Weekend Health Retreats

For those of you who want a little more out of a pamper weekend, perhaps a health retreat is a better alternative – a detox, some exercise and someone preparing your meals for a weekend.

If this appeals then read on - here are my picks for weekend retreats outside London:

Keep Fit Bootcamp - Flore

Set in the Northampton countryside about an hour out of London, this long weekend boot camp offers you a complete fitness package: fitness training by expert fitness and weight loss trainers, relaxation and detox vegetarian meals prepared by the in-house gourmet chef. The camp runs from Thursday afternoon to Sunday and is exclusively for women. A typical day includes 5km run before breakfast, a circuit class and meditation before lunch followed by some boxing or pump before dinner and then a bike or hike after dinner followed by a spa treatment to end the day: www.keepfitbootcamp.com

Detox,Yoga, Pilates and Meditation Weekend Retreat – East Sussex

Nestled underneath the South Downs and edged by woodland with far reaching views across the Sussex Weald, this retreat is a wonderful blend of yoga, pilates and meditation. All classes are suitable for beginners to advanced levels and include both hatha and dynamic yoga as well as pilates mat work. In summer months the classes are held in yurts. The meals are mostly home grown vegetarian meals and snacks and well as Sally’s special detox juices: www.sallyparkesyoga.com

Simply Healing Holistic Detox Retreat – West Sussex

This Sussex-based holistic retreat specialises in detox, weight loss and fertility-boosting programmes. The detox programmes include a menu of freshly made juices and a combination of complementary therapies to help deep cleanse and detoxify your system. Treatments range from reflexology and Indian head massage to detoxifying body wraps and holistic massage. Options are available for weekends, one day or week long detox packages: www.simplyhealingcentre.com

Vital Health New Body - Grayshott Spa, Surrey

Grayshott Spa nestles in a corner of rural England, just one hour from London. The house was once the country home of Victorian Poet Laureate, Lord Alfred Tennyson. The setting is stunning with luxurious accommodation and excellent spa facilities. The Vital Health – New Body programme on offer is ideal for those looking to address weight issues, get fit, change eating and lifestyle habits. Guests receive a pre-screening, welcome pack and personal plan, specialist consultations, daily exercise and mind/body classes including yoga, tai chi and body balance, power walking and aqua fitness. All meals and supportive spa treatments are included: www.grayshottspa.com

Health Etcetera Detox Retreat – Hampshire

Hinton House is set amongst woodland and fields in the heart of Hampshire. The house itself was renovated and tastefully done in harmony with its original 19^th Century features. The ‘living foods’ programme aims to increase energy levels, aid weight loss and improve skin radiance. Clients are offered a bespoke service including strategies for weight-loss, personalised professional treatments, support for chronic disease and healthy lifestyle tutoring. The programme includes juice fasting (optional), yoga, meditation, food preparation classes, tai chi, stone massages and Japanese facials: www.healthetcetera.com