Cornwall’s Long-Running Yoga Camp Returns to Chyan This Weekend

It has been running quietly in the Cornish countryside for sixteen years, and this weekend it is back. Surya Yoga Camp opens at Chyan Cultural Centre near Falmouth on Friday, with workshops running through to the following Tuesday morning.

What is on

The camp brings together more than 20 teachers across different forms of yoga and movement, with a programme built around trying things you might not have tried before. Expect stretching, meditation, chanting and kirtan evenings, with sessions pitched at everyone from lifelong yogis to complete newcomers. There is spa treatment, healthy food and plenty laid on for families.

Surya describes itself as a small festival rather than a big commercial event. Its teachers work on an exchange basis, which is part of what keeps the cost down. The camp was founded in 2009 by Amanda Brown and Stephanie Jackson.

Where it happens

Chyan Cultural Centre sits on an eleven acre site deep in the countryside near Falmouth. Some of the land is wild, some is nature reserve, and there is flat meadow for camping. The venue has two large barns for classes plus several marquees.

A few things worth knowing before you go. The whole site is drug and alcohol free, dogs are not allowed, and there is a peace and quiet time from 10pm so families with young children can rest. On arrival visitors sign a site agreement covering all of this.

When, how much, and how to book

Arrivals start from 2pm on Friday, with workshops from 4pm Friday through to 9am Tuesday. A full festival ticket, covering all workshops and four nights of camping, is £220 per adult and £60 per child aged 6 to 16. Under-6s go free. There are also weekend and single day tickets for anyone who can’t stay the whole stretch, plus a £20 ticket if you want to camp in your vehicle.

Tickets and full details are on the Surya website, and you can read more about the venue at chyan.org.