What to Expect and
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is recommended reading before coming on one of our weekend retreats for the first time.
Lake Isle Retreats is run by Tim, with the support of his wife Yen and a small team of experienced yoga teachers, cooks and therapists. Our aim is to offer a peaceful and welcoming space where guests can slow down and take time out from everyday life.
Our weekend retreats near Upper Lough Erne in Ireland have a gentle rhythm. There are shared sessions throughout the day (yoga, meditation, good food and time outdoors) along with space to rest, walk, enjoy a massage or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea.
While the retreats are inspired by traditional spiritual practices, they are not heavily formal in tone. Everything is offered gently, and you are free to take part as much or as little as you wish.
Lake Isle Retreats is run by Tim, with the support of his wife Yen and a small team of experienced yoga teachers, cooks and therapists. Our aim is to offer a peaceful and welcoming space where guests can slow down and take time out from everyday life.
Our weekend retreats near Upper Lough Erne in Ireland have a gentle rhythm. There are shared sessions throughout the day (yoga, meditation, good food and time outdoors) along with space to rest, walk, enjoy a massage or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea.
While the retreats are inspired by traditional spiritual practices, they are not heavily formal in tone. Everything is offered gently, and you are free to take part as much or as little as you wish.
The Flow of the Weekend
Our retreats usually begin on Friday afternoon and finish on Sunday.
The weekends follow a gentle rhythm, including:
There is always space in the schedule to simply unwind, read, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is no pressure to take part in everything. Some guests enjoy joining all the activities, while others prefer to take more time to rest.
Accommodation & Setting
We are located near Upper Lough Erne, surrounded by water, woodland and countryside. The natural setting is an important part of the retreat, helping guests slow down and settle into a quieter pace.
Accommodation is simple, comfortable and designed for rest. The emphasis is not luxury, but calmness and care.
Please note: we do not have en suite rooms, apart from one twin en suite room.
We don’t have TVs in the rooms and there is no Wi-Fi available. For many guests, that becomes one of the most valuable parts of the weekend, a chance to properly switch off.
That said, you are very welcome to bring your own device with downloaded films, e-books, music if you'd like something quiet for your own time.
Time in Nature
A gentle guided walk in nature is part of each weekend retreat. Depending on the day, we may explore nearby National Trust landscapes such as Crom Estate, Florence Court Estate or Cladagh Glen Nature Reserve, Stairway to Heaven or wander quietly through the woodland paths of Reilly Woods.
Spending time outdoors is an important part of the experience. The peaceful setting in County Fermanagh naturally encourages the mind to slow down and the body to settle.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
Most guests are either new to yoga and meditation, or returning for another weekend. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and people tend to settle in quickly.
Tim spent a number of years living in a temple community, and the retreats are lightly influenced by that background. At the same time, everything is kept simple and accessible.
Our retreats usually begin on Friday afternoon and finish on Sunday.
The weekends follow a gentle rhythm, including:
- Yoga and meditation sessions
- Time to rest and relax
- Fresh vegetarian meals
- A guided walk in nature
- Optional massage and therapies
- Visit to Inish Rath/ Krishna Island
- ...and much more
There is always space in the schedule to simply unwind, read, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is no pressure to take part in everything. Some guests enjoy joining all the activities, while others prefer to take more time to rest.
Accommodation & Setting
We are located near Upper Lough Erne, surrounded by water, woodland and countryside. The natural setting is an important part of the retreat, helping guests slow down and settle into a quieter pace.
Accommodation is simple, comfortable and designed for rest. The emphasis is not luxury, but calmness and care.
Please note: we do not have en suite rooms, apart from one twin en suite room.
We don’t have TVs in the rooms and there is no Wi-Fi available. For many guests, that becomes one of the most valuable parts of the weekend, a chance to properly switch off.
That said, you are very welcome to bring your own device with downloaded films, e-books, music if you'd like something quiet for your own time.
Time in Nature
A gentle guided walk in nature is part of each weekend retreat. Depending on the day, we may explore nearby National Trust landscapes such as Crom Estate, Florence Court Estate or Cladagh Glen Nature Reserve, Stairway to Heaven or wander quietly through the woodland paths of Reilly Woods.
Spending time outdoors is an important part of the experience. The peaceful setting in County Fermanagh naturally encourages the mind to slow down and the body to settle.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
Most guests are either new to yoga and meditation, or returning for another weekend. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and people tend to settle in quickly.
Tim spent a number of years living in a temple community, and the retreats are lightly influenced by that background. At the same time, everything is kept simple and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are coming for the first time, here are some of the questions we are most often asked.
Where is Lake Isle Retreats located?
Lake Isle Retreats is located near Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh.
Just over 80 miles (130 km) from both Dublin and Belfast.
We have been hosting retreats in this area for over 20 years.
Just over 80 miles (130 km) from both Dublin and Belfast.
We have been hosting retreats in this area for over 20 years.
Who are your retreats suitable for?
Anyone is very welcome. Guests from all walks of life, usually aged 18 and above.
Do I need to be an experienced yogi to attend?
Not at all. Many of our guests have little or no experience with yoga and meditation. Everything is guided and suitable for beginners as well as those with more experience.
Can I come alone?
Yes, most of our guests attend the retreat on their own. It's a relaxed and friendly environment, so it's easy to settle in whether you come alone or with others.
What activities are included in the retreat?
This can vary slightly depending on the retreat, but generally includes:
You're free to take part in as much or as little of the schedule as you like.
- Yoga
- Meditation, Mindfulness and short Sound Bath session
- Nature Walk / Forest Bathing
- Talks / Discussions
- Time to rest, with optional massages available
You're free to take part in as much or as little of the schedule as you like.
What type of yoga is taught at the retreat?
Yoga on the retreat is varied and depends on the teacher, but is always suitable for all levels.
Sessions usually include a mix of Hatha and restorative yoga, along with breathwork (pranayama) and guided meditation.
Depending on the retreat, you might also experience other styles such as Vinyasa, Atma or Dru Yoga, some more gentle, some a little more energising.
Sessions usually include a mix of Hatha and restorative yoga, along with breathwork (pranayama) and guided meditation.
Depending on the retreat, you might also experience other styles such as Vinyasa, Atma or Dru Yoga, some more gentle, some a little more energising.
Can I book additional services like a massage?
Yes, treatments like massage, reflexology and other holistic therapies are usually available and can be booked separately. See here: Massage/Holistic Therapies
What are the prices of your retreats?
We aim to keep our retreats as affordable as possible.
Price include:
- £250 or €290 for a single room
- £225 or €260 per person sharing
- £160 or €185 without accommodation
Price include:
- Two nights accommodation
- All vegetarian meals
- All classes and workshops
How do I book a retreat?
Email us to let us know what retreat you'd like to come to and to check availability. Contact and Booking
When we respond, if you'd like to book, we request a deposit of €150 or £125.
When we respond, if you'd like to book, we request a deposit of €150 or £125.
What is your cancellation policy?
A deposit of €150 / £125 per person secures your place.
If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 384 hours (16 days) before the retreat for a full refund, or transfer your deposit to another retreat.
Within 384 hours, deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. But if your place is filled (for example from a waiting list), we can transfer your deposit to a future date.
Gift vouchers are non-refundable, but can be passed on to someone else. Once a voucher is used to book, the same cancellation terms apply.
If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 384 hours (16 days) before the retreat for a full refund, or transfer your deposit to another retreat.
Within 384 hours, deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. But if your place is filled (for example from a waiting list), we can transfer your deposit to a future date.
Gift vouchers are non-refundable, but can be passed on to someone else. Once a voucher is used to book, the same cancellation terms apply.
What is the arrival time?
Arrival time anytime that suits you between around 4.00pm and 6.00pm.
Can I stay an extra night before or after the retreat?
Yes, staying an extra night after the retreat is sometimes possible, depending on availability. We don't offer extra nights before the retreat.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes for yoga, layers for outdoors depending on the season, suitable footwear (wellies or boots are a good idea), and any personal items you might need.
Do you provide yoga mats?
Yes, yoga mats, bolsters, eye pillows and belts are all provided.
You’re very welcome to bring your own if you prefer.
You’re very welcome to bring your own if you prefer.
Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, it’s a good idea to bring some cash for extras like treatments or anything from the gift shop as we don't have a card machine.
What kind of food is served?
All meals are freshly prepared and entirely vegetarian. No meat, fish or eggs.
The food is nourishing, wholesome and full of flavour, combining traditional vegetarian dishes with familiar Western favourites. Meals are designed to support your yoga and meditation practice. Herbal teas are available throughout your stay.
The food is nourishing, wholesome and full of flavour, combining traditional vegetarian dishes with familiar Western favourites. Meals are designed to support your yoga and meditation practice. Herbal teas are available throughout your stay.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, we’re happy to cater for dietary requirements such as dairy-free and gluten-free, as well as allergies and intolerances.
Please let us know your dietary needs when booking so we can accommodate you.
Please let us know your dietary needs when booking so we can accommodate you.
Can we bring the kids?
No. We apologise, but our retreats are group activities for adults. All guests must be 16 years or older, and teenagers should have a personal interest in the activities of the weekend. We accept children on retreats when it is a group booking of family and friends all coming together.
Can I smoke or drink alcohol?
Smoking outside the retreat centre is fine. Re. alcohol, if someone has a drinking problem, then we'd ask you not to bring alcohol. Otherwise, two or three friends having a glass of wine is not a problem.
What if I have more questions?
You can email us at [email protected] or [email protected]
Just get in touch, we’re always happy to help.
Just get in touch, we’re always happy to help.
If it feels right for you, we'd love to welcome you. :-)
Images above: Tim and Yen; Local island and lake scenes; Chrissie in a yoga pose. |
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All prices of a retreat include:
A yellow Ferrari on the temple's ferry boat is not "what to expect"... this was an actor and advertising agent who were coincidentally passing by one day!
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