Mountain Walking Retreat

Retreat Overview

The focus of our days will be entering into the spirit of mountain practice; immersing ourselves in the mountains together as a group. Days 1 and 2 we will hike into high mountain areas (weather permitting) with a shorter low-level walk to close the last day. Walking is the focus for our Zen practice led by Daizan, with extended periods of silent reflection and simple rituals incorporated into each journey.

What To Expect

Walks may last for up to eight hours. All walks will be on established paths but they can be rocky and rough with steep drops. Ascent (and descent) may be up to 1000 metres in a day – the equivalent of climbing up and down the London Eye seven times. Walks are led by qualified Mountain Leader and Junior Zen Teacher Penny Clay who will hold the final decision for route choice on the day, dependent on weather conditions. No previous experience is required but a reasonable level of fitness is essential.

Weather and Kit

The Scottish Highlands are famous for being able to produce ‘four seasons in one day’ and participants MUST be suitably equipped for a full day in the hills. Minimum essentials include a waterproof jacket with a hood, waterproof trousers, thermal layers, a sturdy pair of walking boots, hat, gloves, water-bottle or flask and rucksack. A full kit list is provided on booking.

“thanks soooooo much for organising this weekend, I am waiting for my train and smiling from ear to ear – there were almost too many beautiful moments – thank you ”

Accommodation and Meals

Our group has sole use of the Glen Feshie Hostel (www.glenfeshiehostel.co.uk); this is basic accommodation. Sleeping is in single-sex dorms with bunk beds and shared shower rooms. All bed linen is provided but you need to bring your own towel. There are no en-suite facilities. The retreat is fully catered; all meals are vegetarian/vegan including packed lunches which we will make up each day. We have a shared work rota to help with food preparation. There is a comfy lounge with a wood burning stove, the hostel is fully heated and there is a drying room for wet clothes and boots. Camping is not available.

Other considerations

Participants who may find the mountain walks too challenging are still welcome to attend the retreat, we can offer advice on short local walks in the area but these will not be guided, you will need your own map for this. If you are an experienced hill walker you are equally welcome but be aware that the hill walking is in the context of a retreat experience so you may have to modify your expectations of a ‘big day out’ to fully enjoy the retreat. We ask participants to unplug from social media and messaging for the duration of the retreat, although you are welcome to use your mobile phone as a camera.

Travel

Glen Feshie Hostel is around 2.5 hours from Edinburgh, 3 hours from Glasgow and 2.5 hours from Inverness. The nearest train stations are at Kingussie (15km) and Aviemore (15km). It is usually possible to organise taxis or lift shares from the train stations to the hostel with other retreat members.

Cost

Booking is via Zenways. We do not charge a fixed amount for retreats, instead, we would suggest a donation of £100 – £250 payable to Zenways at the time of booking. Accommodation, all meals & guiding costs £325 per person and can be booked with Penny at Mountain Yoga Kinlochleven once you have confirmed your booking with Zenways.