The Dart Double
Swim the Dart. Hike the Dart
Totnes to Dartmouth by River and by Land
Four days built around one iconic South Devon river — experienced two completely different ways.
Swim the legendary Dart 10K route from Sharpham to Dartmouth, but leave the mass-event experience behind: no crowded start, no hundreds of swimmers around you, no racing for space. Instead, swim in a small group with dedicated safety support and the time to really experience the river.
The following day, return to the Dart on foot for a 14-mile hike along the South Hams Way, seeing the same river from a completely different perspective.
Our coastal base in Torcross gives you space to recover properly between the big days, with beautiful food, yoga, sauna, hot tub and cold plunge.
One river. Two unforgettable journeys. Less race-day rush, more wild water, quiet landscapes and a brilliantly supported adventure.
★ 5.0 Google rating · 82 reviews · 80%+ guests return · Small groups · Expertly supported
Everything is included
Location
Torcross, South Devon – nestled between Slapton Sands beach and a freshwater nature reserve, with direct access to the coast path.
Duration
4 days / 3 nights – Thursday to Sunday. Day 1 arrival: 4pm, Day 4 departure: 10am
Group size
Intimate group of 10–14 guests for a warm, personal retreat experience. Solo travellers are most definitely welcome.
Accommodation
Stunning coastal retreat home, with beautiful open plan communal living spaces, and extra rooms in nearby 5* coastal accommodation.
Support
The 10km tide assisted river swim is fully supported by our professional water safety team, including boat support. Your 14 mile hike is guided.
Activity Level
Strenuous – one day we swim 10km, (assisted by the outgoing tide), and the next day we hike 14 miles. Experience with open water swimming is required.
Who's this retreat for?
We might arrive as strangers, but we already have one thing in common: we love a proper adventure.
This retreat is for confident open-water swimmers with solid recent distance experience. For the Dart 10K, you should be building towards 6–7km in training, be comfortable swimming for several hours, and feel confident in open water and changing conditions. Most swimmers will use front crawl for at least part of the route; if you mainly swim breaststroke, we’d just want a quick chat first to make sure the swim is right for you.
We allow up to four hours for the 10K. Wetsuits are the standard requirement, with skins swimming only by prior agreement with the water-safety team based on your experience.
You’ll also need a good level of hiking fitness for a 14-mile day on the South Hams Way, with uneven ground, hills and a full day on your feet. You don’t need to be the fastest swimmer or hiker, but you do need the stamina, confidence and experience to enjoy both days.
Not sure if you’re ready? Talk to Nat before booking — we’d much rather have a quick conversation and make sure this is the right challenge for you.
Three nights, two big adventures and one iconic river — for people who like to move, challenge themselves and come home feeling brilliantly alive.
One river. Two adventures.
The Dart Swim
This is a proper distance swim, but you’ll be supported every stroke of the way. We’ll take care of all transport and logistics, getting you to the start at Sharpham for a full safety briefing before you enter the Dart. Two qualified lifeguards will accompany our small group, supported by a surf rescue board and safety boat throughout the journey to Dartmouth.
Expect to be in the water for roughly 2½–4 hours, depending on your pace, the tide and conditions, with a brief mid-swim stop for a warm drink before continuing downstream. Front crawl or breaststroke are both absolutely fine, but you’ll need to be a confident, experienced open-water swimmer able to maintain a steady pace over 10km. Wetsuits are strongly recommended.
We’ve chosen this date to coincide with a big tide, to give you maximum tidal assist to help you swoosh downriver.
An iconic journey through one of South Devon’s most beautiful river landscapes — experienced from the water, all the way to Dartmouth.
The Dart Hike
This is a big, beautiful, guided, walking day following one of the most scenic sections of the South Hams Way. We’ll start in historic Totnes and cover around 14 miles / 22.5km to Dartmouth, moving through a constantly changing mix of riverbank, woodland, lanes, fields and tucked-away Devon villages. The official route is graded strenuous, with around 539m of ascent, so expect a proper hilly day rather than a gentle riverside stroll.
From Totnes, the route takes us through Ashprington, Tuckenhay, Cornworthy and Dittisham before the final stretch into Dartmouth, with beautiful views back across the Dart, peaceful creeks and some wonderfully characterful villages along the way. There are also several places to stop for refreshments — and, very possibly, a cheeky pint — before we carry on.
It’s a stunning South Devon journey on foot: hilly, varied, full of river views, village stops and that satisfying feeling of arriving in Dartmouth under your own steam.
The Recovery
Recovery is part of the adventure, not an afterthought. After a long swim or a big day on the trail, there’s time to properly slow down, refuel and let the body reset. Wander down to the beach from the house, take an easy sea dip, stretch out in a yoga class, read, nap, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the water.
Back at base, you can move between the heat of the Finnish sauna, the shock of the Ice Tribe cold plunge, and the warmth of the Canadian hot tub, giving tired legs and shoulders the chance to recover before the next day. Add in generous meals, snacks, good hydration and plenty of unhurried time around the table, and the whole retreat is designed to balance challenge with proper restoration.
Big days outside, followed by warmth, good food, cold water and space to do absolutely nothing.
Professional water safety
The Dart 10K is supported by a dedicated water-safety team, including a rescue boat with lifeguard cover and lifeguard support on rescue boards, with additional cover added depending on group size.
Charlie leads water safety across every Yoga Field & Sea swim. With many seasons as an RNLI and event lifeguard, he now runs his own water-safety company and has led teams across major open-water events. He has also guided hundreds of swimmers along the Devon coastline.
The team carries VHF radios, rescue equipment, FREC 3 medical kits, water and snacks, and can communicate with harbour authorities and HM Coastguard where needed.
Behind the scenes, Charlie and Nat assess swell, wind, tides, currents, water temperature and swimmer ability, with detailed route planning and contingency options prepared in advance.
The aim is simple: serious professionalism behind the scenes, so you can relax, trust the team and enjoy the river.
Between the Sea and the Ley
Our gorgeously restored Victorian retreat home sits in the heart of Torcross, a charming South Devon village on the edge of Slapton Sands. With direct access to the South West Coast Path and Slapton Ley Nature Reserve, it’s a dream for walkers, swimmers and nature lovers—think daily sea dips, wildlife spotting (hello, seals!) and endless coastal adventures right on your doorstep.
New for 2027, our custom-built traditional Finnish sauna is sauna, done properly: the right heat, a proper stove and stones, considered ventilation, and a refreshing cold plunge to complete the ritual.
You’ll also have access to our new strength room for independent training, plus a beautiful coastal coffee lounge—just moments from the sea.
We provide transport to and from the start/ end of our swim and hike adventures – about 25 minutes away.
Solo occupancy rooms
Double or King ensuite
- £1315 per person
- Private bathroom
- Solo occupancy
A beautifully styled double or king room for solo occupancy, offering the comfort of your own private space and bathroom.
Each room has its own ensuite and peaceful views across Slapton Ley freshwater lake, creating a calm, light-filled place to retreat between yoga, sea swims, coastal walks and shared meals.
Spacious, comfortable and full of relaxed coastal charm, it’s a lovely choice if you’re travelling alone and want a little extra privacy and luxury.
To share this room between two please get in touch.
Double room
- £1200 per person
- Shared bathroom
- Solo occupancy
A beautifully styled double or king room for solo occupancy, set within one of our charming coastal retreat houses just seconds from the sea.
Comfortable, calm and full of character, these rooms are designed as a peaceful space to retreat to between yoga, coastal adventures and shared meals. Each room overlooks the Ley, has access to a shared bathroom and will be allocated before arrival.
Perfect if you’re travelling solo and want the comfort and privacy of your own room while still feeling part of the retreat.
Single room
- £1095 per person
- Shared bathroom
- Solo occupancy
Our one cosy single room is a peaceful little hideaway, perfect for a solo guest who wants their own private space.
Set within one of our charming coastal retreat houses just seconds from the sea, it’s simply but beautifully styled with the same relaxed coastal feel as the rest of the retreat, with views across Slapton Ley and Nature Reserve.
A calm, comfortable place to switch off, sleep deeply and recharge between yoga, coastal adventures and shared meals.
Shared rooms
Twin or King room ensuite
- £1095 per person
- Private ensuite
- Shared for 2
Set within The Old Bakehouse, our main retreat home just seconds from the seafront, these two spacious rooms blend boutique comfort with relaxed coastal charm.
Each can be arranged as either a twin or a generous Super King, and features a private roll-top bath, ensuite shower room, high vaulted ceilings and beautiful views across Slapton Ley freshwater lake.
Light, peaceful and thoughtfully styled, they’re designed to feel like a retreat within the retreat — a luxurious place to slow down, soak, rest and recharge between yoga, sea swims, coastal walks and long, nourishing meals.
The Shared room
- £985 per person
- Shared bathroom
- Shared room
Our shared rooms are a relaxed, friendly option for guests who are happy to share, and solo travellers are very welcome to book a single space.
We have a two-person bunk room and a four-person bunk room. If either room is still fully available, it can also be booked privately by a group of friends. The four-person room can be reserved by 2, 3 or 4 guests who would like the room to themselves.
Comfortable, sociable and great value, they’re a lovely way to enjoy the retreat whether you’re coming alone or with friends.
Tell us in your booking form what room and set up you want.
Food worth coming for
Food is at the heart of life at Yoga Field & Sea. Our talented in-house chefs craft nourishing, delicious meals using fresh, local, and organic ingredients. From vibrant breakfasts and packed hike lunches to indulgent afternoon cake and colourful three-course dinners, you’ll eat well and often.
Our chefs, with years of experience at Yoga Field & Sea, are a big reason guests return year after year—ready to enjoy thoughtfully prepared meals (and let someone else handle the washing up!). Pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan diets are all catered for with care and love.
“The food was incredible I don’t think I’ve ever eaten so well. Every dish was beautifully presented and utterly delicious.” Sam
What our guests say
I am about to come to my third September retreat as a solo traveller. It truly is the most wonderful reset. I was initially nervous about coming alone but the atmosphere is so warm and welcoming. For me the weekend is a perfect fusion of so many of my favourite things: yoga, swimming, hiking, good company — and food!
Fiona
The location and landscape are absolutely breathtaking. Nathalie’s warmth, generosity and professionalism truly stood out. Everything felt held with care, calm and intention. It’s rare to find such a unique combination of yoga, open-water swimming and time in nature, all delivered at this level of quality. A genuinely niche and magical experience.
Sophie
Absolutely fantastic yoga, hike and swim retreat. I cannot recommend it enough. All beautifully curated by the amazing Natalie. The food was also awesome. And in such a beautiful place. 5*
Richard
All the things you may be wondering
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat is for confident open-water swimmers and strong walkers who want a proper challenge in a small, supported group. You’ll need to be comfortable swimming long distances in open water and able to maintain a steady pace over 10km, as well as fit enough for a hilly 14-mile walking day.
You don’t need to be the fastest in the group — just experienced enough to enjoy the challenge, happy outdoors, and ready for two big days on and beside the Dart.
Is there Yoga included?
Yes, we will have classes ready for you specifically designed for swimmers and hikers. Our onsite Yoga Studio is available during your stay for your own practice as well. Private classes with Natalie can also be arranged.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely. Most guests come solo and leave with new friends. It’s a safe, relaxed space to reconnect with yourself.
What’s included?
3 nights of luxury accommodation, all meals, a professionally guided 10km river swim, a 14 mile guided hike, all transport to activities, access to sauna, hot tub and plunge, yoga classes, yoga studio and plenty of downtime.
What’s not included?
Travel to and from the retreat, optional treatments (e.g. massage), and any personal extras.
What kind of food is served?
Delicious, seasonal pescatarian food prepared with care. We can cater for most dietary requirements—just let us know in advance.
Can non swimmers come too?
Yes! If you’re coming with a friend or partner who doesn’t wish to swim, they’re very welcome. They can still enjoy the retreat base, the food, the recovery facilities and the walking day, and simply sit out the Dart swim.
How active is the retreat?
It’s a highly active retreat, with two substantial endurance days. The 10km swim is assisted by the outgoing tide, but you should still expect to spend several hours in the water, so good open-water fitness and stamina are essential. The 14-mile hike is also a proper day out, with hills, uneven terrain and a backpack carrying your packed lunch and essentials.
It’s challenging, but very achievable for people who are already comfortable with long-distance swimming and full-day hikes.
How do I get there?
Torcross is around 30 minutes from Totnes (mainline station) and just over an hour from Exeter. We’ll help with lift shares or transfers if needed.
What should I pack?
We’ll send a full list before you arrive, but essentials include a well tested wetsuit, swimming hat and goggles, swimwear, hiking boots, rucksack, yoga clothes and layers for the weather.
Talk to us about this retreat
Whether you’re curious about joining a retreat, have questions about the schedule, or simply want to learn more, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a message below and we’ll help you plan your next mindful escape.