4-Day Art & Nature Retreats
2026 Art & Nature Retreats
February Valentines Weekend Retreat
Fri 13 – Sun 15 February (3 days)
Spring Residential Retreat
Fri 24 – Mon 27 April
Summer Residential Retreat
Fri 26 – Mon 29 June
Autumn Residential Retreats
Fri 25 – Mon 28 September
Fri 16 – Mon 19 October
Four days/nights, fully catered with guided art sessions including one session of Forest Bathing and guided nature walk available (opt in, depending on numbers interested). £850 / €990
(£250/€300 deposit to be paid on booking – see below)
Why choose a Hidden Forest Retreat?
Our intention is to nurture and nourish you during your stay, providing a sustainable focus and environment in which your creativity and self care can evolve and thrive on this unique private estate in a beautiful Donegal setting.
En plein air and botanics is very much the focus of your stay. Spending time outside surrounded by nature has a profoundly positive impact on creativity and productivity, emotional intelligence and overall well being.
Nurture your creativity
Daily inspiration over four days of guided art, with a thoughtfully curated schedule, optimising the diverse natural en plein air opportunities on our doorstep. These include: foraged garden and woodland botanics, perfect sit spots, mark making glades and view points with land and sea scapes, stone arch, streams, waterfall and neolithic standing stones.
Optional trips (independent or guided) include Glebe Gallery and Derek Hill's home, Fanad Lighthouse and Great Pollet Arch.
Visit our two beautiful local historic villages: Rathmullan's picturesque abbey ruins, iconic 'Flight of the Earls' sculpture and rich heritage. Ramelton nestles alongside the River Lennon with authentic heritage linen industry buildings and bridge dating from the 18th century.
Reconnect with nature
Additional optional activities include a 2.5 hour guided shinrin yoku / mindfulness in nature session with a qualified guide. Use all your senses to slowly connect with nature for your health and well being.
During your retreat there may be time and sufficient interest for your hosts to organise a guided nature walk to learn about native Donegal flora – traditional Gaelic medicinal uses and associated folklore, reed crafts and natural plant dyes.
Nourish body and soul
Be nourished by home-made breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner with produce from our organic kitchen garden. Explore Ramelton’s local artisan deli and dinner at chef Fergus’ own Tapas restaurant, try Donegal craft gin, local Kinegar beer and perhaps a medicinal Guinness.
Other self care activities include yoga and wild swimming in our natural pool or local beach, to energise you before breakfast. Yoga sessions and some face and body treatments may be available if requested ahead including reflexology, head and shoulder massage and facials.