Retreats: General Info

Arrival

If you are driving to Springwater, please arrive by 4:00 p.m. on the day retreat begins. If you plan to arrive before 1:00 p.m., please let us know.

If you are arriving by plane, train, or bus and need a ride from Rochester (see Directions), please arrive in Rochester by 4:00 p.m. on the day retreat begins.

If you would like to arrive a day or more before retreat begins, please contact us in advance. There is a charge for room and board outside of retreat (see Visiting).

Everyone is welcome to stay overnight at no extra charge after retreat. Post-retreat dinner and breakfast the next morning are also included. If you would like to stay longer, please contact us in advance.

Accommodation and Meals

Rooms are simple with separate shared baths. There are usually two to four people per room during retreats. See Retreat Application for information on single room availability.

All meals are vegetarian with non-dairy options.

Bedding

We have a limited supply of blankets, sheets, and pillows. If possible, please bring bedding and a towel. Bedding is mainly for people arriving by air or from a distance. Foam mattresses are provided.

Clothing

There is no dress code at Springwater. Bring comfortable clothing comfortable for sitting. Outdoor shoes are not worn inside, so bring soft-soled slippers or sandals for indoors.

Bring work clothes for the work period and boots for outdoors in case of wet, muddy weather. Bring a hat in the summer for protection against deerflies.

Transportation and Communication

We are in a rural area without public transportation. Please bring needed pharmaceuticals, toiletries, etc. We can only provide rides to and from the Rochester airport, train, or bus stations (see Directions). We cannot provide visitors with other rides.

A telephone booth is available for calls made by calling card. We do not offer e-mail access for retreatants. Our FAX is only available for emergencies.

Alcohol and Drugs

Please do not bring alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs to the Center. Cigarette smoking is permitted outside the building only.