21 Mar 2017

Collective Retreats

I didn’t grow up being much of a camper or an outdoorsy person for that matter. I’m sure none of you are surprised to learn that. However, in college I branched out a bit and went on a few retreats and found myself really enjoying this time to myself in a secluded environment outside of the city. I liked the freedom of being able to do whatever I wanted and being at peace with my surroundings. As an adult, it’s still something I think about and from time to time, I do research retreats for adults. I never had an opportunity to do the 3-5 day silent retreat in college and that is still one of my biggest regrets!

I recently stumbled across “Collective Retreats,” which resembles what we all know today as “glamping,” but reminds me of the experience I once had. It may not be the tent that you grew up with, but it’s okay to think of it as an updated version of it. These tents have a cozy bed inside, wood floors, and a neighboring bathroom in a teepee. Toilet and shower included! I know what you’re thinking, how does this all work? I’m still trying to figure it out myself. Collective Retreats is able to work because they reach out to various landowners that happen to have these wide open private spaces that make for the perfect getaway. The company then turns these into makeshift tent lodges for a small period of time allowing guests to get the desired vacation they are hoping for. Since these plots of land are so large, they often will include anywhere from 5-15 furnished tents, but all within a reasonable distance from each other so that you can still feel like you are on your own. If you decide that you want the company of other retreaters, there is a common shared space for everyone to hang out together…and in which you will receive chef-prepared meals. Camping… just like when you were a kid!

Collective Retreats is currently available in Yellowstone in Vail with plans to expand out to Sonoma, Hudson Valley, and Hill Country.

[Source]