We appreciate you’ll want to pack as light as possible but there are a few things we believe will make your stay more comfortable & so we hope the suggestions below help but do ask if you’ve any questions.
First you’ll want to know that clean, fresh yoga mats, blankets, blocks & belts are provided so no need to bring these unless you want to bring your own. Also, our yoga hotel offers a reasonably priced laundry service so it’s very easy to pack lightly & have your things freshened up whilst you’re with us.
Yoga & Hiking and Yoga Pilates Holidays (see below for our Rest & Rejuvenate Summer Retreat & UK Retreats)
- On both the Yoga Hiking & Yoga Pilates Holidays a guided walk is included on your first day so a pair of trainers or walking shoes/boots are perfect. Make sure they have a good grip on the sole & good arch support to avoid aches in your knees & back.
- A long mountain hike is included in the Yoga & Hiking Holidays for which we recommend pair of long trousers (prickly plants!) and good, sturdy walking boots (or sturdy walking shoes) with a ridged sole & ankle support. We stress this as you will be walking on loose stones & the ground can be uneven hence ankle support can reduce the risk of a twisted ankle injury. If you decide to buy new shoes please, wear them in before you join us as there’s nothing worse than blistered feet.
- Socks for the walks & blisters just in case – Compeed plasters are often regarded as the best.
- For all holidays, if you have knee, ankle or lower back issues, some collapsible walking poles would make the walks more comfortable for you.
- Refillable water bottle – we’ll make sure you are topped up before the guided hikes.
- Lightweight rucksack & a rain jacket – just in case!
- Any medications or tablets you normally need plus, insect repellent if you find they’re normally ‘attracted’ to you
- Swimsuit, flip flops, sun hat, sunglasses & sun cream/sun block.
- 3 sets of yoga/Pilates wear – thickness according to the season.
- Flip-flops – or similar – ideal for padding around the hotel & pool.
- If you’re thinking of taking swims in the sea, pack some beach shoes as the shoreline is stony so your entry/exit from the sea will be more comfy with beach shoes.
- A European adaptor & USB lead to recharge any devices you plan to bring.
- If you have sensitive wrists or knees, bring some padding for use in the classes as we will be on hands/knees sometimes. Good sports shops & Amazon sell some great pads that are light & easy to pack.
- A hairdryer, shampoo, soap, bath gel & towels are provided in your room together with a pool towel so no need to pack these. But, you might want to bring hair conditioner, body lotion, toothbrush & toothpaste.
- Dress code is casual throughout so casual day & night clothes are fine. A sweatshirt/ hoodie/jumper would be useful in the cooler months together with cosy socks to keep your feet warm during yoga relaxation.
- If you plan to join the optional bike ride, padded cycling shorts would be comfy but are not essential. Cycling helmets are provided.
- A journal & pen to jot down any ideas, thoughts & plans that surface whilst you’re with us. You’ll be surprised what comes to the surface when you give your mind a chance to slow down!
- Don’t forget Pampering! We hope you’ll take advantage of having some down time during the retreat to pamper yourself. You might like to bring things such as a nourishing hair mask, a face masque, a foot scrub & perhaps some uplifting essential oil such as rosemary to sprinkle on your bath/shower tray so the scent is released when the water hits the oil. Just bring any pampering products you don’t normally have time to use at home.
Note: Our yoga hotel does not offer a currency exchange service but ATMs & banks are nearby if you prefer not to bring cash with you. Any optional activities, airport transfers & therapies you book are all paid in Euros cash. Any extras you incur at the hotel (drinks, snacks) can be paid on departure with a credit card or Euros cash.
Rest & Rejuvenate Summer Retreat, Spain
- All as above except no need for mountain boots/shoes as we’ll not be hiking out – it’s generally too hot in the Summer months. However a pair of comfortable shoes would be good as we’re sure you’ll want to explore the nearby town & walk along the beach. A beach towel or a throw would be a good idea if you plan to visit the beach plus some water shoes as the beach/shore is a bit stony.
Yoga Flows & Forest Feasts Retreat, UK
- Yoga mat & any props you normally need – ie. blocks, yoga strap, knee pads
- Recharging power pack & lead for your phone – there is no electricity at our camp in the forest & very patchy mobile phone coverage too
- A torch (or head torch) for wandering around the camp at night after the sun has gone down
- Swim costume for wild swims in the lake, at the local weir & use in the onsite sauna
- Footwear suitable for the countryside particularly for walks across the fields to the nearby town for afternoon tea or to explore the many public footpaths on our doorstep
- Slippers or flip flops for wearing inside your accommodation. No dirty shoes beyond the doormat please.
- Warm, comfy clothes to relax in including Pj’s and a hoodie for sitting around the camp fire at night
- Waterproofs in case of chilly/rainy days
- Plenty of fresh drinking water on site so you might like to bring a refillable water bottle
- Yoga clothes appropriate for the season/UK temperature
- A towel & shower gel / shampoo are provided but if bringing your own bathing products please make sure they are bio-degradable
- Insect repellent if you tend to attract seasonal biting critters
- Things for your down time such as something to read, a pack of cards, a note book & pen for journaling, sketch pad & pencils/paints – if you like to draw/paint – plus anything else that will help you relax :)
"Having the extra activities & therapies on offer completes the whole package perfectly. Thank you both so very much for this precious holiday." Tara