Majestic, transformative, peaceful, serene, spiritual, healing, restful, joy, and comfort are all words I would use to describe the ARC Retreat Center. I attended a 3-day women's retreat in early November and found exactly what I was seeking: rest. Located far enough from the cities, the natural quiet from polluted cars and air were really amplified in this space. Whatever you are seeking out, I trust you can find it by spending one or a few nights here. Upon entry, the staff had each room labeled on a sign so it was clear what room I would be in. I stayed in the main cabin which was a beautiful A-Framed building with a combination of single and double rooms. Amongst the 3-floors, there are various fire places, meditation spaces, tea/coffee/water stations, couches, art supplies, reading materials, big spacious windows, and a dining hall. Every meal was handmade from breakfast, lunch and dinner. These meals were nourishing for the soul and included various soups (yes, you can buy their Cook Book on site), breads, salads, teas and baked goodies. My favorite soup was the butternut squash with pomegranate seeds and parsley sprinkled on top! The kitchen staff is beautiful and really poured their hearts into hospitality and cooking. Each meal was greeted with a gentle chime so we understood the food was ready. Before each meal, we were always given the menu and read a prayer/reading. I appreciated that a few staff members would participate in these readings. Shout out to Anthony (great rich voice and so generous), Deb, and Brad (shout out on the mayonnaise buns). On my second day, the director came and spoke to us at lunch and shared the story of the Arc. The exterior grounds allow for play time and exploration with numerous trails and paths with a creek running just steps away. As I visited during hunting season, it was recommended to wear an orange vest/ hat (provided on-site). There is also an outside labyrinth and bonfire pit that anyone can use. If you feel like you need to get away, this is the place. Thank you, thank you for your hospitality when I needed it the most. read more

See all

this retreat center, which is only 60 minutes out of Minneapolis, is a quiet slice of heaven. All staff are volunteers, each, and everyone committed to making sure that I was at ease and felt at home, allowing me to fully enjoy the solitude that I sought. I found this place by "luck" (if you believe in such a thing, or as a prefer to say a serendipitous blessing) and I am intending to return once again early March. If you are seeking a place that offers a peaceful space, with I might add also offers a wonderful vegetarian cuisine, explore this retreat center, and I believe you will find as I did profound sense of coming home to yourself. read more

See all

Let me tell you, I HATE traveling or sleeping out of my home. But this retreat was something else, it was absolutely peaceful and beautiful. Everything and everyone there had hearts of gold. There is so much to explore in nature, a library, healing store, several rooms with their own sinks/vanity's and private restrooms. Everything was made out of wood and Mother Nature. The cooks made the BEST meals that were so delicious and nutritious. Clean eating absolutely amazing and I will be back. read more

See all

Their food was amazing and they were very kind. It is not a Christian retreat center and there is no reflection of Jesus. One of the workers worshipped mother nature and put tabacco everywhere. Just would have been good to know upfront. read more

The ARC Retreat Center hermitage is the perfect place for a solo retreat; warm, still, and silent. The ARC staff are amazing; nourishing you with delicious food and graceful care. The setting is wonderful; woodlands, wildlife, and weather. read more

Constantly around my family during this pandemic, I needed a space to go to retreat and breathe and definitely feel safe. ARC was EXACTLY what was needed for my soul! Their welcome and overall hospitality was a balm for any pandemic anxiety. The cleanliness of the hermitage and the lodge made me feel safe and secure that extra precautions were being made to stay safe and healthy. They brought homemade meals TO MY DOOR so I could stay in the sacred space (and warm - I visited close to the winter solstice and it was 5 at night!). Well groomed trails made it perfect for walking outside and taking in nature; even a surprise visit from a family of deer! Overall, I highly recommend to anyone needing some space to breathe. You deserve it. Trust me. read more

See all

I had a wonderful solo writing retreat weekend at ARC. The views were stunning, the stillness was peaceful and really felt recharged after my 2 night stay there. The staff were so kind and accommodating. The food was delicious and brought right to my door. I stayed at the hermitage and didn't even mind using the outhouse in January. I really enjoyed my time of writing, reading, and resting. I highly recommend if you are in need or a recharge. read more

ARC Retreat Community - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Stanchfield, Minnesota

I'm a bit surprised this place doesn't have any reviews! I went up here a few weeks ago for the first time for an organized retreat. The lodging accomidations were incredible! There are so many places to rest, read, ponder, write, or what ever! There are ample hiking trails. I usually took afternoon runs up and down the dirt road so that I would not get lost. The best was super comfortable, and there is plenty of space to park. The one thing I noticed, and really appreciated was that the retreat staff do not push any particular religious or spiritual beliefs on their visitors. We did pray and/or sing before each meal. But, the ritual was such that anyone could take part. They also offered a justice oriented devotional at lunch. Speaking of food! As a vegan, I often worry about going to places like this because if the food isn't great, I'm kind of stuck with it. And, they food was so so awesome! Really fresh, often times right from the center's garden. I was actually stuffed after every meal. They really went out of their way to make sure I was happy with the food, right down to dessert. I can't wait to go back to this peaceful and thought space. read more

Wonderful community, quaint rustic lodge, great food, relaxing atmosphere. Highly recommend!