Minnesota, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene lakes, is home to a wealth of retreats aimed at helping individuals reconnect with themselves and find peace amidst the busyness of life. Among these, Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat, and ARC Retreat Community stand out as two exceptional destinations, each offering a unique approach to rejuvenation and reflection. Whether you are seeking a spiritual experience, personal growth, or simply a peaceful escape, these retreats provide the perfect backdrop for your journey.
Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center
Nestled in 150 acres of woods and prairie outside of Farmington, Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center is an idyllic haven for those seeking solace and spiritual renewal. With its stunning natural beauty and tranquil surroundings, the retreat center offers a nurturing environment for individuals and groups alike.
Founded in 1976 and an affiliate organization of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, the conference and retreat center provides a wide array of programs and services designed to promote growth, relaxation, and healing.
“Our mission is to help outside groups host their own retreat,” Jeremy Bork, guest engagement, says. “The vast majority of guests plan their events and we handle logistics like meeting room setup, home-cooked meals, supplemental programming, and anything else possible. In the past, we have had youth camps, family reunions, workshops, and spiritual retreats. We welcome everyone, no matter their background or beliefs.”
Visitors can enjoy comfortable accommodations ranging from hotel-style rooms to dorm rooms, all equipped with the necessities to ensure a restful stay. Scenic hiking trails, lakes, and beautifully maintained grounds encourage guests to explore and reconnect with the natural world. Although Mount Olivet typically stands as a place for others to hold events, it sometimes offers special events of its own. These include: a Mother’s Day Brunch, day retreats, inspirational talks, women’s conferences, and more.
In addition, Mount Olivet places a strong emphasis on community and connection. Participants often leave feeling not only refreshed but also enriched by the friendships formed and the experiences shared. Whether you are looking to deepen your faith, nurture your mental well-being, or simply find a quiet moment of peace, Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center is a sanctuary that invites you to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate.
For more information and to plan your visit, check out mtolivetretreat.org.
ARC Retreat Community
The ARC Retreat Community, created during 1972 by Ruth Halvorson, is located in Stanchfield and offers a distinctive approach to retreats focused on wellness, community building, and personal transformation. ARC, which stands for Action, Reflection and Celebration, encourages individuals to step away from the demands of everyday life and immerse themselves in a supportive environment that fosters healing and self-discovery.
ARC Retreat prides itself on its holistic approach to well-being, integrating mind, body, and spirit. Guests, whether individuals or groups, can participate in a variety of programs, including yoga, mindfulness workshops, and nature-based activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation. The retreat’s emphasis on building authentic connections among participants sets it apart, allowing individuals to form meaningful relationships through shared experiences and reflective practices.
The facility features welcoming accommodations, communal spaces for gatherings, and serene outdoor areas that encourage reconnecting with the natural environment.
“We have a lodge with 27 guest rooms, an Airbnb style cottage and a hermitage – a tiny off the grid house,” says Executive Director Dr. Suzanne M. Begin. “We are on Anishinaabe land with beautiful white pine trees which represent harmony and wisdom. We acknowledge and honor this by sharing the area's history with guests and having white pine tree details as our symbol.”
With a focus on sustainability and respect for the earth, ARC also offers farm-to-table meals made from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that guests not only feel good but also nourish their bodies with wholesome food.
At ARC Retreat Community, participants are encouraged to embrace vulnerability, authenticity, and creativity. Many visitors leave with newfound insights, deeper connections, and a renewed sense of purpose. If you're looking to recharge your spirit and cultivate meaningful relationships, the ARC Retreat Community is an enriching escape that invites you to explore your true self.
To learn more about upcoming retreats and programs, visit arcretreat.org.