Silent Walking & Meditation Escape in the Spanish Mountains

The retreat runs over five days and four nights, starting at 2pm on day one. Free pick-up is arranged from Xativa train station at 1pm, and everyone shares lunch shortly after arriving. There's an orientation to the property and the community, then a short walk in the valley to stretch your legs before the silence begins in earnest.

Mornings start with a gentle yoga session, followed by a healthy breakfast. Then the real work of the day begins: a long walk through the varied landscape around the cottage — hills, forests, fields, and farms. Ellen knows the area well and will take you to the spots she loves most: a natural spring with crystal-clear water, a cave, and a large waterfall you can shower under. There's always time for a swim, a rest, and lunch along the way.

A distinctive feature of this retreat is how it handles silence. It's not fully silent — that's a clear choice by Ellen, who feels that combining silence with human connection makes the experience more powerful. Large parts of the day, particularly the walks, are done in silence, giving you room to turn inward. But in the afternoons and evenings, there are guided sharing circles where Ellen reflects on the day's events and themes from a Buddhist philosophical perspective. Silence becomes optional at certain points, so you can connect with other participants if you want to.

Evenings follow a loose structure of meditation, sound healing with singing bowls, meditative dance, and sometimes sitting by the campfire watching the stars. One guest described the yurts as having log burners that warm them in cooler months, and the meals as exquisite vegan food 'made by people who cook with love.' Another reviewer, William, called the location 'remote and extremely calming' and said he really connected with the long nature walks.

This is not a retreat with a packed schedule of classes and treatments. The days are long and simple, and the point is to let your mind slow down. The location — an off-grid valley with no internet or street lights — is a big part of the experience. You're encouraged to read, write, or just rest in the afternoons between walking and dinner.

What's included

- 4 nights accommodation in a tiny house or bell tent - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Daily meditation classes - Wake up with a gentle yoga session - Silent walks with guided meditations in stunning nature - Refresh yourself in the natural pools we will visit on our walks - Evenings with sound bath, meditative dance, and unlimited stargazing - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Transportation during the retreat

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights cost - Travel insurance - Extra day / night stay (optional add-on) - 50 Euro - 60 minute relaxing massage - 60 Euro