Retreat Information

Planning a Retreat

Most people visit The Bishop’s Ranch with a retreat organized by their church or school community, or with a conference organized by a nonprofit organization.  In 2007 over 6,500 people visited on retreat.  People also visit the Ranch as part of a Ranch-sponsored retreat or event, and individuals and families may visit as space permits around the groups that are scheduled.

Accomodations: There are various accommodations around the Ranch.  A gracious two-story Spanish-style ranch house built in 1930 sits behind an old-world courtyard.  Sleeping approximately 30, this historic building offers the comforts of a large living room with stone fireplace, piano and seating for up to 60 people.  It includes a dining room, sunroom and kitchen.  Arranged in a semi-circle below an expanse of lawn, gardens, and grape arbor are 5 charming cottages that sleep 37.  Close by is a spacious meeting hall with clerestory windows, fireplace, piano, kitchenette, deck and seating for 50.  A short distance away is a sunny lodge that sleeps 18 or more and includes a living room with fireplace and piano, a kitchen and deck. Overlooking rolling hills, a pond, and stately oaks is a two-story lodge featuring 10 double occupancy rooms with private decks.  Attached to it is a comfortable group living room with open-beam ceilings, fireplace and kitchenette.  For this and other facilities, extra chairs, tables and program equipment are available.

Meals: High quality meals are lovingly prepared and served by a talented kitchen staff who utilize the freshest ingredients possible.  Vegetarian and special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.  Guests dine buffet-style in a large, open dining room that offers breathtaking views of Mt. St. Helena.

Chapel: Located at the center of the Ranch, accented by its single white bell tower, is the Chapel of St. George.  Holy Eucharist is celebrated on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and all are welcome to attend.  Other services can be scheduled according to the needs of the retreat participants.  The doors are open for individual prayer when services are not in progress.

Ranch Grounds: The Ranch has 340 acres of gardens, pasture and woodland for walking and solitude.  Trails lead to a lofty, three-level tree house, creeks, lakes and superb views of the nearby hills and valleys.  A large swimming pool, a grassy volleyball area, a fire circle, and children’s playground and playing field are among the recreational facilities available to guests.  A library and art center can be used to enhance your retreat.

Convenient to, yet secluded from the outside world, the Ranch provides a setting a great beauty for individual and group retreats.  Its ideal location, favorable climate, generous facilities, plus a caring and considerate staff, make The Bishop’s Ranch a special place of reflection and renewal.

For reservations information contact Shannon Reilly, Reservations Coordinator at shannon@bishopsranch.org.