The self-care guide to Dorset

If you’re seeking reconnection to nature, deep relaxation, or a chance to energise your body, the southwest county of Dorset could be the perfect setting for your wellness escape. Imagine spending your days unwinding in luxurious spas, savouring nourishing meals in wholesome eateries, or invigorating your senses with a bracing coastal hike or refreshing plunge in the sea. With over half of the county designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now known as a National Landscape), you’ll have a breathtaking backdrop for your retreat too, with dramatic white cliffs, sandy coves, turquoise waters and picturesque villages and towns around every corner.

Whether you’re craving an outdoor adventure in nature, want to channel positive habits, or are simply ready to switch off from everyday life, we’ve carefully curated this self-care guide to Dorset to help you plan your much-needed wellness getaway.

Movement in nature

Forest bathing

Forest bathing, a practice that began in Japan in the 1980s, has been increasing in popularity worldwide in recent years for its calming and restorative wellbeing benefits. The idea is simple – spending quiet, mindful time in a forest to reduce stress, clear your mind and reconnect with nature. Fortunately, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous woodlands in Dorset where you can try it for yourself. Wareham Forest, Dorset Heaths and Piddle Valley are all tranquil spots, with networks of peaceful pathways amongst stunning woodlands and lush greenery. Or if you’ve got little ones in tow, head to Moors Valley County Park & Forest where you can explore the treetops from an elevated pathway, or they can let off some steam on the wooden climbing frames whilst you enjoy a quiet moment beneath the canopies. 

Walking the South West Coast Path

You’ll want to pack your walking boots for your wellness escape to Dorset – this county boasts some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the UK, featuring awe-inspiring white cliffs and sweeping golden bays. A 95-mile stretch of the famous South West Coast Path hugs Dorset’s rugged shoreline, offering a great variety of scenic walks to suit all abilities. Whether you’d prefer a short and leisurely stroll or you’re ready to take on a more challenging hike, on every route you’ll be rewarded with incredible views and rejuvenating sea air in your lungs. Along the way, you'll encounter picturesque seaside towns including Lyme Regis and West Bay as well as an abundance of wildlife such as seabirds, butterflies, and marine life like dolphins and seals. And don’t miss the iconic Golden Cap, the highest point of the South West Coast Path where the panoramic views are hard to beat. For more inspiration, take a look at our guide to the best coastal walks in Dorset.

Cycling

A bike ride in a beautiful natural setting is a surefire way to boost your mood, breathe in some fresh air and get your endorphins flowing – and Dorset has many accessible routes to choose from. The Stour Valley Way offers 64 miles of waymarked trails alongside the beautiful River Stour, where you might be lucky enough to spot kingfishers and other wildlife as you cycle the picturesque countryside. For a relaxed ride beside the sea, head to Hengistbury Head, where you can leisurely pedal your way along the flat promenade towards Sandbanks, stopping for ice cream or a coffee when you’re ready to rest your legs. Or if you’re a fan of mountain biking, The Hurn Forest near Ferndown is a stunning spot with excellent off-road trails that wind through the majestic conifer trees. 

Luxury spas

Spas & treatments

Is there any more relaxing self-care experience than a sumptuous spa day? Dorset has an excellent array of luxury spas to choose from, each offering its own unique character. For an indulgent retreat in the heart of the countryside, head to the Summer Lodge Hotel in Dorchester, where its light-filled spa features a sauna and swimming pool with views over their beautiful gardens. If you’d rather have your spa with a sea view, The Nici in Bournemouth is a great choice. This modern, state-of-the-art spa includes a hydrothermal pool and an aromatherapy sauna and steam room. Outside there’s a Miami-esque pool too – the perfect spot for some gentle lengths or sinking into a sun lounger with a good book.  For something a little more intimate and quirky, try The Pig on the Beach in Studland, where two quaint shepherd’s huts have been converted into cosy treatment rooms. Take your pick from a restorative facial or a deeply relaxing massage, with coastal-inspired, seaweed-based products. 

Saltwater therapy

Swim & sauna

A bracing dip in the ocean is perhaps the most invigorating nature-connection activity of all – and Dorset provides plenty of opportunities to take the plunge! Wild swimming is guaranteed to leave you feeling completely revitalised in both body and mind, but if the cold is offputting at this time of year, why not pair your dip with a soothing wood-fired sauna by the beach? Dorset has several beautiful wooden sauna pods scattered along its coastline, with Revive Wild Sauna offering three particularly lovely locations: Weymouth Beach, Bowleath Cove, and Portland Marina. Each sauna pod features panoramic glass windows so you can soak up the surrounding ocean views as you unwind. You can drop in for a communal session or book the whole pod (for up to 8 friends or family). 

Kayaking 

As the towering cliffs and sweeping shores of the Jurassic Coast offer some of the most dramatic coastal landscapes in the UK, it’s a truly magical destination to explore from the water – and kayaking is the perfect activity for all ages and abilities to try! Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a complete beginner, if you’d like to take a tour with an expert where you’ll paddle into hidden coves and along jaw-dropping rock formations, Sea Kayak Dorset offers both full and half-day guided trips all year round from their base in Castletown, Portland. Or if you fancy something a little less energetic, they also offer stand-up paddle boarding trips, tailored for all abilities to explore the coastline. You can also kayak with Lulworth Outdoors to see some of Dorset's most renowned landmarks. Whatever the pace of your adventure, be sure to wrap up warm if you’re visiting in the colder months, of course, with some suitably toasty winter wetsuit gear! 

Nutritious eating

Plant-based eateries

Dorset is home to a vibrant array of restaurants and cafés serving wholesome, creative, plant-based dishes made with locally sourced ingredients – sure to make you feel good from the inside out! Mad Cucumber in Bournemouth is a relaxed and rustic spot that’s a must-visit for plant-based foodies. You’ll find a selection of poke bowls, bean burgers, sandwiches and more on the menu – all 100% vegan. Also in Bournemouth, in the lively neighbourhood of Westbourne, you’ll find Dane & Port. This ‘Natural Kitchen’ offers a brand new organic and gluten-free menu every day, presented as Earth Bowls and sharing plates packed with flavour and colour. Or if you’re looking to kickstart the day with a wholesome breakfast, visit Miiko in Poole. Their soulful vegan breakfast options, like seeded overnight oats or topped toast, are sure to leave you feeling nourished, satisfied and ready for a day of exploring.

Smoothies & juices 

For an energising hit of vitamins and minerals, treat yourself to a refreshing green smoothie or a nutrient-packed fruit and veg juice. Akai in Bournemouth is a fantastic place to start! This juice bar and health café has a colourful menu of delicious smoothies, smoothie bowls, protein shakes, cold-pressed juices and wellness shots. Why not take your chosen concoction to the nearby beach and sip it as you stroll along the promenade? Or if you’re stopping by Miiko in Poole for something to eat, be sure to check out their selection of health-boosting smoothies and fresh juices on the drinks menu – choose from the ‘energy’, ‘glow’, ‘focus’ or ‘detox’ blends to match your mood. If you’re craving something warm, you could also try one of their ‘Elixir’ superfood drinks, like matcha or chaga chai.

Health food shops

If you’re looking for organic snacks, ingredients or supplements, Dorset has a brilliant selection of independent health food shops where you can enjoy some feel-good, eco-friendly retail therapy. Purbeck Wholefoods, with stores in Purbeck, Wareham and Poole, is a standout. Offering over 1000 ethically sourced products, it’s a haven for health-conscious shoppers, with everything from fairtrade tea to store cupboard essentials to a well-stocked natural health section. Spill The Beans in Wimborne, Dorset’s first refill and health shop, has been family-run since 1976 and is another must-visit. Bring your own tins and containers to stock up on a tasty variety of products, including nuts, seeds, pasta, grains, dried fruit and other wholesome goodies. 

Arts & crafts

Craft workshops

Craft workshops are a wonderful way to use your hands, spark your creativity, practice mindfulness and learn a new skill, all of which can give a fantastic boost to your wellbeing – and in Dorset you’ll find all sorts of workshops for different artistic interests! Dorset Craft Workshops is a not-for-profit company in Dorchester offering an ever-changing array of excellent courses and classes, with crafts like basket weaving, calligraphy, silversmithing and other hands-on activities. In Evershot, The Acorn Inn runs a fantastic programme of creative experiences with a peaceful countryside backdrop, from woodworking to watercolour painting. And if crafting sustainable homewares appeals to you, take a look at Old Green in Wimborne, who often runs a variety of refined creative workshops like candle making, reed diffuser making, papercrafts and more.

Pottery 

Anyone who’s tried their hand at pottery will know just how incredibly therapeutic this tactile art is. If you fancy getting your hands in the clay, Tradpots Studio in Poole offers multiple classes and courses for all experience levels, including taster sessions for beginners, full/half days throwing on the wheel and more extensive four-week courses. There are several classes especially for children too, if you’ve got a young aspiring potter to entertain. If you’d prefer the simple joy of painting a pre-made pot, plate or mug, Dorset is home to several pottery painting cafés too. Sophie’s Ceramics in Shaftesbury and Blandford Forum and Pots & Paint in Ferndown offer relaxing environments where you can unleash your creativity over a tasty coffee and slice of cake. 

Staying in Dorset

If you’re looking for a tranquil base for your restorative wellness getaway, our collection of handpicked hideaways in Dorset could be perfect for you. How about a boutique beachside chalet, where you can listen to the calming sound of the waves on the shore as you pour yourself a cup of coffee to start the day? Or perhaps an idyllic shepherd’s hut tucked away in the rolling countryside, with your very own hot tub to unwind beneath the starry sky after a magical day out exploring? Take a look at our full collection of Dorset glamping retreats and start planning your dream wellness escape.