OVERVIEW

WELLNESS + CREATIVITY + CULTURE RETREAT

We are very excited to add this new location to our EPM roster - the unique Mediterranean island of Malta! Nestled within the azure embrace of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta emerges as an exquisite gem, revealing a captivating tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and natural splendour. We have curated a very special visit to this island for guests to experience a mix of the rich culture that Malta offers - our week will begin getting to know the capital city with a walking tour in Valletta and a visit to the famed cathedral. Then a day exploring inland where we’ll visit a boutique winery for a tour and tasting lunch and some time in the fortified citadel city of M’dina. The next day we’ll indulge in the traditional Malta - from tastings of pastizzi, a visit to the gorgeous coastal cliffs of the Blue Grotto, riding in our own vintage bus to Malta’s most iconic fishing villages and ancient salt pans. And we will of course enjoy spa treatments, and gourmet meals!

Malta’s allure is multifaceted, drawing travellers into its embrace with a magnetic charm that combines picturesque landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Embarking on a trip through Malta unveils a myriad of treasures, both ancient and contemporary from the megalithic temples dating back over 5,000 years, to the bustling contemporary capital of Valletta. 

Fought over for millennia, Malta has been shaped by myriad civilizations that have left lasting stamps on the archipelago’s culture, language, architecture and cuisine. Located at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, Malta was ruled successively by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and the Order of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem, before it became a British colony until its independence in 1964. The result is an eclectic mix of enduring imprints: a language that derives from Arabic; Baroque architecture; Italian-infused cuisine; and British-inspired governance systems. — Conde Nast

Beyond the historical tapestry, Malta’s natural beauty captivates the senses - from the rugged coastline and hidden coves, to the inland vineyards, and stoney crags. The warmth of the Maltese people adds a special dimension to the experience, transforming every interaction into a cherished memory. Whether sipping coffee in a charming village square or meandering through bustling markets, the island’s heartbeat is felt in the genuine smiles of its inhabitants.

Then there is Valletta – a city that stands as a living testament to the island’s enduring spirit. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Valletta’s allure lies in its seamless fusion of history and modernity. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, this fortress city boasts a captivating skyline adorned with limestone structures and baroque architecture, exuding an air of timeless elegance.

Yoga and meditation classes with EPM founder, Erin Lewis, will be held daily to prepare our bodies and minds, and then our travel journal creation classes, led by collaborator Julian Hyzler, will help us find news ways of seeing. Both yoga and art work together to find focus in the many layers of beauty and history which abound in this part of the world. We will immerse ourselves in the rich history and natural beauty that this unique island nation has to offer, and we will record our experience in our travel journals for the week - in a way to bring back a book of our new memories. *NO PREVIOUS ART OR YOGA BACKGROUND REQUIRED. All levels are welcome, and participation is voluntary. Projects and classes will be offered as a completely exploratory, unintimidating and personal experience.

ACCOMMODATION

Our home for the week will be Malta’s premier hotel and its only “Leading Hotel of the World” : The Phoenicia Malta. Located at the doorstep of the beautiful city of Valletta The Phoenicia Malta is the perfect destination to experience all that the Maltese Islands have to offer. This iconic 1920s-style hotel is set on 7 acres of pristine gardens which lead to the beautiful Bastion Pool set against the majestic Bastions with the infinity pool overlooking the Marsamxett Harbour. The hotel boasts the award-winning Contessa restaurant with its conservatory overlooking the hotel’s gardens, and the popular Palm Court Lounge. The luxury spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments and a perfect place to unwind with its indoor heated pool, sauna, and steam room.

“A timeless classic reinvented for modern times”

The Phoenicia Malta is surrounded by gorgeous landscaped gardens in the little piece of paradise which is Malta. Both a landmark and a luxury retreat, beloved by islanders and cherished by visitors, celebrated as Malta’s most iconic hotel.  Located in a superb spot, just outside the vibrant capital of Valletta on the edge of the city’s 16th Century bastions, The Phoenicia has long been regarded as a national treasure. Stars, socialites and the crowned heads of Europe have enjoyed this 5-star environs for over 75 years.

ACTIVITIES

Our day trips will allow us to experience the many unique landscapes and activities that this area has to offer. We will begin our week getting to know the capital city of Valletta with a guided walking tour through the colorful streets and site, a visit to the famed St Johns Co Cathedrals with the dramatic paintings of Caravaggio, and dinner on the ramparts. Then we’ll head inland to explore the landscape at an award-winning boutique winery for a tour and tasting lunch as well as a stop in the fortified citadel town of M’dina. Another day will be themed with the historic traditions of Malta in our private vintage bus including a stop at the gorgeous Blue Grotto on the stunning seaside cliffs, a visit to one of the most picturesque and authentic fishing villages and a view of the ancient salt pans, all before indulging in a traditional Maltese dinner feast. We’ll enjoy a day of relaxation with spa treatments at the Phoenicia’s incredible spa facilities, a proper high tea in the courtyard, free time to explore the “three cities” before a sunset private Grand Harbour tour in the iconic “luzzu” boats and a farewell dinner at one of Valletta’s most sought after dining experiences.

CUISINE

Healthful, local food is part of the retreat experience. After a welcome cocktail reception, we will be indulging in a variety of fare during our luxurious week - from award-winning kitchens in Valletta, the gourmet menu at the hotel’s restaurant, and a traditional Maltese kitchen, to high tea in a gorgeous courtyard, a wine tasting lunch, and a gourmet tasting menu farewell dinner by the harbor. Our program includes daily breakfast, and most lunches and dinners (there are a couple occasions where meals are during freetime for guests so they can arrange as they prefer).

*In the yogic tradition, most meals on our retreats are vegetarian. When the company was founded, we wanted to create consistency and integrity within our yogic lineage as well as finding the most consistent way in each location to leave a light footprint. We know not all our guests are vegetarian, but we ask that they be open and understanding of the principles that guide this choice for just the few days that we are together. That said, breakfast is an open menu with all diets being represented, so there are usually options of meat / fish. Plus, a couple of the provided meals at sea-based locations will have an option for seafood, and of course guests can choose whatever they prefer from menus when we are on our own for a few meals during the week. Special allergies can be addressed and noted.

WELLNESS + CREATIVITY

Daily practices will be offered in a way to relax, stimulate, and help guests grow in the mindfulness nature of the trip. Classes are open to all levels, beginner to practiced, and can range from gentle, restorative, and vinyasa flow. Plus meditations such as yoga nidra, guided meditation and/or walking meditation will be offered. Style and class levels will be determined and moulded to fit participating students' needs, and with a small intimate retreat class size, students will be able to get personalized attention and comfortability to deeply explore their practice.

Connection - the true meaning of yoga - is our intention for each retreat. Connection with a new culture, other people, and yourself. The movement we do on our mat is just one small part of the full practice of yoga; and we see the entire experience as a practice - being mindful of our senses, using travel as a tool to be in the present moment, even the creativity journaling we do on this specific retreat is just used as a mindfulness tool. We ask that guests come ready with an open mind and sense of adventure. No previous experience is needed for our creativity activities - we will work with several modalities and have fun collecting memories of the week in our travel journals.

* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!

DETAILS / PRICING

• 6 days / 5 nights (Mar 22-27, 2026)

• Inclusive Retreat Price = $4395USD (shared room*) + various single supplement options available in registration form

  EARLY BIRD PROMO: SAVE $200 UNTIL MAR 31

  (not to be combined with other promos)

• Deposit to hold space = $1500 per person

• ** 50% of final balance due 120 days before retreat start date, and remaining 50% due 60 days before retreat start date.
  Read full cancellation policy in our Terms & Conditions.

INCLUDED*:

• Hotel accommodation (spacious bedrooms each with private bathrooms, linens)

• Daily Breakfast

• Selected Lunches and Dinners and Aperitivi

• Transportation to/from day trips

• Daily meditation / yoga class

• Daily creativity class

• Use of hotel amenities (pool, relax rooms, spa spaces, etc.)

• Welcome aperitivo reception

• Walking tour of Valletta

• Visit to St Johns Co Cathedral

• Daytrip inland to the noble fortified city of M’dina

• Winery visit with tour and tasting lunch

• Stop at Malta’s famous Blue Grotto

• Visit to one of Malta’s famous fisherman villages

• See the ancient salt pans

• Tour in Malta’s vintage buses

• Grand Harbor tour in Luzzu, Malta’s traditional boat

• Gourmet tasting dinner

• Spa treatment

• Taxes

* airfare not included
**activities may change based on weather or unforeseen circumstances

TRAVEL:

• Located at the main entrance to Valletta, Malta’s capital city.

• AIRPORT: Malta International Airport (MLA)

• Hotel is an easy 15 min taxi ride from the airport.

SUGGESTED PACKING:

Besides the basic packing and travel needs, here are a few things to think about bringing with you.

• * YOGA MATS & ART SUPPLIES ARE PROVIDED *

• Bathing suit (on-site pool, spa)

• Yoga clothes

• Personal yoga props (blocks, straps, etc.)

• Plug adaptors / converters

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Journal