Weekend Retreats in Ireland

This page is recommended reading before joining one of our weekend retreats for the first time.

Lake Isle Retreats is led by Tim, with support from his wife Yen and a small team of experienced yoga teachers, cooks and therapists. The intention is simple: to create a peaceful, welcoming space where guests can slow down and step away from everyday life.

Our retreats near Upper Lough Erne in Ireland follow a gentle rhythm. Days include shared yoga, meditation, nourishing food and time outdoors, balanced with plenty of space to rest, walk, enjoy a massage, or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea.

Although the retreats are inspired by traditional spiritual practices, the atmosphere is relaxed rather than formal. Everything is offered softly, and you are free to participate as much or as little as you wish.

The Weekend Flow

Retreats usually begin on Friday afternoon and end on Sunday.

The flow of the weekend typically includes:

• Yoga and meditation sessions
• Time to rest and relax
• Fresh vegetarian meals
• A guided walk in nature
• Optional massage and therapies
• A visit to Inish Rath / Krishna Island
• And more

There is always time built in to unwind, read, or simply enjoy the quiet surroundings. There is never any pressure to join everything. Some guests take part in all activities, while others prefer to rest more and move at their own pace.

Accommodation and Setting

We are based near Upper Lough Erne, surrounded by water, woodland and countryside. The natural environment is a key part of the retreat experience, helping guests soften into a slower pace.

Accommodation is simple, comfortable and designed for rest. The focus is on calmness and care rather than luxury.

Please note that we do not have en suite rooms, except for one twin en suite room.

There are no TVs in the rooms and no Wi-Fi available. For many guests, this becomes one of the most valuable parts of the weekend: a genuine chance to switch off.

You are welcome to bring your own device with downloaded films, e-books or music if you would like something quiet for your personal time.

Time in Nature

A gentle guided walk in nature is part of each retreat. Depending on the weekend, this may include nearby National Trust landscapes such as Crom Estate, Florence Court Estate, Cladagh Glen Nature Reserve, Stairway to Heaven, or peaceful woodland paths in Reilly Woods.

Time outdoors is an important part of the experience. The quiet landscape of County Fermanagh naturally supports stillness, helping the mind slow down and the body settle.

A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere

Most guests are either new to yoga and meditation or returning for another weekend. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and people usually feel comfortable very quickly.

Tim spent several years living in a temple community, and the retreats carry a light influence from that background. At the same time, everything remains simple, accessible and easy to join.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are visiting for the first time, here are some of the questions we are asked most often.

Where is Lake Isle Retreats located?

Lake Isle Retreats is near Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, just over 80 miles (130 km) from both Dublin and Belfast. We have been hosting retreats in this area for more than 20 years.

Who are your retreats suitable for?

Everyone is welcome. Guests come from all walks of life, usually aged 18 and above.

Do I need yoga experience?

Not at all. Many guests have little or no experience with yoga and meditation. All sessions are guided and suitable for beginners as well as more experienced participants.

Can I come alone?

Yes. Most guests attend on their own, and the setting is relaxed and friendly, making it easy to settle in whether you come solo or with others.

What activities are included?

This may vary slightly depending on the retreat, but generally includes yoga, meditation, mindfulness, a short sound bath session, nature walks or forest bathing, talks or discussions, and time to rest, with optional massages available.

Some retreats also include canoeing, hiking, cookery lessons, and the option to visit Krishna Island and experience its culture, depending on the theme. You are free to join as much or as little as you like.

What type of yoga is taught?

Yoga varies depending on the teacher, but it is always suitable for all levels. Sessions usually combine Hatha and restorative yoga with breathwork (pranayama) and guided meditation. Depending on the retreat, you may also experience Vinyasa, Atma or Dru Yoga, with some practices being gentler and others a little more energising.

Can I book additional services such as massage?

Yes. Massage, reflexology and other holistic therapies are usually available and can be booked separately.

What are the prices?

We aim to keep the retreats as affordable as possible.

• £250 or €290 for a single room
• £225 or €260 per person sharing
• £160 or €185 without accommodation

Prices include:

• Two nights accommodation
• All vegetarian meals
• All classes and workshops

How do I book?

Get in touch to let us know which retreat you would like to attend and to check availability. If you wish to book, a deposit of €150 or £125 is requested.

What is the cancellation policy?

A deposit of €150 / £125 per person secures your place. If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 384 hours (16 days) before the retreat for a full refund or transfer your deposit to another retreat.

Within 384 hours, deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. However, if your place is filled, for example from a waiting list, your deposit can be transferred to a future date. Gift vouchers are non-refundable, but may be passed on to someone else. Once a voucher is used to book, the same cancellation terms apply.

What time should I arrive?

Arrival is anytime that suits you between around 4.00pm and 6.00pm.

Can I stay an extra night?

Staying an extra night after the retreat is sometimes possible, depending on availability. Extra nights before the retreat are not offered.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable clothing for yoga, layers for outdoors depending on the season, suitable footwear such as wellies or boots, and any personal items you may need.

Do you provide yoga mats?

Yes. Yoga mats, bolsters, eye pillows and belts are provided. You are also welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

Should I bring cash?

Yes, it is a good idea to bring some cash for extras such as treatments or items from the gift shop, as there is no card machine.

What kind of food is served?

All meals are freshly prepared and fully vegetarian, with no meat, fish or eggs. The food is nourishing, wholesome and full of flavour, combining traditional vegetarian dishes with familiar Western favourites. Herbal teas are available throughout your stay.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. Dairy-free, gluten-free, allergies and intolerances can usually be catered for. Please share your dietary needs when booking so they can be accommodated.

Can children attend?

No. These are adult group retreats. All guests must be 16 years or older, and teenagers should have a genuine interest in the weekend activities. Children may be accepted for group bookings of family and friends attending together.

Can I smoke or drink alcohol?

Smoking outside the retreat centre is fine. As for alcohol, if someone has a drinking problem, we ask that they do not bring alcohol. Otherwise, a glass of wine among a few friends is not a problem.

What if I have more questions?

Just get in touch — we are always happy to help.

If it feels right for you, we would love to welcome you.