Healing Holidays and wellness retreats on the Isle of Wight

More than ever, travellers are looking to use holidays as an opportunity to boost their sense of wellbeing and improve their mindset, taking part in mentally and physically restorative activities to instill a sense of calm. We are proud to provide the link to one of the UK’s oldest and most serene wellness destinations – the Isle of Wight. With its abundance of wide-open spaces, awe-inspiring nature and diverse wellness experiences, a trip to the Isle of Wight offers the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life.

The Isle of Wight’s naturally calming countryside, rugged coastal paths and local wellness practitioners have secured the Island’s position as one of the country’s leading wellness destinations. Just 22 minutes away from the mainland with Wightlink, the Island’s eco-friendly ferry service, the Isle of Wight feels a world away from daily life.

For a wellness-boosting island escape without the need to pack a passport, the Isle of Wight is the perfect option.

Farm stays offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of cities. Take a break from the noise and stress of urban life. Unwind and recharge in a rural setting.

Godshill Park Farm offers a variety of retreats throughout the year, including yoga, pilates, energy medicine, sewing weekends, and Dementia Adventures on the Isle of Wight. The retreats provide a warm and welcoming environment, locally sourced food and experienced teachers. Guests can add special treatments like massage, reiki, and facials to enhance their retreat experience too. Retreats typically start on Friday with tea & cake, followed by sessions and outdoor activities.  The farm’s position on a network of footpaths and bridleways is an extra bonus, allowing guests to explore the farmland, downs and walkways to the coast, meaning there are always opportunities for mindful moments in nature.

Nettlecombe Farm, located on the southern side of the Isle of Wight, offers luxurious self-catering holiday accommodation, coarse fishing, and wellness retreats. This working farm features three fishing lakes and opportunities to interact with various farm animals such as alpacas, donkeys, goats, reindeer, and an emu. The farm provides a beautiful and friendly setting, perfect for unwinding. Choose from fully-organised day workshops and weekend retreats, or book a midweek stay and enjoy on-site yoga classes taking place Monday-Thursday at your leisure.

Island-based wellness brand Balance + Glo team up with Eddies Surf Academy to bring Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga to the Isle of Wight during the summer months.  SUP yoga helps build core strength, improves flexibility and calms the mind – all while taking in the stunning surroundings of a quiet spot on the River Yar.

The classes are led by Jenny Stewart, a qualified SUP yoga teacher, and Eddie’s team, who are certified lifeguards and paddle experts. Sessions include SUP equipment rental, the SUP Yoga session, a SUP paddle experience, and a treat from Balance + Glo. Classes are suitable for all levels and abilities, for ages 16 and above, regardless of prior yoga or paddle board experience. So check the dates and book your stay in the western part of the Island to make the most of the experience.

Swimming in open-water is unrivalled for its mental health benefits, and the UK’s waters are no exception – scientists say that being immersed in cold water three times a week can increase white blood cell counts, helping to fight infection, boost immunity and activate antibodies. Even complete beginners can get a handle on the benefits and challenges of cold water swims with Emma’s Otters, an Isle of Wight business offering open water coaching in one of the peaceful lakes in Rookley, surrounded by trees and offering stunning vantage points. Sessions are hosted by an open water coach and an open water lifeguard to ensure safety and confidence for swimmers of all levels. Once swimmers have mastered the basics in the lake, the Isle of Wight’s many beautiful beaches await, promising as much open water swimming as visitors could wish for.

Forest Bathing helps folk digitally detox, gain perspective and forge a connection with nature. Forest Bathing Isle of Wight is run by a local specialist, utilising the Island’s abundant forests as a natural setting for wellness therapies, such as sound-healing sessions, guided meditations, creativity exercises and simple silence. These are paired with mindful walking routes to create an immersive experience in the Island’s forests. The company offers bespoke small group and one-to-one sessions with its founder, Anthea Payne, an energy healer working to restore balance in both humans and animals. Sessions are tailored to personal goals or issues, exploring the Island’s rich countryside but ultimately guiding bathers to connect with it on a deeper, restorative level. The company also works to protect the Island’s forests: for every forest bathing session booked, one tree is planted by TreeSisters.

Forget pampering and meditation; for some people the best way to unwind is by learning something new. So if you’re looking for a sense of achievement, a confidence boost and broadened horizons from your break, then the Isle of Wight’s tranquil environment and soul-nurturing scenery make it an ideal location for enriching experiences.

Tiny Homes Holidays offers carefully curated courses that align with their sustainable ethos. These courses provide an inspirational and unique experience and take place in The Studio, a peaceful and welcoming space with a kitchen area and a woodburning stove. Previous workshops have included writers’ talks, craft workshops, cooking demonstrations, and jewellery making.

The Grange is a charming Georgian country residence that provides cosy 4-star guest lodgings. Constructed during the 1830s, this picturesque house is nestled in the idyllic village of Shanklin, which was a favored destination among Victorians seeking the health benefits of sea bathing. The Grange hosts regular weekend retreats and in the past has offered writing, mosaics and comedy workshops.