Zest Life retreats are deliberately small, typically 8 to 12 guests, and led by experienced teachers with long-standing relationships with the brand. Every retreat combines yoga with nature-based activities such as wild swimming, coastal walking or hiking, in locations chosen for their landscape as much as their facilities. We run retreats both in the UK and internationally, including Norway, Sweden, Ibiza and Morocco, so guests can choose between a closer-to-home experience and a more adventurous overseas escape. Zest Life has been running retreats for over 25 years and is rated 4.8 on Trustpilot from over 515 verified reviews.

Zest Life runs small group yoga, wild swimming, adventure, walking and nature-led wellness retreats. Most retreats combine several of these elements; a typical retreat might include twice-daily yoga, guided sea or lake swims, coastal or mountain walking, breathwork, sauna and nourishing plant-based meals. All retreats are led by Laura Bell and designed to help guests rest, move and reconnect with nature.

Yes. Zest Life has been featured in The Times, Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, Women's Health, Outdoor Swimmer, OM Yoga, Yoga Magazine, Harper's Bazaar and The Guardian. A full press archive is available at zestlife.co.uk/zest-life-press.

Zest Life runs retreats in the UK and internationally. UK locations include Anglesey, the Lake District, North Wales and Yorkshire. International retreats currently include Norway (Senja Island), Sweden (Stockholm Archipelago), Ibiza and Morocco, with new destinations added regularly. Scotland is also part of the programme. The full calendar with all locations and dates is at zestlife.co.uk/explore-retreats.

Most of our guests are first-time retreat guests. A Zest Life retreat is not a bootcamp or a spa day, it sits somewhere between the two. Expect a gentle but purposeful daily rhythm, good food, time in nature, yoga sessions that meet you where you are, and a small group of like-minded women. You will have structured activity and genuine free time. You will be looked after, not managed.

Yes. Solo travel is very common on Zest Life retreats. In fact, the majority of our guests come on their own. Our small group sizes and carefully held format mean you will feel welcomed and connected from the start, without any pressure to be sociable in ways that do not feel natural to you. Many guests tell us that solo retreat travel is one of the best decisions they have ever made.

No. Our retreats welcome all levels, from complete beginners to long-term practitioners. If you have not practised in a while, or you are working around an injury or health consideration, just let us know when you book and your teacher will adapt sessions accordingly. The pace is always guided by the group, and no one is pushed beyond their comfort zone.

This varies by retreat. Yoga retreats are suitable for most fitness levels, if you can walk comfortably and move around without significant restriction, you are likely a good fit. Walking and hiking retreats involve more sustained physical activity, and individual retreat pages specify the terrain and daily distances involved. If you have any specific health considerations, contact us before booking and we will give you an honest assessment.

Most Zest Life retreats run with between 8 and 12 guests. Groups are kept deliberately small so that the teaching is attentive, the pace is unhurried, and guests feel properly looked after rather than lost in a crowd. Solo travellers make up a significant proportion of our guests, you will not be the only person coming on your own.

All retreat prices include accommodation, all meals (typically three meals a day plus snacks), daily yoga sessions, guided activities such as wild swimming, coastal walking or hiking, and use of any on-site facilities such as sauna or hot tub where available. For international retreats, flights and transfers are not included. Each retreat page includes a full inclusions list and guidance on travel to the venue.

UK retreat prices typically start from around £695 for a weekend and £945 for a longer mid-week retreat, depending on room type and location. International retreats vary by destination; prices typically start from £1,295 for a five or six-day overseas retreat. All prices include accommodation, meals and activities. Flights and transfers are not included for international retreats. Full pricing is listed on each individual retreat page.

Yes. All of our retreats offer plant-based menus, inspired by the seasons and made with local, organic ingredients wherever possible. Refined sugar is also limited.

Yes. We can cater for all allergies and intolerances, please inform us on booking.

For Walking & Outdoor Time

Summer: Comfortable walking boots or shoes, lightweight clothing suitable for movement, a warm waterproof jacket, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

Winter: As above, with the addition of waterproof trousers, gloves, and a wool hat for colder conditions.

A small day rucksack is recommended for all outings.

For Yoga & Indoor Comfort

Comfortable, layered clothing for yoga and meditation practices.

Slippers or warm socks for relaxing around the house.

For Water & Wellness Experiences (if applicable)

Swimwear, a towel, and a robe or warm layer for after water-based sessions.

Essentials

A reusable water bottle to keep hydrated throughout your stay.

For Rest & Restoration

A journal or book to enjoy during quieter moments.

Full travel and arrival information is provided for every retreat, including directions, nearest airports, transfer options and what to expect on arrival. You will receive this in your booking confirmation and pre-arrival pack. If you have a specific travel question before booking, contact us directly.