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This retreat is for you if..
- You’re feeling quietly tired, stretched or overstimulated by the pace of everyday life.
- Your nervous system has been “on” for a long time and is ready for space to soften.
- You’re craving nature, simplicity and the kind of stillness that lets your body settle again.
- You’d love a few days where nothing is required of you, just saltwater swims, slow mornings and time to breathe.
- You don’t need to arrive experienced in anything, and there’s nothing to achieve while you’re here.
- Just a willingness to slow down, rest deeply and let the rhythm of sea, sky and simple living do its work.
- If you’re nodding as you read this, you’re in the right place.
What makes this retreat different?
Saltwater & Stars is intentionally simple.
Set on the wild southern coast of Hvar, this off-grid retreat invites you to step away from daily noise and return to a slower, more natural rhythm.
Guided by the principles of Chinese medicine and Yang Sheng, the art of nourishing life, our days unfold gently through movement, rest, saltwater swims and quiet evenings beneath dark skies.
There’s no pressure to open up and no expectation to transform.
Just thoughtful guidance, simple practices and the space to slow down, so your nervous system can settle and reset in its own time.
It was a blissful, grounding and healing experience, I didn’t even realise how much I needed it.
Yasmine
A Gentle Daily Rhythm
Our days follow a simple, unhurried rhythm, enough structure to bring us together, with plenty of space to rest, swim and simply be.
Morning
We begin the day with gentle Qi Gong overlooking the sea, simple movement to wake the body and settle the nervous system.
Breakfast follows, shared and relaxed.
After breakfast there may be an opportunity for a group acupuncture session or a simple self-care practice inspired by Chinese medicine.
Daytime
Lunch is shared later in the day, followed by time to yourself.
Swim in the Adriatic, rest in a hammock, wander the coastline or simply enjoy doing very little.
Afternoon
The rest of the day remains mostly open.
You might read, journal, take a quiet walk or sit by the sea and watch the day unfold.
Evening
As the light softens we gather for dinner together.
On two evenings during the retreat we’ll also share a guided meditation (Yoga Nidra), a deeply restful practice to help settle the body and mind.
Nothing is compulsory.
Rest is always a valid choice.
If you’d like to explore the retreat in more detail, you can request the full brochure below.
Limited Spaces
Secure booking and flexible payment options via paypal and Klarna.
What’s included
The setting
5 nights at Cast Away, a remote off-grid eco retreat on the southern coast of Hvar, Croatia.
Simple wooden beach huts set among pine trees with sea or garden views.
Twin memory foam mattresses with linen and mosquito nets.
Shared shower and toilet block plus outdoor shower.
Two nearby beaches, hammocks and shaded spaces to rest and unwind.
Sea-view deck for Qi Gong and meditation.
No Wi-Fi. Limited electricity. Solar-heated water.
Nourishment
Three fresh meals each day.
Tea, coffee and drinking water available throughout the day.
Meals are shared together in the open-air dining space.
Guidance & Practices
Daily morning Qi Gong overlooking the sea.
Restorative yoga and gentle movement practices.
Group acupuncture session.
Simple Chinese medicine self-care practices.
Two guided evening meditations (Yoga Nidra).
Ease & Support
Ferry crossing from Split to Hvar included when travelling as a group (approx. 60 minutes).
Shared transfer from Hvar town to the retreat across the island (approx. 30 minutes).
Exclusive use of the retreat space for our group.
Not Included
Flights to Split.
Transfers to the Split ferry terminal.
Travel insurance (required).
Optional extras such as paddle board hire or local excursions.
Accommodation & Pricing
Garden View Hut (shared): from £679 pp
Sea View Hut (shared): from £699 pp
Sea View Apartment: from £899 pp
Retreat Review From Morocco
Women often ask what my retreats are like. Here’s what Ruth shared after attending one in Morocco
What women say after retreating with Jo
I cannot speak highly enough of Jo and her retreats. I got on the plane to Morocco feeling sluggish, low, and fed up. I came home feeling like a new person. I've been doing my QiGong joint opening every morning, I've not drunk any caffeine, and have massively improved my diet thanks to how amazing my tummy felt when it was eating so many antiinflammatory foods and no sugar or starchy carbs the whole time I was at Tigmi. It was quite life changing for me, and I am already on the list to go back next year, whilst also saving for one of Jo's Spain retreats! ❤️
Helen
Google Review
The retreat at Tigmi with Jo was out of this world. If you want some time to refocus on yourself and nourish your soul then Jo’s expertise will surpass your expectations. I’ve come away having fuelled my mind and body in the most
positive way, with wonderful people in a stunning location
Gina
Having been lucky enough to attend two of Jo’s incredible Chinese New Year Retreats I am now signed up for one of her one day retreats in the Autumn. I find it so beautiful and beneficial to start each season with one of her tailored retreats. I come home feeling so restored and ready to tackle any challenges. Next year I would love to try and do one per season 🫶🤞🏻🙏
Jennie
Google Review
Absolutely love Jo’s retreats! From the moment you arrive, all is taken care of and you learn so much too! Having been on a couple now - both in the UK and abroad, I can highly recommend.
Jo
Google Review
About your guide
I’m Jo Darling, acupuncturist, retreat guide, and practitioner of Chinese Medicine.
I create retreats for women who are tired of pushing through and ready to work with their bodies instead. My work is grounded, seasonal, and focused on nervous-system support, nourishment, and living in rhythm with nature.
I’ll be guiding you throughout the retreat, gently, practically, and with plenty of space for rest.
Questions that often come up
Participation & pace
Do I need experience with Qi Gong, meditation, or yoga?
No. Everything is guided, gentle, and suitable for all levels. You don’t need to be flexible or experienced — you’re encouraged to listen to your body and move at your own pace.
Do I have to take part in everything?
No. All practices are optional. You’re welcome to rest, sit something out, or take time alone whenever you need.
What does a typical day look like?
Each day gently balances movement, rest and learning. You can expect:
- Morning Qi Gong or gentle movement
- A nourishing breakfast
- Chinese medicine teaching or group sessions (not every day)
- Time to rest, journal or enjoy nature
- Evening meditation or Yoga Nidra (not every evening)
There is always space to opt out or rest if you need to.
I’ve never had acupuncture, is that OK?
Yes. Acupuncture is optional and always discussed beforehand.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely. Many women attend on their own. The group is small and welcoming, with space for connection without pressure to share or socialise more than feels comfortable.
Wellbeing & nervous system support
Is this retreat suitable if I’m feeling emotionally fragile, exhausted or burnt out?
Yes — this retreat has been created especially for women who feel tired, overwhelmed or in need of gentle support.
Jo is an experienced Chinese medicine practitioner who has spent many years working with women who are stressed, depleted or going through periods of change. She is very used to supporting people who are not feeling their best, and the retreat is held with care, sensitivity and flexibility.
How physically demanding is the retreat?
Practices are gentle and accessible. The optional walk is just that — optional — and there’s no expectation to push yourself physically.
What age group usually attends?
Most guests tend to be women in midlife, often balancing work, family and the many demands of everyday life.
You don’t need to fit a particular age bracket — the retreat simply attracts people who are ready for a slower pace, time in nature and space to reset.
Will there be enough downtime?
Yes. Spaciousness is a key part of this retreat.
While we gather for morning Qi Gong, shared meals and a few guided practices, much of the day is intentionally left open.
Practical details & booking
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes, depending on when you book Payment plans are available to make the retreat more accessible. There is a small admin charge.
You can reserve your place with a deposit and pay the balance in instalments as a payment plan before the retreat begins.
Full payment is required 60 days in advance.
You can pay via Klarna via this website, at checkout, spreading the cost.
If you'd like a bespoke payment plan there will be an additional cost. Please contact me via the contact form and I can arrange that for you.
What if I need to cancel?
Booking terms and cancellation policies are shared clearly with the full retreat details so you can make an informed decision before booking. Deposits are non refundable. You can transfer to another person.
How do I book?
You can request the full pricing, room options, and booking details via the form on this page or book directly here. Booking is completed securely online when you’re ready
Accommodation, comfort & what’s included
What’s the accommodation like?
Accommodation is intentionally simple and comfortable, reflecting the off-grid nature of the retreat.
You’ll stay in wooden beach huts set among pine trees, with either sea or garden views. Each hut has twin memory foam mattresses, linen and mosquito nets.
Bathroom facilities are shared, with a main shower and toilet block plus an outdoor shower.
There is also one sea-view apartment available with a private bathroom, bedroom and lounge.
The retreat centre is remote and off grid, with no Wi-Fi, limited electricity and solar-heated water — part of what makes the experience so peaceful.
Full accommodation details are included in the retreat brochure.
What’s included in the price?
Your stay includes accommodation, three daily meals, all Qi Gong and restorative practices, Chinese medicine self-care guidance, a group acupuncture session, the ferry crossing from Split to Hvar when travelling with the group, and the transfer across the island of Hvar to the retreat.
Flights to Split, transfers to the Split ferry terminal, travel insurance, and any optional extras are not included.
Do I have to share a room?
No. The wooden beach huts are single occupancy, so you’ll have your own private space to rest and sleep.
Each hut contains a memory foam mattress with linen and mosquito nets, with either sea or garden views. Bathroom facilities are shared, with a main shower and toilet block plus an outdoor shower.
There is also one sea-view apartment available which can accommodate up to four people, with a bedroom and sofa bed, lounge and private bathroom.
Travel Info
How do I get there from the airport?
The nearest airport is Split (SPU).
From Split Airport you’ll travel into Split town, where we’ll take the ferry to the island of Hvar (approximately 60 minutes). The ferry crossing is included when travelling with the group.
From Hvar town, a shared transfer (included) will take us across the island to the retreat (approximately 30 minutes).
Full travel guidance and recommended arrival times will be sent once you book, so the journey feels straightforward and well organised.
If you have any questions before booking, feel free to email hello@jodarling.co.uk
How remote is the retreat?
Cast Away is intentionally remote and off grid.
There is no Wi-Fi, electricity is limited and water is solar heated. The simplicity is part of what makes the retreat so peaceful.
It’s a chance to step away from constant connection and settle into a slower, more natural rhythm.
If this feels right
If something in you softened as you read this, trust that.
You don’t need to arrive feeling clear, well or ready for anything in particular.
Just a willingness to pause, slow down and step away from the noise of everyday life.
Saltwater & Stars is an invitation to live simply for a few days, to move gently, swim in the Adriatic, rest beneath dark skies and let your nervous system settle.
You’ll return home steadier, clearer and deeply rested.
Beach Hut (Single Occupancy)
Simple wooden huts set among the pine trees, each with a memory foam mattress, linen and mosquito net.
Huts are single occupancy, offering your own private space to rest and sleep.
You can choose between:
• Sea View Hut – overlooking the Adriatic
• Garden Hut – nestled among the trees and greenery
Bathroom facilities are shared, with a shower and toilet block plus outdoor shower.
Sea View Apartment (Private Bathroom)
For those wanting more space or travelling together, there is one sea-view apartment available.
The apartment includes a bedroom, lounge, sofa bed and private bathroom.
It can accommodate up to four people sharing.
Pricing depends on the number of people sharing the apartment.
(please note this is an AI enhanced image as the original was too poor quality to share! Awaiting a better version of the real thing!)
Have a question?
If there’s something you’re unsure about, you’re very welcome to get in touch.
Whether it’s about the retreat, accommodation, travel, or whether this is the right fit for you - I’m happy to help.
I’ll always reply personally.
