MYSTICaL IRELAND
SEP 16 to 23, 2026
The Soul's Echo: A Journey into Celtic Connection
in the Land of Heart’s Desire
Welcome to a journey to the heart of Ireland's mythical landscape, to reflect and find the desires of our own hearts through an adventure of the soul in this magical landscape.
A week-long immersion in mystical Irish-Celtic lore, mythology, music, stories, legend, and mysteries.
Over 7 days of meditation, walking the earth, story, magic, music and dancing you will be introduced to the living magical realms and the way of life therein. Gaining healing insight, understanding, real practical skills to living an enchanted life and tools for building a life in Tír na n’Óg.
We are going to play, pray, sing, share stories, practice yoga, and explore through the eyes of Irish Seanchai, lore keepers, healers, musicians, bards, and so much more!
It's going to be magical!
A week-long immersion in mystical Irish-Celtic lore, mythology, music, stories, legend, and mysteries.
Over 7 days of meditation, walking the earth, story, magic, music and dancing you will be introduced to the living magical realms and the way of life therein. Gaining healing insight, understanding, real practical skills to living an enchanted life and tools for building a life in Tír na n’Óg.
We are going to play, pray, sing, share stories, practice yoga, and explore through the eyes of Irish Seanchai, lore keepers, healers, musicians, bards, and so much more!
It's going to be magical!
The Area
Discover the wild beauty of County Sligo, the dramatic coastline and enchanted loughs that W.B. Yeats called the "Land of Heart's Desire."
Let this epic backdrop of mountains and megalithic wonders be the sanctuary for your yoga practice.
Here, every breath becomes part of a grander adventure into the mystical heart of the Emerald Isle.
We are blessed to immerse ourselves into the energy of many sacred places. Expect to be showered with stories of this enchanted place by our guides, Sam and Roderick.
We will leave with a huge sense of awe!
YOUR OWN LUXURIOUS PRIVATE MANOR AWAITS
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Set on a magnificent 1,000-acre private estate in County Sligo, this historic treasure offers unparalleled views of a 13th-century Knights Templar castle beside a tranquil lake. Imagine taking a sauna and jumping in the lake, a long stroll among the many trails, and listening to the stories by our master storyteller of the rich history of the house and the area. We will have a private chef providing us every dinner in the dining room that has been serving this family since the 1600s. Roderick has plenty of Wellys (boots) for us to use on the property where there are an abundance of sheep! |
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A community of Knights Templars established themselves in a castle by the lake in the 12th century – and left their name in perpetuity. Long before that, Sir Perceval earned fame and honour as one of the Knights of King Arthur’s Round Table. History records that Ascelin Goval de Perceval defended his castle of Yvery in Normandy in 897 and, a few generations later, a Perceval helped to invade England as part of the retinue of William the Conqueror. In the 16th century, a member of the family was granted land in Ireland as a reward for his services to Queen Elizabeth I.
The manor today looks down on its own ancestral dwelling, in the shape of a picturesque, ivy-covered ruin of buildings in brick and stone.
The manor today looks down on its own ancestral dwelling, in the shape of a picturesque, ivy-covered ruin of buildings in brick and stone.
IRISH ROOTS RUN DEEP!
Sam is a local seanchai, storyteller, our guide, and lorekeeper. He has a deep passion for keeping the stories alive of this mystical place.
Roderick is the keeper of our magical Manor, which has been in his family since the 1600s. His ancestor was one of King Arthur's knights!
Roderick is the keeper of our magical Manor, which has been in his family since the 1600s. His ancestor was one of King Arthur's knights!
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“Tír gan teanga, Tír gan anam”
“Land without a voice, Land without a soul” - Old Irish Proverb
“Land without a voice, Land without a soul” - Old Irish Proverb
Yoga & DAILY THEMES TO EXPLORE THE SOUL
Welcome to a journey not just to the heart of Ireland's mythical landscape, but to the heart of yourself. Our week together at the historic Manor in the heart of Sligo County is guided by the Celtic concept of Anam Cara – the soul friend, based on John O'Donahue's book. Each day, we will explore finding the Anam Cara in nature, in each other, and most importantly, within ourselves.
We will have yoga once or twice daily of course, to be able to help you get into your body and into your soul, to allow for reflection, journaling, and to put yourself on a new conscious course. There will be life coaching mixed in with yoga, meditation, journaling, and breath work to balance you out in just the right way, keep you in the present, and tap into your creativity.
We will have yoga once or twice daily of course, to be able to help you get into your body and into your soul, to allow for reflection, journaling, and to put yourself on a new conscious course. There will be life coaching mixed in with yoga, meditation, journaling, and breath work to balance you out in just the right way, keep you in the present, and tap into your creativity.
This time is perfectly planned, to stretch, process and reflect through meditation and yoga that weaves in journaling, yoga and daily introspection. This gives you space to be able to have your own epiphanies around yourself and what’s next in your life - to integrate your outer experiences and reflect on the inner experiences - to be able to really embody this experience and make choices that you can take back into your life.
When you leave the retreat - you will carry in your heart all of the experiences and self-awareness that you have found this week. You will be given tools to live your life with this new found awareness and bring it to others - it’s contagious!
If you are a beginner - no worries! Classes are fulfilling for beginners and teachers alike - from gentle to yin to power! Sherry and Ellen have collectively been teaching for over 35 years and make classes accessible for all levels - meeting you where you're at, honoring your body - yet giving you the challenge that you need to go beyond your comfort zone.
* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!
If you are a beginner - no worries! Classes are fulfilling for beginners and teachers alike - from gentle to yin to power! Sherry and Ellen have collectively been teaching for over 35 years and make classes accessible for all levels - meeting you where you're at, honoring your body - yet giving you the challenge that you need to go beyond your comfort zone.
* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!
THE ITINERARY
You don’t have to think about a thing! Every detail is meticulously planned for you!
All you need to do is….SHOW UP….BE PRESENT…..and ENJOY!!!
Weaving in the perfect blend of yoga, activities and free time for self exploration and bonding with your new friends. There are also lots of surprises along the way.
You will receive so much more than your expectations!
All you need to do is….SHOW UP….BE PRESENT…..and ENJOY!!!
Weaving in the perfect blend of yoga, activities and free time for self exploration and bonding with your new friends. There are also lots of surprises along the way.
You will receive so much more than your expectations!
Upon your arrival...
You will be picked up in Dublin and take the 4 hour journey with our guide, Sam. You will be greeted by Sherry , Ellen, & Sherry's husband Stu with open arms!
As you settle in to the Manor and this magical island, you soak in the energy of this centuries old home and grounds.
Indulge in this alone time before you meet up with the group for the opening circle and our first group dinner! (The Sauna will be fired up if you want a quick sauna and dip in the lake before the opening circle )
You will be picked up in Dublin and take the 4 hour journey with our guide, Sam. You will be greeted by Sherry , Ellen, & Sherry's husband Stu with open arms!
As you settle in to the Manor and this magical island, you soak in the energy of this centuries old home and grounds.
Indulge in this alone time before you meet up with the group for the opening circle and our first group dinner! (The Sauna will be fired up if you want a quick sauna and dip in the lake before the opening circle )
Each day begins and ends with our daily yoga class with amazing excursions in between!
ANCIENT KNOCKNAREA - QUEEN MAEVE'S TOMB
Today's hike is a pilgrimage, not just to a place, but to a state of being. We walk the path to Queen Maeve's tomb to connect with the powerful archetype of the sovereign queen—the part of you that is wise, powerful, and rules your own inner kingdom with courage and grace. To be an Anam Cara to yourself is to recognize and honor this sovereign spirit within.
We arrive at the base of the sacred mountain, Knocknarea. The mountain itself becomes our teacher and friend on this journey. This physical challenge to connect to our inner resilience and strength, drawing on the energy of Queen Maeve, who was known for her unyielding determination. the 360-degree view of the Atlantic, Benbulben, and the Sligo landscape is breathtaking.
Today's hike is a pilgrimage, not just to a place, but to a state of being. We walk the path to Queen Maeve's tomb to connect with the powerful archetype of the sovereign queen—the part of you that is wise, powerful, and rules your own inner kingdom with courage and grace. To be an Anam Cara to yourself is to recognize and honor this sovereign spirit within.
We arrive at the base of the sacred mountain, Knocknarea. The mountain itself becomes our teacher and friend on this journey. This physical challenge to connect to our inner resilience and strength, drawing on the energy of Queen Maeve, who was known for her unyielding determination. the 360-degree view of the Atlantic, Benbulben, and the Sligo landscape is breathtaking.
THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY
We embark on a scenic drive from the serene lakelands of our manor to the dramatic coastline. As we travel, watch the landscape shift from lush green fields to the open, windswept vistas of the Wild Atlantic Way.
We have an opportunity to explore and feel the energy of the raw energy and beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
We embark on a scenic drive from the serene lakelands of our manor to the dramatic coastline. As we travel, watch the landscape shift from lush green fields to the open, windswept vistas of the Wild Atlantic Way.
We have an opportunity to explore and feel the energy of the raw energy and beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
BEFRIENDING OUR ANCESTRY AT CARROWMORE - THE ANCIENT CIRCLE
The Carrowmore Megalithic Complex, is a profound and tangible connection to that echo—a sacred landscape where we can befriend the ancestors who shaped this land over 5,000 years ago. For those Outlander fans, maybe we can touch the stones and go back to another dimension! We deepen our understanding of Anam Cara by extending the circle of soul friendship through time itself. John O'Donohue wrote of the "eternal echo," the idea that our souls are ancient and connected to a lineage that stretches back millennia.
The Carrowmore Megalithic Complex, is a profound and tangible connection to that echo—a sacred landscape where we can befriend the ancestors who shaped this land over 5,000 years ago. For those Outlander fans, maybe we can touch the stones and go back to another dimension! We deepen our understanding of Anam Cara by extending the circle of soul friendship through time itself. John O'Donohue wrote of the "eternal echo," the idea that our souls are ancient and connected to a lineage that stretches back millennia.
“An áit a bhfuil do chroí, is ann a thabharfas do chosa thú”
“Your feet will take you to where your heart is”
We will be walking the l and in many forms, listening to stories, and immersing into the energy and the messages that it has for us. We will do our share of hiking to get to these amazing sites. Bring your hiking shoes! (most hikes are no more than 2 hours each)
“Your feet will take you to where your heart is”
We will be walking the l and in many forms, listening to stories, and immersing into the energy and the messages that it has for us. We will do our share of hiking to get to these amazing sites. Bring your hiking shoes! (most hikes are no more than 2 hours each)
IMMERSION IN THE ART OF LIVING IN Tír na n’Óg
We will explore and immerse ourselves into the essence of the people of Ireland, with storytelling, bread making, Falconry, and maybe even Archery.
We'll be exploring local Sligo Town, Strandhill beaches, and more!
We will explore and immerse ourselves into the essence of the people of Ireland, with storytelling, bread making, Falconry, and maybe even Archery.
We'll be exploring local Sligo Town, Strandhill beaches, and more!
IMMERSION OF SELF-CARE WITH THE LAND
Have you ever had the occasion to have a sauna and then cold plunge into a lake and then pull out a kayak or paddle board on our own lake?
Or take some time to yourself to explore the the 1100 acres by yourself with your journal in hand
“Nature is the direct expression of the divine imagination.”
- John O'Donahue Anam Cara
Or take some time to yourself to explore the the 1100 acres by yourself with your journal in hand
“Nature is the direct expression of the divine imagination.”
- John O'Donahue Anam Cara
We'll be experiencing Irish MUSIC, of course!!! We'll visit a local pub and enjoy the heartbeat of the soul of the Irish!
“Lig an draoíacht a tharlú”
“Let the magic happen”
Old Irish Proverb
All our our trips would not be complete without some SURPRISES that are in store (which I’m not sharing and will not be disclosed until the event!!))
If you love yoga, unique experiences, to not worry about any detail, and to be pampered for the entire week, this trip is for you!
What's Included
- 7 nights luxurious accommodations in an exclusive country Manor, which has been thoughtfully selected for beauty, comfort, authenticity, and true local character
- Transfer to and from Dublin on arrival & departure days (4 hour bus ride)
- All transport for the duration of your stay, as detailed on the itinerary in a bus
- Daily Irish breakfast spread of local delicacies served each morning
- 6 Delicious chef-prepared dinners and one pub dinner
- 1 pub night dinner (and the traditional pub experience)
- All transfers and transport for the entire week
- Hosts and expert local guides for the duration of the tour
- At least 3 guided hikes (bring your hiking shoes!)
- Surprise excursions and experiences!
- Guided daily hikes and excursions
- Daily Yoga Sessions
- All entertainment
- Storytelling!
- Our free day at the Manor - options for Archery lessons, Falconry, and Bread baking, fishing, row boats on the lake, hiking the 1100 acres, or doing nothing :)
- Massage option (extra cost)
What's Not included
- Meals outside of those listed above
- Alcohol - Honor bar option
- Airfare and travel costs before and after the retreat
- Gratuities (for excursions if you feel they deserve it)
- Your shopping and additional purchases or excursions
- Entry fees to visit any museums, galleries, or public premises, not listed on the itinerary
- Personal, medical, or trip cancellation insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal Expenditures
Your Retreat Leaders Sherry Smith, Life Coach & e-RYT500 & Ellen MacKay e-RYT500
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Hi! We are Sherry and Ellen, long-time teachers and friends! Sherry and Ellen have been teaching together for over 10 years. Ellen was introduced to yoga in 2002, when she walked into Sherry's class and was hooked every since. She eventually became a teacher and has been teaching for over 15 years.
Our styles of teaching are based upon the theory of yoga, and in being authentic with ourselves as we walk our own path. We teach very accessible yoga that is good for everyone. We are the yin to each other's yang. We can't wait for you to experience how we balance each other out in our teaching as we balance and guide you through this amazing countryside. Collectively, we have over 35 years of experience. Sherry has also has over 25 years of travel experience, founding Retreat Journeys, for you to have the opportunity to explore your inner and outer world on a profound level. We can’t wait to share this beautiful Ireland journey with you. This is the time to nurture your soul, reconnect with yourself, and return home inspired. |
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Bonuses
“Is fearr seacht lá le na daoine maithe ná seacht mbliana leis na daoine dona”
“Seven days with good people is better than seven years with not so good people”
Before you even arrive, you'll be invited to join a private WhatsApp group as soon as you register so you can get to know your new friends, ask questions, and share in the pre-trip excitement. What's even better is that when you get home after the retreat you can keep in touch with everyone, share pictures, swap stories, and keep everyone in the loop with your triumphs and challenges.
A virtual group meet and greet meeting about 6 weeks prior to the trip to learn all the juicy details about the trip- what to pack, what to expect, travel logistics, etc. (If you live in Tampa, you can join in person!)
“Seven days with good people is better than seven years with not so good people”
Before you even arrive, you'll be invited to join a private WhatsApp group as soon as you register so you can get to know your new friends, ask questions, and share in the pre-trip excitement. What's even better is that when you get home after the retreat you can keep in touch with everyone, share pictures, swap stories, and keep everyone in the loop with your triumphs and challenges.
A virtual group meet and greet meeting about 6 weeks prior to the trip to learn all the juicy details about the trip- what to pack, what to expect, travel logistics, etc. (If you live in Tampa, you can join in person!)
You'll Leave with 3 Amazing Benefits
1. Living with a new ignited passion for life! Imagine leaving with finding yourself again, fully inspired, with a new appreciation for the people and experiences you have had in your life and ready to make new conscious choices given your new found passion on this trip. Your goal is to carry it into your every day life.
2. Tools to keep you focused after the trip - The entire week is structured around finding your passions with journaling, reflection and sharing time to give you the space to be able to reflect on your intentions. We give you tools to create goals or ways of being once you leave the retreat in your daily life. You'll return home knowing what it feels like to really be connected, inspired, and empowered!
3. Lasting friendships - You never knew that you could grow so close to seemed strangers that are now your friends forever in only a week! You have new soul-”mates” call upon whenever you need them! They have been through this experience with you and will always “get” you with little explanation needed.
Pricing
*reflects new pricing for 2026 at conversion rate as of Oct 2025
*The pricing is valid for Euro-USD up to 1.20 exchange rate. If the exchange rate is higher than 1.20, the final balance will be adjusted to reflect higher exchange rate.
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Pricing - $5195 Per Person Double Occupancy Room
Deposits and Payments
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Travel Info
Fly into Dublin, plan to stay one night in Dublin before our guide, Sam picks you up to drive the 4 hours to our Manor just outside of Sligo Town.
If coming from the U.S. Travel dates would be Sep 6 to Sep 14 minimally. (depart US on Sep 6th or earlier)
Fly into Dublin, plan to stay one night in Dublin before our guide, Sam picks you up to drive the 4 hours to our Manor just outside of Sligo Town.
If coming from the U.S. Travel dates would be Sep 6 to Sep 14 minimally. (depart US on Sep 6th or earlier)
Have more questions? We have answers!
Have never done yoga before?
No problem! The retreat is for all levels! Our retreats are not just yoga - normally yoga is taught once or twice per day depending on our itinerary and the excursions and meals are just as much a part of the theme of the week as the yoga. It is an immersion for all of the senses!
Never traveled abroad? We’ve got you covered! We have traveled abroad many times and can give you the advice you need to arrive safely.
Never done this for yourself? Just do it! There’s no time like now! It will be a life-defining week.
Traveling by yourself? Perfect! We'll partner you with a roommate to share your room with. Once you sign up we also connect you with our What's App Group so that you get to get to know the group before the trip. We can pair you up with a travel partner.
No problem! The retreat is for all levels! Our retreats are not just yoga - normally yoga is taught once or twice per day depending on our itinerary and the excursions and meals are just as much a part of the theme of the week as the yoga. It is an immersion for all of the senses!
Never traveled abroad? We’ve got you covered! We have traveled abroad many times and can give you the advice you need to arrive safely.
Never done this for yourself? Just do it! There’s no time like now! It will be a life-defining week.
Traveling by yourself? Perfect! We'll partner you with a roommate to share your room with. Once you sign up we also connect you with our What's App Group so that you get to get to know the group before the trip. We can pair you up with a travel partner.
Can I bring my spouse? Our retreats are for men and women alike :) Sherry and Stu are a husband and wife team and make everyone feel at home. Our last Santorini retreat had 5 couples :) We even had a couple join us on their HONEYMOON in Corsica!
What is the weather like in Ireland this time of Year?
September boasts an average temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit as a high so we'll need to bundle up!
What kind of clothes will I need for the trip? They say that Ireland has 4 seasons in a day. We'll need to dress in layers. We'll be hiking outdoors rain or shine, so bring rain and warm gear.
What currency does Ireland use? Euro. The currency exchange rate does change frequently. To check the current currency exchange rate, you can go to: http://www.xe.com/ucc/
What should I budget for meals? Dinners are included. You can eat affordably and healthy for lunch with such deliciousness everywhere you turn!
I would like to immerse myself in yoga and self-exploration while I'm there. Is there time for that? YES! There will be plenty of time to reflect, do your own practice, journal, photography, sketching, whatever your creative outlet is.
Should I bring any yoga props with me (blocks, strap)? You should bring everything you need to practice yoga, especially your mat. Blocks will be provided, but please bring a strap and your mat.
Additional Questions? Contact Sherry. We're happy to help!
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 813-842-2366
What Retreat Participants Said
“The devotion all of you show to putting together such an amazing experience is very much appreciated. You seem to meet each one of us where we are at and encourage us to grow and reach further. Your spirits are so precious and I feel blessed to know you!”
"I found a safety and security that doesn't always exist with the stresses of home, work, and family. I felt safe enough to cry openly. Share more intimately, and ultimately grow deeper into both my yoga practice and my understanding of myself. You can't put a price on this experience, it truly is priceless. Deepest thanks to you. I didn't want this week to end.”
“The devotion all of you show to putting together such an amazing experience is very much appreciated. You seem to meet each one of us where we are at and encourage us to grow and reach further. Your spirits are so precious and I feel blessed to know you!”
"I found a safety and security that doesn't always exist with the stresses of home, work, and family. I felt safe enough to cry openly. Share more intimately, and ultimately grow deeper into both my yoga practice and my understanding of myself. You can't put a price on this experience, it truly is priceless. Deepest thanks to you. I didn't want this week to end.”