YEOTOWN: DEVON’S LIFE-CHANGING RETREAT
This eco-chic farmhouse retreat surrounded by rolling hills in North Devon invigorates with its nature-based activities, holistic treatments and detox diet.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL
The cosy stone cottage warmed by wood burners may suggest holing up but the five-day “Yeotox” is a back-toback itinerary of activities such as surfing, 25-mile cycle rides led by retired military personnel, and outdoor fitness circuits. Owners Mercedes Sieff and her husband Simon are passionate about natural, non-gimmicky well-being and the emphasis is on helping you take control of your health. Days start with sunrise yoga for all abilities. In the afternoons, choose from pilates or archery before qigong (Chinese martial arts meets meditation), a soak in the hot tub and a deep tissue massage. The Yeotox diet is a more balanced take on a detox – yes, there are pressed juices in every colour of the rainbow, but the food is delicious, nutritionally dense and mostly plant-based, except for fish.
YOU’LL NEVER FORGET
Leaving your timetable in the hands of others. Apart from having a 7.30am start time, your schedule is a mystery that you uncover throughout the day, but with enough time to prepare for each pursuit. It’s strangely liberating.
EXPERT TIPS
The “relaxation” practices might be “out there” but keep an open mind as all are tried, tested and scientifically proven ways of dealing with stress.
There is meditation one evening, group singing lessons the next, plus breath work, hypnotherapy, sound baths and tai chi. New one-to-one sessions such as reiki and pain management can supplement the daily Yeotox programme.
HOW TO DO IT
It’s a two-hour train journey from London Paddington to Tiverton Parkway, where you will be collected. By car it’s a 45-minute drive from Junction 27 of the M5 – three or fours hours from London, depending on traffic. Many guests fly into Heathrow/Gatwick but the nearest airport is Exeter International, a 50-minute drive from Yeotown.
Retreats run every week from Wednesday to Sunday, and cost from £1,950pp all-inclusive for the five-day programme. This includes station transfers, all meals, snacks and juices, accommodation, activities and massages (yeotown.com).
Overseas holidays and travel within the UK are subject to restrictions. See Page 2.