Else Beekman
More and more people are booking retreats in Spain, including many from abroad. Activities focused on self-development and mental wellbeing are especially popular. However, the risks of these retreats are increasing, particularly when certified therapists do not lead them.
By 2025, around 90,000 people are expected to attend a weekend retreat in Spain. Traditional spiritual or religious retreats are increasingly being replaced by modern alternatives, centred around yoga, “inner healing,” and “bioneuroemotional therapy.” Prices range from €250 to over €1,200, and the retreats often do not include a qualified psychologist.
At the same time, many retreats in Spain are professionally organised, with genuine attention to participants’ mental health. Properly run retreats can offer valuable opportunities for relaxation, personal growth, and wellbeing.
For example, a five-day retreat in the Valencia region costs €950 and is organised by two “holistic therapists” without a medical background. Techniques include art therapy and silent sessions. Despite the high costs, participants are asked to provide a medical history, yet no medical care is available on site.
Risk retreats: criticism over lack of scientific basis
Psychologists are warning about the risks associated with such retreats. Vanessa Fernández, a doctor of psychology, emphasises in newspaper El Confidencial: “Retreats can promote wellbeing, but they should not raise false hopes.” Her colleague Olga Merino points out that only certified mental health professionals are properly trained to deal with psychological issues.
Recently, a Madrid court ruled that criticism of Gestalt therapy, a method popular in many retreats, was justified, citing insufficient scientific backing. The organisation Salud Sin Bulos had previously warned that many spiritual retreats conceal pseudotherapies and, in some cases, display sect-like characteristics.
That said, not all retreats are inherently risky.
When can a retreat be beneficial?
Despite the risks, well-organised retreats can contribute to emotional relaxation. Merino explains: “They offer a break from the fast pace of daily life, help reduce stress, and encourage introspection.” However, they should clearly be seen as a complement to, not a replacement for, professional therapy or medication.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) underlines that mental health involves more than just wellbeing: it also requires the absence of illness and the ability to function fully on a cognitive, emotional, and social level.
What to consider when choosing a retreat
If you are considering a retreat in Spain, keep these points in mind:
- Always check if the organisers are certified psychologists or therapists.
- Specifically ask for the scientific basis behind the methods used.
- Be cautious of high costs combined with vague promises.
- Avoid retreats that advise you to stop conventional medical treatment.
- Carefully read reviews and feedback from previous participants.
Wellness and natural therapies in Spain