I’ve always hated winter – when I lived full time in the UK as the days began to shorten and the warmth of the sun began to fade, my mind always turned to organising a trip away.
Autumn is a great time to get away, you can take advantage of lower fares after the school holidays end and many destinations that were just a bit too hot in peak Summer are now wonderfully pleasant.
Taking an autumn break is a great opportunity to nourish your body and soul before the approaching long winter sets in.
These 5 magical autumn retreat ideas will leave you revitalised and ready for hibernation
Explore the temples and spirituality of Southeast Asia
A tour of the temples of Asia is sure to reconnect you with your inner peace as well as offer some extended sunshine. Begin your tour in buzzing Bangkok where you will delight not only in temples, but in an impressive array of food and entertainment.
From there, head up to fabulous Chiang Mai, where the Buddhist temples will dazzle as much as they intrigue. A short flight and you’ll be in Siem Reap, Cambodia, to marvel at the incomprehensible majesty of Angkor.
Begin your tour at sunrise over Angkor Wat, where you’ll feel as if you’ve slipped back in time. Your next stop is the astounding Ta Phrom, where nature has been allowed to wreak havoc on the temple’s structure. Before finally exploring the welcoming Bayon, famed for its jovial depictions of faces carved in stone. Read my tips about how to escape the crowds to make the most of your visit to Angkor.
Meditate in India
To really quiet your inner chatter visit an ashram and take a meditation retreat in India. Choose a centre situated in the calm of the mountains and prepare to shed your stress and unease and return to a state of presence and calm.
Rishikesh and Dharamshala in the foothills of the Himalayas are some of the most spiritual areas. Take part in daily practices centred around yoga, meditation, hikes into nature and healing ceremonies. Allow yourself to unwind, take time to reflect and feel the restorative power of meditative practice.
Practise yoga in Mallorca
If you’re more of a yoga-bunny, or aspiring to be one, and want to stay closer to the UK then Mallorca has some world-renowned yoga retreats that are sure to suit.
This is the perfect idea if you are thinking of planning a girls holiday, but want a more holistic experience rather than drinking and nightclubs! Hosted in beautiful villas in the hills of the island, you will be enjoying two yoga workshops a day, activities such as hiking and an inspirational menu of healthy, nourishing food. You’re sure to go home with plenty of positivity and purpose to incorporate into your daily life.
Go hiking in the Lake District
The magnificent beauty of the Lake District is sure to quell any stress. You can drive up after work, check into your own picturesque cottage and prepare for a weekend of downtime. Turn off your mobile phone and get out into nature.
The hiking here is unparalleled for views that will have you doubting if you’re still in the UK, until you reward yourself with a pie and a pint in a traditional country pub. For some cultural escapism, check out the programme at the Theatre by The Lake, surely the most beautiful setting for a theatre you’re ever likely to see.
Go on a spiritual retreat in Peru
Mystical Peru cannot fail to restore tired minds. From impactful Cusco, located in the Andes mountains to the magic of Machu Picchu, the country is steeped in an ancient, shamanic power that will awaken and excite.
Book into a spiritual retreat at Gaia Tree for the opportunity to heal and grow in a safe and nurturing environment. Expect a carefully curated programme of ceremonies and meditation in the untouched jungle of Peru, specifically designed to allow you to embody the transformation you will experience here when you are back in your daily life. See more recommended spiritual yoga retreats in Peru here.
I hope this post has given you some inspiration for mindful escapes perfect for autumn. So before you settle in to winter, why not take some time for yourself to retreat, learn and restore with these autumn getaways.
