Vipassana Retreat in the Bohemian Forest (Šumava)
22 – 30 August

Venue

St. Vintíř is a quiet guesthouse located on a mountain in the Bohemian Forest (Šumava). The guesthouse is named after Saint Vintíř, a Benedictine monk. He traveled widely, including to the Holy Land, and settled down on the hill near a spring called Good Water (Dobrá Voda). Just behind is the Church of St. Vintíř and a well connected to the spring. It will be possible to meditate outside and to go for walks in the beautiful surroundings.

Vipassana meditation

“We go on retreats to cleanse and disentangle our troubled lives and minds. This experience frees our mind.” — Ajahn Tong

Vipassana means insight. The aim of the 8-day Vipassana retreat is to develop mindfulness and insight to overcome emotional and mental suffering and realize peace. The meditation teaching is based on the technique of Ajahn Tong and is suitable for beginners and experienced meditators.

Mindfulness is developed by training the mind to stay present during walking and sitting meditation and while performing daily activities such as eating, showering, dressing and drinking tea. Insight arises from mindfulness and is supported by metta (loving-kindness), virtuous conduct, daily interviews with a teacher and Dhamma talks. The retreat will follow the 8 Buddhist precepts and friendly silence.

Transport

St. Vintíř guesthouse is about 2.5 hours from Prague. There is parking onsite. The nearest train station is about 14 km away at Sušice. Retreatants can catch an Uber/Bolt from Sušice or try to arrange a pick-up with us.

Arrival: 22nd August around 16:00  |  Departure: 30th August around 10:00

What to bring

• Toiletries and a towel (bedding is provided)
• Loose-fitting, moderate clothes that cover shoulders and knees, including warm clothes and a light blanket / shawl
• Thicker socks for walking meditation, slippers
• Meditation pillows and mats are provided, but feel free to bring your own
• Thermos for tea or water bottle, if you wish
• Alarm clock to wake up in the morning
• The center provides a variety of tea and coffee, but you can bring your favorite ones

Food

Breakfast, lunch and a snack in the evening (yogurt and chocolate). Coffee, tea and other liquids are available throughout the retreat. A milk alternative is possible.

The food is vegetarian and mainly plant-based. We can however not provide strictly vegan, gluten- or lactose-free meals. For medical adjustments to the meditation and meals (diabetes, pregnancy…) please contact us.

Cost

Accommodation and food:

Male and female rooms and bathrooms are separate. Students who book for the full 8 days will have priority.

Donation

The teaching is on donation (dāna). A donation for the teachers can be made at any time (cash or bank transfer) and is separate from the donation to the meditation center. All donations are greatly appreciated.

Booking

To make a reservation, send an email to info@tisarana.cz. We will reply with registration information and bank account details. The deposit for the retreat is 3000 Kč. After the deposit or the full payment is paid, your booking will be confirmed.

The full amount needs to be paid by 7th August. In case of cancellation up to 5 days prior to the event, 50% of the fee will be refunded. There will be no refund for later cancellations or a no-show.