Winter Solstice Retreat: Earth & Art
Join us in the picturesque Welsh countryside at the beautifully renovated Barn at Plas, Ashpool, LL16 4HP. This inviting space features stunning high-beamed ceilings, exposed brick walls, and stylish Scandinavian minimalism complemented by vibrant abstract artwork. It provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation, renewal, and a deeper connection to nature.
At our Earth & Craft: Winter Solstice Retreat, we offer a fully inclusive experience. All meals, drinks, and workshop materials are provided, so you can completely immerse yourself in the weekend’s activities without a care in the world. We’ve taken care of every detail, allowing you to focus solely on your experience.
Conveniently located, the retreat offers on-site parking for those who choose to drive. For those using public transport, Chester Train Station is just 45 minutes away, and we offer a shuttle service to ensure a hassle-free arrival.
Friday, December 19th:
Join us from 6pm, and as the sun sets on our first evening, you’ll be welcomed into a cosy retreat atmosphere. Your journey begins with a delightful goodie bag filled with treats from local suppliers. Enjoy welcome drinks with fellow participants and savour a delicious dinner that highlights seasonal flavours.
Saturday, December 20th:
Awaken to the refreshing winter air and start your day with an optional guided walk and forest bathing session led by an expert, immersing yourself in the calming surroundings of local woodlands. After a hearty breakfast, dive into your first workshop—“Christmas Gifts from Nature”—where your creativity blossoms as you craft unique, handmade gifts inspired by nature’s treasures.
After a leisurely lunch, explore the enchanting realm of botanical skincare in the afternoon workshop. Discover how to create nourishing products using natural ingredients, including bath salts, luxurious lotions, aromatic oils, and invigorating body scrubs. Evenings are yours to unwind, and later, gather around a cosy bonfire under the twinkling stars while enjoying another delicious dinner—the perfect conclusion to a day filled with creativity and camaraderie.
Sunday, December 21st:
On your final day, embrace another guided walk and forest bathing session to celebrate the magic of the Winter Solstice. After breakfast, unleash your creativity in our Botanical Plant Pigment Making Workshop, where you’ll learn to create vibrant paints and dyes from nature. After a fulfilling lunch, continue your artistic exploration with advanced techniques for making botanical inks, resulting in a unique artwork that reflects your retreat experience.
As the weekend winds down, we’ll gather one last time to share our beautiful creations and celebrate the transition of the seasons, marking the gradual return of longer days before departing the property at 4PM.
