Many of our guests arrive with questions, especially if it is their first retreat or they are coming on their own. Here are some of the things people often ask us. If there is anything else you'd like to know, please just get in touch. We're always happy to help.
Absolutely.
Many of our guests are first-time retreaters.
The Wisp is not about fitting into a particular type of person or following a certain lifestyle.
You don't need any previous retreat experience.
You can simply come as you are.
Yes.
Many guests come on their own, and this is one of the things people often feel nervous about before arriving.
You don't need to know anyone beforehand.
People arrive as strangers, and connections naturally form during the retreat.
There is no pressure to be sociable all the time.
You can join conversations, enjoy shared time, or have space to yourself.
No.
The Wisp is not a programme that you have to complete.
There may be walks, trips, shared activities or opportunities to try something new, but everything is optional.
You can join in, take a quiet day, or find your own balance.
There is no strict timetable.
A day might include:
Every retreat develops its own rhythm depending on the people who are there.
Everyone has their own private ensuite room with a comfortable double bed.
Your room is your own quiet space to relax and recharge.
The Wisp also has welcoming communal areas where people can spend time together, share meals and connect.
We provide simple, nourishing vegetarian meals.
Food is an important part of The Wisp experience.
Preparing, sharing and enjoying meals together is one of the ways people connect.
Please let us know about any dietary requirements when booking.
At The Wisp Retreat, we serve wholesome, home-prepared vegetarian meals communally made by our guests with care and fresh ingredients. All meals are prepared in the same kitchen space, which may also handle common allergens such as nuts, gluten, dairy, and soy. While we do our best to accommodate dietary preferences where possible, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.
If you have a severe food allergy, please get in touch before booking so we can discuss your needs. In some cases, we may recommend bringing your own food to ensure your safety.
Guests who require specific items outside of our standard offering are welcome to bring additional food with them. Access to a shared fridge and preparation area is available — please ask in advance.
We're a small, budget-friendly retreat and appreciate your flexibility. If you have any questions about the food or kitchen use, we're happy to help — just drop us a message.
Thank you for your understanding as we aim to provide a welcoming space for everyone, within the limits of our facilities.
Your retreat price includes:
There are no hidden costs.
No upselling.
Just one simple price.
We do sometimes allow canine visitors with a few provisos. Please can you tell us before you book because we only allow 2 dogs on site at any one time, and one of those is ours. We ask for confirmation that your dog is friendly and good with other people and other dogs, and also that he or she will not impact the other guests' enjoyment of their retreat. This is because we have had several doggy guests with separation anxiety and this has had a negative impact on other guests' stays. Please note that your dog is not allowed out of the car park at Samye Ling Buddhist Monastery and many other places, so you may want to consider finding alternative arrangements rather than bringing your dog with you.
Yes.
Wi-Fi is available in certain areas of the main building.
We encourage guests to enjoy some time away from screens and distractions, but we understand that staying connected can sometimes be useful.
The Wisp is generally alcohol-free because we believe it helps create a calm, welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable.
We understand that life is not always about strict rules, so we approach this with kindness and common sense.
If you have any questions, please ask us.
Yes.
The X95 bus stops right outside The Wisp, making us accessible by public transport. Please check the timetable.
We know that being able to travel independently is important to many guests, especially those coming on their own.
No.
There is no level of fitness required.
Some people enjoy walks and outdoor activities, while others prefer gentler activities or simply relaxing.
Everyone can experience The Wisp in their own way.
We will send full arrival information after booking.
Generally, bring:
Please ensure that you can attend on the dates that you intend to book before confirming your booking. Should you need to cancel for any reason, please let us know as soon as possible and we will readvertise your dates. If we are able to rebook our accommodation on those dates we will be happy to refund your booking.
Please note that all booking amendments and cancellations are subject to a 5% admin fee. This is to ensure that the fees and costs associated with cancellations etc. are born only by the those guests requiring this facility rather than by the greater community. Refunds are not available on any reduced price bookings.
This Retreat is not suitable for digital nomads or anyone with an agenda for converting other retreaters to their way of thinking. While we are very happy for retreaters to share their talents, we do not allow any payments between guests.The aim is to share not to sell. It is also not suitable for those hoping for hotel style accommodation with TVs, tea and coffee making facilities in their rooms, Wifi in the cabins and staff. The Wisp Retreat is a communal living space and everyone visiting is expected to participate in any way they can. It is also an eco-site, so may be cooler than you are used to.
Please get in touch.
We understand that booking somewhere new can feel like a big step.
We're always happy to answer questions and help you decide whether The Wisp feels right for you.