Ayurvedic retreats are something that we here at Ayurveda Retreat in Reading would love to be able to offer our clients ourselves, but due to location and limited space it’s unfortunately not something that we can physically do. We have, however, stumbled across a fabulous Ayurvedic spa retreat just outside of Malvern that offers Ayurveda, Ayurveda and more Ayurveda!
Located within some beautiful grounds and amidst a backdrop of hills, The Clover Mill in Worcestershire is a little piece of heaven bundled up into one big Ayurvedic ball of loveliness. Only two hours from Reading but still far enough away from the hustle and bustle of town life to warrant at least a weekend away, The Clover Mill stands proud for its owner, Julie Dent, following its rewarding restoration.
As you drive off the beaten track in search of the mill you feel a sense of anticipation; not fully knowing what awaits you. You can tell from looking at the website and reading reviews that there’s something special in store, but exactly what, only time will tell. On arrival you’re met by Julie, the delightful owner, who makes you feel instantly welcome into what is first and foremost her home.
When being shown to your lodge (one of only three) you encounter the first (pleasant) surprise of the stay, as what looks like a fairly modest wooden lodge from the outside opens up to reveal a beautiful, luxurious, spacious lodge on the inside. The floors are a stunning dark wood, the ceilings are high and the windows are large; letting oodles of natural light flood in. Aesthetics aside, the beds are extremely comfortable, the sound is non-existent and the feeling is one of stillness and calm.
Perhaps the biggest surprise with the lodge, however, came in the form of what I deemed ‘extras’; those being an ample selection of Ayurvedic shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body cream, and a lovely big bath sheet to wrap yourself in post shower. The presence of a digital radio, hairdryer, kettle and herbal teas also served as a bonus to an already elevated first impression of The Clover Mill. It was clear from the off that a deliberate desire to play things down in order to create a sense of surprise once on-site had taken place here.
With dinner being served at 7pm, you wander to the dining room; once again not quite sure what to expect or even if any other guests are going to be joining you. The dining room is in fact within the cottage that adjoins the restored mill; Julie’s home and one that is charming and characterful; as you’d expect from an historic building. Following introductions (assuming other guests are staying), you’re seated at a table where Julie proceeds to serve three courses of delicious, freshly made, Ayurveda-inspired food; all incorporating hand-picked ingredients from the vegetable garden and delicately put together. There is the option to sit and chat post dinner but the desire to return to your lodge in order to be tucked up in bed by 9.30pm proves more tempting!
As for the rest of the retreat? Well, there’s a danger here of leaving nothing left to discover for yourself, so it’s probably best to simply say that you can expect plenty of yoga, Ayurvedic massage and general relaxation. Will an Ayurvedic retreat at The Clover Mill suit all Ayurveda lovers? Yes; as long as you enjoy ‘me-time’ but also appreciate the company of others….oh, and can handle three days caffeine free!
