“Cat’s Joshua Tree retreat was incredible! We had an amazing group of women which made for fun, laughter and connection. Cat was a thoughtful and attentive leader, and the schedule was a good mix of movement, yoga, relaxation and exploration.”
Desert Bliss takes you to the serene and expansive landscape of Joshua Tree, California.
“Cat planned such a perfect week for us all, it was much more than just a yoga retreat! The setting of our accommodations and the hikes showcased the beauty of the nature that surrounded us. It was the experience of a lifetime for me.”
This retreat is more than just a vacation; it's a journey of self-discovery, self-care and creating connections with like-minded women.
This Desert Bliss retreat offers a unique opportunity for inner exploration and personal transformation. The unique energy of the desert, with its vast open spaces and iconic Joshua trees, provides an ideal setting for reflection and growth. This environment fosters a deep connection with yourself, nature, and the supportive community of women joining you on this retreat.
As you explore the diverse landscapes of Joshua Tree, you’ll encounter the region's unique flora and fauna. The resilient Joshua tree, a symbol of strength in challenging conditions, serves as a reminder of your own capacity for growth and adaptation. In September the desert holds a subtle beauty, offering a serene and inspiring backdrop for your journey of self-discovery.
Treat yourself to an escape in the desert and dive deeper into your practice.
The retreat will be hosted at Gaia Villa Retreat Center, a luxurious venue set on 3.5 acres of land. Our small group of like-minded women will have access to two yoga studios (indoor and outdoor), a jacuzzi hot tub, cold plunge tubs, spacious living areas, and relaxing hammocks. The center also features a walking meditation labyrinth and an outdoor fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings.
This retreat is about more than just deepening your yoga practice—it's an invitation to rest, explore, and connect with your true self. As the new moon rises over the desert, you'll find the space to relax, recharge, and embrace your wholeness.
“Cat is a master in creating a relaxed and chill vibe for all participants. She takes the time to connect with each guest in an authentic manner. She truly created magic for our group in the creatively sequenced yoga practices and group activities.”
Surrender to the expansiveness of the desert as you relax in moments of stillness and enjoy serenity.
Cat Doyle (she/her)
Cat hails from Ottawa, Canada and brings a deep love of gathering people together and creating an experience. She has been teaching yoga since 2011 and offers clear, straightforward instruction with a dose of insight and playfulness. Her background in biology and psychology means she is serious about anatomy, alignment, and functional movement. She focuses on moving in intentional, mindful ways and balances practices that feel like a good workout with practices that give you a sense of calm and release. Cat is an experienced retreat host; having facilitated over 20 yoga retreats, both locally and internationally.
“Cat’s warm and welcoming presence set a wonderful tone for week which allowed for the group to quickly grow close with lots of supportive discussions and laughter shared by all. This is my third time retreating with Cat and hopefully not my last - her professionalism and authenticity always shines through!”
Open yourself up to the vast possibilities of connecting to and awakening your inner self.
During this retreat, you’ll be staying in the luxe Gaia Villa and partake in activities to fuel your soul like:
Yoga practices with Cat
Meditation and guided breathing with Cat
Guided journaling
Yoga workshop with Cat
A new moon drumming ceremony
Hiking Joshua Tree National Park
An immersive soundbath experience at the Integratron
Hot tub and cold plunging
Stargazing
Fire Circle
Downtime to rejuvenate yourself
Investment
$2300 - 3200 CAD, depending on room selection
Deposit of $750 CAD due upon booking (non-refundable)
Final Payment due August 22, 2025
Choose your room:
Main Room 1
• Sleeps 2 in a king bed or two twin beds
• Private ensuite bathroom with soaker tub
• In room fireplace
• Main floor (view floor plan here)
• $2500 CAD per person
Guest Room 2
• Sleeps 1-2 in a bunk bed
• Shared bathroom
• Lower level (view floor plan here)
• $1900 CAD per person
Guest Room 3
• Sleeps 1-2 in a king bed or two twin beds
• Shared bathroom
• Lower level (view floor plan here)
• $2200 CAD per person
Guest Room 4
• Sleeps 1-2 in a king bed or two twin beds
• Shared bathroom
• Lower level (view floor plan here)
• Has a sliding barn door, so can be less quiet
• $2200 CAD per person
Guest Room 5
• Sleeps 1-2 in a king bed or two twin beds
• Shared bathroom
• Upper level (view floor plan here)
• $2200 CAD per person
Guest Room 6
• Sleeps 3 in two twin beds and a bunk bed
• Shared bathroom
• Upper level (view floor plan here)
• $1900 CAD per person
Explore the magic of ancient rock formations, wander along winding desert trails, and revel in the beauty of a star-studded sky untouched by city lights, guided by Cat's wisdom, experience, and insight.
FAQs with Cat
Q: This retreat is just for women. What does that mean?
A: This is about calling in and gathering a group of like-minded people. There is something magical that happens when we intentionally gather in these ways. The Desert Bliss Retreat is open to anyone who identifies as a woman.
Q: Is this retreat only for advanced yogis?
A: Definitely not! You will benefit from having practiced yoga before, but I am an experienced yoga teacher who can adapt the practice depending on your skill level. I can also can offer suggestions and modifications if you’re dealing with an injury. This is a great opportunity to explore different styles of yoga, ask questions, and learn variations that work for your body.
Q: What if I’m coming to Desert Bloom alone?
A: That’s great! You’ll have an opportunity to connect more with me, the group, and yourself. You will share a room with twin beds, with a like-minded woman. You will be fully supported and integrated into the group.
Q: How do I get there?
A: Gaia Villa is located in Yucca Valley, California in the upscale area of Upper Sky Harbor. Depending on where you’re coming from, you might drive there directly. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Palm Springs (PSP). You can also look at flying into Los Angeles (LAX), Ontario (ONT), or even Las Vegas (LAS). From there, you can rent a car, use a ridesharing service, or I can seek to set you up with another participant coming from the same area.
Q: What does a day at this retreat look like?
A: Each day of our retreat will be unique, as I’ve curated the activities based on the moon cycle and my experience of hosting retreats. Typically, we will have two yoga practices per day (one more active and one more passive), meditation, breathing practice, meals together, free time, and an outing.
Q: What about the food?
A; We have a private chef for our group! Chef Zara from Epicurian Fling will prepare fresh, delicious vegetarian meals for us. Dietary issues like gluten-free and dairy free are easily accommodated. Please let us know if you have other food allergies when you book.
Q: Is this a dry retreat?
A: No it’s not - we may have a couple of bottles of wine on the table at dinners and it’s up to you if you want to have a glass or not. You are welcome to bring your own alcohol. As a general guideline, please refrain from drinking before yoga practices and be mindful of your consumption. Keep in mind that alcohol is dehydrating to your body - in an already dry climate!
Q: What is the weather like in September?
A: In the Southern California High Desert region in September, the weather is more moderate. The temperatures can range from 90°F / 32°C - 60°F / 15°C. Of course, as this is out of my control, we will adapt as needed.
Q: Am I required to participate in every excursion and activity?
A: No, you can customize your retreat experience to be as relaxed or as lively as you want. Although a group itinerary with daily meditation, yoga and activities has been curated, at the end of the day you can opt in or out of anything along the way.
Q: What is NOT included in the price?
A: You are responsible for booking and paying for flights and transportation to Gaia Villa. I also strongly recommend that you get travel and medical insurance. Alcohol and snacks can be purchased at stores in town.
Q: Are there any specific health related issues that I should be aware of?
A: In the High Desert, you’ll want to make sure that you’re well hydrated at all times. Gaia Villa has alkaline water on tap, so make sure to bring a water bottle. There are spiky cacti that you will want to avoid contact with.