Yarn

The staff looked after our lovely group so well, and the hospitality and food were perfect. I recently attended Frenys yoga, movement and intelligent Body workshop retreat at the Yarn, and it was a wonderful experience. It made for a great weekend, thank you to everyone 🌹🍀🥰

The incident with the facilitator was handled poorly, and that set a bad tone for my weekend writing retreat at YARN. The food made the experience even more disappointing. Dinner was soup and bread, and breakfast on the first morning was just one croissant or pastry per person. There was no fruit, cereal or porridge, and one pastry isn't enough for breakfast. The tea selection was very limited too. A staff member offered to go to the shop if I named a tea that wasn't available, but I don't understand why there wasn't a decent range ready for guests when they arrived. For such an expensive retreat, it felt like pennies were being pinched. Those details matter, and the many gaps in hospitality made the stay much less comfortable. I've been on several retreats over the years, and this was the most expensive one I've attended, yet it offered less food in both quantity and choice than any of the others. I know I wasn't the only person disappointed by the food, and some of us struggled to enjoy the retreat because we were hungry. If guests are paying to be fed, they shouldn't have to go out and find breakfast or extra food elsewhere. Please look after people properly. There was no need for things to feel so stingy and miserly.

The food from Ciara, Dara & team in Ursa Minor was divine, and the venue felt warm, welcoming and nurturing. I loved every minute of the Intelligent Body weekend with the incredible Freny Pavri. It's a fabulous venue right in the heart of Ballycastle.

The rooms are beautifully styled and have everything you need. The staff are lovely and welcoming, and there’s a real community feel. It’s in a great spot right in the heart of the town.