Unlock wellness, the natural way

More of us are embracing a way of life that’s slower and more thoughtful – attuned with nature and wonderfully aware of the many benefits that it can bring.

Modern-day burnout has led to a new focus on taking care of ourselves, and research shows that the best way to do this is by turning to nature. From a base at Knoll House, you can tap into the best of Dorset’s spectacular natural landscape, from sweeping coastline and sheltered beaches to wild inland areas.

Blue spaces

Being beside the sea is proven to soothe the soul – simply being near water has been shown to have a calming effect, as well as improving happiness and creativity. And that’s before we even consider the health benefits of being in the water.

Wild water swimming is becoming hugely popular, and particularly in Dorset, where there are so many beaches and coves to choose from. There’s a good reason for this – taking the plunge gives a boost to your immune system, as well as reducing stress, improving circulation, and prompting a natural high from activated endorphins.

If you’d like to give it a try, you can reach the white sands of Studland Beach with just a short walk through our gardens. Here, there’s the added incentive of a beach-side sauna after your swim, meaning you can recreate a full Scandinavian-style health experience.

Outdoor activities

Often, it’s the simple things in life that have the greatest impact on our wellbeing. Getting outdoors, feeling the fresh air, and being surrounded by the sights, scents and sounds of wildlife. For all of this and more, try sampling some of the gentle outdoor activities available locally.

Studland Trekking Centre offers horse riding treks along Studland Beach and Godlingston Heath, giving you the chance to explore these breathtaking environments at a slower pace, and from a completely different perspective. And, on Bournemouth Beach, you can take part in a silent yoga session – using deep breathing, light movement and disco headphones to tune into an immersive experience.

For a true “wild” encounter, explore the activities on offer from Fore Adventure. Specialising in outdoor adventures, the team host sessions on both land and sea, including kayaking, paddle boarding, bushcraft, and rock climbing. They also run foraging and feasting experiences, combining a foraging walk (on which you can learn more about the health benefits of foraged food) with a seasonal, open-air feast using wild ingredients. What could be better?

Natural beauty

And of course, there’s something inherently peaceful about simply being outside in a rich, nature-filled environment. Within easy reach of Knoll House are several gardens and wild spaces, ideal for taking a stroll or packing a picnic.

Minterne is particularly worth a visit, with gardens voted by The Telegraph as ‘Best for Tranquility’. The estate’s Himalayan-style gardens feature a collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, with lakes, waterfalls and streams adding to the peaceful prospect. There are also plenty of well-placed benches, acting as spots to sit and soak in your surroundings.

Alternatively, Sculpture by the Lakes is described as a “curated oasis”, marrying carefully considered sculpture with lakes, streams, parkland, and kitchen gardens. Visitors are encouraged to switch off, slow down, and fully absorb themselves in nature – making it the perfect place to practise mindfulness.

A blissful base

At Knoll House itself, you’ll find everything you need to relax, unwind, and press reset. has its own indoor plunge pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi, as well as two tennis courts and a nine-hole pitch-and-putt course with views over the Jurassic Coast.

If you’re keen to get back to basics and feel the wellbeing benefits, why not book a midweek or weekend stay? To get started, check our latest offers and packages.