Came here for a weekend meditation retreat and gained exactly what I was seeking: peace,…read moretranquility and inspiration. The original building is almost 100 years old & the property is in definite need of improvement. But, that's actually the charm. Also, as a Buddhist interfaith organization, the cost is affordable, as most of the operations rely on Dana (generosity in Pali - the language of the Buddha). The idea is that the teachings are accessible to all. So don't let money be a deterrent from visiting. Each room has its own bathroom, so there's no need to share, which is unusual for a Buddhist meditation retreat center. They also provide all towels & sheets. You will need to bring your own toiletries. Also, I loved the "meditation pool" (the original swimming pool has been filled in) and took in the sun from one of the reclining chairs. They are also putting in an infrared sauna. And, you can walk down to the lake from their property in 2 minutes. Finally, be sure to attend a talk by the Venerable Pannavati. Each Sunday at 12 noon, there is a public talk. She's inspiring, kind and welcoming. I'll definitely be back!

Just spent a fabulous weekend at a retreat at Heartwood Refuge. The schedule was well-planned and…read moreexecuted, the staff warm and welcoming, and the lodging, grounds and vibe just beautiful. Will return soon; highly recommended.

Restaurant & Chef is best keep secret around! We actually booked an AirBnB here when they didn't…read morehave a retreat going on. It was a last minute booking due to travel plans changing suddenly. If we'd have known the resort would've been so serene, we wouldn't stayed longer. They had a fire going during the day that was so nice and inviting. The pool was wonderful and walked out from the spa and near the fire. They had a nice bar set up by the pool, although we didn't have time to indulge before checking out. There was also a nice swing and play set for kids, and lots of space to run around. There are lots of trails to walk on the property too. The room was pet friendly, and looked out onto a beautiful forest! The bed was comfy and the room was fine for what we needed. Sunset and sunrise were breathtaking. BUT, the best part of the entire experience was the restaurant! Although our server seemed new, he was quick to ask the kitchen on things he didn't know, instead of giving us the wrong answer. We came in for breakfast as a family of four. White table cloths and a beautiful dining room made for the perfect ambiance! We were slightly worried about our kiddos not dressing super fancy and in ball hats, but it didn't matter and we felt very welcome. We ordered a couple typical breakfast items, which were delicious, but I got the shrimp and grits. They were made with a tomato broth instead of a cream, and the seasonings and ingredients tasted like New Orleans gumbo. It was perfection!! My son got blackened fish for breakfast, and he LOVED it! Even the coffee was dark and lovely. The best part, was that the chef came out to our table to greet us, ask us about the meal, as us where we're from and talk to my kids about sports and their team gear they were wearing. We couldn't give him enough compliments! Fun, don't walk to this place!

The most amazing week! Location, staff, guests, activities! A fantastic way to spend a week in the…read moremountains of North Carolina

Had a very relaxing stay here!…read more We checked in really late and had called ahead to make sure that would be okay. The staff member I spoke with (only not mentioning the name here to respect their privacy) was lovely! We were sent an email with instructions and our keys were left exactly where the email said they would be. We had a woodland cottage. Clean, rustic and spacious, with a charming porch. I'm unclear as to the complaints by other reviewers here about the lack of a tv, or telephone or WiFi. That clearly isn't the point of this place. There are a ton of other places in Asheville with all the traditional hotel amenities. It's nice that they are environmentally conscious and only refresh the rooms every 3 days on a 5 day stay. I would prefer a 2 day refresh personally, but can certainly appreciate the effort. A lot of major hotel chains now also don't refresh towels daily or give guests the choice. Only complaint I had was no additional meals are served or available but I was told that was in the works.

Don't let the pictures fool you like they did me…read more The place is barely being kept up. The outside is in dire need of a paint job. Inside the entrance your greeted by two school desks. One friendly girl was behind one to the right, while later a grumpier older lady to the left. They say it's been open for a year already, but really I'm surprised it's open at all. For over $200 a night it was not worth it!! I arrived early and asked about an earlier check in, a couple hours before 4pm. They said it would be an extra $25 charge. I said no thank you, as i only wanted to leave my things in the room and go downtown Asheville. The young lady gave us a tour of the "sanctuary" and she was very sweet. She showed us where they teach classes, and have the sauna. One of the major reasons I considered this place. Sounds nice, right? Think again... the separate building, an up hill walk from their building. They have Yoga classes / chi-gong (only held in the morning) on what seams like a nice wood floor. This other building was under a serious re-model & I would not have found it fit for any guest to walk through. The rooms upstairs of this building for the most, were filled with ideas of what's to come.. the salt room, steam shower. It was a mess!! The only semi finished room was the sauna. I think they made a make shift room for it in a closet. The friendly girl giving the tour said she was getting requests from guests to use it, but that she needed to do a serious cleaning first and hoped it would be ready. Let me paint a picture for you.. No towels to sit on or pat off the feeling of sweat dripping off you. No shower. Having to walk from your room up hill to a distant building only to get hot & sweaty and walk back to your room. What about clothes? Is it a co-ed sauna? Bathing suits? Is it clean? Usually you have a towel to sit on. Do you bring a change of clothes for walking back to your room only to get them sweaty. Is there a changing room? ..because I didn't see one. It seams like they have many concepts that are nice, but not all together. The room... We got back from the tour, a different lady said we could put our things in the room, but our fireplace isn't working. I walk in to see two ladies on their hands and knees saying "we might have to call someone" as they are trying to fix the fireplace. We left our things. When we came back, luckily the fireplace was up and running. The room had a pretty big bathroom with a big tub and shower. The tub was dirty and I had to clean it. Make sure if you're going to take a bath to have extra time to not only clean it, but to fill the tub. It must have taken almost an hour. Slow going but it was nice and hot. The beds were decent, but the pillows were hard and almost better without one. There was really nothing in the room for entertainment or to keep you on schedule. No clock, no radio, no phone, no tv. Just the fireplace and WiFi. It was cold in the room so we went downstairs to get extra blankets. The older lady looked at us like we were crazy when we said we wanted 3 blankets since we only had a light thin blanket for two separate beds. She said you know there is a thermostat. That was a surprise to us. Still we wanted an extra blanket just in case. She made it seam like it was an imposition. Breakfast.. - One of the better things about this place! - Fresh and delicious My mom enjoyed the classes the next day Yoga Chi-gong I was happier to leave! Just know that what they have in reality is different from what they advertise.

I just started with Jill's long distance coaching program and let me tell you how much weight has…read morebeen lifted off my shoulders, I feel like I'm in good loving hands. She is there to answer any and all of my million questions and calm any nerves that arise. She is very knowledgeable in health and her spirit is phenomenal! One would be blessed to just know her let alone work with her. I can't wait to fly out to see her for some one on one stuff! Let the healing begin! PEACE.LOVE.JILL Always, Alicia

Working with Jill has been both enriching and enlightening. Her years of wisdom come through in…read moreevery word she speaks. She has helped me to feel confident in my decisions and build trust in my own intuition. Jill truly cares about her clients and is passionate about empowering them to find the light within. Our weekly calls felt less like a business transaction and more like confiding in a trusted friend. Every call I walked away feeling optimistic, hopeful and inspired. If you're looking for a conscious leader and friend to empower you through your journey, she's the one. Thank you Jill!

I went to the 5 day cleanse hoping it might help my chronic insomnia. I was fairly dubious anything…read morecould make a difference since even strong sleep meds hadn't, but I am doing so much better since the cleanse. The retreat basically gives you a course in nutrition while providing a holistic cleanse of everything- you cleanse/reset your digestive system (fasting), your skin (mud packs and sauna), your nervous system (yoga, meditation and support). The staff was so caring - it definitely feels like a service they are providing rather than anything for profit (technically it's a non-profit I think). Also a friend who'd been before was laughing with me about how everyone there looks about twenty years younger than they are-- that was good marketing for us. If you are even slightly tempted to go, I doubt you will be disappointed.

From the owner: The Prama Wellness Center uses lifestyle as medicine, we help you take charge of your own health…read more We specialize in effective cleanse and rejuvenation techniques for long term health and well being. Our spa and detox treatments combine yoga, meditation, fasting with fresh juice and broth, super foods, clay applications, massage, and more. We offer personalize wellness consultations to help you reach your optimal health. You are welcome to come for any length of time for a personal retreat. We also host monthly group retreats as well. Clients leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

This is the kind of place you almost don't want to review, because once word gets out, it's going…read moreto be booked solid. But the friendly, peaceful feelings that overtake you after a few days at the retreat fill you with a spirit of goodwill towards your fellow humans, and then you end up being the first reviewer on Yelp, lol. This is a beautifully simple and simply beautiful eco retreat center. There is a very large main lodge that contains a community kitchen in which you make your own meals. It was never crowded and was well equipped. We stayed in the Clear Creek part of the retreat center. Our room opened onto a large porch with rocking chairs (shared by other guests, but again never busy) that looks into a lush forest. The rooms are cozy and nicely appointed. Ours had a sizable fridge, coffee maker, small table with chairs, in addition to our king size bed and perfectly serviceable bathroom. Yoga classes are held on Saturday mornings. They are about to start massage therapy onsite as well. The views of the mountains are spectacular, and the retreat is located in both a dark skies community and a temperate rain forest. The owners are the coolest "mom and pop" you could ever hope for. Friendly and helpful, but not intrusive at all. It's a good place for independent travelers, but they're there if you need anything at all. This is truly one of the most relaxing places I've ever stayed, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.

My Dad's family has had week long family reunions with 4 generations for decades. Each reunion is…read moreheld at a different place in the mountains of TN or NC and we never repeat the location. This past June, we were fortunate to be able to reserve the entirety of Mount Mitchell Eco Resort and AMAZING is the only word that can describe this location and our reunion. This place is able to offer complete privacy for personal space as well as a kitchen, dining area, and main lodge that is perfect for large groups. The property is vast and it was wonderful to be able to have the kids just go off on their own, play together on the property without supervision. The generation 4 cousins entertained themselves outside all day long and without a need for supervision and did not miss their TVs or electronic games. All of the rooms have been updated by the owners with generous space and furniture to allow for private time away from the larger group. They even have rooms that are perfectly suited for those with mobility challenges. Each room has its own kitchenette area with a large refrigerator and microwave. Finding space for personal food is always a problem for our group, but the 18 refrigerators took care of that problem! The beds are super comfortable with high end linens. Then there is the daily service in the Main lodge. They replenish the coffee bar, take out the trash and recycling, restock anything that is missing, and are available if you should have any challenges. They do this all is the early morning hours as to not interfere or hover over your private gathering. The staff is again... AMAZING! Having meals together and planning our day, as well as playing games, or just sitting together to catch up is always a huge part of what we do. The kitchen with 2 stove/ovens, 2 refrigerators, 2 wash sinks, 2 dishwashers was a wonderful change from what we are used to and really cut down on the work. Additionally, it is stocked with cooking equipment and tools that rivals what I have at home (which is saying something!) I cannot say enough about how wonderful this venue is for large groups whether they are family reunions, weddings, or business conventions/team buildings. They really have everything that is needed including AV and Audio support and the staff is available to help with whatever is needed. Sean and his wife have a wonderful vision of what they want this venue to be and have turned it into something fabulous! We hope to be back in the future!

My best friend and I had a lovely time soaking at Shoji Retreat! This charming spa is in a forest…read moreoasis. They suggested we arrive 30 minutes prior to our scheduled soak. The day we went seemed to be short staffed, so things took longer than expected, but our experience overall was great. When they were ready for us, they guided us to the fitting rooms with showers. We were given shoes, robes, towels, and tote bags. There are no official lockers here, so you are welcome to take your tote with you into your private bath. The fitting room had everything you needed. When we were ready we had another long wait, but were invited to enjoy the sauna. They gave us refreshing mint iced washcloths for the sauna that I loved. They have a menu with a bunch of great add-ons, I decided to stick with the water, but my best friend got the coconut water. When our bath was ready, they showed us a map on how to get down to our soak. We walked down a beautiful hill path to our bath overlooking the forest. Even though we started late, they still gave us the full hour. The intercom system seems to be a bit older. There was an awkward moment where they tried to speak to us, but we couldn't hear them over the hot tub bubbles, when I went back to ask them what they said, they never replied. Besides that, we had a wonderful time. Be mindful that the drive up is a bit confusing, you'll want to do a mix of following their signs and your GPS. The experience is also a bit pricey for what it is, but I'm still glad I tried it with my best friend.

My best friend and I came to Asheville from Atlanta and this was the highlight of our visit…read more Everyone was so nice and we enjoyed the experience. I do have to say though, that we were both a little surprised and disappointed in the amount of time that the foot soak/massage session lasted. On our confirmation email, stated that the session would last 2 hours and 30 minutes. Our session was by no means that long. The price of the Ashi Foot Soak was expensive, $175.00 is a lot of money for about an hour long session and to say that we were a bit let down is an understatement.

There's no doubt in my mind that this place has changed my life. I was in the program myself for…read morearound 4 months, and during that time I have noticed an extreme development in my physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. This ranges from beginning to treat a previously undiagnosed TBI, to my fitness goals and being able to watch my muscles grow as fat receded. There are misconceptions about facilities or treatment programs such as these, in which many expect that the answers be given with little to no effort; This however, is a foolish notion. The reality is, you will only get out what you put into a program. That being said, there are so many ways and places within the program at SYA to put in said effort, that it's almost harder to make no progress than to progress. Their lineup of activities and classes are a reflection of what a healthy and productive life should be, and there is so much encouragement from the staff. I would wager on the fact that you could not bring me to a better supporting lineup of mentors than those that I had encountered during my stay. Kyle, Logan (Chai and Versace too,) Teven (apologies if I misspelled it big dawg,) and Shelby (alongside Blue) were the mainstays, and they put in more effort than they were paid for. Each and every one of them has impacted not only the way I see myself, but the way I see life itself. I do believe they deserve raises and much more praise for their ability to somehow always surpass expectations in their amount and quality of care. With these four, and the other supporting mentors, you WILL be in great care. The head staff, Michael, Erin, Amanda, Greg, Sam, Rachel, and Chef Michael are also to be noted. I have never had, and may never again find, a better therapist and counselor than Amanda. She facilitated the opening of my worldview and my lifestyle. The staff were also very engaged in making sure we were well taken care of, and our needs were met. The last point to touch on is Neurologics. They offer brain mapping and guidance to get into fixing your mind itself, which resolves many issues anyways. I had discovered that I was living with brain damage for nearly 5 years, and finally began treating the condition. My life is completely different thanks to this facet of the program. In summary, this is a great option for those are in need of help and care, that isn't quite at the level of hospitalization. If there are doubts, reaching out to the staff prior to committing, or touring the location is an option, and an encouraged one at that. -K. Brayden Smith.

SkyTerra was one of the best experiences of my life. During my four and a half months there, I…read morelearned so much, gained valuable resources, and truly came to understand the importance of health and wellness--both physically and mentally. While at SkyTerra, I lost over 50 pounds and developed healthier habits that I plan to carry with me for the rest of my life. The personal trainers were excellent, and I met so many amazing people along the way. The classes were informative and helped me better understand nutrition, fitness, mental health, relationships, and overall wellness. In addition to the classes, there were many fun outings, hikes, and adventures that made the experience enjoyable while also helping me grow, challenge myself, and step outside of my comfort zone. One of the things I appreciated most about SkyTerra was the opportunity to step away from the distractions and pressures of everyday life for a while and focus entirely on personal growth. It was really valuable to learn about young adult life, independence, relationships, responsibility, and overall wellness in an environment designed to help you succeed. Being able to essentially be "plucked out" of normal life for a few months gave me the space to work on myself, build healthy habits, gain confidence, and develop skills that will help me as I move forward into adulthood. That time of focused growth was something I truly needed and will always be grateful for. The entire staff was supportive and caring, but I especially want to recognize the Young Adult Mentors (YAMs). They are truly the heart of the program. They invest an incredible amount of time and energy into caring for the guests, offering guidance, support, encouragement, and wisdom every day. They genuinely want to see each person succeed and grow, and they go above and beyond to make that happen they put in the most work:). Kyle, Logan, Tevin, and Shelby were outstanding mentors and had a huge impact on my experience. They, along with all of the SkyTerra Young Adult staff, truly care about every guest and want to see them succeed. Their encouragement, patience, and willingness to help made a lasting difference in my journey. Another thing that sets SkyTerra apart is the amount of support they provide as you prepare to return home. They do not just focus on helping you while you are at the program--they work hard to make sure you have the tools, resources, and plans in place to continue succeeding after you leave. The staff takes the time to help you navigate the transition back to everyday life, which made me feel much more confident and prepared for what comes next. Their goal is not just to help you make progress during your stay, but to help you build a foundation for long-term success. Because of the staff and mentors, I always felt cared for, supported, and understood throughout my time at SkyTerra. I am incredibly grateful for everything I learned, the relationships I built, and the growth I experienced during my time there. SkyTerra gave me tools, confidence, and lessons that will benefit me for years to come. I left healthier, stronger, more confident, and better prepared for the next chapter of my life. It is an experience I will always be thankful for and one that I would highly recommend to any young adult looking to invest in themselves and their future