Buddhist Retreat Centre, Ixopo

Busy. Busy. Busy. Story of my life…of your life too, perhaps… Often we express the need to “escape it all” in exasperation as the load of increasing work, economic and social pressures bear down on us a little too hard at times. We want to “get away” – to escape; and we try to…but the pressures can follow or find new ways to haunt even while exploring vibrant cities, exotic destinations, or frolicking with the family at the beach…No. If you are truly searching for a break; a time out, then one needs to travel not further away, but rather further inside.

The beautiful Buddhist Retreat Centre, near the village of Ixopo, was awarded National heritage status by late President Nelson Mandela, and it is the absolutely ideal environment for your retreat. It’s set far away from bustling city life and sometimes you can almost hear the silence.

As you settle in to the peaceful routine of the Buddhist Retreat Centre, you can allow the outside world, and especially all your worries, to fade away and grant yourself the opportunity to fully experience yourself in a safe, comfortable and tranquil environment.

Use your time on the retreat to create an opportunity to indulge in self-reflection, contemplation and mindful meditation. Experience some of the most delicious vegetarian cuisine (vegan meals can be requested). Should you wish to recreate some of these delicious meals, three beautifully designed recipe books (Quiet Food, The Cake the Buddha Ate and Plentiful) are available to purchase from the zen-inspired Dhamma Shop.

Enjoy exploring the BRC and its magical offering of features and facilities including the Buddha boma, labyrinth, zen garden, meditation hall, stupa, deer park, studio and self service kitchenette for tea; library where you can borrow books for the duration of your stay, cosy dining room, lush gardens, guided walks, 180+ bird species…go and see for yourself!

Visit the Buddhist Retreat Centre website for more information on the Centre, as well as upcoming retreats.

I was inspired to share the beauty of the Buddhist Retreat Centre, so I created this video to give you an idea of why I was moved by the splendor of this Paradise. Enjoy.