sun, and the rhythm of nature. We honour Mother Earth and the beautiful experiences she offers us every single day. We also value mindful tourism and giving our guests the best possible experience. On our retreats, we pay close attention to social sustainability. We work exclusively with locals from Akyaka and help support job creation within the village. Our intention is never to take work away, but to create more opportunities for the local community. During the retreat, you’ll be guided by knowledgeable local teachers and practitioners who know the area, the energy, and the culture from the inside out. The food we enjoy together is grown locally — often directly from nearby farms or elsewhere in Turkey — always seasonal, fresh, and prepared with care. By choosing this yoga retreat, you not only nourish your own body and mind but also support the local community and a more sustainable way of traveling.
Discover Akyaka: A Cittaslow Gem in Turkey
Nestled along the serene shores of the Aegean Sea, Akyaka is a tranquil village that embodies the essence of the Cittaslow movement. Recognized as a member of this global network, Akyaka embraces a slower pace of life, focusing on sustainability, local traditions, and an unspoiled natural environment. Here, life is about savoring the moment—whether strolling through lush pine forests, enjoying the calming flow of the Azmak River, or indulging in delicious farm-to-table cuisine. The village’s unique architecture, blending traditional Ottoman and Mediterranean styles, adds to its charm, making Akyaka a haven for those seeking peace and authenticity. In Akyaka, every detail invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters. It’s not just a destination; it’s a way of life.
Beginner Kitesurfing Lessons
If you’d like to add a touch of adventure to your yoga holiday, you can also book kitesurfing lessons during your stay. Akyaka is known as one of the best places in the world to learn, thanks to its steady, reliable wind and shallow, beginner-friendly spot. We collaborate with skilled local instructors who know the conditions inside and out, so whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to progress, you can explore the magic of kitesurfing safely alongside your yoga practice.
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Starts Oct 8
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