Journey into nature and self at an Irish wellness retreat
Ireland is fast becoming the go-to destination for travellers seeking meaningful escape, connection to nature, and space for personal renewal.
The Deerstone Luxury Eco Hideaway, Co. Wicklow
The island of Ireland’s stunning landscape has long made it a magnet for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the busyness of daily life. Now with the global trend towards slower, more intentional travel, it is gaining a reputation as a premier destination for transformative travel offering unique retreats and experiences that give people a path to inner discovery as well as outward engagement.
From wild coastal hideaways to forest-based sanctuaries, wellness retreats across the island present travellers with a wonderful choice of places to stay, rest and reflect. Here’s a look at some of the best retreats happening this year.
1. Skelligs Retreat – County Kerry
This Irish farm, located on the rugged Wild Atlantic Way, offers a sustainable sanctuary for rest and renewal. Named for the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Skellig Islands, which rise in the ocean nearby, it offers curated three- or seven-day retreats that include relaxation, mindfulness and creative activities as well as opportunities for sea-swimming and hiking in the raw beauty of the surrounding landscape.
2. The Deerstone Luxury Eco Hideaway – County Wicklow
Staying in luxury eco-conscious accommodation with fabulous views over the gorgeous Wicklow Mountains is just part of the Deerstone experience. There is also the first-class locally sourced food and a wide range of activities that give travellers the chance to enjoy authentic and memorable indoor and outdoor experiences. From hiking, biking and bush craft to forest bathing, foraging, guided meditation, sound healing and yoga, Deerstone offers a myriad of ways to be inspired and re-energised. In May (23–25), the Open Your Divine Heart Retreat will focus on emotional healing and self-discovery.
Sunset Over the Lakes Near Derrylin, Co Fermanagh
3. The Emerald Isle Retreat – Clontarf Castle, Dublin
Historic twelfth-century Clontarf Castle is the quintessentially Irish setting for The Emerald Isle Retreat (24–29 July) presenting daily yoga and meditation sessions and optional Reiki appointments. The retreat is a mix of inward focus and outward exploration and includes award-winning dining experiences and guided tours of Dublin and Belfast that feature visits to cultural highlights in both cities.
4. Lake Isle Retreats – County Fermanagh
Sitting on the shores of tranquil Lough Erne, Lake Isle Retreats provides year-round affordable retreats that encourage people to switch off from the digital world and connect with their inner self through a range of practices. These include yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, forest and lakeland walks, and silent contemplation. Massage sessions are also available to help the body relax and participants on the retreats have the opportunity to visit the nearby Hare Krishna temple on Rath Island. In September (26–28) a Relax and Restore retreat includes massage, meditation and lakeside walks.
Carlingford, Co Louth
5. Celtic Calm Meditation & Yoga Retreat – Delphi Valley, County Mayo
The dramatic scenery of the Delphi Valley in Connemara provides the spectacular backdrop for this unique week-long retreat (6–12 September) that is designed to rejuvenate body, mind, and spirit. With daily meditation, yoga sessions, walking meditations, and opportunities for hiking, kayaking, or cycling in this incredible landscape, it is the opportunity to combine soulful reflection with immersion in nature. Accommodation is in the luxurious four-star Delphi Resort, which also has an award-winning spa.
6. Hatha + Hikes in the Hillsides – Carlingford, County Louth
Limited to 12 guests, this intimate retreat (23–29 September) will take place in the serene countryside around the pretty medieval town of Carlingford. The Eagles Rock retreat house has wonderful views of the Cooley Mountains and participants will relish the meals made from locally sourced ingredients. The retreat offers a combination of yoga practices and guided hikes, as well as excursions to the Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Belfast, and an overnight stay in Dublin.