There are many contributing factors that influence results, results will defer for each individual.

Maria, 46, Midweek Wellness and Weight Management Retreat, June 2025

If you looking for a retreat to get you in the right mind, body and soul shape, this is the one.

I’m writing this review on my way home after spending 4 days at The Body Retreat for their wellness and fitness program.
Am I the kind of person that writes reviews? Not really. But this retreat seems like a safely kept jewel, that needs to be recognised and celebrated.

Came on a Monday afternoon from London feeling chronically stressed, sleep deprived and bloated- even though I’ve always thought I ate pretty well. The taxi picked me and another lady from the train station and in 15’ of wonderful Dorset countryside, we were in a remote location, among farms, fields and not many signs of civilisation.

This is a women only destination.
We were 6 women, different ages, each there for different reasons, all with the desire to be our better selves and break the chains of our everyday routines, that keep us back.
Out of the 6 of us, 4 have been here many times- I was very intrigued by that.

Each had our own room, en-suite, which offered valuable privacy.

Julie and Juls are the heart of the Retreat. They have been doing these women retreats for more than 15 years now in the UK and abroad and it’s like they welcomed us in their own house.

Small group, very personalised fitness program and the most nutrient dense, flavoursome, home made food anyone can dream of.

Days started with a short training session accustomed to all ages; first day, dreaded for, next days, much anticipated so.

Meals were full of colour, texture, nature on a plate, while being presented so beautifully. There were variations covering any specific dietary need.

The days were active, but not exhausting. Long walks in the countryside, with Julie and her 2 playful dogs. Aqua aerobics, Pilates, yoga, strength training and lots of stretching. All ages welcomed and exercises adjusted.
Everything felt so well thought through and professional, but on the same time so personal, relaxed and homey.

The are lots of wellness options for the late afternoon; a lovely masseuse was there for a variety of treatments. I treated myself to one every day I was there!

The nights were calm and quiet. We retreated to our rooms and most slept very early comparing to our normal lives. And slept through the night, which is not really often for me.

We learned a lot on our days there, which hopefully we can carry on our normal lives;
Conscious eating, stress management, importance of sleep and hydration, nutritional needs, recipes, women’s health.

I am leaving Julie and Juls feeling like some has pressed my restart button. Lighter, fitter and calmer. Even though I came by myself, I felt throughout I was with my dear friends.

This is The Body Retreat. Really hope to see you again very soon.

Lucy, Weight Loss Retreat, March 2025

Pushpa, Sugar Detox Retreat Jan 2025

Jane, Wellness Retreat, Feb 2025

Lesley, 56, Midweek Weight Loss Retreat June 2025

I have been to the Body Retreat a few times now and every time I come home, I am a bit lighter and most definitely rejuvenated. A week of freshly made, locally grown, nutritionally balance food and spending time in the countryside brings huge benefits to both body and mind. Juls and Julie have created something unique. The groups of women are small, so it never feels like you are on a well-oiled conveyer-belt but on a very bespoke, tailored programme.
The food is healthy and delicious. It is made freshly in the kitchen for every meal and they will cater for intolerances/vegan etc – and any replacements will be equally nutritionally balanced.
There is daily exercise but whilst you are encouraged to give it your best, no-one is pushed beyond where they want to go.
Do not be daunted about going alone – most women do and find that everyone bonds quickly and I have always found the group to be very supportive and encouraging.
There are also two lovely dogs who join in the walks – they are very well trained and will not bother you if you are not interested.
I could write so much more but if you are thinking about booking, just do it – you won’t regret it!

Sharon, 68, Weight Loss Retreat, May 2025

Having just returned from the weight loss program, I feel fitter, healthier and better equipped to be the best version of myself as I transition to my late 60’s. The programme is designed , not only support weight loss through a renewed focus on what we eat, but also to encourage movement . The combined effects are that I have the confidence to exercise and now have the tools to help me. I arrived with a swollen foot, and early osteoporosis , Thinking my range of movement was limited. I could not have been more wrong! Within four days the pain and swelling was greatly reduced , together with the inflammation that has plagued me for months, even though I have been having weekly physiotherapy sessions. Julia pushed me to do better and be stronger. This was done in a motivating and supportive manner and at no time did I feel a failure. Jules uses humor, her exceptional culinary skills and scientific evidence to convert our approach to eating. It helped that the food was unexpectedly delicious as well as nutritious! I have establish habits that will stay with me and I am eternally grateful to both for giving me the best possible tools for managing the years ahead.

Laura, Weight Loss Retreat

Amanda, Weight Loss Retreat, Feb 2025

Joanna, Menopause Retreat

Lucy, 53, Weight Loss Retreat

”It is now six weeks since I returned from the Body Retreat in Dorset and I wanted to take the time to say what a genuinely transformational experience it was. The location is beautiful and the programme was perfect – for anyone looking to improve their understanding of what, when and how to eat and how to exercise. Not only did I lose the weight I wanted to lose, but more importantly I have really changed how I cook and eat – and feel so much better for it. Similarly on the exercise front, it has helped me fit in regular exercise even on very busy work days.”

Tina, 62, Midweek Wellness and Weight Management Retreat

“I have just spent the most invigorating, motivating and fun week at The Body Retreat. A small group of like- minded ladies with lively conversation and making new friends. Lovely, comfortable accommodation and fabulous healthy meals. Days were filled with walks, swims, cardio, strength and stretching exercise. Plus workshops on nutrition, sleep, stress, habits, etc. no health and well-being question left unanswered. I have been on several Body Retreats over the years and I always come away healthier and uplifted having gained a lot of knowledge and appreciation for the importance of self- care- especially as we age.

Kate, Returners Retreat

Jo, Menopause Retreat

Nicola, Weight Loss Retreat

Antoinette, Reset Retreat

Deidre, Returners Retreat

Menopause Retreat

Kelly, Weight Loss Retreat

Julie, The Menopause Retreat

Jane, Weight Loss Retreat

Nicola, 32, Weight Loss Retreat

“Julie’s strap line ‘Never say Never’ couldn’t be closer to the truth! If you think you aren’t fit enough, think again…. you work at your own level and push for results you do not think are possible in as little as a week. The support and encouragement offered by Julie and her team make the whole experience enjoyable and fun! You can do anything you set your mind to !”

Amanda, 54, Weight Loss Retreat

“I cannot recommend the body retreat weight loss programme highly enough. Julie and Juls are inspirational and have a wealth of knowledge to share. Every day is well planned out with a good mix of activity and workshops. Food is delicious. I had great success, have learnt so much and now I am excited to start my journey to better health and fitness.”

Olivia, 65, Weight Loss Retreat

“I would just like to say how much I appreciate your Retreats because, as an older person (over 60) I am always nervous about starting any exercise. At The Body Retreat we all worked at our own pace and up to our own capabilities. Even when I was the slowest, I never felt neglected or under pressure. Although I will not now become a champion athlete now, I feel that you appreciate the importance for older people to exercise in order to lose weight, stay healthy and keep flexible.

Sue, The Menopause Retreat

Debs, Weight Loss Retreat

The Menopause Retreat

Nikki, Menopause Retreat

Sandra, Weight Loss Retreat

Joanna, Weight Loss Retreat

Clare, 36, Weekend Retreat

“I was apprehensive before I arrived, but after being there for all of 10 minutes, I was relaxed and put at ease by you and your team! I found the days exciting yet challenging and felt like I pushed myself further than I would if I had just gone to the gym on my own! So a thank you. Hope to do another of your courses soon”

Diana, 42, Weight Loss Retreat

“The Body Retreat is an incredible experience. You have no idea what your body is capable of until you’ve been on one. A brilliant way to kick-start a new lifestyle with like minded people who will laugh, smile, grimace and share the hard work with you in equal measures! Thank you.”

Anne, 67, Weight Loss Retreat

“I came in trepidation because of my age (67) but I needn’t have worried – the group of women were varied in age and ability, everyone supported each other, I had a fantastic experience and have lost weight, am fitter than I’ve been in years and most of all motivated to carry on! Thank you Julie”

Jools Weight Loss Retreat

Julie, Weight Loss Retreat

Sarah, 43, Sugar Detox Retreat

“I felt very sluggish, bloated and heavy after Christmas, no surprise really, but it seemed to go on for weeks and weeks. Finally I had enough and I found your detox retreat. I liked the idea of there being exercise and workshops etc as I’m the type would get bored if left to just hang around relaxing. I can honestly say I was never bored! The days were very varied and although we were detoxing I never really felt hungry and I did have the energy to take part in the classes. I was so pleased to lose 4 inches from my stomach… 4 whole inches and I definitely don’t feel sluggish any more. Thank you.”

Rebecca, 35, Returners Retreat

I have just got home from another week on retreat and couldn’t feel better and more motivated. I found the body retreat a few years ago and I’m so glad I was lucky enough to stumble upon the golden standard of retreats! Jules and Julie are experts in their respective fields and you leave with an abundance of knowledge about your body as well as new skills to nourish and look after your body. The level and quality of this retreat is astonishing and worth every penny! You leave feeling cared for with their very personal approach. I couldn’t recommend the retreat enough (not to mention I’ve come back with the glossiest hair)!

Gabrielle & Jane Weight Loss Retreat

Linda, Healthy Holiday

“If you are thinking about attending The Body Retreat then go for it! I must admit I was apprehensive attending the Reset Retreat, being a chubby, unfit, lethargic person who had lost her “joie de vivre”. 

Julie Brealy is so encouraging and kind putting you through your paces, and the food cooked by Juls is yummy! I never knew that such healthy food could be so tasty!

 I really noticed a difference in just about everything in me from my mood to food cravings to fitness levels!

 Now I am home, I am cooking (the recipes are so easy – I used to be a kitchen dodger); exercising; and am generally like an energiser bunny!

I know it is early days, but after so many years of health problems, I finally feel like I have some control over my body.”