Time for simplicity
25-27 September 2026
Mindfulness retreat in silence
at Pardesa practice center, in northern Italy
Join us for a three-day silent mindfulness retreat. Together we’ll go back to the essentials: space, silence, nature, and sharing with others. We will live a slower, more nourishing rhythm to remind ourselves of what matters most to us, supported by nature and the practice of mindfulness.
We will be guided by the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, within a program that includes sitting and walking meditation, mindful meals, and time for personal reflection. The Pardesa practice center is nestled in the beauty of the “Contrafforte Pliocenico” nature reserve.
Requirements
Participants are aware that the retreat is held in silence. Mobile phones will be switched off for the entire retreat. A phone contact will be provided in case of emergency.
No prior experience is required. However, full participation in the community life of the practice center is expected. This includes respecting the activity schedule, meditations, and sharing practice, which enrich and are an integral part of the experience.
The teacher
Bar Zecharya is a Dharma teacher in the tradition founded by Thich Nhat Hanh, and has been the caretaker of the Pardesa practice center since 2018.
Program
The retreat will take place from Friday, September 25 (3:00 p.m.) to Sunday, September 27 at 3:00 p.m.
Partial participation is not allowed, in order to preserve the group energy and the flow of the retreat.
We help coordinate ride sharing, with the meeting point at the Pianoro train station at 2:30 p.m. on September 25.
Departure from the station on the 27th will be at 3:29 p.m.
Schedule
- 6:00 wake up
- 6:45 morning meditation
- 8:00 breakfast
- 9:00 morning circle and service to the community and the Earth
- 10:45 Dharma talk
- 12:00 personal practice
- 12:30 mindful lunch and personal time
- 3:00 p.m. outdoor sitting meditation
- 4:00 p.m. outdoor walking meditation
- 6:30 p.m. mindful dinner
- 8:00 p.m. evening meditation
- Noble silence
Participation fee
- €70 for those under 30
- €110 for those 30 and over
The fee includes teachings, organization, and meals. Lodging costs are available in a tent (€5/night), in a four-person room (€15/night), or in a double room (€30/night), subject to availability. The rooms have bunk beds and shared bathrooms. Blankets are included; sheets, pillowcases, and towels can be rented for a total of €8.
We do not want financial concerns to limit participation in our activities. If you would like to request a scholarship, please contact us directly.