Othona West Dorset was founded by pioneers of sustainable living (in the 1920s!) and by peacemakers after war. Today we’re a community with those same values at heart and a unique location. Overlooking an unspoilt stretch of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, there simply isn't another retreat centre like it anywhere in southern England.
Each morning you’ll contribute to hands-on environmental projects. This year there is a project to thoroughly revive and restart Othona's beehives. You don't have to be a bee-keeper :-) This is more about cutting back some undergrowth, cleaning up the old bee boxes and painting them, creating a welcoming space for bees who will have acres of organic land to patrol and pollinate.
There'll be a chance to meet our beekeepers and learn a bit about how 40,000 co-workers can live together in a co-operative community!
We could also be reinforcing steps for safe access on a wooded hillside or building a labyrinth in our wildflower meadow. The projects may vary depending on weather etc.
Each afternoon is free time. You can walk through woods and meadows to the beach, join an impromptu group outing in gorgeous Dorset, or just hang out. How about a wood-fired sauna by the edge of the sea? There’s even space to read or study. What’s your taste in the evenings: a firepit in the woods, indoor games, a movie video, a trip to the pub? Watching a bit of Glastonbury together is a possibility too.
You’ll also be part of a welcoming community life. Join us for our morning meditations in the beautiful house chapel. Get involved in preparing a healthy meal using great local ingredients.
Othona is a place of simple pleasures. Meeting other people is the main thing. We have good wifi – and not so good phone signals – but why not try a break from lots of screen time?
Younger people often did worst financially in the pandemic. So we offer this week - all food included - at half our usual price. Along with the freedom to choose from three rates according to your own finances. Or a bursary is possible if you can't afford Basic rate. Some room sharing (two to a room) may be necessary, depending on numbers booking.
