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Three top spa treatments
We asked the experts at The Village Boutique and Spa in Malta to share their top three most requested treatments and explain the science behind them.
From wild swimming to yoga on the beach, there are endless choices when it comes to connecting with nature. We picked out three wellbeing breaks to rejuvenate the mind and body.
Thermal spa and wild swimming in Ayrshire, Scotland
Set by the beach on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast, the family-run Waterside Hotel has unveiled a new spa complete with thermal area where you can unwind and take in the views across the water to the Isle of Arran.
De-stress in the hydro pool and soak up this spectacular setting from the outdoor sauna, then cool off with a cold drench bucket. Get toasty around the firepit and saunter through the spa garden for a walk along the beach. Wild swimmers love this spot, if you’re ready to brave the temperatures.
Indoors, you’ll find pampering treatments, a four-person Rasul experience and another thermal area. To push the boat out, stay in the Kilmory Suite, complete with its own balcony hot tub so you can bask in the scenery. In the restaurant, savour local dishes like Scottish salmon and West Coast mussels to top off your coastal spa retreat.
The Waterside is just 40 minutes from Glasgow by car, or take the train to West Kildbride.
Silence and contemplation in the North York Moors, England
Leave the frantic pace of everyday life behind with a silent retreat in the North York Moors National Park.
Yoga, breathwork, meditation and mindfulness are all on the menu at this five-day escape at The Tree Relaxation Retreat. Speaking, reading and using tech however are not permitted.
Once you’re settled in on your first evening and the gong sounds, it’s golden silence all the way.
Established over 25 years ago, The Tree is set in the North Yorkshire village of Rosedale East – prime position for exploring the surrounding moors.
Food is grown on site or sourced nearby, and guests can relax with a hot tub, sauna and cold plunge amidst the beautiful gardens after yoga or contemplation in the old chapel.
Retreats are offered throughout the year, or you can visit on a bed and breakfast basis.
Yoga in the hidden gardens of Anglesey, Wales
At Zest Life on the island of Anglesey, guests practise yoga amidst spectacular gardens, swim under the waterfall, and enjoy seasonal food prepared from homegrown produce.
Set on an estate spanning 21 acres of parkland, it’s easy to reach via Chester by road, or Bangor by rail, but feels a world away from the chaos of modern life. A sense of order and tranquility envelop you from the start.
Accommodation is simple but not spartan and there’s a cosy living room where you’ll mingle with fellow guests by the open log fire. Whether going solo or with a group, you immediately feel connected. From hikes along the stunning beaches of the Menai Strait, like Newborough, to communal dining (no alcohol) at the shared table, it’s brilliant in its simplicity.
Inclusive in every sense, your level of yoga experience doesn’t matter; this retreat is like a warm embrace that leaves you wanting to return time and again.
Fancy a retreat with Zest Life? Check out our reader offer.
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