Embrace the magic of Autumn with intentional rituals, cosy comforts and outdoor adventures under the golden canopy of Happy Valley.
As the sun sets earlier and the air turns crisp, nature begins its slow dance into the quieter half of the year. The autumn equinox, which falls on Monday 22nd September, marks the moment when day and night are in perfect balance. We love to take the opportunity to harness this powerful seasonal shift at Happy Valley, since it’s the perfect time to reset, reflect and reconnect with the earth.
Whether you're nestled into one of our luxurious lodges or soaking in an air source heated hot tub under a canopy of stars, here are 5 beautiful and intentional ways to celebrate the autumn equinox during your glamping getaway:
1. Watch the Sunset with Intention
On the equinox, light and darkness share the day equally. This is a rare balance in nature that deserves our attention, even for a short while. Bring a blanket or borrow one of ours, make a warm drink and find a quiet spot to watch the sunset next Monday. Reflect on what you’re leaving behind with summer and what you hope to welcome this Autumn.
Happy Valley tip: Our sunken hot tub at Toad Hall is situated on what we like to call our ‘sunset terrace’. This is the perfect place to watch the sunset.
2. Make a Foraged Autumn Mandala
Take a walk through the woods or nearby meadows and gather fallen leaves, acorns, pinecones berries and other nature finds. Then, return to your luxury lodge or cabin and create a nature mandala on your deck or in the closest woodland. A Mandala is a circular design symbolising wholeness and change. It’s a calming, meditative practice that connects you to the season. This simple act can serve to bring balance directly into your life.
3. Try an Outdoor Equinox Yoga Flow
On equinox day, centre your body and breath with a sun salutation practice that honours both the light and dark within yourself, just as the earth does. Many of our guests enjoy morning yoga either in or just outside their cabins. Happy Valley’s little bridged island is the perfect spot for enjoying a yoga flow. Simply grab your mat and take a short five-minute walk down to the island.
Happy Valley tip: Keeper’s Cabin is the perfect spot for some sunrise or sunset yoga. Its wrap-around deck makes for a dreamy canvas for sun salutation practice.
4. Light a Campfire Ceremony
As the sun dips and the air cools, gather around your own private fire pit to write down something you’re ready to let go of. That could be a habit, a worry, a belief or anything you want to draw attention to. Once you’ve done that, toss it in the fire. Take a deep breath and then say something out loud that you’re grateful for.
5. Harvest-Inspired Dining
The equinox is traditionally a harvest celebration. So why not celebrate with a cosy, farm-to-table dinner with seasonal favourites like roasted squash, apples, sweet corn and wild mushrooms. Toad Hall, Keeper’s Cabin, Moonshine Manor and The Woodpecker are equipped with fully functional kitchens that provide everything you need for a full spread. King Nutkin and Our Woodland Twins, whilst smaller, have a kitchenette that can make
Other ways you could enjoy the Autumn Equinox are with a spot of journalling under the stars, a cosy nap in one of our hammocks or simply a fluffy blanket with your loved ones listening to the sounds of nature around you.
Join Us for an Autumn Equinox Retreat
Whether you're seeking solitude or shared rituals, the autumn equinox is a beautiful opportunity to pause, reconnect and ground yourself in the rhythms of the earth. We invite you to celebrate with us at Happy Valley with an Autumn Equinox stay that is sure to welcome in the cosy season with intention.
Availability for the Autumn Equinox at Happy Valley Norfolk from Monday 22nd September - Wednesday 24th September: Toad Hall, Keeper’s Cabin, Moonshine Manor, The Woodpecker, Denver Rest & Tawny Hut, King Nutkin
Book your equinox stay now.