A Wellness Retreat to Scotland
31st January 2024
A wellness retreat to Scotland provides individuals with the chance to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes and rejuvenate amidst nature’s tranquillity. When you need a break from the mundane, find sanctuary in reconnecting with yourself in the Scottish countryside.
Scotland serves as an ideal backdrop for a wellness escape: From the rugged beauty of Shetland to the sumptuous luxury of Gleneagles Estate, there are endless opportunities to embark on the perfect wellness retreat. We have compiled an inspirational list below to highlight a few different ways to luxuriate, relax, and reconnect in Scotland.
Sauna
The benefits of sauna use extend beyond mere relaxation, encompassing a spectrum of physiological and psychological advantages. Studies suggest that regular sauna sessions can even promote cardiovascular health by enhancing blood circulation. Additionally, heat exposure prompts the release of endorphins, fostering a sense of calmness and stress relief. The relaxation of muscles and joints alleviates tension and can promote an overall sense of well-being.
There are a number of saunas across Scotland that allow visitors the chance to soak in these benefits while enjoying expansive views of the surrounding areas.
In one of the most remote corners of Scotland in Shetland lies Haar Sauna. Inspired by Scandinavian culture, Haar was created as Scotland’s first mobile sauna to provide a space for people to relax and socialise while connecting with the outdoors and wellness. It is situated at St. Ninians Beach, a remarkable sand strip beach with water on both sides. There is no better way to enjoy a trip to the beach than combining it with a trip to the Haar Sauna.
In a slightly different setting, the Taybank’s Braan Sauna in Dunkeld is really something special. Overlooking the river Tay, the Taybank is a bar and restaurant with rooms, which has a beer garden that now features a sauna. The views along the riverside are unrivalled and this social spot is a unique place to relax and recuperate with friends.
Wilderness Retreat
Alladale Wilderness Reserve, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, stands as a testament to the rejuvenating power of nature. Beyond its picturesque scenery, Alladale provides a haven for those seeking respite and reconnection with the natural world. Guests can immerse themselves in the therapeutic benefits of the reserve, engaging in outdoor activities such as guided hikes, wildlife spotting, and stargazing. The reserve’s commitment to conservation and sustainable practices shows its dedication to preserving the unique biodiversity of the Scottish Highlands.
Alladale’s luxurious accommodation provides the perfect balance to the expansive wilderness that surrounds it. A stay here is a transformative experience, where you can exist in harmony with nature while learning about all of the hard work that goes into preserving and re-wilding the estate.
Mindful Walking and Birdwatching
The impressive Forsinard Flow nature reserve, managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), offers a captivating blend of unspoiled wilderness and dedicated conservation efforts. Forsinard Flows, a key component of the Flow Country, is renowned for its blanket bog ecosystem, serving as a haven for unique plant and animal species. The reserve’s well-maintained boardwalks and trails provide visitors with an immersive experience, allowing them to explore this fragile yet resilient habitat without causing harm. Birdwatching enthusiasts can revel in the opportunity to spot rare avian species, including the elusive red-throated diver and the iconic golden eagle.
Birdwatching has been hailed as a brilliant way to engage with mindfulness in an active way, stimulating the mind and senses. It encourages people to pay attention to the wildlife around them and appreciate all creatures big and small. It is a wonderful way to practice mindfulness in a way that is fun and promotes adult learning and observation skills.
Spa Break
Within the walls of the renowned Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, the Gleneagles Spa stands as a pinnacle of refined relaxation. A fusion of modern luxury and traditional elegance, the spa offers an array of meticulously curated treatments designed to promote well-being. The spa’s state-of-the-art facilities, including a thermal suite and hydrotherapy pool, foster a space where guests can escape the demands of daily life and revitalise. In 2024, Gleneagles marks its centenary, a testament to its impeccable legacy and ability to stay ahead of the game in the luxury resort industry. As they celebrate their 100th year, a stay at Gleneagles and a visit to the spa promises to be a memorable experience.
There are so many ways to practice wellness and mindfulness on your trip to Scotland. While we have named but a few in this blog post, there are many more incredible places to visit on a wellness retreat. The beauty of working with Away from the Ordinary is that we create truly bespoke itineraries based on your specific desires. To start planning your dream wellness retreat to Scotland, simply get in touch to start a conversation.
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