Will I be on my own or with others?
The retreat house has four bedrooms and can accommodate up to eight guests. Because of our small size, there may be times when you are the only guest on retreat. However, the retreat house managers live onsite, so you will not be entirely alone in the house.
What should I expect and what should I bring?
Is English the only language used at the retreat house?
Yes, our staff speak English. However, we recognise that silence itself is a language we can all share, and translation tools such as Google Translate can also be helpful if needed.
Is there disability access?
Unfortunately, the retreat house is not suitable for wheelchair users. The uneven garden terrain and steps leading to the house make access challenging. Although the guest bedrooms are on the lower level at the back of the house, guests do need to be able to manage stairs at the front of the building.
Will I be asked to be silent and not speak?
We ask guests to respect the contemplative ethos of the house and to be mindful of noise that could disturb others, including resident staff. Many people find that it takes a little time to settle into silence, and this is a natural part of the retreat process. Staff are always available if you need support with this. We encourage quietness and stillness throughout the house, with particular attention to silence between 8pm and 8am.
Can I drink alcohol and smoke?
We do not provide alcohol, though guests may bring alcohol with them if they wish. The retreat house and grounds operate a no smoking and no drugs policy, including the use of vapes and substances such as cannabis, even when used in a spiritual context. Staff reserve the right to ask guests to limit alcohol consumption or, in rare cases, to leave the retreat if substance use is excessive or impacts the experience of others.
Is there somewhere I can secure valuables?
We have a secure deposit box where phones can be stored if you wish to take part in a ‘digital detox’. Larger items such as laptops or tablets can also be stored in a locked location. Guests are asked to take responsibility for their personal belongings. While we provide secure storage options, the retreat house cannot accept liability for loss or damage. We encourage simple precautions such as locking doors and windows when going out.
What if I get sick or need emergency health care?
There is a local doctor and dentist who are able to see overseas visitors, as well as a local health centre and both public and private hospitals on the island. If you are travelling from overseas, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical needs. As part of the booking process, we ask about current health concerns so that we can be aware of any potential risks during your stay.
Do your rooms have air conditioning and WiFi
We do not offer air conditioning due to its high energy use, environmental impact, and potential health effects such as dry skin and respiratory irritation. Most guests find that the ceiling and tower fans are adequate, helped by the cooling sea breeze that often flows through the house.
Wi-Fi is available in the rooms, though speeds can vary and may occasionally drop out. Many guests choose to see this as an opportunity to slow down, unplug, and have a ‘digital detox’.
Are there set checking in and out times?
We are flexible with arrival and departure times where possible. This depends on other guests’ arrangements, transport timings, and staff availability. Arrival times can be discussed during your pre-visit video call, and check-out times can be agreed during your stay.
Can I bring my pet?
We’re sorry, but pets are not permitted, except for those already resident at the retreat house.
How quiet is the local area?
Bathway is known for its peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. Most of the time the area is very quiet, although occasional everyday sounds such as grass cutting or a barking dog can occur. We do our best to minimise noise within the house and garden, though we cannot control music on the beach or sounds from neighbouring properties. Bathway can become more lively on Sunday afternoons and public holidays, particularly over Easter weekend.
Can children come to the retreat house?
The retreat house is only for adults over eighteen and this includes day visits.
Are there hairdryers, shaver points and toiletries in the rooms?
The retreat house provides liquid soap but does not supply additional toiletries. One hairdryer is available for guests to share. Shaver points are available in the Serenity and Tranquillity rooms, but not in Sanctuary or Harmony.
Do you have a TV?
In keeping with the quiet, contemplative ethos of the retreat house, there is no television or radio provided. Wi-Fi is available, so guests are able to stream TV or radio on personal devices if they wish. However, many people find their retreat offers a valuable opportunity to step back from screens and social media. If guests do choose to use phones, tablets, or laptops, we ask that headphones are used so as not to disturb others.
How do you ensure that this is a safe space?
We are committed to creating a space that feels safe, respectful, and supportive for all guests. There are policies and codes of ethics which we follow including confidentiality, safeguarding, fire safety and health and safety policies. These are available on request.
How can I ask another question?
If you have any further questions feel free to contact us via our contact page. There will also be an opportunity to ask any last minute questions when we meet for the pre-retreat online session prior to your stay.