Retreat Location & Travel

Retreat Address:
9115 E Zayante Rd, Felton, CA 95018

Please download the map for offline use or keep a printed copy, as cell service can be weak in the mountain and wooded areas.

Friday evening traffic can be heavy, so please plan ahead and leave early. The final 1–2 miles to the property are narrow and dark in some areas, with limited room for passing. Please drive slowly and carefully.

Arrival & Friday Schedule

Check-in: 4:00 PM
Dinner: 6:30 PM
Opening Service: 7:30 PM

If you expect to arrive after 7:15 PM, please plan to eat before arriving. Food options near the retreat property can be very limited in the evening.

Weather & Cabins

October evenings and nights in the mountains can be cold, while daytime temperatures are usually mild. Please bring warm layers and prepare for cooler evening weather.

The cabins do not have air conditioning, but heaters are available.

What to Bring

Bedding

  • Sleeping bag, or twin-size sheet and warm blanket
  • Pillow and pillowcase

Bath & Toiletries

  • Bath towel and washcloth
  • Shower slippers or flip-flops
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and shampoo
  • Air freshener, if desired

Medications & Medical Needs

  • Personal medications
  • CPAP users should bring an extension cord, as beds are fixed in place and cannot be moved
  • Each room has only one outlet. If more than one CPAP will be used in a room, please bring a multi-outlet adapter

Clothing

  • Warm jacket
  • Sweater or hoodie for evenings and campfire
  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
  • Extra socks

Retreat Items

  • Bible
  • Notebook
  • Pen

Other Essentials

  • Flashlight — some paths can be very dark at night
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Phone charger
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray

Meals & Dietary Needs

The facility cannot prepare separate meals for every individual allergy or dietary request, but a couple of vegetarian options can be provided separately from the regular buffet.

Anyone who needs a vegetarian meal should contact Nibin Geevarhese, who will coordinate directly with the kitchen manager.

Those with specific dietary restrictions may also bring their own food. Refrigerator space and a microwave will be available for these needs.If you’re bringing something, please label it clearly before putting it in the refrigerator 

Please Do Not Bring

Please do not bring irons or ironing boards. They are not provided, and high-power appliances may cause electrical problems or power outages on the property.

Please do not keep food inside the cabins, as it may attract animals.

Safety & Campus Transportation — Day of Arrival

Please park in the guest parking lot in front of Madrone Lodge. Overflow parking is available farther down the road.

Please do not drive directly to the cabins or unload your vehicle in the cabin area.

First, check in at the Registration Desk to receive your room assignment and credentials. Then check in with the Safety & Security Team and follow their instructions.

Only cars specifically assigned by the parish are permitted to enter the cabin areas. These vehicles have already been designated. If this rule is not followed, the property may charge the church a penalty.

Please pack your belongings in travel bags or rolling suitcases. Our assigned transportation team will take your luggage to your room.

After check-in, please leave your vehicle in the designated parking area for the duration of the retreat.

Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us keep the retreat safe, organized, and enjoyable for everyone.

Rules

  • No loud noises after 10 PM
  • Children under 11 must be accompanied by a parent on trails
  • Do not store or consume snacks/beverages in cabins.
  • The area above and around the heaters must be kept clear at all times
  • Entrance doors should be kept closed to prevent insects and animals from entering
  • Overuse of electrical appliances can cause fuses to blow. Do not plug in too many items at one time. In the cabins a reset button can be pushed on the outlets near the mirror if power is not available at that outlet.

     After Meals

  • Bus all tableware to the designated busing station
  • Push in chairs
  • Clear tables within 1 hour and 15 minutes of the start of the meal