BLISS & STARS

By Juliet Almendro

Nestled in a valley amongst the breathtaking Cederberg mountains lies the Bliss & Stars Wilderness Retreat, which curates personalised experiences to encourage and inspire becoming present within oneself and one’s surroundings through meditation, movement, nourishment, naturedwelling, and astronomy.

After years of living a high-paced, career-focused life, Daria and Heine Rasmussen rediscovered nature’s healing powers and decided that it was time for a change. In order to pursue a life brimming with nature’s goodness, they sold all their belongings and wandered throughout South Africa in search of a space to cultivate nature’s radical wellness powers, this time for all to enjoy. After just a few months, they stumbled upon the banks of the Doring River and knew immediately that it was the perfect place to build their new dream from the ground up.

In their commitment to sustainability, they decided to only use solar-powered energy, efficient waste management systems, organic on-site produce, and a biodegradable skincare line to encourage guests to honour and respect the environment that nourishes and heals them.

Bliss & Stars aims to mirror the natural surroundings in all offerings, and the menu is a perfect illustration of this ideology. The nutritious and wholesome, plant-based cuisine is designed to strengthen and nurture the mind-body connection. They only source local, highquality ingredients and run a rotational, seasonal menu. Each meal is enjoyed in a communal space, as they believe that coming together to share a meal with others inspires discussion and an exchange of ideas, as well as forming connections and a widened lens.

Nothing connects us with others and the universe like a night sky. “Don’t forget to look up.

- Heine Rasmussen, Bliss & Stars Co-founder

Bliss & Stars doesn’t provide ‘standard accommodation’, but instead offers carefully curated immersive retreats. They currently offer the following retreat packages:

Rest & Thrive Retreat Renew | Couple’s Retreat Silent Retreat Self-Compassion Retreat Star Bathing Retreat

Whether you choose to stay in a regular chalet or a tented chalet, you’ll be sure to relax and enjoy the breathtaking rocky scenery and expansive views from your private deck. Each accommodation offering comes fully equipped with a 100% natural Coco-Mat king-size bed, organic linen, and wool duvets, as well as an aromatherapy-infused diffuser to ensure a restful and restorative night’s sleep. Additionally, night owls can spend their evenings stargazing at the stunning night sky from their cosy bed or romantic outdoor bathtub.

For more information or to get in touch, visit www.blissandstars.com.

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