EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTIFUL WELSH COUNTRYSIDE ON A YOGA & WILD SWIMMING RETREAT
Whether you are planning a healthy hen party, a corporate retreat or simply wish to escape the stress of the modern world, The Zest Life offers an impressive calendar of health and wellness retreats based in the beautiful Welsh countryside. In this article, we experience a typical day on one of their Yoga and Wild Swimming retreats at Plas Cadnant on the Isle of Anglesey.
***
Start your day feeling revitalised with a yoga session in the purpose-built building with underfloor heating and handmade oak beams, followed by a healthy breakfast that will set you up for an event-filled day. If the sun is shining, yoga and meditation may take place in the open air, surrounded by the beautiful walled garden. It is vital that guests are fuelled with enough energy for their weekend adventures, so the natural goodness of the sugar-, dairy- and gluten-free vegetarian menu is sure to fulfil this need. Detoxify yourself even further with a selection of herbal teas and fresh fruit. Prepare your mind and body in the calm of the morning before throwing yourself into the invigorating activities that await you in the afternoon.
Once your breakfast has settled and your chakras have been realigned, your guide will take you through the picturesque valley on a walk that is tailored to the preferences of the group. For the more adventurous visitor, wild swims offer the thrilling opportunity to dive into the bracing waters of the Welsh coast or plunge into a cascading waterfall. Whatever your level of thrillseeker or swimming ability, the personalised swims are guaranteed to bring you closer to nature and appreciate all that the Welsh countryside has to offer. A much deserved picnic lunch is provided, followed by free time in which you can take advantage of the spa treatments on offer. Treat yourself to a full body or Indian head massage by an expertly trained therapist or simply relax in the gardens with a healthy afternoon snack.
A more relaxing, meditative yoga class awaits you at the end of the day. After the action-packed activity in the afternoon, unwinding in the peaceful setting of the modern oak-framed yoga building is more than earned. Once you are comfortably relaxed, it is time to indulge in a nutritious dinner featuring local, high quality ingredients to ensure that your meal will not only be delicious but also healthy, nourishing and detoxifying. Following dinner, you are free to spend the rest of the evening however you desire.
Hailed as one of the most amazing retreats on the Isle of Anglesey, Plas Cadnant features five Grade II Listed cottages surrounded by 200 acres of parkland. The largest property, the Coach House, boasts a wood-burning stove and a log fire with enough room for 11 people to relax after a day of wild swimming and yoga. The charming character of the 900 year old cottages remains, enhanced with luxury modern facilities such as power showers and contemporary kitchens. Outstanding views of Snowdon and beautifully manicured gardens make this tranquil country estate the perfect place to enjoy a weekend escape. For more information on upcoming retreats, please visit: www.thezestlife.co.uk
A retreat where nature is your swimming pool
The serene island of Anglesey offers every swimming experience from adrenalin-packed coastal swims to the tranquil waters of picturesque lakes. Enchanting coves, harbours and cliffs are just a few of the stunning sights that a visit to the Welsh coastline has to offer. You may also catch a glimpse of Britain’s largest population of bottlenose dolphins that reside in the waters around the country where you’re never more than an hour from the sea. Here are some of the many highlights to look forward.
Coastal Swimming:
A certain level of bravery is needed to take on a wild swim in the cold, unpredictable open water of the sea. If you are willing to take the plunge you can rest assured that you are in the safe hands of swimming leader Gabby Dickenson, who learned to swim off the coast of Anglesey before she could walk. The island is home to one of the first ever wild swims to be documented back in Roman times. The more relaxed you are, the more confident you will be, so enjoy taking in the stunning sights of the mountainous coast of North Wales.
Lakes:
For a more relaxed approach to wild swimming, revel in the beauty of some of Snowdonia’s stunning lakes nestled in the valleys of majestic mountains. With over 100 lakes of more than an acre in size throughout the largest national park in Wales, the possibilities are endless. Llyn Tegid, the park’s largest lake, is home to the unique Gwyniad – a sub-species of European white fish which was trapped in the lake over 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. Floating on a natural, serene lake in one of the most stunning areas of mountainous beauty in the UK is surely a unique and surreal experience not to be missed.
Waterfalls:
There are fewer things more calming than the sound of fresh, crystal-clear water cascading down a mountain side. Enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the region’s most stunning waterfalls for a less perilous but undoubtedly just as unique wild swimming experience. Snowdonia features countless waterfalls hidden deep in its sprawling valleys, which Gabby and her fellow expert swimming enthusiasts can lead you to. From a dip in the plunge pool to an invigorating shower underneath the torrent, waterfalls offer a peaceful, picturesque and revitalising wild swimming experience for those not quite brave enough to take on the daunting open ocean.