Finding a retreat location is not like picking a typical vacation spot. Whereas a vacation is all about taking time off and seeing and doing exciting things, a retreat is more about finding peace and quiet.
To help you find just the right retreat locations where you can unwind, we’ve put together a guide to retreat locations. We’ve covered some hints and tips on finding the right space, as well as a few examples of retreat locations you might find enjoyable yourself.
Finding a place to unwind
Whether it’s just a simple walk along the ocean or a trip high into the mountains, finding the right location for your retreat is important. A retreat is all about getting away from what stresses you.
Unlike a typical vacation, a retreat can take many forms. While most retreats involve at least some relaxation, others actually inspire work. These include corporate retreats and writing retreats. Some retreats are even spiritual or religious in nature.
Whatever kind of retreat you’re planning, we’ve come up with some suggestions to find the perfect retreat location.
Decide on the reason for your retreat
Before you start shopping around for retreat locations, decide why you need a retreat in the first place. Some companies hold employee retreats to help build camaraderie and cooperation amongst their workers. Other retreats are more specialized, like retreats that work on your mental wellbeing or yoga retreats that focus on health and fitness.
Some retreats are about pure relaxation and getting away from your normal life. Whatever the reason, it’s important to decide upfront what you want to accomplish from your retreat and then search for a venue accordingly.
Decide on your length of stay
Part of booking a retreat location means figuring out how long you want to be there. Company retreats have a specific goal and usually only last a few days. A personal retreat can last as long as you want it to.
If you’re just trying to get away for a weekend after a hard week, then you’d want to choose a location that is closer and lets you book for just a couple of days. However, if you’re thinking of going away for a few weeks, then you’ll need to find a location that allows this. Consider what you can afford when setting your retreat duration.
It’s important to take the time and get the most out of your retreat, but knowing your limitations from the beginning can help you plan better.
Make sure you can afford your stay
A retreat can have a number of benefits for everyone involved, but going to a retreat at the wrong time can cause problems. So can going over your budget.
Relaxation is key, but not if it causes extra stress when you return home. It can be tempting to just get away whenever you can, but it’s important to plan accordingly.
It’s as simple as taking a look at your calendar and determining when the best time to go would be. Even businesses should schedule a company retreat during a slow period for the business rather than during a rush.
Setting a budget is the next step. Even though it is a retreat, there can still be a great deal of money involved between booking fees, travel, and other amenities. To keep from causing yourself headaches after the retreat is over, create a budget and stick to it, even if you’re tempted to go over for extra enjoyment.
Some retreat examples to inspire you
Before you go looking for your own retreat locations, we’ve put together a few that may have just what you’re looking for. Even if you don’t find one on our list that works for you, this will give you some idea of what’s available.
1. Lakewood Retreat Center, Brooksville, FL: a place to reconnect
Lakewood Retreat Center is a spiritual retreat location that offers sermons, outdoor activities, and other opportunities for those of the Christian faith to reconnect with their spirituality in a serene lakeside setting.
This is the perfect space for family groups, ministries, and large congregations. If a faith-based retreat is something you’re after, then this is an excellent choice.
2. Dogwood Acres, Chipley, FL: kid-friendly retreat
We don’t always think about the kids when we think about going on a retreat. Dogwood Acres combines a retreat location with a summer camp, offering plenty to keep the kids occupied and the adults relaxed.
Featuring nature trails, a variety of indoor spaces, and daily activities, Dogwood Acres has a little something for everyone in a safe and wholesome environment. If you’re looking for a family-friendly retreat, then this is it.
3. Orange Springs Retreat Center, Gainesville, FL: calming relaxation
This retreat location is a little different from the others on our list. This yoga retreat center caters to a variety of groups, from schools and churches to corporations and private parties. Complete with sports courts, a swimming pool, and lake activities like fishing and boating, Orange Springs is the perfect place to channel your inner zen.
Final thoughts on finding the right retreat location
We hope the tips and sample locations on our list have given you just what you need to plan your own retreat when that time comes. No matter what your goals are, if you plan ahead and find the right place, you can come back from your retreat feeling better than ever.
