If the last two years have taught us anything, it’s that there’s nothing more important than our health. With the New Year’s resolution season now upon us, it’s the perfect time to set some goals that prioritise your body and mind – and what better way to start than with a staycation holiday dedicated to just that?
Health and wellbeing holidays are the latest trend to hit the tourism market. In a world when our pace of life is getting faster and faster, there’s becoming a growing need for sanctuaries that allow us to slow down and take some time to focus on what’s important – our health.
Fortunately, you don’t need to travel far for these kinds of holidays either. The UK is packed with fitness, health and wellbeing escapes, from mindfulness retreats on the Isle of Wight to wellbeing festivals in Wales. Here are a handful to check out this year in the south of England.
Our Retreat, Somerset
This yoga and meditation retreat is hosted in a beautiful nineteenth-century farmhouse in the heart of Somerset’s idyllic countryside. A daily schedule at Our Retreat typically includes morning meditation, restorative yin yoga or Pilates, breath work, sound baths and guided walks. Don’t worry, you’ll have flexibility to do what you want too, with plenty of time carved out for reading, massages or simply dozing off in the sun. Throw in some wholesome meals and you have a retreat that’s guaranteed to nourish your mind, body and soul. ourretreat.co.uk
Skyros, the Isle of Wight
Hosted at The Grange, a Georgian B&B with sweeping sea views and a spacious garden, Skyros is famous for its two, three and four-night courses that help you become the person you truly want to be. From writing, comedy and photography to yoga, dance and wellbeing, there are holidays for everyone – whatever you’re into and whether you’re travelling solo or with friends. The location is pretty idyllic too; set in the south of the Isle of Wight, a stone’s throw from the sea, there’s plenty to do, see and explore nearby. skyros.com
Yeotown, Devon
This rustic-meets-luxury haven near Barnstaple is best known for its health and fitness programme. This is not your average fitness holiday; expect everything from long hikes along the North Devon coastline and bike rides in the forest to sunrise yoga and lessons on diet and nutrition. There’s also a hot tub and sauna to make the most of, not to mention healthy, vegan cuisine delicious enough to convert even the most hardened carnivore. yeotown.com
Birch, Hertfordshire
Proof that you don’t always need to escape to the countryside to slow down, this country manor hotel on the outskirts of London provides a creative space to recharge or get involved in an array of classes. Take part in classes ranging from gong baths to sourdough and soda breadmaking, glassblowing workshops and yoga. Oh, and did we mention the five-star facilities? Start your day in the gym, swim some lengths in the outdoor pool and dine on homegrown food, every day. birchcommunity.com
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