We will run once each day. One day will be a shorter run of c.5km, for the other two you can choose to run c.5km or if you prefer a longer run, then continue for up to 11-15km.
Our wild runs are mainly off road: over hills, fields, beaches, through streams and woodlands. The paths are undulating, with some steep hilly sections (but no mountains!). We will forge streams, run through lots of mud, scramble up boulders, over roots, through gorse and run down heathery slopes. Often there are no paths, so be prepared for rough and wild terrain! There will, however, be some stretches through the village or on country lanes. We run at a moderate pace with plenty of stops to take photos, take in the view, and spot wildlife.
Recommended for:
Runners who can run at least 5km comfortably. You don’t need to be “fast,” although you should have sufficient fitness for running consecutive days. We recommend our retreats for those who enjoy climbing the odd fence, scrambling over boulders, getting their shoes wet, inching past spiky gorse, or running through knee deep mud!
A new fitness and nature retreat in Argyll, two hours by train and ferry from Glasgow, ditches speed and calorie counts to let the countryside work its magic
“At a viewpoint overlooking a sea of canary-yellow gorse and delicate blackthorn blossom tumbling down to inky Loch Fyne, the six of us howl like wolves into a gentle breeze. It’s an exhilarating moment, adding to the euphoria as we near the end of the four-day retreat’s longest run….” READ MORE featured in the Guardian.
Example Itinerary:-
Day 1
Arrive Thursday (or Monday- depending on the retreat you select) evening and settle into your accommodation. Meet Katharine and David and your fellow ‘retreaters’ for a chat about the next few days’ suggested programme and what to expect.
Day 2
Wake up on our farm for a wholesome self service breakfast including yoghurts, homemade muesli, berries, yoghurt, bread or eggs. Head out down the track, for your first run, a circular route back to the farm of c. 11.5km with long views over to Arran and possibilities of glimpsing birds of prey. Or choose a lift back to the farm after running along the beach after 5km.
After an organic lunch of homemade soups, salads, breads, dips etc. have a peaceful art session with Inge, followed by further unwinding with Kate during a restorative yoga session. You could also choose to have a go at ‘sensory’ running in the fields and indulge in a wood-fired sauna and a wild wash and in the temperate rainforest waterfall. Meet up for a delicious evening meal, followed by the opportunity for tales and pics of our Running South America expedition.
Day 3
After breakfast, catch the local bus to a northerly section of the Cowal Way, with jaw-dropping views over Loch Riddon, scramble over boulders and then continue along forest tracks. You can then choose to take the option of a lift home after c.5.5km or continue running through Tighnabruiach village back home to the farm.
Home for lunch followed by more relaxing, reading, wild washes and sauna and the option of a rewilding tour of the farm and time to lay back and listen to the birds. A final magical yoga session, after which you can drift off to your evening meal, which you will have truly earned!
Day 4
You’ll awake on your last day for breakfast followed by a short run along the coast or through ancient woodlands (c5km) with an option of an invigorating swim. We’ll then return to the farm for lunch and our final goodbyes before heading off on our journeys home.
Auchgoyle Farm 