The best wellbeing retreats provide an overnight sanctuary, facilitating a deeper immersion into self-care and introspection that is often hard to achieve in day-long events. These organised retreats often include a carefully curated itinerary, blending wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions interspersed with rest and recreation, all aimed at facilitating holistic health. If you know someone who has to ask 'what is wellbeing?' then perhaps this is something they could join in with too.
On the other hand, staycations have emerged as a popular alternative for those who seek a wellness retreat experience without an organised itinerary. Whether it's dedicating a weekend to mindful activities, self-care rituals, wellbeing courses or unplugging from digital devices, staycations can be customised to meet your wellness desires.
Regardless of the format, the primary purpose of both overnight organised retreats and staycations is to create a space for self-reflection, rejuvenation, and reconnection to yourself - and align with your purpose. These experiences provide opportunities to escape the daily grind, learn new self-care practices, and immerse yourself in tranquil surroundings and are a true wellbeing gift.
From the comforting seclusion of overnight retreats to the convenience and flexibility of staycations, these wellness escapes are becoming an integral part of a balanced lifestyle. They not only replenish the mind, body, and soul, but also equip individuals with the tools and practices needed to maintain wellbeing in their everyday lives. Here are our top picks.
The best well-being retreats UK
Experience the restorative beauty of the Welsh landscapes at Sunsetbay Retreats, hosted by Maggie and Graham in the coastal town of Tywyn. This retreat delivers restorative wellness practices, including twice-daily yoga, guided scenic walks, and meditation. Immerse yourself in a series of engaging activities, from morning runs to evening entertainment, and enjoy wild swimming and paddleboarding on the Dovey Estuary. The retreat includes three nourishing plant-based meals daily, accompanied by teas, juices, and afternoon cake. Hosted in a restored chapel accommodation for 3 or 4 nights - you can expect access to the hot tub and other rejuvenating therapies for a transformative journey for your mind, body, and soul.
Created for individuals seeking a slower pace and energetic restoration, this retreat presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in untouched nature. The retreat is carefully crafted for visitors to restore their energy and align their chakras through daily activities such as heart-centred yoga, guided beaver towers, introspective meditation, forest walks, woodland pool baths, stargazing, and sound bath experiences with optional tarot readings. The retreat takes place at The Barns at Cabilla Cornwall, ensuring the provision of three meals a day and hot drinks and refreshments.
Sometimes known as the 'The Heart Whisperer', Estelle Bingham has dedicated over two decades to nurturing love, purpose, and connection in individuals' lives. A fourth-generation psychic and a committed meditator since the age of six, Estelle's spiritual journey and passion for soul development have been long-standing. Her retreats provide the perfect backdrop for healing and personal transformation. Attendees immerse themselves in guided meditation, energy healing, yoga, and ritual amidst wild swimming spots and ancient woodland. Estelle harmonizes Divine Feminine and Divine Masculine energies, facilitating an immersive, transformative experience that encourages self-love, heart's desire, and mastering the language of love and manifestation. Register your interest for her 2023 retreat.
Balance + Glo's Find Your Flow retreat near Yarmouth on the west of the island invites attendees to work out on both land and sea. The program offers a combination of dynamic and restorative yoga sessions – some held on the beach or on paddleboards – and fitness classes. Guests reside in a renovated barn with a view of the sea and footpaths leading to Colwell Beach, dining on seasonal island produce. Other activities might include foraging, horse riding, walking or running, and art classes. If you are up for some rewilding - this is a great choice. Massages and other treatments are also part of the package.
Located in the award-winning luxury venue of 42 Acres Farmhouse in the Somerset countryside, Our Retreat serves as an idyllic sanctuary for yoga enthusiasts yearning for a revitalising escape for body and mind. Their stunning Mongolian Yurt is at the heart of the location, and you can check in for two nights at the farmhouse. You can experience morning mindful yoga sessions, afternoon pilates, daily restorative yoga, guided meditation, wild swimming, breathwork sessions, woodland walks, evening bonfires and nutritionally balanced, delicious meals and snacks.
There are two retreats each week - 'The Nurturer' and 'The Journeyer', each crafted to cater to different wellness needs. These retreats provide a structure that gives a rhythm to each day, facilitating a secure and supportive environment. Throughout the day, there are numerous wellness offerings, ranging from practical and grounding to deeply spiritual, including yoga, star-gazing, meditation, and many more. The retreat provides ample time to explore the land and partake in rejuvenating activities like enjoying herbal tea among the mosses, plunging into natural pools, or stargazing in one of the UK's darkest skies.
Take a trip to the magical Welsh forests and reconnect with nature while staying in a beautiful yurt complete with roaring log fire. There are so many outdoor activities to get involved with here, including indulging in the spa and wellness packages on offer.
Stay in a cabin surrounded by the stunning views of Cumbria. With forests, mountains, rivers and beaches not far away, you’ll be taken aback by the natural beauty that surrounds you. There is also a spa and wellness centre where you can treat yourself to relaxing treatments.
As well as boasting views of the Peak District, Losehill House is set in the countryside of Derbyshire and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna and all the luxuries of an extensive spa and wellness centre.
Along with spa and wellness packages, Bridge End Farm Cottages boast the most beautiful scenery. Situated in the middle of Eskdale Valley in the Lake District, this 17th century barn conversion is an ideal place to unwind.
A thatched cottage situated in Devon and near the moors, forests and beaches makes it perfect for mindful walks in nature. With offers on spa and wellness treatments, this luxury cottage is the idyllic rural retreat with all the home comforts for your rest and relaxation.
These pods on the outskirts of the Yorkshire Dales will take you back to nature in the valley of Wensleydale. Take a stroll through the country to take in historic sites or indulge in the sensation of serenity in the hot tub.
Set in Chichester, this rustic yurt village is a getaway that takes you into the forests and woodlands near the South Downs. With yoga classes and a variety of activities to get involved in, it’s a relaxing retreat to recentre and recharge.