Retreat in your own backyard
As submitted to the Shuswap Scoop, by Kathie MacDuff
Neighbours of the Sorrento Conference and Retreat Centre may not be aware that they too can experience the joys of a summer holiday without a long costly drive on busy summer highways. The Centre hosts guests from coast to coast and, indeed, from around the world. Their brand of generous hospitality is treasured but may be the best-kept secret in the Shuswap!
Every summer for sixty years, Sorrento Centre has been a destination for individuals and families, all who have different objectives. Whether it is downtime in nature, a transformative course or a camping experience, all can find a sense of renewal and growth in the Shuswap sun.
Between festivals and cultural events, five wonderful retreat weeks are set aside for families to enjoy all manner of accommodations in a safe, inclusive environment. Children meet new friends and experience freedom unavailable in urban settings while their adults can find rest, relaxation and so much more.
During each weeklong retreat, guests can choose to take part in morning courses presenting diverse opportunities to connect with mind, heart and spirit not to mention other participants. Afternoons are the perfect opportunity for free time on the land; Sorrento Centre offers a breathtaking lakefront and fields, forest and gardens and even a farm! Evenings are filled with heart-warming intergenerational events: campfire sing-a-longs, speakers and storytellers, talent shows and dances, and an amazing banquet to conclude the week. Complimentary Wi-Fi is included but wouldn’t you love to unplug?
Course leaders are highly qualified and offer rich, meaningful experiences in a variety of programs. This year the Centre is pleased to offer transformative experiences in journaling, musical theatre, Jungian psychology and the sacred medicine wheel just to name a few. Find out more here…
While the adults are busy in the mornings, children and teens have plenty of opportunities too. Qualified summer youth staff create active, exciting and fun-filled programs to engage the kids. Fun, laughter and creativity build friendships and character, not to mention memories that last a lifetime for everyone. It’s what keeps many of Sorrento Centre’s guests returning year after year!
In the autumn, after the kids are in school and tourism season begins to wind down, more retreat options are available. Popular course leaders will return to lead a 5-day walking pilgrimage and a fabric art retreat, and a certified Forest Therapy Guide will lead a contemplative forest bathing retreat.
People often think of “retreat” as running away from something. At Sorrento Centre, retreat means returning to yourself and to what is important in life. If you’ve never visited the Centre and would like to before committing, please give Kathie MacDuff a call at 250-675-2421 Ext. 107 to arrange a tour…feel free to bring the family!
