Discover Dorset
A Pilgrimage & Mindfulness Tour
Highlights
- Exclusive use of a Grade II listed Georgian House, now a boutique hotel, as HQ for the week
- Warm up Walks followed by a 3-day Pilgrimage
- Visits to local villages, towns, pubs and markets
- Insight into the life and work of Thomas Hardy – one of England’s greatest writers
- Catered breakfasts, two lunches out in the sticks and two gourmet dinners
- Daily yoga and meditative sessions with Yogadeva Erin Fleming
ALL TOURS ARE AVAILABLE AS PRIVATE TOURS FOR YOU OR YOUR FAMILY/GROUP/PARTY
Trip Profile
Duration:
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Tour Summary
Breaking with tradition, we jump across the English Channel. The setting for this pilgrimage retreat is the bucolic idyll of Thomas Hardy’s Dorset. This tour goes straight to the heart of Dorset’s unquestionable appeal. The area abounds in history and natural beauty, and we have designed this tour around our favourite walks, restaurants, pubs, villages, beaches and views.
Dorset’s Jurassic Coast has gained UNESCO World Heritage Status and one of our walks will be following the world famous South Coastal Path that hugs the coastline along the dramatic cliffs that fall away into the English Channel.
There will be a focus on meditative walking with sessions from Yogadeva Erin Fleming both out in the fields and back at our country retreat which has a stunning ballroom perfect for Yoga.
We cannot wait to share with you the intimate and gentle secrets of this wonderful part of the world on our Dorset pilgrimage and mindfulness tour.
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More Information
Itinerary
- Arrival at exclusive hotel
- Warm up walks and exploration of local area
- Guided tour of Thomas Hardy’s Dorset
- Ancient 3-day pilgrimage that starts inland and follows a pilgrim’s path through stone circles, past standing stones, along a ridgeway and out to Saint Catherine´s Chapel overlooking Chesil Beach. This destination alone is worthy of a trip
Arrival:
London’s Gatwick and Heathrow are the nearest major airports to Bridport with international flights from the USA and Europe.
Exeter airport is even closer (35 miles), and Bristol (61 miles) but they have limited flights within the UK and Europe.
Booking a transfer from airport to hotel is recommended for speed and comfort.
Departure:
Booking a transfer from hotel to airport is recommended for speed and comfort.
London Heathrow and Gatwick airports have the wider selection of international flights.
Prices
Please enquire for prices
As TOMA & COE is a bespoke travel agency working with private clients and small groups, prices may vary slightly according to the time of year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment should I bring on our Dorset pilgrimage and mindfulness tour?
You will need good walking boots and clothing, plus comfortable clothing for your daily yoga sessions. If you use walking poles, feel free to bring these too. As it is England, wet weather gear is always advisable!
Are there pilgrimages in the UK?
Yes, there are a number of pilgrimages in the UK. The most famous is The Pilgrim’s Way to Canterbury. In Dorset, there is the St Wite’s Way, the Cernunnos and Catherine Way and the South Dorset Old Stones Way, among others.
Do I have to be a Christian to take part?
No, our Dorset pilgrimage experience, with walks and yoga, allow you the space for reflection and meditation. You have time to connect with nature, the world and yourself in your own way.
What level of fitness do I need to walk the routes?
A moderate to good level of fitness is required for our routes. Dorset has gently rolling hills and undulating coastal path.
Is there direct public transport from the airports to Bridport?
Unfortunately, not. You can take trains and buses to the area, but not directly. This is why we recommend organising a private transfer. Of course, if you wish to explore other parts of the UK before or after your Dorset mindfulness retreat, then car hire may be the best option.
What happens if there is rain or bad weather on the day of the walk?
If it is raining, we will still walk. However, if it is considered too dangerous, we will postpone the walk and arrange alternative activities.
Reviews
A good holiday with a great team