Rivendell Retreat Ctr - Bowen Island, British Columbia

Michael L.

An accommodating, peaceful, quiet and beautiful place to have your own private retreat. If you are in need to get away from the distractions of everyday life, Rivendell is the place to go. I am better able to get in touch with nature, God and my interior self. The people here are very welcoming, friendly and respectful. No wifi but there is good cellular reception here. Bring your own food. Book in advance

Kristy W.

Rivendell is an excellent venue for anyone in need of a spiritual retreat or simply an overdue dose of peace & quiet. The calm serenity of this place cannot be adequately described. Bonus: it’s only a short bus & ferry trip from Vancouver too!

The centre is a beautiful 3 storey lodge located at the top of Cates Hill, and the rooms are very comfortable & well-kept. There are many opportunities for forest hiking/walking nearby, but a word of warning: the driveway of Rivendell is VERY steep! I also highly recommend a turn (or many) around the nearby Labyrinth.

Accommodation is by donation and the set-up is akin to a traveller’s hostel: Bring your own food, cook your own meals, make your own bed, clean up after yourself. If one is of mind and physical ability to do so, you can offer help around the centre. I took opportunity to water some of the garden. 🙂

Although nominally Christian, Rivendell welcomes everyone, regardless of belief system and the twice daily prayer/sacred times are open to all.

I’d also like to offer a well-deserved shout-out to the hosts of the time, Dave & Wilna. I mostly walk with a cane, so getting around can be slightly challenging. Both of them went above & beyond, offering lifts to the nearby Artisan Square or to Snug Cove, which enabled me to venture further afield than walking would have permitted.. Thank you both! 🙂

Wendy M.

Rivendell is a place of serenity and peace. Thank you for sharing this special place.

Jennifer C.

Nice quiet place for retreat. Accomodation by donation. Need to bring your own food. Feeling safe while hiking around the premise. Be sure to visit the Labyrinth, it is more elaborate than you think, follow the rocks.

Tovi A.

Rivendell Retreat Centre is a truly magical place that will transport you to a world of peace and tranquility. Located on the picturesque Cates Hill on Bowen Island, this beautifully maintained cottage house is the perfect place for a solo silent retreat.

One of the highlights of this retreat centre is the stunning 4km hike uphill from the ferry pier. It feels like you're walking in the footsteps of ancient psalmists, climbing up the mountain to worship our God.

Once you arrive, you'll find yourself surrounded by serene beauty and spiritual energy. The centre offers a variety of spaces, including chapels and prayer rooms, where you can spend quiet time meditating and worshiping. And if you're feeling peckish, every floor is equipped with a kitchenette where you can prepare simple meals.

But what really sets Rivendell apart is its ability to help the weary and the lost find God and rest in His presence. It's the perfect place to take a break from the chaos of everyday life and connect with your spirituality.

In short, Rivendell Retreat Centre is a true gem that you won't want to miss. So if you're looking for a peaceful getaway to rest, recharge, and reconnect with your spiritual self, this is the perfect place for you. May this place be blessed, and all the wonderful people who serve or stay at this place.

Panda V.

Amazing experience, so peaceful and beautiful. Staff was so kind and welcoming.

Randy H.

We've been coming here for 14 years. A wonderful place for contemplative retreat- as a group (book waaay ahead) or as a personal retreatant (again book ahead but also waitlist if you want a specific time - it may open up).

Great private rooms with washrooms- wonderful shared rooms with fireplaces. Prayer rooms are centring. Labyrinth is a favourite (books in Hawthorne library 2nd floor describe it, and staff will help too). Trails for walking. Optional prayer times for guidance.

Volunteer staff are so nice. Have become good friends over the years.
Not sure where I'd be without Rivendell.

(Enjoy finding out about extras like the big bathtub and farther afield- the hermitage!)

Darian K.

And incredible place for rest and restoration. Close enough to Vancouver yet feels far away.