Sewall House Yoga Retreat

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

  shipkens
6 months ago
I just returned from a very restorative 3 day retreat at Sewall House. Amrita and Ajeet were very warm and welcoming. I felt immediately at home. The house is beautiful and rich in history. My room was lovely. The meals were delicious and the yoga offerings were excellent. Kayaking on a nearby beautiful lake was divine. If you want to go hiking in the rainy season remember to bring some mud-friendly boots.

  maria taube
9 months ago
This was my fifth time at Sewall House. I ve been there with my husband, my friend and by myself. It is an absolutely magical place. I just got back from five nights of perfection. The owner makes you feel like Sewall is your home. Every meal is delicious. The Chef comes out to make sure you had enough and you are happy. Always offering to refill your plate. The food is vegetarian but I m a vegan and they catered to me. I had great massages, had Reike, did different types of yoga, inside and by a magnificent lake. They have wonderful places to hike or take long walks which I did almosteveryday. I loved reading in their cozy living room. All of this in Island Falls a postcard setting.

  Ana Rocha
9 months ago
I cannot recommend Sewall House enough. I first visited the retreat in 2021 during a very difficult time in my life due to illness. I was also very anxious as I was traveling solo and had never been to a yoga retreat. Amrita and her staff welcomed me with such generosity and love that I felt right at home. The house is absolutely wonderful -- simple and yet elegant, cozy, and super comfortable. I truly enjoyed the sauna and jacuzzi on site, specially after long hikes, which is yet another great feature of this wonderful place; there are so many beautiful spots to swim, kayak, hike or simply stroll around the house. The food was impeccable too, with a wide variety of delicious dishes that taught me much about vegetarian cuisine. The yoga practices ranged from deeply relaxing to challenging yet gentle; and included many different yoga types and philosophies that I wasn't even aware existed. I left Sewall house truly transformed and have returned many times since. I'm incredibly thankful for its existence!!

  Lisa Trueblood
8 months ago
I spent 5 days at Sewall House and felt completely recharged when I got home! I d highly recommend this retreat as a way to decompress from the city. From NYC I flew into Bangor and paid for the airport pickup option. Joel picked me up and we drove for a little over an hour to Island Falls.As soon as I arrived I felt completely cared for by Amrita, Ajeet, and Mary. The retreat schedule included a 30 minute silent mediation, two 1.5 hour yoga classes, and 3 healthy, home-cooked meals per day. They also arranged nature activities each day and provided transportation and guidance throughout each activity. I went kayaking on a beautiful and serene lake, swam in waterfalls, and hiked Baxter State Park. They also lent me a bike and backpack to use. They make sure you have everything you need every step of the way. In the evenings I used the jacuzzi tub and the sauna to relax.The environment was so nurturing and I felt very cared for throughout my stay. It was such a great experience that I would recommend to anyone as an easy trip out of the city alone or with loved ones.

  Bill Duncan
8 months ago
Sewall House lies within the endless woods and stalwart mountains of northern Maine that are the surroundings of an area that is steeped in history. Native Americans, pioneers, woodsmen, and loggers all left their mark on a landscape that in turn made a people of sturdy character. One such person was William Sewall. He built Sewall House in the 1880's that stands prominently as a gatehouse to the village of Island Falls. He would refer to this house as being "study".Today William Sewall's great great granddaughter, Donna Davidge, lovingly cares for this property that has a provenance one would not expect of a yoga retreat. With its many rooms Sewall House has the feel of a country inn. Generations of Sewalls would offer hospitality to hunters, fisherman, a passerby, and nature lovers. One such guest was Teddy Roosevelt who became a life long friend with William Sewall.Donna offers that same hospitality to aspiring yogis with comfortable accommodations and furnishings from the houses historic past. Donna has over 30 years experience as a yoga teacher and has learned several variations from yoga's more prominent instructors. Classes at Sewall House are small, about 5-10 people, which allows her to give personalized attention in a pleasant manor. Staff and visiting instructors also broaden the types of yoga available expanding guest's experience.There is a morning meditation which, weather permitting, is on an old dam overlooking a gently flowing river giving some quiet time to start the day. Two yoga classes are taught each day with possibly a bonus class from visiting instructors, maybe even a sound bath. Meals are vegetarian and do satisfy. And if they find out what your favorite dessert is (like carrot cake) they just might serve it!Outdoor activities include hiking, kayaking, swimming, cycling, or just hanging out on the porch. All which help the body to be infused by the northern Maine healing touch. Sewall House is not an ashram or institution. Donna and her staff make every effort to have one feel comfortable and at home. This was my second stay here and should not be my last. In every yogis journey there is, in part, a need to be "sturdy".

  Debra Cunningham
a year ago
My two adult daughters and I just returned from a wonderful yoga retreat at Sewall House. Our hosts, Donna and Ajeet, were wonderful throughout our trip. The yoga was fantastic and was personalized to our varied ability levels. The food offered at each meal was delicious. They even prepared a homemade birthday cake for my daughter. The activities offered were great and we could also just chill at home too if we wanted. We ll definitely be back.

  G B
6 months ago
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  Kennedy Starling
8 months ago
Sewall House has been one of my favorite vacation spots in years. I put vacation in quotes because it feels much more like a deep healing experience every time I come. While you are surrounded by truly picturesque nature that offers opportunities for hiking, swimming under waterfalls, kayaking, and horseback riding, it is actually secondary to the amazing yoga sessions, massages, delicious food, morning meditation, and reiki healing that is offered at Sewall House. The massages and reiki sessions come at an extra cost but are well worth the price, Ajeet is an absolutely amazing reiki healer!! The yoga they offer is so different from your average yoga class because it is truly a judgment free space where you re encouraged to listen to your body s needs by having modification options for nearly every pose. The food is all vegetarian and it is always amazing!!!!! Dessert and tea are offered every night after dinner as well! This is a special place that I will absolutely come to every year whenever I have the opportunity. There is so much thought and care put into every aspect of your stay by Donna and her team. If you need a vacation, or more importantly, if you need a place to heal from the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with yourself both physically and mentally ..Sewall House has to be your next stop!!

  Mary
8 months ago
This was my first visit to Sewall House. I spent three days there for my birthday and it was a wonderful experience. I left feeling rested and renewed. It felt like I had been there for three weeks instead of three days. I would highly recommend this place for the best yoga classes, great vegetarian meals, beautiful surroundings and the kindest people I have ever met.Rooms: Clean, quiet and authentic with d�cor reflective of era of homeNearby activities: I was happy to stay at retreat for rest and relaxation. The nearby lake was clean and refreshing and I went for a boat ride and swim courtesy of Sewall. So much fun swimming off ledge.Food & drinks: Delicious vegetarian homemade meals. The homemade bread was amazing.

  Natalie Arter
a year ago
The Sewall House Yoga Retreat exceeded all my expectations. My room was cozy and bright. The bed was very comfortable. The shared bathroom was very clean at all times. The vegetarian food was delicious. It felt like home.Donna is a marvelous yoga instructor. She gently encourages you. Her yoga room promotes a healing energy. I never got sore from the yoga!In addition, I got to hike Mount Chase, kayak, swim, and bicycle around Island Falls. Her staff was friendly and very helpful. Ajeet was a real friend to me and we did a tarot card reading that was inspiring and fun.Yes, I will come back. I will always remember this trip fondly.

  Rebecca Kirby
2 years ago
Having recently returned from my second visit to Sewall House, this time to attend the writers workshop, I felt compelled to give a review. If you love a non-pretentious yoga retreat that feels like a cozy home while being surrounded by peace and some of the most amazing places in nature, come here. No matter the reason you wish to have a momentary pause in the chaos of your life, you will be supported by a caring owner and her staff who go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. Sewall House will always hold a special place in my heart. Until my next trip to Maine, thank you Donna for your vision when you purchased your family home. The world needs more healing places like this!

  Kathy
2 years ago
Very enjoyable 3 week stay and yoga teacher training program. Donna puts effort into making sure each individuals needs are met. She lives from the heart and it is evident the moment you meet her.She is a gifted teacher of not just yoga, but life. I truly benefited from meeting her and staying at Seawall House. Seawall House is a plus for Island Falls. The small town, lakes, mountains, horses, etc... are awesome. Would like to come back again!

  Padma Patricia Meade
7 months ago
The expansive.ness of being in Maine is still vibrating in my soul.After many 5 day trips this summer my last trip was to Sewell House and my nervous system is settled in and all I can think about is when can I return ... I can still see the rolling green hills and the evergreens, the placid kayaking on the lake ... Storm watching on the porch one evening and waking to the sunrise in my room with a view ... wonderful meals on the porch and art workshop with Ellen. Amrita 'Donna" arranged to have me picked up and dropped off at Bangor Airport. Thank you and Namaste'Padma xNearby activities: Hiking down to to Shin Falls, Kayaking, Pool at the Opera Houseand of course Yoga and Meditation

  Linda Cyr
8 months ago
Such a relaxing, restorative retreat for both me and my dog Louisa! Staff go above and beyond from suggesting individualized certain poses or modifications , explaining and demonstrating different styles of yoga, preparing delicious meals, suggesting activities , even providing transportation when necessary! Louisa and I bonded with the other guests, dogs and staff which added positive energy to the experience.Rooms: Rooms in beautiful historic home with shared bathroomsNearby activities: Mt Chase, Shin Falls, kayaking and paddle boarding at the lake, porch sitting and Clam Shack are musts! Horseback riding, scenic drives and Amish community nearby!Food & drinks: All vegetarian meals prepared by the staff were delicious! I did go to the Clam Shack when craving seafood. All inclusive.

  Angela Francis
2 years ago
This summer I went to Sewall House for a week with relaxation in mind, but what I found was so much more. Donna's teachings, her beautiful home, the atmosphere of Northern Maine, and the overall experience she provided proved to be a truly remarkable experience. Sewall House helped me begin healing from trauma I'd barely begun tapping into prior to my visit, find parts of myself I didn't realize I'd lost, and discover new parts I previously didn't know existed. I even plan on returning for teacher training with Donna at some point in the near future.Additionally, her staff and fellow teachers were all amazing. The food was nourishing and delicious. And the surrounding area provides for some amazing hiking experiences, kayaking, and paddle boarding.The experiences I had better changed my life in so many ways, and I cannot even begin to express my gratitude and appreciation for the experience.

  Maya Cohen
2 years ago
Sewall house is a beautiful, intimate house, that is equipped with everything you need. Donna, the owner, is an amazing person and a gifted yoga teacher. She taught us different yoga styles, and was attentive to everyone's needs. She took us hiking, found beautiful spots for us, guided us through meditation and really gave us the best experience. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a yoga retreat in nature, and is open to meeting new people.

  Susan Lang
a year ago
What a wonderful experience!! Donna has a gift of making you feel right at home, immediately. The Sewall House Inn is a wonderful historic landmark, with Teddy Roosevelt connections, and on top of that ,Donna has her Yoga studio there as well. There are many local excursions that she has directions, and instructions for in each room. Thank you Donna for the lovely stay!!

  Katie Freeman
2 years ago
I am writing this review as I fly back to California, excited to see my family after a week away; but sad to leave the serenity of the Sewall House and all the lovely people who came with it. I needed a healing getaway on extremely short notice a fast escape from my own anxiety as I prepare to fight cancer for a third time in just two years (I am only 39). I called Donna last Monday to chat about her wellness retreat, and I was sleeping soundly in the Sewall Suite by Wednesday night. The program she has designed at Sewall House could not have been more perfect for me. It was flexible the meditation/yoga sessions were optional, the length of my stay was up to me, and there was plenty of free time each day to enjoy the beauty that is the northern Maine wilderness. I used the sauna every day and took advantage of every yoga class. It was refreshing to practice forms of yoga other than the Vinyasa/Ashtanga fitness-styles I am used to (and often intimidated by). I fell in love with Kundalini and plan to continue practicing with Donna over zoom from California. :) The food was delicious. My diet is high maintenance (vegan, gluten and sugar-free), and Kent (the chef for my stay) was happy to accommodate. I spent some time this morning taking pictures of the cookbook he created in hopes that I can recreate some of his delicious meals back home. The location is beautiful I enjoyed daily hikes, an overnight stay at Donna s off-the-grid cabin on the lake, a lovely day visiting Amish markets with Donna and other guests, and meditating by the river this morning before my departure. Sewall House is a very special place. It has a very real history of healing, and its nurturing energy is palpable. I am returning to California stronger and more centered than I ve felt in a long time. And I am already looking forward to my next stay with Donna at the Sewall House.

  Amy Zdon
2 years ago
Wonderful and very healing experience! Donna goes above and beyond for her guests. The yoga classes were amazing and the food was delicious and very healthy. There is yogi tea available all day long and a lovable dog named Bo. The house is well decorated and feels like a home. There are shelves full of old books to read and an attic room with a lot of special antiques to look at. The hiking in the area is spectacular as is the lake for kayaking. All around 10/10 !!!

  Tracey Grimm
9 months ago
After having a life changing retreat in 2022, I decided to sign up for the three week teacher training in June and July of 2023. I knew Donna, Ajeet and Lindsay were incredible teachers and I would be well cared for at Sewall House. My experience far exceeded my expectations. Not only do I feel I learned everything I needed to be prepared to teach yoga, but with the support of the team and my fellow teacher trainees, I learned so much more about myself. Donna has created an incredible experience for teacher trainees- her experience, coupled with the skills and wisdom of Ajeet and Lindsay, created a true transformational experience for all the trainees. Throughout the training, we also ate like queens and were cared for in every way- I especially was struggling with an injury, and everyone bent over backwards to accommodate me and ensure I was healing. This teacher training is definitely boutique, personalized, spiritually and intellectually challenging and above all completely life changing. Even if you don't know if you want to teach yoga, if even a small voice inside you says yes, do this training. And if you aren't quite sure yet, come for a retreat- I promise you will never be the same.

  Mrs Wu
2 years ago
A true yoga experience and what a yoga retreat should be!I first visited Sewall House after my mother's passing and I was seeking quiet, nurturing and healing. Donna and her staff could sense that and they were warm, welcoming and provided exactly what I needed. I have returned annually since then.The quality of service is five-stars through and through. They cater to each clients' needs with attention to yoga styles and levels, dietary needs and activities. The yogic lifestyle is encouraged but not enforced.The location and environment is luxuriously relaxing and remote, embedded in a small town and surrounded by nature (cell reception is not great so plan for a digital detox if you're not on a Verizon plan). The air is fresh and the skies are as clear and blue as in the Caribbean. And Donna will introduce you to the best secret nature spots that seem like little pockets of heaven.The meals are all vegetarian, fresh, mostly organic (if not all), delicious and very plentiful. I am not a vegetarian and yet I always felt more than satisfied after meals. Note: The homemade breads, jams, granola, and yogi tea are must tries!If you're seeking peace in a relaxing, unpretentious and down to earth environment, don't hesitate. This is your spot!

  Vicki Goodrich
a year ago
I returned back to the Sewall House for the first time in 22 years to discover that this yoga retreat has evolved into an exceptional experience! This historic home has an elegant charm and each bedroom has its own unique, lovely character. I was very impressed with how clean and sanitary the bedrooms and bathrooms were. This B&B also houses a wonderful library filled with historic books, photos and relics from the past; it's like stepping back in time to the 1890s. A visit to this library makes for a perfect activity on a rainy day or in the evenings.The food was absolutely delicious. Although I'm not a vegetarian, I found the food to be very flavorful. There's something very distinct and special about the cuisine served at the Sewall House it s made with love and this makes all the difference. I also wish to share that Donna is truly an extraordinary hostess and I felt very well taken care of.As a longtime yogini, I was very impressed with Donna's depth of knowledge and yogic wisdom she's the real deal! It s a privilege to be in her class. As a side note, there's a sauna and jacuzzi on site which makes for a relaxing night time experience. I highly recommend the Sewall House for any down-to-earth person looking for a spiritual retreat surrounded by the beauty of nature.I even returned to the Sewall House once again in September! I loved swimming in the pristine pond and biking along beautiful Belvedere Road at sunset. The Sewall House has been the highlight of 2022 for me and I'm so grateful for the time I spent there.

  Irene Narissi
3 years ago
My visit to Sewell House was a treasure! The location is surrounded by the beauty of northern Maine s rustic land and incredibly peaceful lakes. The historic house feels like home .. the yoga classes are led by Donna the owner and one of the best teachers I have ever had. The meals are nutritious and delicious. Don t hesitate -you will return home having had a fun getaway and physically and spiritually strengthened.

  Harinam Khalsa
3 years ago
A few years ago, it was my honor to teach a workshop there and thus had the opportunity to spend the better part of a week enjoying both the facilities and the outlying area. Sewall House itself is a great place. Very cozy and welcoming in every way. Very relaxing and reassuring place to stay. If you're looking for a "get away from it all" haven this place is for you. It's owner, Donna Davidge, will immediately make you feel like part of the family because that's exactly what you will be. The food was great. If one of your reasons to go is to take yoga classes, I can vouch that she is a most excellent teacher. Maybe the greatest draw for spending time at Sewall House is the surrounding area, which I had the opportunity to visit. Beautiful forests, lakes, wildlife and all you would expect from one of the most beautiful places in the United States. Sewall House sits in what can truly be described as a piece of paradise. Highly recommended for all kinds of reasons!

  Penny Jenkins
3 years ago
I found Sewall House at a time in my life that I desperately needed strength, support, and courage. Donna helped me find all three. The house itself is just beautiful; full of antiques, history, and positive energy, located in a charming little town. The yoga space is warm and inviting, and Donna's yoga classes were mentally and physically both relaxing and challenging. I enjoyed the sauna, a massage from a visiting masseuse, daily guided meditations, trips to Mt. Katahdan and Loon Ledge, and fabulous communal vegetarian meals. When my stay was over, I had a sense of peace and purpose. This is NOT just another "yoga retreat". It's a life-changing experience, and I highly recommend it!

  J Schnaars
a year ago
The Team at Sewall immediately made us feel welcomed. They were aware of our interests in exploring the area and offered options. We selected a guided hike into Baxter. The canoe, hike, and swim trip was pristine and beautiful. The yoga sessions were enjoyable and expertly taught. The teachers were also knowledgeable in wellness and nutrition and aware of ways to differentiate yoga instruction according to abilities and interests. Everyone's needs were addressed. As a whole, the yoga, nature, food, and positive social community provided space for one to explore joyfully, breathe, be, and grow. Interestingly, the history of the Sewall House documents the respite and renewal Theodore Roosevelt found here. This respite and renewal continues today. We left the Sewall House Yoga Retreat feeling renewed, refreshed, and amazed by the beauty of nature!

  chris619a
3 years ago
Sewall House was everything as advertised. The yoga is top notch quality (think Equinox/city studios) instruction with varying teachers/types. Donna is great and her team Ajeet & Lindsay were friendly and welcoming. I was able to get time alone when needed and then have activities available. Hiking Mt.Chase, kayaks nearby whenever you need, and 3 healthy (fresh) meals a day made for a great week. Would recommend week stay to get true experience. Took me till day 3 to start getting in the flow and "relaxed" - Male, 30, Boston MA

  Helene Nerbe
3 years ago
Sewall House is special historic home a wonderful getaway !This is a place where one can feel comfortable going solo or with a friend or partner, or a small group. It's unique, not corporate.Donna and her staff offer two types of yoga classes, meditating , healing modalities and hiking .. delicious and nutritious meals.This is NOT just another "yoga retreat". It's a life-changing experience, and I highly recommend it!

  Joan Ginsberg
3 years ago
Sewall House Yoga Retreat is a wonderful yoga place with a warm and friendly vibe. And even beginner yogis (like me) can be comfortable in the small and intimate classes offered there. In addition to excellent yoga training, there is the true beauty of northern Maine to explore. In my several visits to Sewall House, I've learned how to go kayaking, on Lake Mattawamkeag. This is something I never thought I could do, but with gentle guidance and encouragement from host Donna, I've succeeded. Now it's become one of my favorite outdoor activities at Sewall House. When I first decided to stay at this retreat, I was drawn in by the rich history of the Sewall House home and its relationship with Teddy Roosevelt. It's a beautiful house with lovely cozy-comfy rooms. The staff members are always tuned in to the needs of the guests, as is Donna. So I will look forward to returning to this warm and welcoming place very soon!

  Anne Marie Dean
3 years ago
I loved my stay at the Sewall house! I highly recommend going there to relax, learn about yoga, eat healthy, and enjoy nature. Donna the owner treats all guests as family with love and care. Donna lives the life of a Yogi from the heart.The Chef is helpful and happy to answer any questions about the meals. Each meal is unique and has amazing flavors. When you enter the house there are always delicious smells of what is being created for your next meal.The house has been kept in the family from the very beginning. The rooms are set up in a similar time period of the house. There is a lovely sitting area with a bay window to curl up with a good book. The large wrap around porch is also inviting to sit and relax.I am looking forward to going back for my next stay.