The clear waters and sheltered coves of Tresco, part of the Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall, will host its second Festival of Wellness from 14-21 March 2026. Coinciding with the spring equinox, the event focuses on health and mindful practices through a week of gentle movement, restorative activities and connection to nature.
Across the week, visitors can take part in beachside yoga, guided walks, wild swimming and mindfulness sessions, as well as gardening and wildlife talks inspired by Tresco’s subtropical Abbey Garden and the unique habitat of the island. The programme also features talks and classes led by wellness practitioners on breathwork, cold- water immersion and exercise, such as cycling, walking and swimming. Evenings bring calm gatherings for activities such as sound baths and reflective journalling, allowing guests to unwind and connect with the island’s quiet atmosphere.
LOCAL LEADERS
The festival is also a chance to meet and learn from those who reside or work on the islands throughout the year. Gem Hansen, who lives on the small island of Bryher, just a few minutes by boat from Tresco, teaches yoga and meditation sessions throughout the week, using her knowledge of the island to help visitors connect with its natural rhythms while they are there.
‘The escapism that a remote island offers is unparalleled when it comes to a peaceful pace of life, and time for reflection, self-kindness and care. Some time out from the normality of life can make your journey of rediscovery on the mat all the more meaningful,’ she says.
Bryony Lishman lives on the largest of the Isles of Scilly, St Mary’s, where she runs swimming and yoga retreats. She joins the wellness team on Tresco by boat taxi to lead sea swimming, trail running and yoga sessions. Plus, for those who have always wanted to try traditional Scillonian gig rowing, there will be a chance to jump aboard with the Tresco & Bryher Gig Rowing Club.
RECONNECT WITH NATURE
Island beekeeper Jilly Halliday will give updates on the latest news from the Scillonian Bee Project and how the islands are playing a role in protecting the bee population for the whole country. Visitors will have an opportunity to take an immersive guided walk around the island with Jilly and reconnect to the natural cycle of life.
Jilly says, ‘About 10 years ago, local beekeepers on the Isles of Scilly made an informal agreement to stop importing outside bee populations and protect the native bees. The importance of these bees now extends far beyond local interest. These bees serve as critical environmental sentinels, providing insight into ecosystem health, climate change and biodiversity. They represent a potential genetic lifeline for British native bee populations, offering pure genetic stock that could be crucial for future conservation efforts.’
In addition, Ella Mclachlan, founder of St Martin’s-based organic seaweed skincare brand Phoenix & Providence, was inspired to start her seaweed skincare range by her regular sea swims. Ella now harvests seaweed for her products from the clean seas that surround the islands. During the week, she offers an opportunity to learn about coastal foraging, the health benefits of seaweed and how this remarkable resource can be used to promote a holistic approach to skincare.
Those with an interest in horticulture will get the chance to meet Andrew Lawson, head gardener at Tresco Abbey Garden, who has worked on the island for 40 years, and his wife, kitchen gardener Kate Lawson. The couple will guide guests through some of the remarkable plant species that thrive in this unique island garden and the benefits of daily interactions with the natural world.
With the backdrop of gentle lapping water, seaside sunrises and sunsets and the clean, fresh air, this beautiful, virtually car-free island offers the perfect location to reset the body and mind and perhaps fall in love with island living.
For further information and details of how to book, visit tresco.co.uk/festival-of-wellness.
