Ireland: A Women's Retreat into Story, Land & Sisterhood

This women's retreat in County Sligo, Ireland, is a five-night, six-day small-group gathering at Temple House Estate near Ballymote. It brings together Irish mythology and storytelling, yoga and qigong, herbalism, somatic work and time on the land. It is for women who are drawn to Ireland's stories as much as its scenery, who want something deeper than trend-driven goddess spirituality, and who need a few days away from the usual rhythm of work and responsibility. It is hosted by The Roaming Sisterhood and led by Heather Nichole, with local guide Tosca.

What to Expect

Each day follows a steady rhythm. Mornings begin with yoga and qigong in the estate gardens, with modifications offered for every pose. Afternoons are given to workshops or excursions: mythology and storytelling with Brigit, Queen Maeve and the Cailleach, herbalism, fascia release and somatic work, and nervous system practices. Brunch is served at 9:30am and dinner at 5:30pm. In the evening there are guided journeys, meditation and sound healing around the fire.

Excursions take in Strandhill Beach, a hike to Queen Maeve's Cairn on Knocknarea, the megalithic stone circles of Sligo, and a falconry session. There is also a traditional music night. Free time is left open for the walking paths, the lake and its row boats, the castle ruins, jewelry making, incense bundles and guided journaling. Outdoor plans depend on the weather, and rain is part of the experience. When plans change, the house offers crafts, games, journaling, meditation and fireside time.

Optional add-ons include massage, one-to-one coaching, and astrology or tarot readings.

Your Hosts

Heather Nichole is a yoga teacher, somatic coach, retreat leader and nervous system practitioner based in Temecula, California. She founded The Roaming Sisterhood, which runs small-group women's retreats in places such as Zion, Costa Rica, Thailand, Yosemite and Ireland. A decade as an award-winning destination photographer came before this work. After the end of a 20-year marriage and a period of burnout, she rebuilt her life as a single mother of three. She teaches breathwork, embodiment and mindful movement, and believes we heal by coming home to ourselves rather than by hustling.

Tosca is the local guide for mythology and land. She has lived in Ireland since 2016, exploring, studying and working within the landscape. Her background spans mythology, nutrition, herbalism, cultural astronomy and qigong, and she is completing a Master's in Irish Mythology and Folklore at University College Cork.

The Setting

Temple House Estate is a secluded manor set among ancient trees, a lake, gardens and ruins, beneath the mountains of County Sligo. The group has exclusive use of Temple House Manor. There are ten individually designed rooms, mostly ensuite, with lake or garden views. Options include a shared convertible room for friends, a shared twin matched with another woman on the retreat, and a private ensuite room.

The surrounding country is Yeats country, with Knocknarea rising above it and the cairn associated with Queen Maeve, the legendary warrior queen of Connacht. A local chef caters the meals, and dietary requirements are accommodated. Early in the retreat there is a grocery run so guests can choose their own snacks, and the house keeps snacks and drinks stocked.

A shuttle meets the group at Dublin Airport on the first day, with a stop along the way, and runs to all off-site activities. Flying in the evening before and staying at an airport hotel is recommended, and guidance is provided.

Before You Go

All levels are welcome, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners. The retreat is in English. Many women come solo, and the format is designed to bring strangers together quickly.

Included are all meals, workshops, excursions, daily movement, arts sessions and shuttles. Not included are flights, travel insurance (strongly recommended), gratuities for staff, chef and drivers, alcohol (available for purchase on site), and meals, drinks and souvenirs during off-property excursions. Bring layers, walking shoes and a waterproof jacket.