Upper beginner / improver level
Marbella ballet retreat
17 - 20 April 2026
SOLD OUT - Get in touch to join the waitlist
a luxury four-day retreat in andAlusia, with bennet gartside, renowned principal character artist at the royal ballet
This retreat is now sold out. Get in touch to be put on our waitlist.
Friday 17th - Monday 20th April 2026
Indulge in a luxurious three-day ballet retreat at Kimpton Hotel Los Monteros, Marbella.
Over the course of the three days, Bennet Gartside (Principal Character Artist at the Royal Ballet School) will lead technique and repertoire classes each day.
You will also enjoy a delicious dinner as a group on one evening of the retreat plus the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate at the hotel spa.
This retreat offers a holistic experience combining expert ballet instruction, luxurious accommodation, gourmet dining and wellness activities, ensuring a truly indulgent escape.
This retreat is suitable for: Upper Beginners and Improvers.
Level: Upper Beginner / Improver
Experience: 2–4 years
What to Expect: If you’re familiar with barre work and enjoy the challenge of learning longer combinations, this retreat is for you. We’ll refine technique, work on transitions between steps, and explore more expressive movement in the centre. You’ll be encouraged to deepen your artistry while building strength, flow, and confidence.
loCATION AND SETTING
This ballet retreat will take place over four days from Friday 17th - Monday 20th April 2026 at Kimpton Los Monteros, Marbella, which is just a short walk from the Spanish shore.
Kimpton Los Monteros is a tribute to the Mediterranean lifestyle and Marbella’s golden years in the 1970s. A 5-star hotel in Marbella it is that embodies the ultimate expression of iconic luxury, fusing the warmth and connection of the Kimpton brand in the most exclusive area of the Costa del Sol.
The hotel boasts a few luxurious dining options, including their Restaurante Jara by José Carlos García - a tribute to traditional Spanish gastronomy - where you can enjoy your evening meals, or venture into the town of Marbella for a wide range of cuisines. The hotel has rooftop, poolside and lounge bars to choose from, where you can enjoy an aperitif or small plate after a fabulous day of dancing.
Format
You will arrive Friday night and enjoy your first day of ballet on Saturday 18th April. The retreat will finish in the afternoon of Monday 20th April.
MORNING ROUTINE: Start each day with Pilates or Yoga sessions provided by the hotel to set the tone for your ballet practice. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast spread to energise for the day’s classes.
EXPERT-LED BALLET SESSIONS: Each day Bennet Gartside will teach ballet technique and repertoire classes, guiding you in skill, enhancement and passion.
RELAXATION: Unwind and rejuvenate at the hotel spa each day. You can also book a spa treatment with one of the therapists to enhance your relaxation (additional cost).
EVENING INDULGENCES: You will enjoy a delectable dinner on Saturday night at Clare’s villa where guests can chat with Bennet on an informal level over a buffet style supper.
PRICE
Single occupancy room - £1595 per person
Double occupancy room - £1295 per person
There will be a £100 non-refundable deposit to secure your space on this retreat. Remaining funds will be due closer to the time - dates TBC.
MEET THE PROFESSIONAL
bennet gartside
Bennet is a Principal Character Artist at The Royal Ballet, where he has performed since 1995.
His wide variety of roles have included Crown Prince Rudolf in Mayerling, Leontes in The Winter’s Tale, Dr Coppelius in Coppélia, Tybalt in Romeo & Juliet, Hilarion in Giselle and Widow Simone in La Fille Ma Gardee.
He is the Director of Everybody Ballet, running successful adult ballet classes at the Royal Opera House and regularly teaches and hosts one day workshops in London.
Bennet is also a filmmaker and maintains The Royal Ballet’s video archive. We are delighted to work with Bennet at our ballet retreats. His classes are always fun and informative.
