In the relentless hum of modern existence, where screens flicker constantly and notifications demand immediate attention, a deep-seated yearning often surfaces – a longing for quiet. Not just the absence of noise, but a profound stillness where the mind can settle, the body can rest, and the spirit can reconnect with something essential. It’s a call to step away from the rush, to pause the endless doing, and simply be. For those hearing this call, seeking refuge and renewal, a unique sanctuary exists nestled in the sun-drenched mountains of Spain: the 5-Day Silent Meditation Retreat offered by Live Mindfully. This isn’t merely a holiday; it’s an invitation to embark on an inner journey, facilitated by the potent combination of deep silence, the embrace of stunning natural beauty, expert guidance rooted in ancient wisdom, and a supportive environment designed for profound self-discovery. It’s a carefully crafted experience promising not just escape, but a powerful opportunity to connect with one’s true self and cultivate a lasting sense of inner peace. This particular silent meditation retreat offers a pathway back to presence, held within the tranquil heart of the Valencia province.
Casas Benali: A Historic Haven Wrapped in Nature
The setting for this transformative journey is as integral to the experience as the silence itself. Casas Benali, the venue hosting the retreat, is far removed from the clamor of cities and tourist trails. Located deep in the mountains of the Valencia province, specifically near Enguera, the retreat center sits 18 kilometers from the nearest village, ensuring a genuine sense of seclusion. Imagine arriving at a place an hour south of Valencia city, yet worlds away in atmosphere. Here, the intrusions of modern life fade dramatically: there is no traffic noise, no distracting glow of streetlights obscuring the night sky, and significantly, no constant pull of internet connectivity demanding attention. This deliberate disconnection isn’t an oversight; it’s a fundamental feature, creating an environment where slowing down isn’t just encouraged, it happens naturally.
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The venue itself occupies 68 hectares of private land, a vast expanse dominated by nature. Rolling hills clad in pine forests stretch as far as the eye can see, interspersed with ancient olive yards that speak of the region’s agricultural heritage. Depending on the season, the air might carry the scent of wild thyme, or guests might find themselves able to pick ripe oranges, figs, or pomegranates directly from the trees. The views are consistently described as spectacular, offering panoramic vistas that invite contemplation and instill a sense of spaciousness. Under the clear Spanish skies, unpolluted by artificial light, the stars emerge with breathtaking clarity, offering nightly displays of cosmic wonder – a reminder of the vastness beyond the self. This immersion makes it an exceptional nature retreat Spain.
Casas Benali is more than just a collection of buildings in a beautiful location; it carries the weight and wisdom of history. Its origins trace back to the 1300s, founded as an authentic Arab hamlet, once an important settlement along one of the long-distance mountain routes traversing the region. This ancient past imbues the place with a unique character. The old houses haven’t been erased but have been beautifully and thoughtfully restored, preserving their rustic, historic feel while seamlessly integrating the comforts expected in modern times. This creates a unique and supportive container for retreatants – a space that feels grounded, timeless, and deeply peaceful, yet offers comfortable, stylish amenities. The very atmosphere seems to breathe peace and quiet, supporting the inward journey.
The philosophy of Casas Benali aligns perfectly with the retreat’s purpose. It operates with a focus on ecotourism and organic farming, promoting a healthy, ecological, and sustainable way of life. Managed by owners who work alongside an international team, there’s a shared spirit dedicated to tranquility and connection with the natural world. It’s a place explicitly designed to help visitors shed the burdens of their busy lives, to slow down, come to rest, and rediscover a more natural rhythm. The remoteness, the historical resonance, the pervasive presence of nature, and the venue’s commitment to mindful living all converge to create an ideal setting for the deep dive into silence and self-awareness that awaits.
The Deep Dive: Embracing the Stillness of Silence
The defining characteristic of this retreat, the element that sets it apart and offers its most potent potential for transformation, is the practice of noble silence. This involves a conscious choice to abstain from speaking for the majority of the five days, with the silence typically beginning on the first afternoon after introductions and concluding with a sharing circle on the final day. Far from being an awkward or empty experience, this period of verbal quietude is framed as a powerful opportunity, a unique doorway into deeper levels of awareness and self-understanding.
Why embrace silence? In a world saturated with communication, choosing not to speak allows the constant external chatter to subside, making space for the inner landscape to reveal itself more clearly. The retreat aims to leverage this quietude to help participants connect deeply with their true selves, moving beyond the surface-level interactions and distractions of daily life. It fosters an environment conducive to experiencing genuine calm and accessing meditative insight. By stepping away from the habit of constant verbalization, the mind begins to quieten, allowing participants to let go of persistent stress, anxieties, and the unhelpful loops of repetitive thinking that often dominate mental space. Many find that this intentional silence allows the heart, mind, and soul to truly come to rest, creating a fertile ground from which deeper questions can arise and answers can flow more easily and intuitively. It’s an opportunity to experience life more openly and directly, unfiltered by the usual layers of commentary and judgment.
The experiences of those who have undertaken this silent journey speak volumes about its impact, often exceeding initial expectations. Participants frequently report finding the profound inner peace they were seeking, a stillness that permeates their being. There’s a common theme of learning valuable skills in managing the mind – observing and silencing negative thought patterns, gaining a greater sense of control over mental processes, and discovering an unexpected comfort in solitude. Rather than feeling isolating, the shared silence often fosters a surprisingly deep, unspoken connection among participants. Bonds are formed through shared presence and experience, demonstrating that meaningful connection doesn’t always require words.
Furthermore, the silence acts as a catalyst for gaining perspective. Stepping back from the noise of everyday routines allows participants to see their lives more clearly, helping them focus on what holds true importance. It facilitates inner reflection, providing a much-needed, genuine break from the relentless pace and demands of daily existence. Many describe emerging from the retreat feeling significantly calmer, more centered, and equipped with a newfound mental clarity. For some, the call to silence itself feels like a deep need being met, providing a peaceful, settling, and restful experience that resonates long after the retreat concludes. The silence, therefore, isn’t an emptiness to be endured, but a rich, full space for heightened awareness, profound connection, and significant personal insight – a cornerstone of this silent meditation retreat.
It’s important to understand that participants are not simply left adrift in this silence. The retreat structure skillfully uses silence as a powerful tool, but it is embedded within a supportive framework of guided practices and teachings. The experience is carefully curated, making the potentially challenging prospect of extended silence feel accessible, manageable, and ultimately, deeply rewarding, even for individuals undertaking their very first retreat. The positive feedback, particularly from first-time attendees, underscores the effectiveness of this supportive container, ensuring that the journey into stillness is a guided and nurturing one.
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Rhythms of Renewal: A Typical Day Unfolds
The structure of the retreat provides a gentle yet consistent rhythm, a supportive framework designed to deepen the experience of silence and mindfulness throughout the five days. The program is often described as skillfully crafted, earning high praise from participants for its balance and flow, ensuring that the journey inward feels both profound and manageable.
Each day typically begins early, around 8:00 AM, not with a jarring alarm, but with the invitation to gently awaken the body through a session of mindful yoga. This practice serves as a bridge between sleep and wakefulness, preparing the physical self for a day of stillness and awareness. Following the yoga, participants gather for a delicious and healthy breakfast. Meals are a significant part of the experience, prepared with care and featuring wholesome vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Enjoying these meals, often in continued silence, becomes its own form of meditation, encouraging a heightened awareness of taste, texture, and the simple act of nourishment.
The core of the morning is dedicated to meditation practice. This includes periods of both silent meditation, allowing individuals to cultivate their own inner focus, and guided sessions led by the instructor. These guided meditations explore specific themes designed to deepen awareness, covering areas such as the anchor of the breath and body sensations, the input from the five senses, the elemental qualities within and around, the nature of feelings and thoughts, and the cultivation of loving-kindness (Metta). Throughout the day, meditation isn’t confined to sitting on a cushion. Participants are encouraged to practice mindfulness in various postures – sitting, standing, walking, and even lying down. This versatility helps integrate awareness into movement and rest. Practice takes place both within the dedicated meditation hall, a space imbued with tranquility, and outdoors, allowing participants to connect directly with the surrounding natural beauty of the nature retreat Spain.
The afternoons introduce a different element: an inspiring lecture or Dharma talk offered by the retreat leader. These talks are specifically designed to support the process of silence, providing context, understanding, and inspiration drawn from Buddhist psychology and mindfulness teachings. They offer intellectual nourishment and practical guidance, helping participants navigate their inner experiences during the retreat. Following the talk, the afternoon unfolds with further periods of silent meditation, allowing the themes and insights from the lecture to settle and integrate.
Woven into this structure are ample breaks, acknowledging the need for rest and personal space. These intervals offer time for quiet reflection, perhaps journaling about emerging insights, taking a mindful walk through the expansive grounds, enjoying a refreshing swim in the pool, or simply sitting quietly in one of the comfortable lounge areas or hammocks, soaking in the warm Spanish sunshine and the peaceful ambiance. For those seeking additional relaxation and healing, optional sessions like Ayurvedic massage or sound healing can often be booked during these times.
Beyond the daily rhythm, the retreat incorporates unique activities that enrich the experience. A highlight for many is the Yatra, a silent walk undertaken collectively on the third day. This mindful journey through the stunning natural landscape surrounding Casas Benali offers a powerful way to connect deeply with both the inner self and the external environment. The steady, calm rhythm of walking is inherently soothing to the body and mind, fostering a sense of grounded presence and connection. Another special element is an evening dedicated to meditative dance, offering a different modality for expression and embodied awareness through movement guided by evocative music.
Finally, as the retreat nears its conclusion, the deep silence is gently broken. This transition often occurs on the last evening or morning, marked by the shared experience of singing mantras – using the voice collectively in a sacred way – and culminating in a sharing circle. This provides a safe and supportive space for participants to integrate their experiences, share insights if they wish, and reconnect verbally before returning to the outside world. The entire schedule, from the gentle morning yoga to the eventual breaking of silence, is thoughtfully designed to create a balanced and supportive flow, guiding participants organically deeper into their Valencia mindfulness journey.
Cultivating Inner Calm: The Meditation Path
The heart of the retreat lies in its dedicated focus on meditation, offering participants a structured yet spacious environment to cultivate inner calm and deepen their self-awareness. The approach is rooted in classical Buddhist meditation techniques, specifically aiming to develop two fundamental qualities: Vipassana, which translates to insight or clear seeing into the nature of reality, and Samadhi, the quality of mental calm, concentration, and stability. The core instruction revolves around cultivating present moment awareness – learning to pay attention to the experience of the here and now, exactly as it is, without needing to judge it, change it, or strive for a particular outcome.
A key aspect of the practice involves observing the ever-changing flow of experience. Participants are guided to notice how physical sensations, thoughts, emotions, and moods arise, manifest, and pass away, moment by moment. This observation fosters an understanding of impermanence and helps to disentangle the mind from habitual reactions and attachments. The ultimate aim is not necessarily to achieve a state of blissful emptiness, but rather to gain deep, experiential insight into oneself and the nature of life. Such insight naturally leads to a greater sense of peace, harmony, and joy, not just during the retreat, but as a resource to draw upon in daily life. The skills cultivated are intended to be practical, helping individuals respond to life’s inevitable challenges with greater wisdom, balance, and health. This focus on practical application makes the Valencia mindfulness aspect particularly relevant.
The guided meditation sessions, typically held in the mornings, provide structure and focus, exploring specific themes that illuminate different facets of mindful awareness. Participants are gently led through explorations of the body and breath, learning to anchor attention in physical sensations and the natural rhythm of breathing – a fundamental practice for grounding and presence. Another theme focuses on the senses, often referred to as the five sense gates (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch). The practice here involves opening awareness to sensory input as it arises, noticing it clearly without getting lost in associated stories or judgments. Meditations on the four elements invite an exploration of the qualities of earth (stability, grounding), water (flow, adaptability), fire (energy, transformation), and air (spaciousness, movement), both within one’s own body and in the surrounding environment.
Further sessions delve into the realm of feelings and thoughts, guiding participants to observe emotions and mental chatter as transient phenomena, learning to relate to them with awareness and non-reactivity rather than being swept away by them. A particularly important theme is Metta, or loving-kindness meditation. This practice involves actively cultivating feelings of warmth, kindness, compassion, and goodwill, starting with oneself and gradually extending these feelings outwards towards others – friends, neutral persons, difficult individuals, and eventually all beings. Metta practice helps to soften the heart and counteract negativity, fostering connection and empathy.
Complementing these direct meditation practices are the afternoon lectures. These sessions provide valuable context and inspiration, drawing on Buddhist teachings and psychological insights to support the silent process. They offer frameworks for understanding the experiences that may arise during intensive meditation and provide encouragement for the journey. The combination of silent practice, varied guided meditations exploring rich themes, and supportive teachings creates a comprehensive curriculum. It offers tools for both calming the mind (Samadhi) and developing profound self-understanding (Vipassana). The emphasis throughout remains on non-judgmental observation – simply being with experience as it unfolds. This non-striving attitude is central to the mindfulness approach taught, making the practice accessible and reducing the pressure to achieve a specific state, which can be particularly reassuring for those new to meditation.
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Guided by Experience: Meet Ellen van Iersel
The quality of guidance is paramount in any retreat setting, especially one involving the profound introspection facilitated by silence. Leading this particular journey is Ellen van Iersel, a facilitator whose extensive experience and deep personal commitment shine through in the consistently positive feedback she receives. This Ellen van Iersel retreat benefits immensely from her presence.
Ellen’s background provides a strong foundation for her work. She is a certified mindfulness trainer, having completed the rigorous MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) teacher training developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, a globally recognized standard. Furthermore, she holds affiliation with the VMBN, the professional association for Mindfulness trainers in the Netherlands, indicating adherence to professional standards and ethics. Her formal training is complemented by over two decades of dedicated personal practice within the Buddhist tradition, particularly focusing on silent Vipassana meditation. She has sat numerous intensive retreats herself and participated in various yatras (silent meditative walks), often under the guidance of respected teachers like Christopher Titmuss, whom she counts among her most inspiring mentors. This blend of rigorous training and long-term personal immersion gives her a deep, experiential understanding of the practices she shares.
Since 2014, Ellen has guided hundreds, potentially over a thousand, participants through retreats, mindfulness trainings, and even spiritual journeys to India. This extensive teaching experience has given her a profound understanding of the workings of the mind and the specific challenges faced in contemporary, fast-paced, goal-oriented societies. Her passion for this work is palpable; she speaks of sharing silence, meditation, and nature as her greatest joy and passion. This isn’t just a job; it’s a calling rooted in her own life journey. Her deep love for nature, kindled in childhood explorations, led her to move to Spain in 2018, where she lives simply in a tiny house surrounded by the natural world she cherishes. This personal connection to silence and nature infuses her teaching with authenticity.
Participants consistently describe Ellen’s guidance in glowing terms. She is often perceived as possessing “enormous wisdom,” guiding meditations with exceptional care and sensitivity. Many refer to her as a “very good teacher,” highlighting her ability to convey complex concepts clearly and compassionately. Her style is frequently characterized as a blend of gentle yet firm guidance, creating a supportive space that also encourages depth and exploration. She is noted for embodying a palpable “aura of calm,” which naturally helps participants settle and feel secure. Testimonials describe her as an “authentic and inspiring” facilitator who holds the retreat space in a way that is both “joyful and calm.” Crucially, she is recognized for her ability to create a safe and warm environment – an essential element when participants are engaging in the potentially vulnerable process of deep self-reflection during a silent retreat. The high ratings consistently given for her teaching (often averaging 4.9 out of 5) corroborate these personal accounts.
Choosing to enter a silent meditation retreat can feel like a significant step, perhaps even daunting for some. Knowing that the journey is facilitated by someone with Ellen van Iersel’s depth of experience, professional qualifications, genuine passion, and proven ability to create a caring, wise, and supportive atmosphere offers considerable reassurance. Participants can feel confident that they will be in capable and compassionate hands, guided by someone who not only teaches the path but walks it herself.
Rest and Recharge: Your Retreat Accommodation
The environment where one rests and sleeps plays a crucial role in the overall retreat experience. At Casas Benali, the accommodation is designed to complement the journey of silence and introspection, offering comfort, tranquility, and connection with the venue’s unique character. Participants consistently rate the accommodation highly, suggesting it effectively supports their needs during the retreat.
Participants typically stay in comfortable single beds housed within shared en-suite rooms. These rooms are situated within the beautifully restored historic houses of the 13th-century Arab hamlet, blending rustic charm with modern amenities. While the standard arrangement involves sharing with a small number of fellow retreatants (often described as a maximum of four per room for this specific retreat, though the venue itself has various configurations), private room options are usually available for those who prefer more personal space, naturally at a higher price point. Regardless of the room type, the emphasis is on providing a clean, comfortable, and peaceful environment conducive to rest.
Beyond the private sleeping quarters, the venue offers inviting common areas. Stylishly furnished living rooms provide spaces where participants can relax quietly during breaks, perhaps reading or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. However, much of the allure lies in the outdoor spaces. Casas Benali boasts “amazing” grounds, thoughtfully designed to maximize enjoyment of the stunning natural surroundings and the benevolent Spanish climate. Multiple outdoor lounge areas offer shaded spots for repose, while strategically placed hammocks invite moments of quiet contemplation or napping amidst nature.
A significant feature is the swimming pool, an oasis for cooling off during warmer months or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. Surrounded by the expansive 68 hectares of private land, there are ample opportunities for gentle walks and exploration during break times, allowing participants to connect directly with the pine forests, olive groves, and scenic vistas.
Central to the retreat’s activities is the dedicated meditation hall. This isn’t an afterthought but a purpose-built space, transformed from some of the old rooms of Benali into what is described as a “gorgeous practice space.” The atmosphere within the hall is intentionally cultivated to breathe peace and quiet, creating an environment that inherently supports the practice of meditation and yoga. Importantly, all necessary materials are provided, including yoga mats, meditation cushions (zafus and zabutons likely), and blankets, ensuring participants have everything they need for comfortable practice without needing to bring their own bulky equipment.
The accommodation setup at Casas Benali thoughtfully balances the communal aspect of a retreat – sharing space and silent presence with others – with ample opportunities for individual quietude and reflection, whether in the stylish indoor lounges, amidst the sprawling natural grounds, or by the inviting pool. The provision of a dedicated, atmospheric meditation space further underscores the centrality of the practice, ensuring that the physical environment fully supports the inner journey of this Valencia mindfulness experience. It’s a setting designed not just for lodging, but for holistic rest, recharge, and mindful practice.
Mindful Nourishment: A Taste of Benali
Food on a retreat is far more than mere sustenance; it’s an integral part of the holistic experience, contributing significantly to wellbeing and mindfulness. At the Live Mindfully retreat hosted at Casas Benali, the culinary aspect is given considerable attention, consistently earning high praise from participants and reinforcing the overall sense of care and quality.
The cuisine philosophy centers around providing meals that are not only delicious but also deeply nourishing and supportive of the mindful journey. Participants can expect expertly prepared vegetarian and vegan dishes, often described as healthy, tasty, and inspiring. The professional chefs at Casas Benali are renowned for their skill in crafting flavorful meals that delight the palate while aligning with wellness principles. There’s a strong emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a connection to the surrounding region, and a commitment to organic produce whenever possible. This focus often translates into a pure Mediterranean style of cooking, celebrating fresh, seasonal flavors.
The retreat package is typically all-inclusive when it comes to food. This means participants are provided with three main meals each day – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – ensuring they are well-nourished throughout their stay. In addition to the main meals, snacks are usually available, along with essential drinks like water and tea, accessible throughout the day. This comprehensive provision removes any need for participants to worry about sourcing food, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the retreat program.
Recognizing diverse dietary needs, the kitchen is well-equipped to cater to various requirements. Vegetarian and vegan diets are the standard, but gluten-free options are also readily accommodated. For other specific dietary needs or allergies, participants are encouraged to communicate these when booking, and the organizers typically make every effort to meet these requests. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the meals comfortably and safely.
The feedback from those who have attended speaks volumes about the quality of the food. It’s frequently described with superlatives like “amazing” and “exquisite.” One particularly evocative description mentions “exquisite vegan food made by people who cook with love,” highlighting not just the taste but the care and intention behind the preparation. The high ratings given specifically for the food (often 4.84 out of 5) provide quantitative evidence of participant satisfaction.
Furthermore, the context of the silent meditation retreat adds another dimension to the dining experience. Eating meals in silence encourages a practice of mindful eating. Without the distraction of conversation, participants often find themselves paying closer attention to the sensory details of their food – the colors, aromas, textures, and flavors. This heightened awareness can transform a simple meal into a rich sensory experience, fostering gratitude and a deeper connection to the nourishment being received. The food at Casas Benali, therefore, serves not just to fuel the body but also to deepen the practice of mindfulness, becoming another thread in the rich tapestry of this holistic wellness experience.
Whispers of Transformation: The Lasting Impact
Attending a retreat like this is often motivated by a desire for change, healing, or deeper understanding. The accounts of those who have participated in the 5-Day Silent Meditation Retreat with Ellen van Iersel suggest that the experience frequently delivers profound and lasting impacts, touching multiple dimensions of wellbeing. The combination of silence, nature, dedicated practice, and expert guidance appears to create a powerful alchemy for personal growth.
One of the most commonly reported outcomes is a significant shift in inner state. Participants speak of finding a genuine sense of “inner peace,” a feeling that often eludes them in daily life. This manifests as a tangible feeling of calm, a quieting of the incessant mental chatter, and an overall sense of being more centered and peaceful. Many describe achieving a newfound “mental clarity,” emerging from the silence with a sharper focus and a less cluttered mind. This internal settling provides a deep sense of rest and renewal that goes far beyond simple relaxation.
Beyond immediate feelings of calm, the retreat often catalyzes a shift in perspective. Stepping away from habitual routines and immersing oneself in mindful observation allows participants to see their lives, challenges, and priorities with fresh eyes. Many report gaining clarity on what is truly important, helping them to realign their focus and intentions. The process can lead to answers surfacing for deep-seated questions or dilemmas, sometimes through the processing of old memories or patterns that arise during meditation. This can foster a renewed sense of self-confidence and direction.
The retreat serves as fertile ground for self-discovery. The silence and introspection provide a unique opportunity to connect with one’s inner wisdom, that intuitive knowing that often gets drowned out by external noise. Participants frequently mention learning a great deal about themselves – their patterns, tendencies, strengths, and areas for growth. For some, it’s a process of “finding oneself again,” particularly during times of transition or difficulty. This journey of self-exploration is often described as deeply healing.
The focus on mindfulness and letting go directly addresses stress and worry. Participants report successfully breaking cycles of negative or anxious thinking and learning to release accumulated tension. The combination of practices, the supportive environment, and the tranquility of the nature retreat Spain setting contribute to a profound sense of wellbeing. Even the shared experience of silence fosters a unique form of connection, with many reporting feeling deeply connected to their fellow retreatants despite the lack of verbal communication.
Overall, the experience is consistently described in highly positive terms: “great,” “fabulous,” “amazing,” and even “life-changing.” Participants frequently express deep gratitude for the opportunity and often voice a strong desire to return, indicating the perceived value and lasting resonance of the retreat. Crucially, the benefits are not confined to the five days spent at Casas Benali. Many feel the retreat equips them with practical tools and insights for integrating mindfulness into their day-to-day lives, enabling them to navigate future challenges with greater awareness, wisdom, and resilience. This potential for genuine, lasting transformation positions the Ellen van Iersel retreat as far more than a temporary escape; it’s an investment in sustainable wellbeing and personal evolution.
Embarking on Your Silent Journey: Practical Notes
Considering this retreat involves understanding the practical aspects alongside the experiential ones. The program spans five days and includes four nights of accommodation at the serene Casas Benali. The fee typically covers a comprehensive package designed to allow participants to fully immerse themselves without logistical worries.
Included in the standard retreat cost is the four-night stay, usually in comfortable shared en-suite rooms, although private room upgrades are generally possible for an additional fee. All meals – delicious, healthy, vegetarian/vegan breakfast, lunch, and dinner – are provided, along with snacks and essential beverages like water and tea throughout the day. The core program elements are naturally included: daily morning yoga sessions, extensive periods of both silent and guided meditation, the special silent walk or yatra through the mountains, and any scheduled evening programs, which might involve meditative dance or mantra singing. The opportunity for unlimited star gazing in the light-pollution-free environment is a natural bonus. A significant convenience included in the price is the pick-up from and drop-off at the nearby Xativa train station at designated times on the arrival and departure days, simplifying travel to the relatively remote location.
It’s also helpful to know what is typically not included in the base price. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their own flights to Spain. Airport transfers, while often available for an extra charge from Valencia (VLC) or Alicante (ALC) airports, are not part of the standard package. Optional wellness services that might be offered during breaks, such as Ayurvedic massage or sound healing sessions, are booked and paid for separately. Similarly, an optional excursion sometimes offered after the retreat concludes, like a visit to a nearby waterfall (which might cost around 50 EUR including lunch), is an add-on. Naturally, any personal expenses incurred are also the responsibility of the participant.
Booking usually requires a non-refundable deposit (often around 25% of the total price) to secure a place, with the remaining balance typically due upon arrival at the retreat center. While the deposit is generally non-refundable, some booking platforms might offer flexible cancellation policies, occasionally allowing free cancellation up to 30 days before the retreat start date, so it’s wise to check the specific terms at the time of booking.
Reaching the retreat involves flying into either Valencia Airport (VLC) or Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC). From either airport, participants can travel by train to the town of Xativa. The journey takes approximately two hours from Valencia airport (via metro and train) and around three hours from Alicante (train times may be less frequent). From Xativa station, the complimentary pick-up service ensures a smooth final leg of the journey to Casas Benali. These practical arrangements are designed to make accessing this haven of Valencia mindfulness as straightforward as possible.
Conclusion: Bringing the Silence Home
The 5-Day Silent Meditation Retreat offered by Live Mindfully at Casas Benali stands out as a rare and valuable opportunity in today’s fast-paced world. It masterfully weaves together several powerful elements: the profound depth of sustained silence, the healing embrace of a stunning nature retreat Spain, the compassionate and experienced guidance of an Ellen van Iersel retreat, the subtle support of a like-minded community held in shared presence, and a dedicated focus on cultivating Valencia mindfulness through proven practices.
The journey undertaken here is more than just a temporary respite; it’s an invitation to dive deep within, to quiet the external noise and listen to the whispers of inner wisdom. Participants consistently report emerging with a renewed sense of calm, clarity, and connection – not only to themselves but often to a deeper sense of purpose and perspective. The experience offers profound rest for the weary mind and spirit, facilitates genuine self-discovery, and provides practical tools that can be carried forward, helping to integrate mindfulness and its benefits into the fabric of everyday life. For anyone feeling overwhelmed, seeking answers, or simply yearning for a space to truly reconnect with themselves amidst the beauty of the Valencian mountains, this retreat offers a potent and nurturing path. It’s an opportunity to step into the stillness and discover the richness that awaits there, perhaps returning home ready and refreshed for the “next chapter.”
