Overview
Journeying through Ireland and the Ring of Kerry with Aoife, a soulful Irishwoman whose inner light shines in every experience, is a rare and unforgettable opportunity. "Solas" is a beautiful Irish word meaning "light", a symbol of warmth, clarity, and renewal. It sets the tone for this adventure as we embrace deep connection, the wild beauty of Southwest Ireland, and moments of reflection along its windswept shores and emerald valleys. This word captures the essence of our retreat: the glow of friendship, the magic of ancient landscapes, and the quiet joy found in every shared experience.
Itinerary
Previous
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A Typical Day
AM
6:30 - Morning Meditation and Journaling Workshop
7:00 - Movement Class (on some days, class will take place during our activity; for example, at Castlegregory beach and in Killarney National Park!)
8:00 - Breakfast
9:00 - Morning Activity
- Sunday - Arrive in the morning
- Monday- Castlegregory Beach
- Tuesday - Whale Watching Tour
- Wednesday - Scenic Road Tour as we move locations to Killarney
- Thursday - Reiki Workshop
- Friday - Horse-drawn carriage tour in Killarney National Park, Short Hike to Torc Waterfall, Visit to Muckross House
- Saturday - Departure
PM
12:30 - Lunch (usually out at a restaurant after our adventure)
1:30 - Afternoon Free Time (perfect for wandering around town, relaxing in the courtyard or reading a book). On Sunday, we will go on a short afternoon hike!
5:30: Early Evening Movement Class (myofascial release with massage balls, slow yoga flow)
7:30 - Group Dinner
All classes are accessible to all levels.
Free time blocks provide time to relax or find adventure. Additional experiences that we can help you book are:
- Horseback riding on Ventry Beach (near Dingle)
- Stand up Paddleboarding in Dingle Bay
- Pottery Workshop
- Whiskey or Craft Beer Tasting
- Private Reiki sessions
- Massage
We remember to go with the flow and enjoy the slow moments in Southwest Ireland. Activities may be switched from morning to afternoon depending on weather and other factors.
You'll Be Staying Here
Luxurious Private Home
This retreat blends modern luxury with timeless tradition, creating the perfect balance of comfort, connection, and adventure.
We begin our retreat in a luxurious private home overlooking Dingle Bay, where panoramic views and elegant comfort set the tone for relaxation.
Just a short walk from town, we can easily explore local shops, pubs, and the harbor.
Here, we enjoy beautifully prepared meals by our private cook, savoring fresh, locally sourced ingredients in the comfort of our home.
Imagine fresh sea air and morning coffee on the deck, Pilates on the patio, yoga in the courtyard and breathtaking sunsets over the bay!
Charming Country Retreat
On Day 4, we settle into a traditional bed and breakfast, surrounded by lush gardens and warm hospitality.
The Irish have a strong cultural tradition of welcoming travelers, rooted in Céad Míle Fáilte (meaning “a hundred thousand welcomes”).
Historically, farmhouses and family homes would open their doors to visitors, which evolved into the modern B&B experience.
Our stay in Aghadoe offers a classic bed and breakfast experience, surrounded by natural beauty, comfort, and character.
It's warm and welcoming atmosphere is our place to unwind, connect, and enjoy the peaceful charm of the countryside.
Mornings start with homemade breakfasts, and for both lunch and dinner, we indulge in some of the area’s best restaurants, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties.
The Experience
Balance
Our carefully curated itineary leaves space for adventure, connection, relaxation and exploring.
Southwest Ireland
We've carefully selected two incredible destinations for this magical trip in Ireland! By spending 3 nights in each place, we can immerse ourselves into each town and limit driving time.
Movement Sessions
We ground ourselves each day, connecting to our bodies through Pilates and yoga. Some days, we will gather in the lounge area of our accommodation while other days, we find ourselves enjoying movement classes in nature, surrounded by lush beauty. These classes are appropriate for first-timers and advanced students alike. The pace is slow to moderate, allowing us to connect to our breath and our body.
Meals
Throughout our journey, we’ll enjoy a mix of home-cooked meals and local dining experiences that celebrate the best of Irish cuisine. At our retreat home, a talented cook will prepare nourishing, homemade meals, featuring specialty Irish jams, fresh-baked breads, and locally sourced ingredients. For most other meals, we’ll venture out to handpicked restaurants, cafés, and pubs, indulging in the freshest seafood, hearty traditional dishes, Irish-fusion and artisanal treats. Whether gathered around the table at home or dining out in charming settings, each meal will be an experience to savor.
Dingle
We will immerse ourselves in the charm and culture of Dingle (An Daingean), a vibrant Gaeltacht town where Irish (Gaeilge) is still spoken daily. As we explore, we’ll see street signs in Gaeilge, hear the language in shops and pubs, and witness the town’s deep connection to its Gaelic roots. Wandering through colorful, winding streets, we’ll experience Gaelic traditions firsthand, from storytelling (seanchaí) to lively folk music and dance sessions. With its warm hospitality, rich folklore, and breathtaking coastal scenery, Dingle invites us to slow down, connect, and embrace the soul of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
Castlegregory Beach
We start the day at Castlegregory Beach, walking along its wide, sandy shoreline and taking in the fresh Atlantic air. After exploring the nearby ruins, we hike through the surrounding trails, enjoying the mix of coastal views and history. We wrap up with lunch at a local spot, enjoying fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere.
Whale Watching
Late July is the best time to try and spot these majestic creatures! We set out from Dingle Harbour, cruising past rugged cliffs and open Atlantic waters, where we will watch for humpback and minke whales surfacing in the waves. Along the way, we’ll spot common and bottlenose dolphins playfully riding the boat’s wake and catch glimpses of seals basking on rocky shores.
Group Reiki Workshop
In this Reiki self-healing workshop, explore the foundations of Reiki energy healing and how to use it as a tool for balance, renewal, and self-care. Learn techniques to connect with your body’s natural energy flow, release tension, and cultivate inner peace. Through gentle, hands-on practice, breathwork, and guided meditation, you’ll gain the confidence to incorporate Reiki into your daily life, allowing for deeper relaxation, emotional clarity, and self-empowerment. No prior experience is needed. Aoife (pictured) will guide us through it all!
Scenic Drive
The drive from Dingle to our boutique hotel in Killarney is a beautiful journey through some of Kerry’s most breathtaking landscapes! It is a 2 hour long drive that we will spend a day enjoying. We start by crossing Connor Pass, Ireland’s highest mountain pass, where we pause to take in panoramic views of lakes, valleys, and the distant coastline. Continuing east, we stop at Minard Castle, a 16th-century ruin set above a rocky beach. By midday, we reach Inch Beach, where we enjoy lunch and take a stroll along the expansive shoreline. As we approach Killarney, we make one last stop at Aghadoe Viewpoint, offering stunning views of the Lakes of Killarney and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.
Killarney
Set along the shores of Lough Leane, the "Lake of Learning," Killarney is where Ireland’s rich history and stunning landscapes collide. For centuries, this region has been a place of storytelling, pilgrimage, and discovery, with ancient monasteries, medieval castles, and grand estates standing as testaments to its past. Whether strolling through town or exploring its scenic trails, every step here feels like walking through history, where the essence of old Ireland is still very much alive.
Dark Sky Gazing
We let the weather guide our stargazing location, ensuring the best chance for clear, dark skies. With one of the world's four darkest night skies nearby, we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to take in the brilliance of the Milky Way and constellations above.
Jaunting Car Ride
A jaunting car ride is a traditional Irish horse-drawn carriage, driven by a jarvey (local guide and storyteller). These open-air carts, used in Ireland for centuries, offer us a scenic and immersive journey through Killarney National Park. We take in the beauty of Torc Waterfall and Muckross House before the carriage brings us into town, where we finish with a relaxing lunch.
Muckross House
At Muckross House & Gardens we step into Ireland’s past, exploring a Victorian-era mansion. We wander through lush gardens, lake trails, and traditional farms, where craftspeople keep history alive. Blending history, culture, and nature, this immersive experience offers us inspiration and a deeper connection to Ireland’s heritage.
Digital Detox
This is your chance to recharge! Give yourself a mental refresh through connection to yourself, others and the environment around you. Research has shown us over and over again that disconnecting from our devices more often: - benefits our sleep cycles - increases positive self talk - promotes healthier eating habits - decreases anxiety & depression - leads to more productive days at work There are no rules. You choose what amount of detox works best for where you are, in your life, at this time.
We Give Back
5% of our profits are directly donated to An Taisce, an Irish non-profit committed to preserving and celebrating Ireland’s natural and built environment while championing global sustainability efforts.
Accommodation
Double Occupancy
Enjoy a private bathroom for you and your roommate in both locations.
FROM$3,840.00/pp
Single Occupancy
Enjoy a private room and ensuite bathroom in both locations.
FROM$4,340.00/pp
Additional Person (single occupancy room)
Book this along with a 'Single Occupancy ' booking and plan to share the room and bed.
FROM$2,780.00/pp
What's included
What's Included
Pre-trip & Logistics Support
Transportation to and from Shannon Airport (SNN)
6 Nights Accommodation
All breakfasts (6)
5 lunches (1 will be on your own), 6 dinners
Pilates/Yoga/Functional Movement Classes
Meditation & Journaling Sessions
Whale Watching Tour
Visit to Muckross House
Beach Exploration
Reiki Workshop
Jaunting Car Ride (horse-drawn carriage)
Dark Sky Experience
Hiking in Killarney National Park
What's Not Included
Roundtrip airfare to Shannon, Ireland (SNN)
Travel insurance (we have recommendations for you to explore)
1 lunch (exploring is part of the fun here! We will help you.)
Any meals during traveling that take place before or after you meet the group
Specialty drinks (smoothies or alcoholic beverages)
Additional Activities or Spa Services
Hosts
We will utilize mats, props, and massage balls for sessions. Although we try not to take ourselves too seriously, we are experienced instructors and classes are for all levels!
Aoife McGettrick
Aoife is more than a healer; she’s a seeker, traveler, and guide who has spent years on her own healing journey. She walks the walk.
She's often found exploring the world and immersing herself in ancient wisdom and energy practices.
With a deep commitment to self-discovery and transformation, she has been practicing Reiki for years, helping others tap into their own inner power.
Her magnetic presence and intuitive touch create a space for release, restoration, and realignment, allowing you to reconnect with your true self.
Her sessions bring clarity, peace, and a renewed sense of balance, revealing the magic of energetic healing.
Lindsay Eldridge
Lindsay has been leading groups since 2003. Her passion for adventure and travel is apparent in her pure joy with planning and implementing these activities.
In 2014, Lindsay began teaching Pilates and went on to get her comprehensive certification (500+ hours training).
Pilates turned out to be the answer to her herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, hip pain, sciatica, diastasis and more.
Lindsay will be teaching a couple of movement sessions during the retreat. Her primary focus, however, is making sure all of the logistics run smoothly during the retreat!
Gallery
Reflections
Reflections
How would it feel to be taken care of, to be understood and to have a top quality experience? We want you to find out. Once you arrive to Ireland, you don't need to worry about meals and logistics. Simply enjoy!
FAQs
What is the cancellation policy?
Deposits are refundable for 7 days.
Cancel 90-120 days prior to retreat start date and receive a 50% refund, less the deposit.
Cancel 45-90 days prior to the retreat start date and receive a 25% refund, less the deposit.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations that occur 45 or fewer days before the retreat start date.
However, we CAN apply any amount paid toward a future AWAY retreat!
What is the payment policy?
A 15% deposit is required to reserve your spot on the retreat.
The remaining balance is due 60 days before the retreat start date.
Please reach out if you'd like to chat about a payment plan that might work better for you.
Is it okay to opt out of an activity?
On our retreats, there's no "opting in" or "opting out".
You do what feels right for you, each day!
There's not an experience out there with less pressure than this one, right here.
Can my dietary needs be accommodated?
Yes! There are options for vegetarians, pescatarians, omnivores and carnivores alike.
Gluten-free diets can be accommodated as well.
Are vaccinations recommended or required?
You may read about the current CDC recommendations and guidelines here.
Is there WIFI?
Yes. While it’s nice to unplug from the outside world, many of us have lives at home that require some communication.
We understand. There is WIFI at the home and the Bed & Breakfast.
May I see a list of available activities in the area?
If you'd like to schedule one of the many activities that are offered in town, we're here to help!
Check out the noncomprehensive list below:
- Horseback riding on Ventry Beach
- Stand Up Paddleboarding in Dingle Bay
- Visit a Distillery
- Deenagh Lodge and River Walk
- Visit Killarney House & Gardens
- Massage/Spa Services
- Reiki
Do you recommend travel insurance?
As experienced travelers who’ve learned to expect the unexpected, we absolutely recommend travel insurance.
You'll receive our recommendations after signing up (or ask in advance!).
What will the weather be like?
Weather will be lovely! Highs will be around 17-18°C (63-64°F) and lows near 12-13°C (54-55°F).
Get ready for long daylight hours (5:45 AM - 9:15 PM), perfect for making the most of our time in Ireland!
There is always the possibility of rain showers.
What is on the packing list?
You'll receive a packing list which will include things like:
✔ Thin cotton
✔ Lightweight wool shirts
✔ Lightweight Rain Jacket
✔ Sun hat
✔ Hiking sandals or shoes
✔ Comfortable pants for hiking and exploring town
✔ Nice casual clothes for dinners
✔ Swimsuit
✔ Plug adapter
What is the local currency?
Ireland's local currency is the Euro.
The easiest way to obtain Euros is to use your debit card in the ATM machine. ATMs are widely available. You will be able to insert your debit card and receive Euros.
There will be a fee, which is associated with your bank at home. It’s usually between $3 and $6 per withdrawal.
We still recommend bringing $100-150 USD in cash nevertheless, as it’s best practice to have some cash on hand when traveling.
Many restaurants and shops accept credit cards and offer contactless pay (ApplePay, GooglePay). There will be small businesses or individuals that only accept cash or have a minimum spend requirement.
American Express is not widely accepted in Ireland (or most places internationally). Bring a Visa or Mastercard.