Perma Serifos is a wellness retreat designed to encourage reflection through nature and simplicity

On a quiet southern stretch of Serifos, Perma Serifos offers a new kind of escape. Just two hours from Athens, it’s a place where time slows down and well-being becomes part of the natural rhythm. Perma takes its name—and its philosophy—from the PERMA model of positive psychology, developed by Martin Seligman. The five elements of the model—Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Achievement—shape not just the experience, but the place itself. From the materials used to the way each day unfolds, these principles are quietly at work. The retreat was founded by a coach and psychology expert who envisioned a setting where people could step back, recalibrate, and reconnect with what matters. The architecture embodies the same values. Residences are simple but generous, each with its own private pool and outdoor kitchen. Interiors flow into the wild landscape—pared-back, open, and filled with natural light. There’s no rigid schedule, no overbearing wellness agenda. Instead, guests are encouraged to create their own pace, whether that means swimming before breakfast, walking down to the secluded beach just below the property, or simply reading on the shaded terrace. A 10-minute walk leads to a string of quiet local beaches, while the island’s small port and the village of Chora are only a short drive away. Sustainability is also part of the retreat’s DNA. Breakfasts are made from fresh local ingredients, and there’s a conscious effort to celebrate the slower rituals of daily life. Above all, Perma Serifos is about space, both physical and mental. A gentle invitation to do less, feel more, and leave a little lighter than you came.