Pyrgos House – Kythira Greece

Ancient Herbalism Retreat and Book Launch on Kythira

Ancient Herbalism Retreat and Book Launch on Kythira

Join us in Greece on July 5-11, 2027

Join Maria Christodoulou, The Greek Herbalist, for a 7-day immersive herbal medicine retreat in Greece. Set within the ancient city of Athens and the picturesque island of Kythira, this retreat explores ancient and modern traditions with Greek medicinal plants, botanical mythology, ancient healers, and sacred rituals.

The program includes botanical walks, workshops, lectures, and group excursions. There will be ample time for swimming, reflections, and interactive experiences with locals. A special highlight of the retreat is the book launch of Ancient Herbalism: Harnessing the Medicinal Plants of Greece for Modern Health and Wellness, featuring a talk, reading, Q&A, book signing, and celebratory meal.

The retreat begins in Athens with a Myths & Medicine Plant Walk in the National Garden and a welcome dinner. The next day, the group will travel together by plane to the island of Kythira and will spend 5 nights in the beautiful village of Avlemonas, one of the Mediterranean’s most scenic fishing villages.

This retreat is designed for all levels of herbal education — from beginner to advanced. All are welcome.

Registration:

Register with a non-refundable deposit of €500 (EURO). Half of the remaining balance is due by February 1, 2027 and the remaining balance is due by May 15, 2027. For questions regarding registration, please contact us via info@pyrgoshouse.com. For all other inquiries, please contact The Greek Herbalist.

Prices:

€2,920 double occupancy per participant (Sea View Room) + €400 for single occupancy

€2,820 double occupancy per participant (Hill View Room) + €300 for single occupancy

Participants will be staying at Maryianni Suites and other comparable village accommodations, determined by room availability upon registration.

What’s included:

  • 5 nights accommodations in the beautiful sea-side village of Avlemonas
  • A variety of educational activities with Greek medicinal plants
  • Excursions to places of historical, cultural, and botanical interest
  • Daily meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner (except for one meal)
  • A visit to the old stone cottage of Juliette de Bairacli Levy (1912-2009) featured in the film Juliette of the Herbs by Tish Streeten
  • Transfer from Athens city center to the airport for flight to Kythira
  • Transfers for pick-up and drop-off at Kythira airport
  • Transfers to all group activities on Kythira
  • The Greek Herbalist tote bag

What’s not included:

  • Accommodations in Athens (see below)
  • Flights to/from Athens and to/from Kythera
  • Meals and activities not listed on the itinerary
  • Alcohol
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)

Cancellation Policy: 

  • Four weeks or more prior to arrival date: the total booking costs, excluding the non-refundable €500
  • Four to three weeks prior to arrival date: 75% of booking costs, excluding the non-refundable €500
  • Three to two weeks prior to arrival date: 50% of booking costs, excluding the non-refundable €500
  • Two to one week prior to arrival date: 25% of booking costs, excluding the non-refundable €500
  • Less than one week prior to arrival date: 0% of booking costs

Accommodations in Athens:

As many hotels require a 2-night minimum stay, participants are encouraged to arrive 1-2 days before retreat start to acclimate to the time zone and explore the city. The Greek Herbalist partner hotels in Athens are offering a discount to retreat participants between July 2-6: