Welcome to the ultimate combat, sports and wellness training camp with Royce Gracie at the 5* Aphrodite Hills Resort in Cyprus! The only place where you can train with the legendary Royce Gracie.
An exclusive jiu-jitsu and multi-sports camp where Royce Gracie shares his combat wisdom at a personal level that you simply cannot find anywhere else. With European Jiu-Jitsu pioneers Gracie Concepts and top BJJ black belt instructor Andy Roberts in the camp, this is a rare opportunity to learn from the very best in breathtaking surroundings. In addition, guests can participate and enjoy a whole range of wellness activities and other sports making it a perfect choice for independent travelers, couples and families.
Welcome to the ultimate combat, sports and wellness training camp with Royce Gracie at the 5* Aphrodite Hills Resort in Cyprus! The only place where you can train with the legendary Royce Gracie.
An exclusive jiu-jitsu and multi-sports camp where Royce Gracie shares his combat wisdom at a personal level that you simply cannot find anywhere else. With European Jiu-Jitsu pioneers Gracie Concepts and top BJJ black belt instructor Andy Roberts in the camp, this is a rare opportunity to learn from the very best in breathtaking surroundings. In addition, guests can participate and enjoy a whole range of wellness activities and other sports making it a perfect choice for independent travelers, couples and families.
BJJ Training
Royce Gracie will lead daily Jiu-Jitsu training sessions, offer personalized guidance, participate in wellness activities, and join group sessions providing expert advice and insights throughout the duration of the camp.
Activities and Experiences
Our exclusive 6-day training camp provides a unique opportunity for martial arts enthusiasts to enjoy a holiday of a lifetime with Royce Gracie, while also ensuring that the whole family and/or partners (including those who may not wish to participate in the combat sessions) can enjoy an unforgettable health-focused vacation together. Guests can expect daily Jiu-Jitsu training sessions with Royce Gracie supported by our team of world-class martial arts instructors, where each session is designed to encourage personal breakthroughs. You will also benefit from Royce’s powerful insights in a series of Seminars focusing on key areas such as psychology, longevity, diet, motivation and even video analysis of previous fights in enjoyable group settings. Daily uplifting SOHA wellness activities including yoga, meditation, breathwork and sunset sound baths will enhance your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing and overall experience. These expertly-facilitated wellness elements are optional, but come as standard to enhance what you take away – enabling you to elevate your game in all areas of life. Guests can also choose to benefit from the huge selection of other sporting activities available including golf, football, tennis, horse-riding and much more depending on personal preferences (additional prices may apply for certain activities). Multiple photo opportunities with Royce Gracie himself complete this extraordinary opportunity.
Luxury Accommodations:
The luxurious 5* Aphrodite Hills Hotel by Atlantica is uniquely and scenically located on a plateau overlooking the glittering blue Mediterranean Sea and the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. The hills surrounding the resort make for some excellent walking and running routes, with well-marked paths and incredible views.
Aphrodite Hills Hotel fabulously combines the classic with the contemporary and is an ideal venue for independent travellers, couples, families and groups. This 5* hotel features 290 luxury rooms located in various annexes around the beautiful gardens and benefits from breathtaking views and a warm Mediterranean climate. The resort provides a perfect SOHA getaway, especially for sports enthusiasts and also guests wishing to enhance their overall wellbeing. With a massive selection of sporting activities (including golf, football, tennis, horse-riding plus more), together with an array of family-friendly activities there is something to excite all interests and ages. The resort also benefits from a wide selection of restaurants and bars located within the complex, providing multiple dining and relaxation options.
Nutrition-Focused Food and Drinks
Enjoy a range of healthy, nutritious meals throughout the camp, starting with healthy breakfasts, nutritious lunches and delicious evening meals. The resort benefits from a wide selection of restaurants and bars located within the complex, providing multiple dining and relaxation options. Guests can also choose to upgrade their boarding to Half-Board (for just £125 extra) or All-Inclusive (for just £285 extra) – simply contact us anytime after booking to take advantage of these discounted rates. Gluten-Free, Mediterranean, Vegan, Vegetarian
Royce Gracie
Royce Gracie is a legendary Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and mixed martial artist, known for his pivotal role in popularizing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu worldwide. He is a UFC Hall of Famer and the first-ever UFC tournament champion, with a career that has inspired countless martial artists globally.
Royce Gracie was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of nine children, seven of whom are boys. His training in Jiu-Jitsu began at a very early age as a game with his father Helio. He never pushed any of the children to take formal classes until they wanted to do so. However, they often went to the Academy in Rio after school and on weekends.
Royce began competing in tournaments at age eight. He received his blue belt at age 16 and was promoted to black belt in less than two years. Royce moved to the United States at age 18 to live with his brother, Rorion. They began teaching private classes out of their garage, sometimes for more than ten hours a day. Together they opened the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Torrance, California.
Royce’s reputable career as a fighter began in 1993 after defeating three opponents in the first Ultimate Fighting Championship in Denver, Colorado. His brother Rorion came up with this innovative challenge as a way to show Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to the world. Discipline after discipline was defeated by the slight 6’1”, 180 pound Royce Gracie. The viewers were in awe. His opponents consistently outweighed him by more than 50 pounds. He went on to win 3 UFC titles and today is the only man in the history of no holds barred matches to successfully defeat four opponents in one night. After leaving the UFC, Royce went on to compete in MMA events in Japan and is a huge icon in this country.
Royce holds the record for the longest MMA match in history: 90 minutes against Japanese superstar Kazushi Sakuraba in PRIDE Grand PRIX 2000. He also showed total domination of the Olympic Judo Gold Medalist Hidehiko Yoshida. His largest opponent was Sumo Grand Champion Akebono at 6′ 8″ 486lbs. Royce vs. Akebono was the main event of K-1 Premium Dynamite New Years Eve show on New Year’s Eve in 2004. Royce defeated the giant in just 2 minutes and 13 seconds with a shoulder lock. Royce’s continued success has opened the eyes of many disbelievers to the importance of leverage and technique in grappling. In November of 2003, Royce Gracie was the first fighter to be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame along with fellow UFC veteran Ken Shamrock. Since then Royce’s face has been seen on countless martial arts magazines such as Black Belt, Inside MMA and Tapout.
He has also been featured in Men’s Health and Fitness, GQ and continues to give magazine and radio interviews. His recognition spans the globe to include fans on almost every continent. In 2014 Royce was named one of the 50 Greatest Athletes in the World by Sports Illustrated. Today Royce is privileged to spread the techniques perfected by his father all over the world. Throughout his busy fighting career Royce has maintained a rigorous travel schedule of seminars and classes. He currently oversees more than 55 U.S. and international Royce Gracie Jiu-jitsu Networks. The techniques of Gracie Jiu-jitsu have become mainstream in most martial arts dojos. Fighters everywhere are racing to learn and implement this jiu-jitsu in their training regimen. His list of students is enormous. Royce has taught many of the big screen greats like Chuck Norris, Ed O’Neal, Guy Ritchie, Jim Carrey, Josh Duhamel and Nicholas Cage. He has also been very active with the CIA, FBI, DEA, Secret Service, Army Rangers, Army Special Forces, Navy Seals, and many sheriff and police departments. His G.R.A.C.I.E. course for law enforcement has gained international recognition. Aside from teaching at his Networks across the United States, he regularly visits Brazil, Canada, England, Scotland, Portugal, Spain, Israel, Australia, UAE, and many other countries across the globe. He maintains an impressive training regimen, which includes running, weight training, cross training, meditation and countless hours of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. He is a full time professional athlete who eagerly awaits his next challenge. In Royce’s own words, “Go ahead, tell me what I can’t do!”
Andy Roberts
Andy has been training in the Martial Arts for over 35 years with the last 25 dedicated to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. As a 3rd degree Black Belt under Roger Gracie, Andy still actively competes, with the latest competition seeing Andy contest the European Championships Paris 2024. Teaching professionally for the last 25 years, Andy has dedicated the majority of his life to spreading the benefits of training in the martial arts to others.
Andy Roberts BJJ was established in 2007, so as a member you can trust in the experience and reputation accomplished throughout this time. Having received all his belts from a member of the legendary Gracie family, Andy is proud to teach BJJ in its full authenticity.
Andy has a fantastic team of experienced and dedicated instructors to help make Andy Roberts BJJ academy the best place to train in the area. As a member you will be in safe hands, expertly instructed by our Black Belt team. Contact us today to find out more.
What Should I Expect from a SOHA Retreat?
Expect a transformative mix of wellness activities, personal growth workshops, and cultural excursions, all in luxurious settings. Our retreats focus on holistic wellbeing, embracing physical, mental, and emotional health.
What's Included in the Retreat Package?
Packages typically include accommodations, meals, activities, workshops, and facility access. Check your chosen retreat’s details for exact inclusions.
Can I Attend a Retreat Alone?
Yes, our retreats welcome individuals, couples, and groups. Solo attendees find it a great way to meet others and embark on a personal journey.
What Should I Pack?
We suggest comfortable activity wear, informal dinner attire, a swimsuit, personal toiletries, a water bottle, sunscreen, and any medications. A detailed list will be provided with your booking.
Are There Any Age Restrictions?
Most retreats are for adults 18+. Family-friendly options may be available; please check specific retreats for age guidelines.
How Do I Prepare for a Wellness Retreat?
Prepare mentally and physically by practicing mindfulness, setting intentions, and staying active. These steps can enhance your retreat experience.
What Payment Methods Do You Accept?
We accept credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and online payments. Available options may vary, so please confirm at booking.
What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
Policies vary, with full refunds typically offered for early cancellations. Check specific retreat policies at booking.
How Does SOHA Support the Athletic Minds Foundation?
A portion of every booking supports the Foundation’s wellness initiatives. Your participation extends the impact of our efforts.
Cyprus, Greece
Cyprus, an island in the eastern Mediterranean, offers a captivating mix of stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages. Known for its warm climate and crystal-clear waters, visitors can enjoy sun-soaked days on beaches like Nissi and Fig Tree Bay.
The island's rich history is evident in sites like the ancient city of Kourion and the Tombs of the Kings. In addition to its historical treasures, Cyprus boasts vibrant nightlife, delicious local cuisine, and welcoming hospitality. Whether you're exploring its cultural heritage or relaxing by the sea, Cyprus promises an unforgettable experience.
