9 - 15 June 2024
10% REDUCTION ON NEW BOOKINGS.
Immerse yourself in Alladale's 23,000 acres of regenerative landscapes, while integrating the breath and movement techniques of both yoga and dance with instructor Wen Dai.
MEET WEN
Wen Dai (@yogetoverit) is a yoga teacher and retreat leader, whose practises include Ashtanga Vinyasa, Rocket Yoga, Mandala Vinyasa and Restorative Yoga.
Wen is also a former professional dancer and a graduate of Brown, Yale and Georgetown Law. When moving between law firms and in search of movement that would complement long hours of desk-work, she took her first Rocket yoga class and was instantly drawn to the physical and breath practice, the warmth of the yoga community, and the relevance of yoga philosophy to modern life.
Wen has classes at Equinox Gym, Animo Yoga, 7Breaths Meditation and Dig Me Fitness, as well as online. Her classes are open level and integrate the breath and movement techniques of both yoga and dance to offer a playful challenge to the body and mind.
THE RETREAT
Reconnect with nature and yourself, while enjoying the company of retreat companions and new friends.
Healthy and energising meals are created from our vegetable gardens, along with Alladale's lean, wild venison and local seafood. We will also offer smoothies, fresh-pressed juices, and healthy snacks.
Each morning before breakfast, start the day with Yoga in the Willow Centre or another stunning location depending on weather conditions. Your consciously prepared breakfast will then be served after you have had time to freshen up.
Arrival Day
Welcome lunch and Retreat introduction. Afternoon guided walk to stretch your legs after the morning's travel. We will pass the historic Croick Church, Amat old woods and gardens, before arriving at Glencalvie Falls where we will look for leaping salmon. We will return to the Lodge in time to freshen up and relax before supper. Remember, we have very long days at this time of the year, with sunset at l0.30pm!
Day 2
Begin your exploration and introduction to Alladale with Reserve Manager, Innes Macneil on a walk to Glen Mhor to learn about Alladale's pioneering reforestation programs. We will have a fabulous wild lunch, followed by a visit to Alladale's innovative and ground-breaking Aquaponic Garden centre and a wild swim. On our return, we have early evening entertainment with our pianist, followed by a healthy supper and a relaxing evening.
Day 3
A guided ascent to the stunning 'Middle Ridge' with ranger Ronnie Macleod. On a clear day, you can see both the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea from the same point, and an opportunity to spot golden eagles, ptarmigan and mountain hare. On our return to the Lodge your massage therapist is waiting to ease away any aches and pains, with the option of enjoying a sauna. Supper will be followed by a relaxing evening and a choice of documentary film screening, chess, snooker or reading one of our many wonderful nature books.
Day 4
Today we visit Handa Island Nature Reserve, and enjoy a good walk about. Handa is well known for its puffin colony and is host to one of the largest seabird breeding colonies in north-western Europe. The island's magnificent sea cliffs are an ideal location from which to spot dolphins, minke whale and other sealife. On our return, supper and a relaxing evening awaits.
Day 5
Today we will meet Kate Heightman from The European Nature Trust and learn more about the charity's work in Scotland and further afield. Kate will then guide you into Glen Alladale and explore the magical trail that takes you to Skiach Woods, a remote fragment of Scotland's ancient Caledonian pinewood at the head of the glacial valley. You will learn about a unique habitat and home to rare and specialised species including pine martens, red squirrels, lichens, fungi and twinflower. After a picnic lunch we will participate in the extraordinary, multi-sensorial therapy of Forest Bathing with Donnah Murray. In the afternoon, we make a stop at the Scottish Wildcat breeding centre, where head Ranger, Ryan Munro will explain the project. Perhaps there is time for a wild swim before your second massage of the week. Supper and movie night.
Day 6
Before breakfast, take part in Sound Bowl Meditation with Donnah. This morning, we will take an excursion, hosted by Hugh Fullerton-Smith, to the stunning Loch Fleet Nature Reserve and a walk along the amazing Caul Links beach. Spend leisurely time in the beautiful Cathedral town of Dornoch before returning to the Reserve for lunch. Afternoon activities include pickleball, biking, wild swimming, clay bird shooting, fly fishing, enjoy a last walk into the woods or read a book before a late optional afternoon yoga class. Henry Fosbooke, talented local musician and story teller, will join us for our campfire barbeque supper.
Day 7
Final morning Yoga class with Wen followed by breakfast and departure.
The Details
9 - 15 June 2024
10% REDUCTION ON NEW BOOKINGS.
All prices are for room sharing. Single room supplement applies. To register your interest contact enquiries@alladale.com - or alternatively, click here to return to the Retreats page.
