Villa Esencia Retreat - Casares, Málaga

Margot J.

Villa Esencia is the most beautiful place to go back to your essence. In co-creation with the amazing and loving owners Jan & Marianne, we organized our first 4-day retreat there. It was a true blessing for everyone! Deep healing, transformations and connections were made. Deeply and warmly supported by the team, set and setting. To name a few highlights: the stylish and charming villa (including beautiful bedrooms, spaces, garden, pool and sauna), the nourishing and delicious food (made by Marianne herself!), the vibe, support, and the surroundings, overlooking the forest, sea, clear skies, Gibraltar and Morocco. Truly breathtaking. I fell in love with that place and life again! I can recommend anyone to spend time here. We will be back soon! Much love and gratefulness to M&J.

Maartje W.

Villa Esencia is a lovely intimate retreat place suitable for retreats all year through (hello heated salt water pool and sauna for winter times). When you drive up to the villa through the green forest you already feel a sense of retreating. And then you are welcomed by the lovely Jan and Marianne that make you truly feel welcomed and are such an added value to have around during your retreat! I was lucky enough to work with them and spend a full day retreating at this lovely place 🫶

Dev M.

Villa Esencia is more than just a retreat centre—it’s a portal for deep transformation.

As both a facilitator and a guest, I’ve experienced this space from multiple perspectives, and every time, it delivers something extraordinary. The energy here is unlike anywhere else—grounded, expansive, and full of possibility. It holds people in a way that allows them to open, release, and step into something bigger.

The setting is breathtaking, surrounded by nature that instantly soothes the nervous system. Every detail—from the spaces designed for deep work to the nourishing meals and the way the team supports each guest—feels intentional. As a facilitator, I love holding space here because I know people will naturally drop into a profound experience. And as a guest, I’ve felt that magic myself—shedding layers, gaining clarity, and reconnecting with my essence.

If you’re looking for a retreat space that truly facilitates transformation, whether you’re leading a group or seeking your own journey, Villa Esencia is the place to be.

Peter B.

I had the privilege to stay in Villa Esencia. What an amazing transformational experience!
First I went trough a waterfasting of 3 days under the guidance of Jan with the purest water ever. He really encouraged and inspired me on a beautiful way.🙏☀️🙏
After that I could slowly go over in eating again.
And there Marianne came in. I never saw somebody treating food like she does.
It is as she becomes one with the food. The care and love she puts in the food makes eating a real divine experience.🥰
And of course the place itself and it's surrounding is most beautiful.
But it's really the energie that these 2 wonderful beings makes the whole experience magical.
Thank you so much for what you bring and do.
I really recommend it to whoever wants to make a shift in his or her life.
With much gratitude and love
✨♥️💫Prem

Tania M.

What a peaceful and healing place! I have participated with beautiful Marianne and Jan in day retreats and preparing a longer one for 2024. The attention to detail is precious… a true healing sanctuary 🙌✨🫶

henriette H.

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Casares lies this stunning Finca that truly took my breath away. Marianne and Jan, the owners, have crafted a remarkable retreat. The panoramic view is simply breathtaking. I highly recommend seizing the opportunity to escape here with your yoga group for a weekend or longer. Marianne's delectable vegan dishes are a culinary delight, and her warm hospitality adds to the experience. She also offers numerous holistic activities and encourages group gatherings. Don't miss the chance to visit this extraordinary place.

Kush S.

A LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE ..... Our Group of Eight spent a week at the Villa Esencia - a beautiful place. From the Villa you have stunning views of the Mediterranean Ocean across to the Straits Of Gibraltar. The hosts are very polite and try to accommodate any special requests. The House is clean and all the Bedrooms have Ensuite Bathrooms - which are very well maintained. It felt like I was in a life enriching Ashram in Southern India. We were able to meditate and practice yoga daily. The surrounding area is full of many nature walks to explore. When you return you can relax in their heated Swimming Pool. The whole Villa exudes charm and tranquility, taking you far away from your life's trivial worries. We will come back every year. Many many thanks.

luisa S.

Honestly, easily the best place/retreat I have been in!, it deserves a review as you get much more than what is offered. Apart from the beautiful, peaceful and calm space , stunning nature and delicious food, you receive healing sessions from the hands of wise conscious loving human beings. They put so much love and humility into everything they do, it is amazing to be present with it, so inspiring. Their constant gratitude really makes you feel special. Thank you so much for all your care and love