FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Walking & Wellness Retreat | The Deerstone, Ireland | 27–30 April 2027
Walking & Travel
Do I need to be an experienced walker?
Not at all! Our guided walks are designed to be enjoyable and rewarding rather than overly strenuous. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, as we’ll encounter some hills and uneven terrain. We’ll share more information about the routes before the retreat.
How challenging are the walks, and do I have to join them?
We’ll be exploring the beautiful Wicklow Mountains, with a mixture of trails, hills and uneven terrain.
All walks are optional. If you’d prefer a slower day, you’re welcome to stay at The Deerstone and enjoy its wonderful wellness facilities. It’s your retreat, your choice!
What happens if the weather is bad?
We aim to enjoy the outdoors whenever possible, but your safety and comfort come first. Walks may be adapted depending on the weather, and The Deerstone offers plenty of lovely indoor wellness experiences.
What should I bring for walking?
Comfortable walking clothes, supportive walking shoes or boots, waterproof layers and a small daypack. We’ll send a detailed packing list before the retreat.
Where is The Deerstone?
The Deerstone is a beautiful private eco-wellness retreat nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, surrounded by peaceful countryside and spectacular scenery.
How do I get to the retreat?
Complimentary transfers from Dublin Airport are included. Collection will begin from 2:30pm on Tuesday 27 April, with the journey to The Deerstone taking approximately one hour.
We’ll provide full meeting details before your arrival.
What time should I arrive and depart?
Arrival: Tuesday 27 April 2027, with Dublin Airport collection from 2:30pm.
Departure: Friday 30 April 2027. We’ll leave The Deerstone at approximately 11:30am, arriving at Dublin Airport around 1:00pm.
We recommend booking return flights departing from 3:00pm onwards.
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Food & Accommodation
What meals are included?
All meals are included, with a focus on delicious, nourishing vegetarian food made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Meat or fish options are available for an additional £10 per person, per day.
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Of course! We’ll send a questionnaire after booking so you can let us know about any allergies or dietary requirements. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
What is the accommodation like?
The Deerstone offers beautiful, thoughtfully designed accommodation in cottages and shepherd’s huts, surrounded by the Wicklow countryside.
We offer private bedrooms and shared twin accommodation, subject to availability.
Can I share a room with a friend?
Absolutely! Our shared twin rooms are perfect for friends joining together. Just let us know when booking so we can arrange your accommodation.
Can I come on my own?
Definitely! Many guests join our retreats independently. You’ll be warmly welcomed into a friendly, relaxed group, with plenty of opportunities to connect with others.
How many guests will there be?
We’ll welcome a maximum of 16 guests, creating an intimate and personal retreat experience.
Is alcohol available?
Yes, alcoholic drinks will be available to purchase separately. There’s absolutely no expectation to drink.
What currency is used in Ireland?
Ireland uses the euro (€). You may wish to bring a payment card for any optional extras or personal purchases.
Can I bring my dog?
We love dogs, but unfortunately this retreat isn’t suitable for them.
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Your Retreat Experience
What is included in the retreat price?
Your three-night stay includes beautiful accommodation, vegetarian meals, guided hikes, Pilates, wellbeing activities, airport transfers and access to The Deerstone’s wellness facilities.
Flights, travel insurance, optional treatments and meat or fish supplements are not included.
What wellness facilities are available?
The Deerstone offers four saunas, a hydrotherapy pool, Japanese hot and cold baths, seaweed baths and beautiful outdoor spaces.
There’s also a fire pit, The Shed for gatherings and a Games Barn with darts, table football and chess.
Do I need experience in Pilates?
Not at all! Our Pilates sessions welcome all abilities, with guided movements and adaptations to suit your experience and comfort.
Will there be free time?
Absolutely! We’ve deliberately left time to enjoy the facilities, have a sauna, read, relax or enjoy good company.
Some of the loveliest moments happen spontaneously!
Do I have to take part in everything?
Not at all! This is your retreat to enjoy your way. Join in as much or as little as you like, with plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind.
Who is hosting the retreat?
Sacha from Vivre Retreats and Tors from Damson Hill Cottage.
Together, we’ll bring you a wonderful combination of walking, wellbeing, nourishment and genuine connection.
Who is this retreat for?
Anyone who loves the outdoors, discovering new places, good company and trying new experiences.
Whether you’re joining for the walking, wellbeing or friendships, you’ll be warmly welcomed.
What makes this retreat special?
It’s about so much more than walking.
Conversations along the way, laughter around the table, a warming sauna after a day outdoors and the joy of shared adventures.
A retreat filled with nourishment, friendship and connection.
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Practical Information & Bookings
What happens after I book?
You’ll receive a booking confirmation and a short questionnaire covering dietary requirements and other useful information.
We’ll send everything you need to prepare nearer the time.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes! We offer flexible payment options to spread the cost. Please contact Sacha or Tors to discuss a payment plan.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
We understand plans can change!
If you cancel, we’ll do our best to fill your place. If successful, we’ll refund the amount recovered, less any shortfall in the replacement price and reasonable additional costs.
Otherwise, cancellation charges may apply under our booking terms.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend arranging travel insurance when booking, covering medical expenses, cancellation, belongings and planned walking activities.
Insurance is not included in the retreat price.
What should I pack?
Comfortable walking clothes, suitable footwear, waterproof layers, swimwear and something cosy for the evenings.
A detailed packing list will follow.
Is there Wi-Fi or mobile signal?
Connectivity may vary around the property and countryside.
It’s a lovely opportunity to switch off, although there’s no expectation to disconnect completely.
Is The Deerstone accessible?
The retreat is in a rural, mountainous setting with some uneven paths and steps.
Please contact us before booking if you have mobility or accessibility requirements so we can discuss suitability.
I have more questions…
We’d love to help! Please contact either of us:
Sacha — Vivre Retreats
contact@vivreretreats.co.uk
Tors — Damson Hill Hikes
tors@damsonhillcottage.com
We can’t wait to welcome you to Ireland! 💚