10 STUNNING Yoga Retreats in Scotland (2024 Insider Guide)

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I attended a yoga retreat while I was backpacking in Scotland and it changed my perspective on what a retreat really is.

Surprisingly, spending time within the accommodation and in nature was far more relaxing than a beach retreat filled with excursions.

If you’ve never been to a retreat before, you’re in for a wild ride. Yoga retreats are an opportunity to go off-grid for a few days. It’s one of the only valid excuses that you can have to totally avoid all of your responsibilities. 

But who is a retreat for? Well, basically anyone. They’re particularly great if you’ve been feeling uninspired or demotivated. Or, if you’re ready to make a radical change in your life.

On retreats, you are forced to confront parts of yourself that you have been avoiding. But listen, it’s not as scary as it seems. The retreats help you push past negative emotions, overcome limiting beliefs, and come out the other side a completely different person.

Additionally, this is the best environment to make new travel buddies. Retreats bring together people who are focused on becoming better. So, if you’re in the market for a new group of positive friends, this is the place to be. 

What Can You Expect From a Yoga Retreat in Scotland?

Nature is a huge priority when it comes to these retreats. 

The entire country is either filled with rolling hills or beautiful beaches, so you’ll get plenty of time to enjoy that. 

Practices such as barefoot grounding, forest bathing, and nature walks in Scotland’s National Parks will also be introduced pretty quickly. 

In terms of movement, yoga will be the main choice (but you probably already guessed that). Styles will consist of Power Yoga, General yoga, Hatha yoga, and more. Some retreats do offer more intense fitness classes such as HIIT workouts.

These retreats also feature a lot of coaching. This may be done in a group session or one-to-one. If you’ve never had a coach before, talking about your feelings may seem foreign to you. However, trusting the process and sharing can be hugely beneficial to your growth. After all, a problem shared is a problem halved!

Additionally, vegan food is mainly served on these retreats. Look, chocolate may make you feel good in the moment but whole food has long-lasting positive effects on your health!

Depending on which retreat you choose, there may be opportunities to explore hidden gems around Scotland. Some retreats also allow for ‘free time’ where you can explore the best locations in Scotland at your own pace.

Admittedly, a lot of the retreats in Scotland are very similar. You’ll often be staying in some form of cosy Scottish lodge, cabin or cottage surrounded by large green spaces.

That being said, there are a few things you need to consider before booking your retreat. Firstly, if you’re looking to improve your yoga technique, you’ll need to select a retreat that makes that a priority. 

If you’re heading out on this retreat to have more of a healing experience, then there are retreats for that too. You’ll also want to take a look at the excursions that they offer.

Some of the retreats take you into the main cities, whereas others are more nature-based. You’ll want to decide what you want to see and where you want to stay in Scotland the most.

Considering your mode of travel is crucial. Are you journeying as a couple, needing a retreat with double private bedrooms? Or, are you part of a group, needing a stay that can cater to everyone?

Once you have decided on all of that, you’ll need to consider the below.

Location

As I mentioned, nature is at the forefront of these retreats. The retreat centres are often nestled away into the mountains or nearby to some of the beaches.

The time of year will probably play a huge role in your location choice. For example, if you’re opting for a summer retreat, picking a retreat centre by the beach will be a great experience.

On the other hand, if you are travelling in the winter months, then a cosy cabin nestled away in the mountains will be incredibly festive.

Practices

The practices on these retreats are all very similar.

Meditation, breathwork, and sound healing are popular practices. This is because these practices bring about intense healing.

Another huge practice on these retreats is…cold therapy. At first, cold therapy can seem completely bizarre. Trust me, I thought the practice was crazy too, but once you’ve tried it, it can be completely exhilarating.

This therapy can often look like heading into a lake and doing a cold plunge. Or, immersing yourself in the forests of Scotland during the winter season. 

Cold therapy is thought to boost serotonin and reduce inflammation in the body. You might even find yourself enjoying cold showers when you get home (seriously)!!

Some of these retreats have times where you can spend moments in solitude. During this time, you can journal, get creative, or simply bask in the silence. 

Finally, coaching is offered. This can be a great opportunity to unpack your emotions. You’ll find that sharing on retreats almost comes naturally. The safe space that is created here is something that you’ll really appreciate. 

Price

These retreats were far more affordable than I was expecting.

You can easily find a short affordable yoga retreat. These retreats offer three to four days of a jam-packed itinerary set with excursions and healing practices.

However, retreats are one of those things that you only do potentially once in your lifetime. So, if there was ever a time to spend a little extra money, this would be the time to do so. 

Practices I have learned on retreats still continue to add value to my life every day. That’s the kind of thing you really can’t put a price on. 

Perks

If you want to get more out of your experience, you can add perks to your retreat package. These are often additional classes, excursions, or treatments that you can pay extra for.

For yoga retreats in Scotland, the main perks consist of one-to-one coaching sessions or spa treatments. I always suggest enquiring with the retreat hosts beforehand if there is a certain treatment you want to try. They may be able to arrange that for you.

While adding perks isn’t necessary, if you have the budget to do so, it can be a great way to treat yourself!

Duration

These retreats are around three to five days in length. Honestly, I think that is the perfect amount of time to spend at a retreat. It’s just enough time for you to disconnect without becoming restless. 

Admittedly, the longer you can commit to staying at a retreat, the more beneficial the experience can be. Plus, you’ll get to spend more time getting to know everyone and making strong connections. 

However, if you only have the time to squeeze in a three-day retreat, the benefits can still be substantial. Deciding how long you can take off for a retreat before browsing the list is your best bet.

Whether you’ve chosen spontaneity or meticulously planned your getaway, expect to leave feeling nurtured, healthier, and… well happier.

So, whichever yoga retreat in Scotland you decide to join, focus on the positive and enjoy the rejuvenating journey.

3-Day Love Yourself Retreat – Best Overall Yoga Retreat in Scotland

Located in Aberdeen, this retreat will take you on a journey of learning to stop self-sabotage and to love yourself unconditionally. Sounds like a good deal, right?

During the three days, you will learn to heal your mind, body, and spirit. Plus, you’ll be taught valuable techniques to move forward in your life without your inner critic taking over.

You’ll discover yoga poses to release stress and guided meditations to bring your manifestations to fruition. This retreat is designed in a way for you to completely break free from limiting beliefs and change your life for good.

4-Day Yoga & Detox Retreat – Affordable Yoga Retreat in Scotland

When looking for the best yoga retreats in Scotland, this four-day retreat stood out to me.

This retreat brings together people from all over the world to take part in expert yoga classes. You’ll also learn strategies to overcome challenges and how to stay optimistic despite what life throws at you.

You’ll be doing all of this while staying in an adorable cottage. I can just bet that you meet some incredible people while staying here. This is the break from the hustle and bustle of city life that you have been craving!

11-Day Healing & Adventure Retreat – Long Stay Yoga Retreat in Scotland

This retreat can only be described as ‘magical.’ Located in the capital city, this retreat is akin to stepping into a real-life fairytale.

For eleven days, (yes, eleven entire days), you’ll be balancing your chakras during deep meditation and yoga sessions. Plus, get ready to let your inner child out as you reconnect with the word ‘play.’

This retreat just allows you to be unconditionally free. From exploring enchanting gardens and dancing with fairies on the Isle of Skye, you’ll be letting go of all adult responsibilities while here. 

Not only that but you’ll get to explore Edinburgh’s majestic locations and learn about ancient folklore. The retreat invites you to reconnect with your imagination and manifest your dreams. 

4-Day Sheepy Sleepovers Retreat – Unique Yoga Retreat in Scotland

If you ever wanted to get acquainted with a sheep, then this is your chance to do so… Seriously though, animal therapy is a real thing, right?

This retreat is designed for you and a small group of friends to embed yourself in nature, mindfulness, and…therapeutic sheep cuddles. But hey, don’t knock it until you try it. You’ll be waking up in a cosy cottage, taking mindful walks, and practising yoga in the mornings. 

Excursions consist of forest bathing, taking a boat to Inchcailloch, and stargazing with a hot chocolate in hand during the evenings. This is definitely a story you will be sharing for years to come.

5-Day Meditation & Yoga Retreat – Best Yoga Retreat for Friends in Scotland

You and your best group of friends can head to the good old countryside for one of the best yoga retreats in Scotland.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that this retreat goes all out when it comes to yoga practices. There are three yoga classes every day. From Hatha yoga to Ashtanga yoga, you will certainly get to improve your technique while here.

This retreat also allows for ‘free time’ where you can nourish your soul how you choose. This can be taking a trip together to the capital city, journaling, or starting on that project you keep putting off.

Most of all, this retreat has a no-pressure type of atmosphere that makes both extroverts and introverts feel a part of the family!

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3-Day Yoga Retreat – Best Yoga Retreat in Scotland for Solo Travelers

Pause your European solo adventure and try out a serene retreat on the east coast of Scotland. 

Making sure to look after your body while travelling should always be a priority. However, if we’re honest, it’s often overlooked. Taking these three days to explore clifftops, lounge on the private beach, and simply rest will do you the world of good. 

This retreat aims to bring harmony into your body through wholesome activities. Restorative yoga and breathwork journeys will help you to appreciate the present moment.

Plus, I know solo travellers often find it hard to stay in one place for too long. With that in mind, there is plenty of ‘free time’ on this retreat to explore the surrounding area.  

5-Day Rejuvenating Luxury Yoga Retreat – Luxury Yoga Retreat in Scotland

Situated in the idyllic village of Buchlyvie, you will be staying in a gorgeous country house during this retreat. 

Take this moment to completely absorb yourself into a life of luxury. You can heal your body through yoga exercises, nutritious food, and therapeutic massages.

However, this isn’t all about relaxing as this retreat consists of various fitness classes throughout the day. Get a dose of feel-good endorphins through HIIT workouts, restorative yoga, and Pilates. 

After you feel revived, you can take part in group mediations or even head to an animal sanctuary!

4-Day Women’s Retreat – Most Beautiful Yoga Retreat in Scotland

Set within a stunning modern property, this women’s retreat immerses you in the embrace of expansive forests and scenic hills. Tailored for female solo travellers, it teaches general and restorative yoga practices aimed at improving overall mental well-being.

The experience focuses on gently moving your body. You’ll also be taught how to appreciate nature, and how to practice gratitude. 

There is something particularly special about female-only retreats. It’s incredibly powerful to see women all come together to support one another through this journey.

3-Day Weekend Escape – Best Yoga Retreat in Scotland for Couples

Get together as a couple for this long weekend away and be well looked after from the moment you arrive. 

This retreat embraces the outdoors and prioritizes being in nature through guided walks and yoga classes. Intense sound healing ceremonies will also work to heal issues and reignite that spark.

You will also have free time to explore the local area, relax in the accommodation together, or even indulge in a couples massage. 

Plus, when you’re surrounded by endearing cafes, you’ll have many chances for a delicious brunch date together.

5-Day Wyld Retreat – Yoga Retreat in Scotland by the Beach

Yoga and hiking in nature are the main focus of this retreat. You will be taught many styles of yoga including Dynamic yoga, Nidra yoga, General yoga, and more. 

A cool aspect about this retreat is that they adapt to fit your schedule. If you want to go and explore Scotland at your own leisure, you are more than welcome to do so. Or, you can stay part of the group and travel on various hikes all together.

You’ll create your very own family with this retreat.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Although it’s often as chill as it gets, there’s always a chance that stuff goes wrong. That’s why I ALWAYS go with solid travel insurance in Europe. 

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Admittedly, I was already well aware that the yoga retreats in Scotland were some of the best. However, after compiling this list, I was surprised that there were so many. 

From staying right by the beach, taking a cold plunge, or even indulging in a little sheep therapy, it’s difficult to pick the best of the best. However, I am a sucker for a meaningful message and the 3-Day Love Yourself Retreat has just that. 

Learning to stop self-sabotage and let go of your inner critic will only have long-lasting benefits way into your future. So, stop hesitating and just book the retreat you like the sound of the most. You won’t regret it!