Yoga & Wild Swimming Scotland

APRIL 30–MAY 3 • 2027 • 4 DAYS

Loch swims. Sauna. Stillness.

Set in the Cairngorms, this retreat invites you to step away from the noise and into a landscape of forests, lochs, rivers, and fresh mountain air. It is a chance to slow down, reset, and reconnect with yourself through daily cold-water swimming, yoga, and time in nature.

Each day includes guided wild swimming in clear, cold waters, with expert local support as you explore hidden spots and memorable Highland locations. One swim takes you towards the island castle on Loch an Eilein, offering a truly special experience in the Scottish outdoors.

Back at the river’s edge, you return to a welcoming country house where the pace softens. A private riverside sauna, quiet surroundings, and space to rest help create a sense of ease throughout your stay.

This retreat is ideal if you are craving fresh Highland air, open landscapes, and a more grounded way to travel. It is also well suited to anyone curious about wild swimming, but looking for thoughtful guidance and a supportive small-group setting.

PRICES FROM £875 pp

ROOM OPTIONS

• Shared twin room - £875 pp
• Shared double room - £875 pp
• Standard single room - £925 pp
• Premium single room - £975 pp
• Private double room - £1,075 pp

All rooms have shared bathrooms. Reserve your place with a £250 deposit. The remaining balance can be paid in monthly instalments or in full at the time of booking. Spaces are limited.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• 3 nights’ accommodation
• Yoga equipment use, including mats, blocks, and props
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all wholesome and plant-based
• Unlimited fruit, organic teas, coffee, and fruit water
• 6 yoga sessions
• 2 guided swim excursions
• Transport to and from swim spots
• Daily 2-hour riverside sauna access
• Unlimited river dips
• Linen and towels
• Friendly host support from the team throughout your stay

DATES

APRIL 30–MAY 3, 2027

Late April in the Cairngorms brings crisp air, quiet landscapes, and the first signs of spring. Daytime temperatures are typically 10–16°C, with sea temperature at 8–10°C.

STAY

The retreat takes place on a 200-acre estate in the heart of the Cairngorms, within an Edwardian country house surrounded by forest, mountains, and the River Spey. Restored with original features and relaxed charm, it offers a calm and characterful setting to settle in and feel at home.

When weather allows, open lawns provide space for alfresco yoga. A rustic barn is also available for indoor practice in a simple, grounded environment.

ACTIVITY

SWIM

Swimming is at the heart of this retreat. Each day brings a new place to explore, from still lochs to flowing rivers and hidden waterfalls. With Alice from Swim Wild providing expert local guidance, every swim is supported, allowing you to fully relax into the experience.

YOGA

Suitable for all levels, the yoga programme includes a morning vinyasa flow to awaken the body and an evening restorative practice to help you unwind. Sessions are led by Zest Life founder Laura Bell, who brings more than 20 years of teaching experience. Rooted in Ashtanga and developed into a fluid vinyasa style, her teaching focuses on strength, space, grounding, and presence.

WELLNESS

SAUNA

A short five-minute walk from the house leads to the river Spey, where a private sauna overlooks the water. It is the perfect place to warm up, slow down, and let the body soften after time in the cold.

EAT

Meals are plant-based, seasonal, and designed to support recovery after active days outdoors. Zest Life chef Kimberly Parsons will prepare fresh dishes that are nourishing and energising. All meals are included, and the retreat is alcohol-free.

TYPICAL DAY

• 7:00 — Rising
• 7:30 — Morning river dip
• 8:00 — Yoga
• 9:30 — Slow breakfast
• 11:00 — Guided swim & explore
• 13:30 — Picnic lunch
• 14:00 — Free time and sauna
• 16:00 — Cake and juice
• 18:00 — Evening yoga
• 19:30 — Dinner
• 20:30 — Relax

GETTING THERE

The nearest station is Aviemore, with direct connections from Edinburgh and Inverness. The venue is about a ten-minute taxi ride from the station. By car, it is an easy drive from the A9, set within a quiet forested estate.

Held in the stunning Scottish Highlands, this retreat offers a rare blend of movement, cold-water immersion, and stillness in a landscape shaped by rivers, forests, and open space.