Winter's Embrace

A Solstice to New Year retreat at Traigh Bhan

20 December 2024 - 3 January 2025

This December, join Michael and Anja at Traigh Bhan for "Winter's Embrace," a retreat from the Winter Solstice to the dawn of New Year - a sacred journey of release, rebirth, and celebration.

As we cross the threshold of the shortest day of the year and start a new cycle around the sun, we will explore opportunities for renewal and transformation.

  • Traigh Bhan: A Sanctuary for the Soul

    Nestled on the serene Isle of Iona, Traigh Bhan offers a  haven where you can connect deeply with the rhythms of nature. This retreat is designed to provide a seasonal experience, intertwining daily routines that nurture the body and spirit with profound spiritual practices that honour the cycles of the earth, the sea, and the celestial bodies.

    The retreat: A Journey of Transformation

    During your stay, you will be able to  participate in rituals that honour the Solstice —  both experiencing the mysteries of the darkest night and welcoming the return of the light as the days gradually grow longer. Our spiritual work will support you to release the past year’s burdens, while embracing the promise of renewal and hope for the year to come. The retreat will include:

    • Daily Nurturing Practices: Gentle morning meditations, mindful movement, and nourishing meals shared in the warmth of our communal space.

    • Solstice Rituals: A sacred ceremony on the eve of the Winter Solstice, celebrating the return of the light and the rebirth of the spirit.

    • Iona Services for Christmas: Experience the timeless beauty of Christmas on Iona, with services that resonate with the island’s deep spiritual roots.

    • New Year’s Preparation: Spiritual exercises and reflections designed to help you prepare for the year ahead, aligning your intentions with the natural cycles of growth and renewal.


    Communion and Celebration

    Together, we will share in creating the rhythms of the day with mindfulness and delight, developing a supportive and transformative community. As we gather within the heart of the house, warmed by the fire and each other’s company we will celebrate the end of one cycle and the beginning of another, finding joy in the promise of the Solstice night.


    Embrace the Promise of the Solstice

    In the darkest moments of winter, we discover our own light. May you find peace in the promise that each day forward is blessed with more light, and that the unbroken cycle of nature brings faith to your soul and well-being to your heart.

    Join us at Traigh Bhan this December for a retreat that not only honours the cycles of the earth but also nourishes your spirit and prepares you for the journey ahead. Together, we will  experience the depth of Winter’s Embrace and emerge restored and renewed, filled with joy and hope for the future.

Friday 20 December 2024 - Friday 3 January 2025

Price: £1,500

(includes: experience fees, all meals and shared accommodation)

Spaces are limited. Book your place now to secure your spot in this transformative retreat.

Michael Bailey and Anja
“Iona is a magical place and Traigh Bhan is a magical house. I especially enjoyed my own meditations in the Sanctuary as well as the walks with the other participants.”
— Spirit of Iona Participant

Winter’s Embrace FAQs

  • Vegetarian meals are provided so you don't need to bring food with you. However, if you have any dietary requirements please let us know when you book.

  • We are unfortunately unable to provide private rooms. All rooms are shared to make use of the small number of bedrooms available.

  • While we will do our best to accommodate your needs, we are restricted in what we can offer due to the remoteness of the location. Our Traigh Bhan retreat house is set in the middle of a field and there are steps and narrow doors in the house itself.

    If you would like to contact us about your additional requirements and whether we can accommodate them, please use our booking questions form.

For more information about travel arrangements, food requirements and cancellations visit our Booking FAQs page.

Inner listening

Learn to be still and go within, accessing the deep inner wisdom that you always carry with you.

Co-creation with nature

Collaborate with the intelligence of nature for a more connected and creative relationship with the world around you.

Love in action

Bring love into everything you do, using it as an opportunity to move beyond limiting beliefs and shape a new future.