If there's one thing you do this Autumn, make it the chance to unwind and recharge. Book out a day or a weekend (or better still a whole series of them!) dedicated to a mental and physical reboot. To help, we've handpicked six recharging hotspots in the UK and Ireland, and invited each to share their personal tips...
1. ecoYoga Retreats, Argyll, Scottish Highlands (main image)
Who would grumble at a spot of riverside yoga in rural Scotland? We're more than taken by the sound of these Highland retreats which celebrate a sustainable-as-it-is-healthy lifestyle. This centre is proudly off-grid, powered by its own hydro turbine and solar panels.
Top of our wish list: a rejuvenating Sento experience in one of the natural wooden hot tubs.
“Eat well, sleep well, stretch well and bathe well.”
Laura Grace, ecoYoga
Find out more: ecoyoga.org
2. Jivita Ayurveda Organic Spa & Apothecary, London, England
Embrace ancient Indian Ayurvedic healing in the heart of North West London.
Pick from Jivita Ayurveda's tantalising menu of balancing facial, body and beauty treatments or - for a more serious reboot - book yourself a full health consultation or detox package.
Top of our wish list: an invigorating massage with one of the Bodhi & Birch oils, of course!
“My favourite way to recharge is through a treatment called Shirodhara, which I also call a brain hug. It is calming and energising at the same time.”
Anu Paavola, Jivita Ayurveda Organic Spa & Apothecary
Find out more: jivitaayurveda.com
3. Mr B's Emporium of Reading Delights, Bath, England
Whether searching for a stimulating holiday read, a story to lose yourself in, or some inspiration to fuel a personal project, never underestimate the value of a great book. Or the intense pleasure of browsing a beautiful bookshop.
Few come more appealing than the award-winning Mr B's Emporium of Reading Delights, recently named one of The Guardian's top ten book shops in the world.
Top of our wish list: the Reading Spa. A personal recommendation and 'Bibliotherapy' service complete with coffee, cake and other take home delights.
“My favourite way to recharge in Bath is probably to drink coffee from local coffee haven Colonna & Small’s, while reading a book on the grass by The Royal Crescent.”
Naomi Ishiguro, Mr B's Emporium of Reading Delights
Find out more: mrbsemporium.com
4. Lower Bruckland Farm Nature Reserve, Musbury, Devon
Little says recharge more than taking a full digital detox and being immersed in our natural surroundings.
We're all most eager to visit the Lower Bruckland Farm Nature Reserve, long enjoyed by artists, photographers, nature lovers, walkers and harassed city-dwellers looking to switch off!
Top of our wish list: an afternoon stroll around the reserve, stopping for refreshments in Ratty's Tea Room, finished off with dinner at the nearby River Cottage Canteen.
“How to recharge? I walk to the top of 3 acres with 2 springer spaniels and look around.”
Dave Satterley, Lower Bruckland Farm Nature Reserve
Find out more: natureindevon.co.uk
5. River Cottage Canteen & Deli, Axminster, Devon
Did someone say River Cottage? That's precisely where we're taking you next! A member of the Sustainable Restaurant Association, River Cottage Canteen & Deli is known for championing delicious local, ethical and seasonal produce; all served in such a bright and relaxing space.
Just the place to stop off with your family and friends this season. Vegetarians are also well served, with vegans most welcome (it's recommended to make the restaurant aware in advance of your visit).
Top of our wish list: an evening of live music and food as part of the Canteen's events.
“The team like to relax by taking in the beauty of the local area. Whether it be taking a stroll along the stunning Jurassic Coast, foraging on the local shore, or casting a fishing line at Lyme Regis.”
The River Cottage Team, Axminster
Find out more: rivercottage.net/canteens/axminster
6. VOYA Seaweed Baths, Co. Sligo, Ireland
Heading now to the Irish coasts of County Sligo, and we're craving a trip to VOYA. Here you're offered a rare chance to rejuvenate in one of the country's most healing (and fully renewable) resources: seaweed! Steam, bathe and replenish while lapping up all those rejuvenating benefits.
Top of our wish list: a deluxe double bathing room for a dual steaming and bathing treat!
“To recharge, I pop out to Strandhill Beach for a revitalising surf and then, when time permits, finish off with a hot detoxing seaweed bath.”
Neil Walton, VOYA Seaweed Baths
Find out more: voyaseaweedbaths.com
So, who's already checking their calendar for an autumn recharge? And how do you like to reboot? Do let us know in the comments.