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A Mindful Escape Into The Heart Of The New ForestStep into a calmer pace of life with our Hike, Camp and Canoe in the New Forest Retreat, a restorative weekend escape set within a private 40-acre wildlife sanctuary. Surrounded by peaceful lakes, ancient woodland, and free-roaming deer, this protected space offers the rare privilege of true seclusion. With exclusive use of the sanctuary from the moment we arrive on Friday, you will have time to explore the trails, sit by the water, try wild swimming, or simply unwind.
On Saturday we head out on a guided walk led by an experienced local leader who knows the New Forest’s wildlife, history, and quiet pockets of beauty. Sunday brings a chance to see the landscape from a new perspective as we paddle open canoes along the tranquil Beaulieu River, a secluded and wildlife-rich stretch of water that offers a gentle, calming close to the weekend.
Throughout the retreat, wholesome meals cooked over open fires in Dutch ovens keep everyone fuelled and feeling cared for.
This weekend isn’t about rushing or cramming in activities. It is about presence, fresh air, and meaningful experiences. If you are looking for a mindful adventure that blends gentle activity with genuine stillness, we would love to welcome you to the New Forest for a restorative break that leaves you grounded, refreshed, and inspired.
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Friday 1 May 2026
Your retreat begins at 5 pm, when we welcome you into a private 40-acre wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the New Forest. Once you have settled into camp, there is time to explore the lakes, wander the woodland trails, or simply take in the peace and quiet that comes with having the sanctuary to ourselves. As night falls, we gather around the fire to enjoy a wholesome meal cooked in Dutch ovens and sit beneath the stars, easing into a slower, more mindful pace.
Saturday 2 May 2026
After breakfast, we head out on a guided walk led by an experienced New Forest leader who knows the area’s wildlife, ancient woodland, and hidden corners intimately. The afternoon is yours. Take a refreshing wild swim in one of the lakes, rest by the water, explore the sanctuary further, or bring your own paddleboard to enjoy a private lake at your own pace. We finish the day back at camp with another fireside meal and time to unwind by the fire.
Sunday 3 May 2026
We start the morning unhurried before making our way to the beautiful Beaulieu River. Your hosts, experienced outdoor leaders with a strong safety and guiding background, will take you on a peaceful paddle in open canoes. The river is rich in wildlife and offers a completely different perspective of the New Forest’s natural beauty. We wrap up the retreat at around 1 pm, departing from Beaulieu so you can head home feeling restored, grounded, and refreshed.
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Accommodation Information
Your home for the weekend is a peaceful 40-acre wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the New Forest, chosen specifically for its calm atmosphere and close connection to nature. This private space—complete with lakes, ancient woodland, and quietly roaming deer—offers a truly grounding setting for a mindfulness retreat. With spacious pitches, experienced hosts on hand, and a friendly, relaxed feel, the sanctuary provides a safe and comfortable base from which to enjoy every part of the weekend.
You’ll be staying in roomy three-person tents (Vango Helvellyn 300s or similar), with one tent allocated per person unless you’ve opted to share with a partner or friend. A supportive ground mat is provided to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. We ask that you bring your own sleeping bag, and many guests choose to bring a pillow, spare blankets, or thermals to stay cosy, as outdoor temperatures can vary.
Schedule
Cost: £299.00 (£269 with a BOA Loyalty card)
Date: 1 - 3 May 2026
Meet and Start Time: 5pm
Staff Member: Ian Henderson and Mark from New Forest Wellbeing CIC
Location
Meeting point: exact location will be provided upon booking
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Car Parking: Charges not included
Route
Terrain: Mixed
Saturday walk distance: approx. 7 miles
Walk Type: Circular
Facilities:
The sanctuary has toilets but there are no shower blocks on-site, We will provide simple washing facilities to keep you comfortable throughout your stay.
Meals Included:
Friday 1st May 2026 – Evening meal
Saturday 2nd May 2026 – Breakfast, packed lunch, and evening meal
Sunday 3rd May 2026 – Breakfast
Prepare for a weekend designed to slow your pace, reconnect with nature, and leave you feeling restored. Set in a private 40-acre wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the New Forest, this retreat offers lakes, ancient woodland, and free-roaming deer, giving you an immersive nature experience away from the everyday. With expert hosts guiding every step, wholesome meals cooked over open fires, and a program built around mindfulness and gentle adventure, this is a weekend you won’t forget.
What to Expect
Reconnect with Nature
Escape the demands of daily life and step into a peaceful environment where you can fully breathe, observe, and be present. From wandering the forest trails to watching the sunset over quiet lakes, this retreat is carefully designed to help you reconnect—with the natural world, and with yourself. Every detail, from our private sanctuary to the small group sizes, ensures you can enjoy the tranquillity of the New Forest fully.
Gentle Outdoor Adventure
The weekend blends mindfulness with movement in a supportive way. Guided walks through the forest, open canoeing along the scenic Beaulieu River, optional wild swimming, and private paddleboard time all provide opportunities to engage with the environment without pressure or rush. Our approach focuses on presence, safety, and enjoyment—allowing you to try new experiences or simply relax at your own pace.
Expert Guidance and Support
Your hosts are experienced outdoor leaders with years of leading retreats and activities in the New Forest. They bring both practical knowledge and a deep respect for nature, ensuring you feel safe, informed, and supported throughout the weekend. Whether you’re new to canoeing, mindful walking, or simply seeking a break from daily life, you’ll be guided with care and expertise.
Meaningful Connections and Lasting Memories
This isn’t just a weekend away—it’s a chance to create lasting experiences. Share time by the fire, paddle along the river together, or quietly observe wildlife on the lakes. Many guests find themselves leaving with new friendships, a refreshed mindset, and memories that stay with them long after the weekend ends.
A Break from the Ordinary
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s rare to find true space to pause. This retreat gives you that space: to disconnect, slow down, and focus on what matters. With mindful activities, restful downtime, and the serenity of our private sanctuary, you’ll leave feeling grounded, centred, and inspired.
The Perfect Balance of Calm and Exploration
Whether you want to relax by the lakes, try canoeing for the first time, or enjoy a quiet forest walk, this retreat offers the perfect combination of gentle adventure and restorative calm. Every activity and moment has been designed to support mindfulness, connection, and well-being, making this a truly memorable weekend in the New Forest.
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