Draíocht Aerial Retreat
May 16-23, 2026 - Silks Intermediate
Guess what? We’re heading back to the magical west coast of Ireland for the Draíocht Aerial Retreat 2026 — and you’re invited!
Pack your finest training clothes and your sense of adventure, because we’re spending a week in Sligo mixing aerial training with dancing, laughing, and seaside magic. Think salty air, upside-down moments, and a vibrant crew of aerialists from around the globe. It’s going to be unforgettable — and wildly fun.
What to expect
Dates and Facts
WHERE
Sligo, Ireland
Distance to Dublin Airport: 215 km
Distance to Belfast Airport: 200 km
Distance to Knock Airport: 55 km
Easy and affordable train and bus connections from all nearby airports.
We offer free pickup from the bus or train station in Sligo.
WHEN
May 16-23, 2026
LEVEL & REQUIREMENTS
Silks – Intermediate Level
This week is aimed at aerialists with a solid foundation in silks (at least one year of regular training).
You should be able to climb confidently, master foot locks and hip keys in the air, invert from a hang, and hold a dead hang or pull-up for about 20 seconds.
If short sequences don't scare you and you want to delve into more challenging techniques, then you've come to the right place!
Important:
This retreat is not suitable for beginners. If you're unsure whether your level is suitable, please contact us – we'll help you!
The language of communication and instruction is English.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
-
7 nights in Sligo Sea Barn or Herdsman's House directly on the coast
-
All meals (except one dinner in town): Lunch and dinner are vegan and homemade, with a self-service option for breakfast
-
All aerial classes (approx. 20 hours in total in the studio)
-
Transport to and from the aerial studio
-
All group activities: tractor driving, meeting and feeding cows, pub night, beach walk, sauna, outdoor photo shoot, exploring Sligo town
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
-
Travel costs to and from Sligo, Ireland
-
Additional insurance
-
Alcoholic drinks and drinks in the pub
-
Dinner in Sligo town
-
All other purchases, transport costs and other expenses
Pricing
Choose your perfect retreat setup!
We offer different pricing options depending on your preferred room type — whether you're flying solo or bringing your favorite human.
Single rooms at the cozy Herdsman House can also be booked as double rooms or “Significant Other” rooms upon request.
Rooms are limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis — so don’t wait too long to grab your favorite!
Room | Early Bird Price | Normal Price | Image | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Small Single Room | 2325 € | 2525 | Sea Barn | |
Big Single Room | 2425 € | 2625 | Sea Barn | |
Single Room | 2200 € | 2400 | Herdsman's House | |
Big Double Room | 2125 € | 2325 | Sea Barn | |
Small Double Room | 1975 € | 2175 | Sea Barn | |
Training Only Full Week | 600 € | Upon Request | ||
Training Only Day Ticket | Upon Request |
Early Bird Pricing valid until December 31, 2025.
Price listed per Person in Euro, including all of the above-mentioned in the chosen room.
Roommates can be requested upon sign up, otherwise they will be are allocated upon chosen room options.
RETURN RETREATERS DISCOUNT
You have been to Draíocht before and are thinking about coming back? We'd love to welcome you back to the Irish aerial fairy squad and give you a 150€ discount on your booking this year!
SPECIAL DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE
You really want to be a part of it but for some reason can't afford the full price? Reach out to our office to discuss possible discounts and work trade options.
PAYMENT
Your booking will only be accepted after you have sent your deposit via Eversports (the link will be provided after we receive your registration form). Your spot is reserved for one week after receiving the deposit link. If you don't pay the first deposit your spot will automatically go to someone from the waitlist.
Payment Plan:
- 300 EUR deposit
- 50% within 3 weeks
- the remainder of the payment due by March 30, 2026
CANCELLATION POLICY
Free Cancellations can only be accepted if someone takes over your spot. This person can be someone you know or someone from our waiting list.
50% refund up to 90 days before the first day of the retreat
25% refund up to 45 days before the 1st day of the retreat
In extreme circumstances (such as illness, injury, or death in the family), we will provide special refund options if given proof or medical records.
INSURANCE
We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance that includes medical insurance.
Check with your healthcare provider to see if you are covered for international travel.
Level up your Aerial Skills
Immerse yourself in a week full of sequences, technique, and creative work! With over 20 hours of studio time, you'll get the ultimate training for your aerial skills. Our experienced instructors will meet you exactly where you are and support you on your aerial journey to further develop your skills!
All workshops take place at the AcroAer Studio in Sligo—a fully equipped aerial studio just 15 minutes from the base. We focus on aerial silks with a balanced blend of technique and creativity.
Participation is voluntary, so you can decide at any time whether you want to train in “Beast Mode” or prefer to enjoy “Yay-Vacay” mode.
Live the Irish Way of Life
Wonderful coastal views and the verdant beauty of the Irish countryside await you! Discover enchanting landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and endless beaches – together with our local hosts or simply explore on your own.
Have you ever driven a tractor? Met Irish cows? Enjoyed a Guinness in a real Irish pub? No problem, we'll take care of it! Experience a week of Irish farm life right by the sea.
Home Away From Home in Sligo
Enjoy the luxury of Sligo Sea Barn and Herdsman's House, located directly on the coast. Here you'll find the perfect place to connect with fellow aerialists or simply enjoy some time to yourself. A private path to the sea invites you to experience the beauty of the Irish coast and unwind.
The accommodations are equipped with local, organic amenities and offer everything you need to relax and recharge.
Delicious Homemade Food
No good workout without good food, right? Homemade vegan lunches, dinners, and snacks are prepared by a local chef, taking all our dietary needs into account. For those who prefer a non-vegan diet, there are also ingredients available to add animal products themselves.
The refrigerators and pantries are well stocked so you can prepare a delicious breakfast for yourself in the morning.
Aerial Photoshoot
Have you ever had an aerial photoshoot amidst the beautiful Irish landscapes? If not, it's about time!
Securely attached to the Aerial Rig, you have the opportunity to capture your skills in the air and create breathtaking moments that you can enjoy and proudly display.
Our team will support you throughout the shoot to help you get the most out of the experience.
Connect with your Community
A group retreat means meeting many new aerialists and connecting with people from all over the world who share your passion for aerial arts. New friendships and valuable contacts await you.
Spend valuable time in and out of the studio, participate in fun group activities, and create memories that last a lifetime!
Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I come just for training and find my own accommodation?
Yes! The "Training Only" option includes all aerial workshops of the week as well as all group activities.
Do I have to participate everywhere?
No. All workshops and activities are voluntary, so you can schedule rest breaks at any time. Of course, you can also add your own activities—just note that we cannot adjust the schedule for these, and you will need to arrange your own travel arrangements.
Can I share a room with a friend?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure you both book a double room in the same category and let us know on the booking form – there's a dedicated field for that.
Can I bring someone who doesn't do aerial?
Yes, Herdsmans House offers a few room options for accompanying persons – training and lunch are not included. Feel free to email us for more information: office@aerialsilk.at
What is the difference between the Sea Barn and the Herdsmans House?
Sea Barn is the main base for the week, where dinner and activities take place.
Herdsman's House is directly opposite and is slightly more private than the Sea Barn.
Each room at the Sea Barn has a private bathroom, while bathrooms at the Herdsman's House are shared.
Both houses have fully equipped kitchens prepared for breakfast.
Should I rent a car for the week?
Transportation to the studio and activities is included and organized. However, we are located in a remote location. If you would like more independence during the week or want to leave the group for a while, for example, to go into town, we recommend renting a car.
I'm not used to a vegan diet – do I have to eat vegan?
Yes and no! Lunch and dinner are vegan and provided entirely by us. However, we do have additional animal products like eggs and meat available in the kitchen, which you are welcome to use to supplement your meals as desired and ensure a balanced diet.
You prepare your own breakfast, so you can eat whatever suits you best!