Reformer Pilates Retreat in the Austrian Alps | Vela x Nesslerhof
October Reformer Pilates Retreat at Hotel Nesslerhof
An exclusive retreat for renewed strength, mindful movement and a deeper connection to your body.
At Nesslerhof, alpine calm meets the Pilates expertise of Vela. This retreat is led personally by Marianne, founder of Vela and one of Germany's first-ever Pilates instructors. Her years of experience and deep understanding of precise, intentional movement shape every session — set against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps in Großarl, Salzburg region.
Mornings begin on the Reformer: powerful, focused, and deeply attentive to the body. Marianne guides guests through carefully chosen exercises that build strength, improve alignment and create a renewed sense of connection with the body.
Reformer sessions are complemented by soothing dry brush massages — a mindful ritual for activation, recovery and a conscious start to the day.
In between: time. Time for stillness, for the mountains, for yourself.
A special retreat that sees movement not as performance, but as a way to truly feel present in your body again.
We look forward to welcoming you to an exclusive retreat at Nesslerhof.
Move with intention. Feel your strength.
*The retreat will take place provided there are at least 5 participants.
Included amenities:
- 2 nights’ accommodation in a room or suite of your choice
- 4 Reformer Pilates sessions with Marianne
- 1 brush massage
- Kulinarium by ness with breakfast, a snack and a 5-course dinner
- Spa by ness – spacious wellness area & 800 m² natural swimming pond
- Fit by ness – participation in the indoor & outdoor fitness programme
- Free participation in the varied ‘Berg-Gesund’ programme
- Free underground car park space
- Welcome goodie bag
Vela at Nesslerhof — Beyond the Retreat
The partnership between Vela and Nesslerhof extends beyond the retreat itself. Guests have exclusive access to Vela's on-demand video library directly at the hotel — ideal for anyone wishing to continue their Pilates practice during their stay or deepen it long after the retreat ends.
Retreat-Programme I 02.-04. October 2026
Friday | Arrival & Getting into the spirit
Arrive. Take a deep breath. Let go.
Arrival — Welcome session with Marianne: getting to know one another, the retreat’s objectives
First Movement — Reformer session in the afternoon/evening: a gentle introduction, sharpening body awareness, first experience of the Reformer
Welcome Class – Reformer Pilates
Slot 1: 4.00 pm – 5.00 pm
Slot 2: 5.15 pm – 6.15 pm
Dinner from 7.00 pm
Saturday | Strength & Clarity
“Morning Energy” — Reformer session: a focused start to the day
“Activation” — Brush massage: a mindful ritual for a mindful morning
- Morning Reformer Pilates
Slot 1: 07:15 – 08:15
Slot 2: 08:30 – 09:30
Breakfast from 09:30
Time for: Leisure: time for the mountains, for peace and quiet, for yourself
- Evening Reformer Pilates
“Alignment” — second Reformer session in the afternoon: grounding, precise, with a renewed connection to one’s own body
Slot 1: 4.00 pm – 5.00 pm
Slot 2: 5.15 pm – 6.15 pm
Dinner from 7.00 pm
Sunnday | Deepen
“Connection” — final Reformer session: clear, focused, a new sense of body awareness
“Reflection” — closing session with Marianne: a look back and a preview of the Vela on-demand videos for home use
Closing Session – Reformer Pilates
Slot 1: 07:15 – 08:15
Slot 2: 08:30 – 09:30
Breakfast from 09:30
Individual departure.
*Subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this retreat suitable for?
This Reformer Pilates retreat is designed for anyone looking to reconnect with their body — no prior experience is required. Marianne guides every participant carefully and precisely through each exercise, making the retreat ideal for both beginners and experienced Pilates practitioners.
Do I need any Pilates experience?
No, no prior experience is necessary. Every exercise is carefully introduced and built up step by step, making this retreat an ideal starting point for anyone new to Pilates practice.
What is included in the retreat?
The price includes all-inclusive services at Nesslerhof, as well as all Reformer Pilates sessions with Marianne.
How many people take part in the retreat?
The retreat is limited to a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring a personal atmosphere and individual guidance throughout every session.
When does the retreat take place?
The next Reformer Pilates retreat with Vela takes place from 2–4 October 2026 at Nesslerhof in Großarl, Austria.
Can I continue practising with Vela after the retreat?
Yes. Thanks to the partnership between Vela and Nesslerhof, guests have exclusive access to Vela's on-demand video library at the hotel — allowing you to continue deepening your Pilates practice beyond the retreat itself.