3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe
Find your strength and inner calm with Shaolin self-defense and yoga by beautiful Lake Ohrid.
AlbaniaAbout this retreat
Why this retreat
Discover a rare combination of practical self-defense, yoga, and authentic Shaolin practices in one retreat. Train with Albert, a Shaolin Kung Fu master, to build confidence and awareness, while Andrea’s energising and restorative yoga helps you develop strength, flexibility, and deep relaxation. Morning meditation, Qi Gong, and Tai Chi bring a gentle, mindful balance to the experience. All this unfolds in lush gardens just a short stroll from Lake Ohrid’s sandy shore, with comfortable accommodation, homemade meals, and time to swim and unwind—an empowering escape that nurtures both courage and calm.
Highlights
- Practical self-defense with a Shaolin Kung Fu master
- Energising and restorative yoga with an experienced teacher
- Morning meditation, authentic Qi Gong, and Tai Chi
- Build confidence, strength, and awareness while finding inner calm
- Swim and unwind by Lake Ohrid’s crystal-clear waters
- Stay in a comfortable guesthouse surrounded by lush gardens
- njoy fresh homemade Albanian and Mediterranean meals
- Relax with hotel pickup and return transport from Tirana included
- Beginners welcome—no yoga or martial arts experience needed
What's included
- 3 meals/day (except first day lunch)
- Tea, coffee, juices and soft-drinks throughout the day
Not included
- Flights
- Lunch on the first day
Accommodation
Stay in a newly built, family-run guesthouse surrounded by lush gardens, just a two-minute stroll from Lake Ohrid’s sandy shore. Comfortable, well-equipped rooms feature private kitchenettes and balconies, offering space to unwind between activities. Enjoy delicious homemade meals, peaceful garden corners, and easy access to swimming and lakeside cafés.
Optional upgrades
Want something extra for your stay? Ask and we'll check what the leader can add.
Food
Enjoy fresh, homemade meals in the guesthouse’s welcoming surroundings, with generous breakfasts and nourishing three-course lunches and dinners inspired by Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine. Relax over good food and conversation. On the first day, we’ll stroll along Lake Ohrid to a lakeside restaurant for lunch, where you can sample regional specialties and enjoy the views. This lunch is not included in the retreat package
Location
Rruga Nehemia, Qarku i Korçës, Albania
Fly into Tirana International Airport, which offers many direct connections from destinations across Europe and beyond. Please arrive at least one day before the retreat begins. Pickup from your Tirana hotel at 8:00 am on the first day, all transfers during the retreat, and return transport to your Tirana hotel are included. We expect to return around 7:00 pm on the final day, so we recommend booking your flight home for the following day.
About the retreat leader
Albert Kola – Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Chi & Qi Gong Master Born and raised in the Albanian Alps, Albert is an experienced Kung Fu, Tai Chi and Qi Gong Master with over 30 years of practice. He founded the Shaolin Kung Fu Academy in Tirana 12 years ago and trained alongside Shaolin monks in China in 2024. Combining his martial arts expertise with his deep knowledge of the Albanian mountains, Albert guides guests through authentic Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Kung Fu-inspired movement, meditation and unforgettable hikes in his homeland. His teaching strengthens both body and mind, with exercises adapted to each participant's abilities.
Getting there
- Nearest airport
- Tirana
- Airport transfer
- Airport pickup is available for an additional fee—contact us for the cost and arrangements. We’re also happy to recommend a hotel in Tirana.
- Visa
- Visa requirements for Albania depend on your nationality. All European and most international guests can enter visa-free for a short holiday.
- Light sport clothes and sport shoes
- Beachwear and beachtowel
- Light jacket for the evening
Cancellation & policies
Cancel up to 14 days before the retreat begins for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 14 days before the retreat begins are non-refundable.
Minimum age 12
Packages & dates
Meet the team
Albert Kola – Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Chi & Qi Gong Master Born and raised in the Albanian Alps, Albert is an experienced Kung Fu, Tai Chi and Qi Gong Master with over 30 years of practice. He founded the Shaolin Kung Fu Academy in Tirana 12 years ago and trained alongside Shaolin monks in China in 2024. Combining his martial arts expertise with his deep knowledge of the Albanian mountains, Albert guides guests through authentic Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Kung Fu-inspired movement, meditation and unforgettable hikes in his homeland. His teaching strengthens both body and mind, with exercises adapted to each participant's abilities.
Andrea Berner – Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher Originally from Germany, Andrea is an experienced yoga teacher specializing in Hatha, Iyengar, Vinyasa, Yin and Kundalini Yoga, as well as meditation, breathwork and mindfulness. With a background in law and many years of international experience, she co-founded Retreats Albania to share her passion for holistic well-being, movement and the natural beauty of Albania. Her warm, personalized teaching approach combines mindful movement, relaxation and inner balance. She adapts her sessions to each participant's experience and abilities, helping guests release tension, build strength and reconnect with themselves in a supportive atmosphere.
Your retreat leader
Frequently asked questions
How many days is 3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe?
3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe runs for 3 days in Rruga Nehemia, Qarku i Korçës, Albania. Exact arrival and departure dates are confirmed with the retreat leader when you book.
Where does 3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe take place?
This retreat takes place in Rruga Nehemia, Qarku i Korçës, Albania. The retreat leader shares full directions and travel guidance once your booking is confirmed.
How much does 3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe cost?
Prices start from $615 per person. Your final rate depends on the package, dates, and group size you choose — the retreat leader confirms the exact total before you pay anything.
What's included in 3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe?
Your stay covers 3 meals/day (except first day lunch), tea, coffee, juices and soft-drinks throughout the day. The retreat leader confirms the full list of inclusions, meals, and any optional extras after you book.
How do I book 3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe?
Send a booking request with your preferred dates and number of guests — no payment is taken upfront. The retreat leader reviews availability and confirms final pricing with you directly, with no RetreatBird booking fees.
Can I cancel my booking?
Cancel up to 14 days before the retreat begins for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 14 days before the retreat begins are non-refundable.
Who leads 3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe?
3 Day Yoga & Self-Defense by Lake Ohrid, Albania, Europe is led by Albert, based in Albania.
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