Spring marks the season of new beginnings and there’s no better way to realign your mind and body than embarking on a hiatus from the everyday. Mellowing the pace of city living, Heartcore’s 5-day retreat taking place in May, seek out your inner sense of serenity, encompassing mind-body movement following Heartcore’s signature method.

For those not familiar, Heartcore is London’s leading studio renowned for dynamic reformer Pilates that provides results like no other. Founded by Jessie Blum, who you’ll be excited to learn is hosting the retreat, the vision of Heartcore was initially to enlighten people through transformative low-impact workouts that are equally effective for both the body and the mind. Quickly, Londoners became hooked on the unique heart-led method, and thus more studios gradually popped up in and around the capital’s most popular neighbours. Accessible to all, the inclusive group sessions take place on the mat or the Coreformer, plus on a 1-to-1 basis.

Booking a proper retreat sometimes requires a bit of courage, especially if it’s your first time, likewise, if you’re planning on going solo, it can seem daunting. Navigating the right retreat for you is key to getting the most out of the experience, which is where we come in handy! Think of us as your trusty guide, we know a thing or two about wellness retreats, what works, what doesn’t and where best to invest your pennies. Top of our picks for 2023 is Heartcore’s Spring Retreat. The programme has been fine-tuned by the Heartcore team, cherry-picking top-tier experiences that create the perfect balance of expert-led Pilates, wellbeing, relaxation and pleasure. 

A stone’s throw away from the jet-setting town of St-Tropez, 5-star boutique hotel, Villa Cosy will be transformed into a Heartcore hub for retreaters. Setting the tone, the villa is decked out with luxe contemporary interiors and earthy neutral hues inspired by farmhouse style. Guests will be well catered for with plush beds, homely amenities and welcoming hospitality. Complete with a heated outdoor pool, hammam, sauna, treatment room, outdoor whirlpool, zen area and gym, Villa Cosy ticks all the boxes to house an idyllic retreat.

St-Tropez is a honeypot for tourists during the height of the summer, but during the off-season, guests will be utterly spoiled with a picture postcard town all to themselves, giving you the chance to live like a local. The French Riviera melds white sandy beaches glazed over by turquoise waters, quaint cobbled streets with historic architecture and scenic coastal paths to explore. There are pockets of free time amidst the itinerary to wander around the idyllic town, take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea and stroll along the routes that trace the beaches.

Taking a tranquil approach to retreating, the curated plan of action is the dream agenda for those looking to delve into mindful movement, enjoy nourishing meals, connect with like-minded wellness lovers and restore a harmonious mindset. 

Laced in the Heartcore method, mornings commence with the signature dynamic Pilates sessions around the pool. Led by Jessie, the class is a full-body workout that unleashes your inner warrior and opens your heart. Heartcore’s signature class is a results-driven formula that works on building strength, increasing flexibility and improving your posture. There’s no doubt your limits will be tested as the burn from these 90-minute sessions is real, whether you’re experienced or a beginner, you’ll flow through at your level to excel throughout the retreat. Under the surface, you’ll uncover the mental benefits and expect positivity, focus and gratitude to ripple into your thoughts as you overcome the physical endeavours of the classes. Alongside the daily Pilates sessions, guests will have the opportunity to join in other guided sessions, such as beach walks, runs and coastal hikes with Jessie and the Heartcore team. There’s no pressure to take part in every activity on offer, you’re welcome to dip in and out as it suits you! 

Leisurely afternoons are encouraged, bury yourself in a book lazing around the pool, indulge in the spa for a spot of R&R, stroll along the beach trails that offer lusting views or wander into St-Tropez to marvel over the charming town. An excursion out to sea for a sunset catamaran trip is scheduled into the itinerary as well as a 60-min full body massage to compliment the invigorating exercise. Optional extras such as personal training, golf and tennis lessons, additional massages and body treatments can be arranged for you by the team.

Wake up to a light breakfast, with freshly baked pastries and seasonal fruits laid out to fuel you for the morning session. The lunch spread features nourishing salads and sandwiches dotted out on sharing platters to graze on post-workout. For dinner, guests will head out to various hidden gem restaurants to dine like the locals. A rarity on traditional retreats, dining out adds to the element of balance that Heartcore has implemented that harnesses an elevated experience. Indulge in the favoured dishes of the French Riviera whilst sipping on regional wine in your little retreat bubble.

One thing to make clear is you do not have to be a Heartcore regular to go on this retreat. Complete newbies are cordially invited with open arms to be part of their community, think of it as your fast-track to fostering into the Heartcore family, with Jessie initiating you in! Heartcore’s philosophy is routed in embracing every single person with an open heart to make newcomers feel accepted, safe and happy. Breaking down barriers and allowing yourself to be vulnerable is part of the process of growth. The outcome results in the beauty of human connection, compassion, care, authenticity and joy! 

Alluring an eclectic group of compatible people, from all corners of the globe, this retreat is a chance to mingle with new people, make lifelong friends and be inspired by others. Sparking awe moments, you will feed off the energy of others to leave uplifted by the bonds created in this intimate, safe space.

Satisfying your wanderlust desires whilst enriching your mind and body, Heartcore’s spring retreats are a chance for you to press the pause button. A 4-night break is just the right amount of time to guarantee a reset without spending too much time away from home commitments. There are a number of reasons why this retreat is calling your name, whether you’re on the brink of burnout, you’re looking to ignite your love for mindful movement, you’re craving some vitamin D or quite simply this sounds like something you’d love to be a part of, this retreat is the ultimate act of self-care.

Heartcore Spring Retreat is taking place on 10-14th May 2023.

READER OFFER: 10% discount for first 5x Hip & Healthy readers that sign up for the retreat, upon enquiry quote ‘Hip & Healthy’ to redeem the discount

BOOK NOW

10% off below package:

Private Suite package £4,725

Private Poolside Room package £4,175

Shared Suite package £3,375

Shared Poolside Room package £3,050

*The price per room includes all meals, two alcoholic drinks per evening, one complimentary 60-min full body massage, a sunset catamaran trip, pre-dinner petanque, two daily classes (x10), enjoyment of the spa, sauna, hammam and jacuzzi. Transfers and flights are to be arranged privately by attendees.