If you are weary, a winter wellbeing reset might be just what the doctor orders, says Sarah Halliwell…
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We’re looking beyond the dark days of December, and planning something to look forward to, post-hibernation. A few days away, paying attention to our body, mind and spirit, with expert advice on nutrition, exercise and general restoration, can provide a valuable reset. Find your comfort zone – here is our list of upcoming retreats and restful escapes abroad to book in the months ahead. If you feel you need a break right now, check out the local options.
THE BIG CHILL GETAWAY
Always wanted to Wim Hof? That means learning how to immerse yourself in very, very cold water. Take a deep breath and plan a visit to the Cliffs of Moher Retreat in Liscannor, Co Clare, a few kilometres from Lahinch. The hardcore will commit to “transformative” Wim Hof Method two-day retreats with expert instructors, learning breathwork, cold exposure and meditation, with the aim of improving energy levels, sleep and mental strength, and reducing stress. Where do we sign? Vegetarian meals are included (ice baths and sea swims are optional, by the way). From €795 per person. Other retreat options throughout the year include hiking, yoga and restorative health stays. www.cliffsofmoherretreat.com.
A SKINCARE RETREAT IN CLARE
This is the opposite of the sparse Clare retreat above. The Seabody Retreat at Dromoland Castle Spa includes an overnight stay with bed and breakfast, and one Seabody Release Experience, a back neck and shoulder focus plus facial and scalp massage, in the most luxurious and thoughtful spa you’ve ever seen. From €552. www.dromoland.ie.
THE DIY SWITCH-OFF
If travelling far is too stressful, tailor your very own retreat at Samsú, a secluded cabin on the border of Meath and Westmeath, 80km from Dublin. With a phone lockbox and no wifi (guaranteed switch-off), an outdoor bath, firepit and nearby lake, you can go back to nature from €195 per night midweek. Sounds like heaven. www.samsu.ie.
YOGA IN CORK
Ballymaloe in Co Cork is one of the most restful places we know, with fabulous beach walks minutes away, the best locally sourced food and a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Ballymaloe runs day wellness sessions and yoga (see www.ballymaloegrainstore.com)with teachers including Dearbhla Glynn. Glynn also runs her own retreats, in Ireland, France and Mallorca, as well as online yoga classes; www.dearbhlaglynn.com.
YOGA IN IBIZA
Whenever we see a photo of Canta Retreats, held in Ibiza, we wish we were there. Pilates teacher Sheena Kennedy has run Canta retreats since 2018, featuring Pilates, hiking and general R&R. Book now for next May: four-day retreats include daily yoga or Pilates sessions, sound meditation, beach days and more, plus vegetarian food prepared by a private chef. You’ll stay at a laidback, pretty finca with pool, surrounded by lavender, olive groves and pine trees. No wonder these trips get booked up fast. Closer to home, you can also find Kennedy teaching classes at Reform Pilates in Blackrock, Co Dublin. www.canta-retreats.com.
SIX DAYS IN MALLORCA
The Escapada Women’s Health & Wellness escape in May 2025 takes place in an elegant farmhouse in Mallorca. This six-day health escape offers a holistic take on health for body and mind, taking in everything from hormonal health to mindful movement, with a focus on traditional Chinese medicine. From sunrise meditations to healthy Mediterranean menus and sea swims, this is a glamorous way to set up your health plan for the year. From €1,550 per person. The good news is that Escapada’s treatments and classes are also available in Dublin; the Dun Laoghaire outpost on Marine Terrace offers yoga, workshops and events, and expert facials. www.escapadahealth.com.
GO SOLO TO LISBON
Dubliner Molly McKeever, who previously lived in Lisbon, is running a women’s wellness retreat in the new year, incorporating yoga, city activities and dinner, staying in a city centre hotel, Brown’s Avenue Hotel, from January 30 to February 2 2025; €1,499 (flights not included). It’s particularly aimed at single women looking to hang out with fellow travellers. Email:info@mollymckeever.com.
DAY SPA IN LONDON
The HVN (pronounced “haven”) in Knightsbridge is London’s newest “wellness retreat”, offering everything from massages to lifestyle coaching (on diet/sleep/menopause) and state-of-the-art treatments, from laser treatments to a Cocoon Room, featuring a Hydro Bed: lie on a warm water mattress at the optimum temperature of 38 degrees and experience Ayurveda-inspired massage, exfoliation, envelopments, hammam or even a Vichy rain shower. www.the-hvn.com.