7984 257th St W, Farmington, MN 55024
Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center, a nonprofit organization, was established in 1976 to offer a place of peace during uncertain times. A sacred place of exceptional natural beauty, it was founded to extend the ministry of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church into the community and the world. Gracious hospitality, attentive service, and supportive community are offered to all, so that guests may work productively and grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.
Plane
The closest airport is Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport (MSP). Transportation from the airport to Mount Olivet will be arranged and provided by Mary's Pence.
Mary's Pence will cover up to $500.00 in tickets per person.
Train
The closest Amtrak station is St. Paul - Minneapolis - Union Depot. Transportation from the train station to Mount Olivet will be arranged and provided by Mary's Pence.
Mary's Pence will cover up to $500.00 in tickets per person.
The grounds at Mount Olivet are expansive and beautiful, providing a variety of ways to enjoy nature.
Gather Around the Campfire: Unwind in front of the patio fireplace and firepit and make some delicious s'mores. The perfect place to connect and make memories.
Explore the Trails: Mount Olivet has five miles of trails running through 154 acres of woods, prairie, and marsh, showcasing the beauty and unique landscape of Minnesota. Roam the restored prairie and feel a mixture of wonder, openness, and possibility. Explore the forest trails with awe and appreciation for the magnificent trees. Venture out on the marsh walk, a 425-foot floating walkway overlooking Chub Lake and leading to a small island, the perfect place to meditate and reflect.
Experience Wildlife: A variety of Minnesota wildlife call the Retreat Center home. Deer, turkeys, and other creatures are often seen while exploring our grounds. Over 125 species of birds can be spotted throughout the year. Sit near our many bird feeders and enjoy the sights and sounds of the birds or go on a birding walk through the woods and prairie. On your walk, make sure to stop at the wildlife observation blind where you can spy on geese, ducks, or turtles.
Enjoy the Blooms: The Retreat Center grounds feature over twenty annual and perennial flower beds that provide a kaleidoscope of colors in the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Take time during your retreat to pause, appreciate, and be inspired by the beautiful blooms that surround you.
Walk the Labyrinth: Set within a meditation garden, the outdoor labyrinth offers a quiet, solitary, focused place to walk steadily and deliberately into a place of peace. The eleven-circuit prayer labyrinth is fashioned in a Chartres-style design with a path that winds through a circular symbol, leading to the center. The path has no dead ends or false starts, but leads simply and quietly to the center and then back again.
A recommended packing list will be provided as we get close to the date.
In the same building as the overnight rooms, there are lounges and recreational spaces:
Main lounge - a place to unwind on couches or sit together at tables and chairs. A television, DVD player, board games, and books are available.
Mid-level lounge - a restful place that features floor to ceiling windows, overlooking the forest. It is a lovely setting in which to write, read, meditate, or work.
Game room - a place to enjoy ping-pong, foosball, and pool tables.
Indoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna - heated pool with whirlpool and sauna.
Indoor Pool and Whirlpool
Sauna
Billiards and Game Room
One of two communal lounge spaces
Nestled in forest and built into the hilly landscape, Mount Olivet offers tranquil rooms designed to be soothing and free from distractions. The rooms have simple layouts and neutral colors. To maintain a peaceful atmosphere, the rooms are free from phones and televisions.
The hotel-style rooms contain two full-sized beds, a table and chairs, and a private bath.*
*Please note: Sheets, towels, linens, pillows, and a hair dryer are provided.
Food plays a large role in nurturing and sustaining us in mind, body, and spirit. Using ingredients from the on-site garden and locally-sourced foods whenever possible, Mount Olivet's chef sets the menu for each day so guests experience a variety of dishes and flavors during their stay. Meals are served cafeteria or buffet style. Breakfast is at 8 a.m. Lunch is at 12 p.m. Dinner is at 6 p.m.
Located in the dining room is a 24/7 beverage and snack bar. It features fresh coffee, a selection of teas, lemonade, fruit, yogurt, trail mix and other snack items.
Dietary accommodations available. If you require accommodations, please indicate them by checking the relevant checkboxes below and/or writing the details. We will make every effort to accommodate you.