Often times you come to Montreat for a conference or an organized retreat. While these are great reasons to make the trip, there is something to be said for coming to the mountains with no agenda. Spending personal sabbath time in Montreat can be beneficial to all of us. Taking a break, if only for a few days, from our chaotic lives can provide much needed time to commune with our Creator and rest the soul. Here are a few of our favorite ways to soak up this “thin place” so you leave refreshed and renewed. This fall, you can come to Montreat for a Personal Sabbath and experience Montreat at a special rate.
1. Hiking
Montreat Conference Center is surrounded by approximately 2,500 acres of protected wilderness. There are more than 20 trails in Montreat, stretching almost 30 miles. The trails range in length and skill level. Pick up some of our safety rules and tips here.
2. Enjoying Lake Susan
Although small, Lake Susan can be a hub of activity. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee on Left Bank Porch, reading a good book on the dock, walking on the short wooded path around the lake, napping in a hammock, or fishing for trout, calm Lake Susan is sure to calm your mind.
3. Shopping
Between the Montreat Store and Ten Thousand Villages, you can get your holiday shopping done early this year! The Montreat Store has everything from t-shirts to artisan-made pottery, and Ten Thousand Villages is full of fair-trade products from around the world. Both places are great if you’re checking off gifts on your list, or just looking around!
4. Playing in Robert Lake Park
The beautiful Robert Lake Park (and recently re-opened) is owned and maintained by Montreat Conference Center, and is only a short walk from Assembly Inn. In our opinion, it’s got the best playground around!
5. Strolling Elizabeth’s Path
If you’re looking for a trail that’s less of a hike and more of a leisurely walk, Elizabeth’s Path is a gentle trail running from the intersection of Lookout Road & Assembly Drive down to the gate. Perfect for a walk or run by the creek.
6. Hanging Out in Assembly Inn
Whether you’re reading, studying, knitting, or playing a board game with friends, the Assembly Inn Lobby gives you the feel of a cozy mountain home. With windows looking out at the mountains, and a porch with a stunning view, you won’t forget you’re in Montreat even if you spend the whole time inside. A fire in the fireplace during the colder months adds to the warm ambiance.
7. Exploring Nearby Black Mountain
There’s so much to do in “the little town that rocks.” Check out exploreblackmountain.com for more info!
Events
2024 Montreat Youth Conferences
Planting Peace
Montreat Youth Conference is a unique gathering of young people from all over the country for a week of study, worship, and recreation.
A Montreat Conference Center program
Worship & Music 2024 – Week 1
Lead Us Homeward
Explore opportunities for vital worship experiences and enriching the liturgical life of the local church.
Event hosted by Presbyterian Association of Musicians in partnership with Montreat Conference Center
Worship & Music 2024 – Week 2
Lead Us Homeward
Explore opportunities for vital worship experiences and enriching the liturgical life of the local church.
Event hosted by Presbyterian Association of Musicians in partnership with Montreat Conference Center
2024 Middle School Conference
In the Middle of It All
Each summer, hundreds of middle-school aged youth gather to grow, sing, and worship God.
Sponsored by Montreat Conference Center in partnership with Maryville College