Save money, uplift your spirits by adding a retreat to your travel plans

Have you ever thought of adding a retreat to a trip to save money while upping your emotional return?

Religious retreat centers may not be in the hospitality business but they know about service and many welcome visitors looking for a different kind of getaway.

I recently made a day trip to the Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre in Cochrane, Alberta for an artists’ retreat. I was attracted by several hours of silence and techniques for combining watercolor painting and journal writing.

Insider’s Tip: Even if you don’t think you’ve got the talent to paint, Karin Huehold can teach ANYONE to paint in as little as two hours. Check out her course offerings here. 

Shortly after arriving, I did a double take when someone clad in dark robes with a large hood strolled from the woods, thinking someone had escaped from a Harry Potter movie set. But it was one of the friars slowly crossing the meadows that framed stunning mountain views.

I set out to explore the grounds with my journal and discovered that St. Francis and his followers like wildlife. A statue of St. Francis included a deer and birds. A birdhouse tucked into the forest said, “Bless this nest.” The midden on the roof suggested a red squirrel had moved into the birdhouse, but it’s the thought that counts!

The hours exploring the grounds flew by as I discovered many natural wonders as well as emotional and spiritual returns (even though I’m not Catholic).

People can visit this 500-acre retreat centre for $30 for a Day Away retreat with one meal or stay for a weekend for $185. An affordable way to enjoy a million- dollar view and renew your spirit. http://www.mountstfrancis.ca/typesretreats.html

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Also published on Medium.