Disconnect from the noise of the world with this weekend Qigong retreat in nature at Ysgubor Bwlch barn in Nant Gwynant. Sitting at the foot of Mount Snowdon and surrounded by fields and streams, you will experience a full digital detox. Return to stillness with the help of local sheep, birdsong, and an overnight kip in the barn. The package features 4 sessions of Qigong spread over 24 hours, a Vegetarian meal on the Saturday evening, and a sleepover. Of course, you are more than welcome to deviate away from the group and explore the trails around Snowdon, or chill at your own pace at the barn, in-between Qigong sessions.
What to Expect
Expect a mix of structured Qigong sessions and open exploration. Ysgubor Bwlch barn is a space where you can truly reconnect with nature by getting back to basics. The facilities are a celebration of simplicity and a return to the old ways. You can find out more about the wonders of this old barn on John’s website here.
Follow the retreat schedule (below) or go at your own pace. Join in as little or much as you like. Bring your own lunch / snacks for the Saturday and something easy to make for breakfast for the Sunday morning. Enjoy a Vegetarian evening meal with friends on the Saturday evening. Your sleepover will require you to bring a sleeping bag and pillow. You will be sleeping in same-gender quarters (either in the attic or bunkhouse). Unlimited tea and coffee will be provided throughout!
NOTE: There are no shower facilities at the barn. Read the User Guide to become acquainted with the quirks of Ysgubor Bwlch. After all, it’s a barn - not a 5* hotel!
Suitable for:
Adults only.
Max. Group Size: 10
Date:
Saturday 1st August - Sunday 2nd August 2026
Time: 24-Hour Retreat.
Starts at 11am on Saturday / Finishes at 11am on Sunday.
Venue / Location:
Ysgubor Bwlch
Nant Gwynant
Caernarfon
Gwynedd
LL55 4NW
Wales
Shibarnshi Schedule
Saturday
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Unload your gear at the barn, and ease into the day with a cuppa in nature to set the tone.
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Guided Shibashi Set 1 session. Your chance to stretch, move, and soak up some fresh air after your journey.
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Campers will be responsible for brining their own lunch and snacks, but we'll provide unlimited water / tea and coffee.
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A dive into the flowing form of Shibashi Set 2, against the spectacular backdrop of Mount Snowdon.
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Go for a quick stroll, or simply chill at the barn. You could visit the nearby Caffi Gwynant for some delicious snacks or a hot meal. If you get bored there are lots of sheep nearby for conversation.
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We will practice the 8 Brocades; the perfect Qigong form to help us wind down in readiness for our evening meal.
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Enjoy a simple vegetarian meal with the group.
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A cuppa… optional.
Conversation… also optional.
Or feel free to retire to your chambers after the day’s activities (you have an early start in the morning after all!).
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Qigong at Sunrise.
We will be rising with the 5 Animals to bring their energy into the day ahead.
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You will have brought your own breakfast. Enjoy. Be sure to soak up the barn’s surroundings with a cuppa.
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End the weekend on a blissful note with a short group meditation created to carve that connection with nature deep into your soul.
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Tidying up and packing bags ready for the return journey home.
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Be sure to leave a comment in the Ysgubor Bwlch diary before you set off!