Wellness retreats are a big thing right now – hardly surprising considering how hectic life is these days and the bad news we see daily in the media. The perfect antidote is an escape to the countryside for a few days of rest and relaxation along with activities that are good for body and soul. With careful planning you can strike the balance and achieve an idyllic wellness break.
Sometimes, we all feel the need to escape the daily grind, to step off the treadmill and find a way to completely relax. The countryside is the perfect setting for UK wellness retreats and provides exactly that - a way to unwind, destress and disconnect from the pressures of life. To be in the moment, to breathe deep, to feel at peace. It works well for groups of friends, for corporate breaks and for yoga teachers, beauty therapists, wellness practitioners and fitness instructors looking to host a retreat.
Key is clear vision, the location, accommodation, facilities and activities; it’s important to get the balance right. Use our 10 top tips to help you create a successful bespoke retreat.
Clear Vision
Start by thinking about the main focus of your wellness retreat - is it yoga, meditation, pampering, fitness, spa treatments, nutrition? Have a clear picture of the kind of experience you want to create, whether it’s luxury, spiritual or holistic; is the overall intention to destress, to improve physical health, or to deepen mindfulness and meditation?
Choosing the Location
Choosing the right location for your wellness retreat is so important. Consider the space, the facilities, the atmosphere, the surroundings, and ease of travel. Is it easy enough to get to from major roads and train stations?
It goes without saying that the countryside is the best setting for wellness breaks. Nature close by, far reaching views of fields, hills and woodlands set the backdrop, there’s bountiful fresh air and birdsong from the treetops. The ideal venue will be private and peaceful, tucked away off the beaten track, with walks on the doorstep for people to enjoy in their free time. It all goes a long way to helping people to restore and revitalize.
Find the Perfect Accommodation
Large group holiday houses are perfect for group retreats, but finding one that has everything in the right location isn’t always easy. Firstly, the accommodation needs to have space for the kind of wellness activities you’d like to host, so think large rooms and for sunnier days, outdoor space. Look at the number of bedrooms and how many each one sleeps; are there flexible options for bed arrangements, such as zip and link beds that can be set up as super king or twin on request. Are the bedrooms all ensuite, and if not, how many bathrooms are there? What leisure facilities are there? Things like a spa hall, a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, games room and movie room will help people to relax in their free time. Bear in mind dining space – does the table seat the number in your party comfortably? Is there outdoor dining furniture, lawns to picnic on, or picnic spots close by? The best idea is to book a large group holiday house that meets all criteria.
Plan your schedule
It’s important to get a good balance of activities and free time, but you should also consider add-ons like other activities in the local area, and outings. When you’ve got firm ideas, put together a schedule for all members of your group.
Catering
With careful planning, catering for a large group needn’t be stressful. You’ll need to consider dietary needs such as gluten free, vegetarian, vegan and dairy free. If you want to self-cater think about the kitchen; is it well-equipped and big enough, are there plenty of work surfaces for preparation and plating up, are there enough pots and pans and utensils?
If you’d prefer to bring in outside catering, check out local chefs, discuss menus with them and pricing well in advance. Look into deliveries from local farm shops who can supply you with high quality produce that’s been grown, raised or made close by. If you want to include eating out in your itinerary have a good look at local pubs and restaurants that are easy to get to, check the menu and the price suits everyone.
The weather
Hey, this is the UK, right, so the weather is certainly a factor as it’s not always reliable. If the sun is shining you can host activities like yoga and meditation workshops outdoors, but if the weather isn’t on your side you’ll need to be sure you have a Plan B for indoors activities.
The Budget
This is something you need to think about quite early on in your planning. Besides the accommodation include catering, activities, and any extras. If you’re looking at a wellness retreat with friends find out how much they are willing to spend per person and work to the figure that’s agreed between your group. If you’re planning a corporate retreat, have a firm budget in mind to work to, if you're a yoga teacher or practitioner hosting a retreat make sure your pricing is realistic.
The Equipment
If you’re supplying all the equipment, make a list to check off when you pack. Otherwise, give everyone a list of the things they’ll need to bring; for example, comfortable clothing, yoga mats, water bottles, toiletries, a blanket or cushion, and medication.
Book Suppliers
Once you’ve got a firm idea of the kind of activities you want to host, book the people you need early on, like yoga teachers, pamperers and caterers. Use local florists to make the house look welcoming and bakers in the area to deliver a cake or cream tea for arrival. You might decide to throw in entertainment like a cocktail masterclass or murder mystery night for fun, so get that sorted too.
Consider a Mid Week Retreat
Midweek retreats are perfect because for one thing, the roads are quieter, easing travel to the venue. The other advantage is that it's cheaper than weekends so it offers very good value.
Stick to your plans, allow yourself plenty of time and you’ll be well on the way to hosting the perfect wellness retreat in the countryside. Your group will enjoy relaxing and recuperating, and will go home feeling refreshed and renewed with a good sense of wellbeing and happy memories.
