FAQs

Thanks for taking the time to learn more about the Sanctuary.

Where is the Sanctuary located?

The Sanctuary is located in the heart of Central Pennsylvania, in an area that is rich with wildlife, forests, and adjacent to hundreds of thousands of acres of State Forest land. Though it feels like a world away, it is within 3-4 hours drive of Washington DC, New York City, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh.

What can I expect?

•  The Sanctuary property is in a vibrant forested habitat, which is also home for all kinds of creatures. While you may not see them during your visit (though you certainly may), the surrounding forest includes deer, fox, coyote, bobcat, raccoons, possum, black bear and many species of birds. 

• The Sanctuary has books, games, a record player, a curated collection of records, a radio and a high quality blue tooth speaker. There are delicious meals to be cooked and savored in the fully equipped kitchen, there is tea and coffee to be sipped slowly, meditation cushions and yoga mats to be admired or used at your leisure, a comfortable bed to catch up on sleep, and a deep turn of the century bath to soak your worries away.

• There is endless hours of delightful entertainment to be found gazing out the windows. There is slowness, and relaxation, and ease. Sanctuary guests slip into a new pace, taking time to be fully present whether you are with a retreat companion or by yourself the rhythm of the Sanctuary will recharge and reconnect you to what matters.

A few more commonly asked questions

What about nearby food services?

The Sanctuary is located in a fairly rural area, so most guests bring their provisions and cook their own meals in the full sized kitchen during their stay.

The nearest Grocery store is Burkholders in Millheim PA. The nearest locally owned convenience store (with sandwiches and ice cream and a small selection of other items) is Homans Country Store in Old Fort. There is also a Sheetz in Old Fort.

There is a small handful of local restaurants within reasonable (though not necessary close) driving distance. Local restaurants include: Elk Creek Cafe and Aleworks, The Overlook Grill, Brothers Pizza, Valley Wok, Pizza Heaven and Revival Kitchen, in the event guests wish to dine out.

For those interested in arranging delicious local plant based catering for your visit, we recommend ordering Elaine’s amazing vegan catering. Contact: webstersbookstorecafe@gmail.com

While the rural location is outside of delivery service range, several state college area grocery stores do offer curbside pickup and a few local restaurants offer takeout.

How is the Sanctuary heated/cooled?

• Heat is simple electric baseboard and works great in this essentially brand new construction - there is electric floor heat in the bathroom. There is also a beautiful Jotul propane stove in the main space, which provides guests additional heat option and a beautiful ambiance.

• There is no air conditioning. Instead, there are 15 windows that open and three sliding doors that have been carefully placed to allow the air flow to be maximized regardless of the direction of the wind and there is an overhead fan and two tabletop fans.

I know people in the area.

May I have guests come to the Sanctuary?

The Sanctuary space is for your use and enjoyment during your stay. Unregistered guests are not allowed overnight. If you want to have a small number of guests visit you during daytime hours, we do ask that you get our permission in advance and keep the numbers limited.

Is the Sanctuary accessible for people with disabilities?

As a one floor living space with a barrier free shower, the Sanctuary is accessible to many individuals with disabilities. However, the Sanctuary House and the Property do pose some wheelchair access challenges. The Sanctuary House is is accessed by two stairs into the front door from the outside two stairs into the bedroom door from the outside, and one stair steps down to the first level of the deck, and three stairs step to the second deck level. All doorways are at least 34 inches wide. Please contact us for more information about accessibility and we will work to accommodate your needs if at all possible.

Is the Sanctuary an appropriate place for children?

The Sanctuary House is a small space (900 sq ft), and was designed specifically as an overnight retreat for one person or a couple. While we love all humans, including young ones, aspects of the Sanctuary including the loft, the loft ladder, the pond, the deck stairs and the natural environment surrounding the cabin, may pose a risk to children. Therefore, parents should be prepared to be vigilant over the safety needs of their children if they choose to bring them to the Sanctuary.

Are pets permitted?

While we love all creatures, we do not permit guests to bring their pets at this time. The Sanctuary is located in an expansive forested area which is home a diverse array of wildlife including deer, coyote, turkey, fox, bear and more. Service animals with documentation are welcome.

Can I hunt, fish or bring a gun?

Firearms, hunting, trapping or fishing are not permitted on Sanctuary property.

What airports are closest? Do I need a car? If so, do I need 4WD?

Transportation from the airport or train station to the Sanctuary can be arranged for those flying in, but there is no cab service operating regularly in the area, so it is best to arrange a rental car should you wish to explore the area.

University Park Airport (SCE), State College, PA

Harrisburg, PA (MTD)

The Sanctuary Property is off the beaten path at the end of a 1/4 mile long gravel road. During summer any vehicle (except a very low clearance vehicle) is fine, but during winter, due to the snow and ice in the mountains, a 4wd or all wheel drive vehicle is required.

Is the Sanctuary a silent location?

Although the Sanctuary is secluded, situated at the end of a long gated lane with no visible neighbors, it is not silent. You will hear the sounds of birds, crickets and the occasional airplane or car on the road down the valley.

Since it is located in a valley in a rural part of Central Pennsylvania where sport shooting and hunting is a common recreational activity, in some seasons you may hear gunfire from hunting camps in the valley. We try to treat this sound when it arises like a meditation bell, calling us to our heart and wishing peace for all beings.

I am coming to town for another event, is this space near Penn State?

While we welcome guests who want to blend some time at a beautiful retreat with a visit to Penn State, the Sanctuary is not a particularly convenient location for PSU visitors who plan to spend most of their time at PSU or in the town of State College. There are many closer options for those looking to attend events at the University. Depending on the purpose of your visit and the time of the year you visit, the Sanctuary can be as much as 45 minutes from Penn State University by car. It is located in the mountains at the end of a long gravel road.

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