A trip to the North East of Scotland in the October sunshine, we managed to choose the one week of sunny weather which was really quite fortuitous. We had been invited to go and see the new Crystal House Retreat at The Richmond Hotel in Strathpeffer. Our inherent nosy nature aside it didn’t take much to persuade us to detour from the Black Isle as we have old family ties and memories from the area. The Crystal House retreat is the dream of Phil & Sarina Armshaw. It was borne from their own love of being in nature, with long standing careers in working with people and the environment. Together they wanted to provide a place in nature where people could relax, rejuvenate and feel connected to Gaia and that is exactly what they have achieved.

Having searched throughout Britain, they were drawn to Strathpeffer. Phil told me that building itself gave them the name Crystal House Retreat as it contains veins of clear quartz crystal running through the granite, particularly prominent on the south side of the building. Crystal House Retreat is based at the Richmond Hotel which sits in an elevated position overlooking the spa village. A charming Victorian house built in 1885; the Richmond Hotel retains many original features, whilst providing comfortable modern en-suite accommodation. All with stunning views of the hills and surrounding countryside. Each of the rooms is named after a particular crystal and carries the energy and qualities of the crystal. Our favourite was the sumptuous rose quartz room.

Phil & Sarina are both Holistic Therapists. Sarina is a qualified and experienced counsellor, Alexander Technique teacher, Stress Management consultant and Life coach. She is also studying to be a Transference Healer. Phil has over 24 years experience in helping people enjoy the natural habitats and landscapes that he has looked after. His more recent study and passion is as a Sound Healer. We had the pleasure of a sound healing session with Phil. The drumming lifted us off in to another world as we relaxed in the comfort of their cosy therapy room.

They are committed to being as environmentally friendly as possible. They use low energy lighting, environmentally friendly toiletries, cleaning and laundry products as well as natural fibre bed linen. They are running the retreat as ethically and environmentally aware as they can and it really shows.

Phil and Sarina hold a neutral spiritual focus for their retreat and you will find a range of activities and practices on offer. The space within the retreat is relaxing and comfortable. We sat enjoying a cup of tea in the bar area beside a crackling open fire, they also have a speciality beer menu for those wishing to indulge! The bar is also open to the general public at the weekend and a special Mauritian themed menu is also available. It really is the perfect spot to come and unwind. The retreat can be rented out for private workshops and private residential workshops too, just contact Phil are Sarina to find out more.

http://www.richmondhighlandhotel.co.uk