Inner Work: 5-Day Retreat to Joshua Tree
with Susan D’Onofrio
Joshua Tree, California
October 4 - 8, 2026
5-Days / 4-Nights
Starting at $1695
Autumn is a time of transition and introspection. Please join us at Gaia Villa in Joshua Tree to experience the quiet and tranquility so helpful in realigning with your true essence. The perfect setting for you to relax, renew and rejuvenate.
Inner work is the process of exploring one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with the intention of gaining a deeper understanding and acceptance of oneself. This journey of self-awareness offers us the opportunity to develop compassion for ourselves and for others. We become more aware of how our actions impact others, and we learn to be more tolerant, which in turn allows us to form more meaningful connections. The ancient wisdom of Yoga encourages us to open our hearts, to find clarity and let go of what no longer serves us. To become more in touch with our authenticity.
This retreat will provide you with the time and space for reflection away from the distractions of everyday life. We will practice asana, mindfulness, pranayama and meditation. There will be free time for contemplation and walks nearby at Joshua Tree National Park.
What’s Included
5 days / 4 nights lodging at Gaia Villa Retreat Center in Joshua Tree
Twice daily gentle yoga practice led by Susan that weaves mindfulness, pranayama, and meditation into class, suitable for all levels
Nourishing, fresh vegetarian meals from local chef Zara, owner of Epicurean Fling Catering
Use of on-site saltwater pool, hot tub, and cold plunge
Ample free time for contemplative walks around Joshua Tree National Park and to explore other local sites
About the Property
Gaia Villa is a boutique property on 3.5 acres of California desert. The property is a 30 minute drive from Joshua Tree National Park and a 45 minute drive from Palm Springs Airport. The rooms are gorgeous with two practice spaces for yoga, a saltwater pool, hot tub, cold plunges, fire pit, games and rooftop patio with breathtaking views.
Gaia Villa is a boutique retreat center nestled on 3.5 acres in the Yucca Valley of California, located just 30 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park and 45 minutes from Palm Springs. The property offers two yoga practice spaces, a meditation labyrinth, pool & hot tub, outdoor fire pit, rooftop patio with gorgeous desert-scape views, and outdoor games.
-indoor yoga shala and outdoor yoga pavilion tucked among agave, cacti, and the native joshua trees
- multiple outdoor patios and spaces to tuck into for quiet respite including a peaceful meditation labyrinth, boulder firepit, and rooftop patio with desert-scape views, as well as community-oriented spaces to connect with others around the boulder firepit or on the bocce ball court.
-
Joshua Tree National Park — The world-famous national park is known for its unique and endangered Joshua Trees, rugged rock formations and vast desert landscape, and is the spot to go for hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the views.
Rock Climbing — With over 8,000 climbing routes and 2,000 spots for bouldering, Joshua Tree National Park is the ultimate spot for climbers.
Hiking — From beginner trails to expert hiking trails, Joshua Tree National Park has something for everyone looking to explore the area’s unique desert views and ecosystem.
Pioneertown — Built in 1946 as a “living breathing movie set”, Pioneer Town welcomes visitors to step back into the frontier days of the Old West. Along the short drive, enjoy breathtaking views of boulders formations.
The Integratron — A landmark one-of-a-kind wood dome used for sound baths, and a popular spot for visitors looking for a unique wellness experience.
-
7:00 a.m. — Coffee, Tea, and Fresh Fruit
8:00 a.m. — Energizing asana and meditation practice
9:30 a.m. — Nourishing Breakfast
[ Free Time ] — Explore, rest, swim, or book a spa treatment
1:30 p.m. — Lunch
[ Free time ]
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. — Cooling practice and pranayama (gentle, yin, or restorative)
7:00 p.m. — Dinner
7:30 p.m. — Occasional Evening Programming
*Note: Daily schedule is an example and subject to change throughout the week.
Investment
Double Occupancy Suites
Shared Room with (2) Twin Beds — $1695
Single Occupancy Suites
Private Room with King Bed - $2250
Stay in beautifully restored farmhouses and stone barns, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. The rooms are bright and calming, featuring a minimalist design with shared bathrooms and full amenities. Tailor your stay to your preference — share a suite with a partner, friend, or new acquaintance for a community connection or nestle into your own quarters with a king bed and private bathroom. All rooms feature luxury linens, plush mattresses, and amenities, including coffee and tea facilities, reusable water bottles, complimentary wi-fi, towels, shower gels, and hairdryers.
Before making a deposit, please read through our payment terms and cancellation policy here.
Retreat Details
-
Arrival:
Check-in is available starting from 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, 2026Departure:
Check-out is at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 8, 2026Retreat center is about a 30 minute drive from airport. Fly into Palm Springs and rent a car, or we can coordinate car rentals together to split the expense. (Claire will rent a minivan and take a group)
*Tip for those based in Bellingham: Allegiant Air offers direct flights from Bellingham to Palm Springs!
-
The following expenses are not included in the total retreat cost:
Flights
Gratuities for meals
Fees to enter Joshua Tree
-
Prices are per person + add 3% processing/admin fee for credit cards
Payment methods: cash, check, or credit card (make checks payable to Bellingham Yoga Collective)
Payment plans available!
Secure your spot with a $400 deposit; to be paid in person or online. Once you place your deposit we will email you to confirm your preferred room choice.
Final balance due 90 days before start of retreat.
-
Please be sure you will be able to attend before you submit your deposit. All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Payment is due in full 90 days prior to the start of the retreat. If you cancel 90 days or more prior to the retreat start date, you will be issued a refund, less your $400 non-refundable deposit.
Trip insurance can protect your retreat investment if you need to cancel for covered circumstances. Due to retreat centers’ refund policies, we cannot offer any refunds, transfers or credits for cancellations for any reason within 90 days of the retreat start date. Thank you for your consideration with this policy as so much time and heart go into planning retreats for you!
Due to retreat centers’ refund policies, we cannot offer any refunds, transfers or credits for cancellations for any reason within 90 days of the retreat start date. If you cancel 90 days or more prior to the retreat start date, you will be issued a refund, less your $400 non-refundable deposit. Thank you for your consideration with this policy as so much time, liability, studio resources and heart go into planning retreats for you!
About Susan
Susan D’Onfrio (RYT-500, Anyusara-Inspired) enjoys sharing the knowledge she has gained from practicing and teaching yoga for over 40 years. She teaches the subtleties of alignment with clarity and patience, inviting each student to explore and challenge themselves compassionately.
Questions?
Please email Claire@bellinghamyogacollective.com for more information about payment plans and all general retreat inquiries.
