Macalla Farm , County Mayo F28 TR96

"First of all I must say that my five-month stay at Macalla was probably quite different to other volunteers´ due to Covid 19. We couldn´t have yoga courses or any visitors until August, so it was much more quiet than it would normally be. However, that situation, despite some disadvantages, had surprisingly a lot of advantages too ;-). Let me start with the hosts. Ciara, Christoph, Maude and Theo are simply amazing. They made us feel very welcome, Ciara prepared a dish with sauerkraut for me for the first dinner, knowing it was typical for my region ;-). In the garden Ciara made us feel like we almost owned the place too – she consulted decisions with us and gave us a lot of freedom to do things our way. We had lots of very interesting and thought provoking debates about a wide range of topics – environmental protection, gardening, politics, social issues etc. Ciara and Christoph´s generosity is marvelous: they shared their space, their knowledge and their home-produced food with us. You do need to be prepared to work quite hard during busier periods, but you will still be able to enjoy everything this unique place has to offer. The Clare Island scenery with all the cliffs and nature is spectacular. I think it´s a little paradise, even with its rainy and windy days and occasional midges‘ attacks. It´s rather quiet, but not totally – there are two pubs and quite a lot of tourists and yoga course participants come in the summer. A number of interesting people live here, e.g. a handweaver or some musicians. I met an amazing amount of really nice and interesting people here, including other volunteers too. I learned loads about gardening, cooking, animals, sustainable living, yoga, and even sailing! I discovered the Clare Island and Ciara told us loads about the local and the Irish history. I brushed up on my English and learned lots of new phrases. I learned to weave and wove my own scarf. I enjoyed the crystal clear sea, which we don´t have in Czechia. I gained so much from this place. I certainly recommend it! Ciara, Christoph, Maude, Theo, Beth, Anna, Vera and Lorraine, thank you so much, I will miss you!"

"Just returned from my second Yoga retreat with Christophe and Ciara and I cant say how much I love this place. If you are looking for authentic Yoga and Mediation practice with amazing food in a stunning setting this is the place for you. Ciara and Christophe are both wonderful teachers whose kindness and grace are inspiring. The meals are delicious and nearly all sourced from their organic garden. From walks of the island to swims in the sea, Clare Island is very special place. I hope I can return again. Not to be missed.!!!"

"Everything is unique to Macalla Farm, everything is in tune with nature, the setting, the yoga studio, the food is grown on the land, so even the food taste unique to the vibration of the farm & the hosts. the walks are spectacular. The café is so wonderful, you may get served by Christophe & Ciara's son & daughter, what a treat, it's all a joy and a true re-treat."

"This is my third time staying at Macalla Farm, Clare Island Yoga retreat centre for a week long retreat/course. Each time exceeds my expectations. Ciara and Christophe are dedicated and passionate yoga teachers, yoga is clearly a way of life for them and to living a healthy life - sustainable to the environment. Yoga asana practice, pranayama meditation, mindfulness are all part of daily life and all of equal importance. The food at Macalla farm is soooooo delicious and healthy. It is hard to believe that such healthy food can be so good but it is true - every brunch and dinner accompanied by exclamations of great joy and satisfaction! The food is organic and mainly produced on the farm at the toil of Ciara, Christophe & family. For joy, health and well-being and lots more I recommend Macalla Farm with all my heart. A huge Namaste to all at Macalla Farm for the care and attention. Much Love Máire Ní S."

"I have been 10 times to Macalla Farm, mainly for yoga, but also for enjoying the peace and quietness and the fabulous food. Ciara and Christophe are extremely knowledgeable teachers and helped me from day 0 of my yoga practice. They are real professionals and I have met very few people like them in my life. Macalla Farm is an ideal place for yoga, meditation and to rest your mind. I warmly recommend it nad I look forward to my next visit!"