The Hermitage Retreat

A Hermitage as mainly described in India represents a conscious stepping back from wordly pursuits and distractions to pursue the higher purpose of life-union with the divine. A place where seekers go to deepen their spiritual practices, to further unite the mind, body, and spirit, the way of the philosophy of yoga!

It’s a conscious stepping back from wordly routine within this busy ever more demanding world, and to be guided to look within in a more still and peaceful environment. This is vital for anybody who is consciously on the spiritual path, as wordly demands placed upon us in this modern western mindset are at times very consuming. Finding the space and time to sit with yourself, and find some level of peace and stillness to reflect, and learn more to be the conscious observer can be challenging. More and more people are opening up to seeking and understanding the higher purpose of life, especially as we enter more turbulent times on our planet, plus the ever faster pace of the development of technology which demands more of our energy, focus and time. Finding an oasis of peace away from these restricting demands to nourish your mind, body and soul becomes ever more important to us.

The Hermitage is a late 19th century farmhouse in the kingdom of Fife, around 35 miles by road north of Edinburgh, on the edge of a working 500 acre farm, 500ft up on a hill overlooking the beautiful open countryside, and looking down to the sea of the Firth of Forth as it makes its way out into the North sea. The views are just magnificent, looking across 20 miles to the opposite coastline, and further beyond out into the north sea. It is like an ever changing piece of moving artwork, with the Scottish weather doing its part with dramatic seascapes. Cows graze around the fields outside of winter, and will come and say hello from time to time. There are also some lovely walks nearby through the fields and up into the woods where I have built a firepit where we can sit around amongst the trees. Also a short 10 minute drive away is East Neuk coastline with its beautiful beaches and fishing harbours to explore, plus the Fife coastal path which is 117 miles long with some stunning stretches nearby. Plus also the East Lomond's with its 2,000 ft hills for those who enjoy longer walks.

Inside the Hermitage there is a good sized meditation and ceremony room, for also yoga, healing and bodywork. There are two good sized kitchens, 4 bedrooms with 3 guest bedrooms, 2 twins and a single, only the same sex sharing the twins. We have a very nice cosy living room with a library of books and a wood burner, plus two bathrooms one with a bath. The gardens wrap around the house with seating at the front and the wonderful panoramic views. Also there is a polytunnel where salads and veggies are grown for most of the year, where you can assist if you feel inclined.

This is a more intimate retreats space with no more then 4 to 5 people at any one time, some stay for a few days, others for longer periods. Food is included as part of your donation, and I like everybody to help out in any way they can, to preparing, cooking, and clearing up for breakfast and evening meals, as this is all part of being in a communal space, and being of service to others.

The financial arrangements are by donation with a scope of what to offer depending on your specific financial status. You inform me how long you would like to stay and I will suggest a lower, middle and higher bracket, and we can come to a mutual agreement. Of course once here you are very welcome to extend your stay dependant on space available.