Our
Philosophy
At Stin Avli, our philosophy is rooted in the belief that true well-being comes from harmony with nature, tradition, and oneself. We embrace a holistic approach to wellness, blending the timeless beauty of Greek culture with a deep respect for the island’s natural surroundings. Our retreats are designed to nourish the body, mind, and spirit, offering a space where you can reconnect, recharge, and find peace in the simplicity of life. Through personalised experiences and a focus on authenticity, we aim to create lasting memories that will stay with you long after your retreat ends…
Meet the team
Founder of Stin Avli & Cooking Retreat Host
Tranda Devereux is of Greek heritage, born in Australia with strong family ties to the island of Kastellorizo. Her mother, Evangelia, was born on the island in 1935 and continues to visit frequently, while her father, George, also with Kastellorizian roots, instilled in Tranda a deep love for the island. Evangelia, a gifted Greek cook, has had a profound influence on Tranda, passing down traditional family recipes and culinary techniques that are at the heart of the experiences at Stin Avli.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Tranda and her friend, Cher van Schouwen, collaborated to create the first 2024 Painting and Cooking Retreat, which sparked Tranda's realisation that there were many talented individuals eager to share their skills. This led her to bring together a network of creative people to craft intimate and unforgettable retreats and workshops on the breathtaking island of Kastellorizo.
Thus, Stin Avli was born.
Tranda’s love and passion for all things Kastellorizo and cooking, make her the perfect host to guide you through an unforgettable culinary journey. Her deep family connections to this beautiful island are at the heart of everything she shares, weaving together delicious recipes, rich stories, and cherished traditions that highlight the unique Kastellorizian lifestyle.
With over a decade of experience running her own successful Greek restaurant, Santorini, in Perth, Tranda not only co-owned and managed the business, but also led the kitchen, perfecting her craft and sharing her love for authentic Greek cuisine.
The name Stin Avli, meaning "in the courtyard" in Greek, was inspired by Tranda’s family who envisioned it as a reflection of the long hours spent creating a special, tranquil space in their little island home. The retreats and workshops at Stin Avli are carefully curated to offer guests a truly immersive experience, allowing them to connect with the island’s beauty, culture, and cuisine in an intimate and meaningful way.
Tranda Devereux
Create
Let your imagination fly as our talented Creative hosts open your mind to a new world of self expression and help you realise your own creative vision.
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Artist + Host of Painting Retreat
Cher van Schouwen is an internationally acclaimed artist, a beloved art teacher, and a respected creative visionary. With an accomplished career spanning across continents, Cher has sold over a thousand paintings, with her work featured in private and public collections throughout South Africa, Switzerland, the UK, and Australia.
Her art classes are much sought after, offering a "journey of self-discovery" where students explore and unlock their full creative potential. Cher’s energy is infectious, inspiring her students to uncover hidden talents and express their creativity in ways they never imagined.
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Writer + Host of Writing Retreat
Georgina is an expert business educator and writer with decades of experience. Her passion for learning was instilled as a child by her proud Australian-Greek father who valued the power of the ‘mighty’ word. Her love of prose inspires her poetry and historical fiction writing, which is a central theme in her life.
Her passion to travel and experience the world coupled with her life long love of jewellery, are elements she weaves throughout her story telling. Georgina comes from a long line of Kastellorizan ancestry and can trace her lineage to Tall Ships and Patisserie owners, who once inhabited the island.
Wellness
Nourish your soul. Stretch your spirit. Tap into tranquillity and stability as our Wellness hosts guide you through a full body experience, breath by breath.
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Pilates HostSarah Ashe, owner of Featherstone Physio Pilates brings 30+ years’ experience as a physio combined with Pilates, therapeutic yoga, breath therapy, functional strength, stretch therapy, fascial ease, neuroplasticity and lifestyle medicine. She presents at conferences, leads retreats and mentors students to share and inform just how powerful movement is on whole health, vitality and happiness.
Sarah has long been enamoured with the human body, power of the mind and breath when combined with quality movement. Sarah believes small subtle changes can impact positively in a BIG way.
Everything she does focuses on promoting active participation in all aspects of life. With Sarah, it's about more than just physical movement—it's about empowering you to move better, feel stronger, and live with confidence.
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Yoga HostAndrea is the owner and instructor at Melt Down Yoga, where she leads small group classes that offer a nurturing, joyful environment. Her slow flow style weaves in relatable, real-life themes, creating a gentle moving meditation that balances energy, calms the nervous system, and boosts both physical and mental resilience.
Andrea's classes are designed to foster safety, love, and a deep sense of connectivity, leaving her students feeling at peace with themselves and more resilient in navigating life's challenges. She leads from the heart, offering a welcoming space for reconnection through yoga and meditation.