As summer fades and the mountains begin to transform with the colors of autumn, we find that fall in Montreat offers a beautiful invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and make space for renewal. Our culture often rewards constant activity. Between work, family commitments, and everyday responsibilities, it can be difficult to step away long enough to truly rest. But by taking a break from our usual routines, even for a few days, we can create room to listen more closely for God’s presence and return to our lives with renewed clarity and purpose. Montreat’s Fall Sabbath Getaways offer a unique opportunity to do just that.
This year, we will accept reservations for Fall Sabbath Getaways from September 4 through November 5, 2026. Guests stay at the Assembly Inn, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of both Lake Susan and the surrounding Montreat valley. Unlike a conference or structured retreat, a Sabbath Getaway has no schedule or required class sessions. Instead, guests have the freedom to shape their time around what they need most, be that study, prayer, journaling, or other spiritual practices. Time spent in reflection is supported by opportunities to explore Montreat. Here are a few suggested activities that can help make your Sabbath stay more meaningful:
Walk the Prayer Path and Labyrinth
Located at the Walk Jones Wildlife Sanctuary, the Prayer Path is a relatively short walking pilgrimage that encircles the old Montreat reservoir. One of Montreat’s hidden gems, the area is set aside for quiet reflection, environmental learning, and meditation.
As you walk, allow yourself to slow down. If you feel comfortable, leave your phone behind, say a short prayer, and pay attention to the changing landscape as you make room for stillness. (If you are interested in trying other spiritual practices while in Montreat, click here.)
Go on a Leaf Peeping Tour
Depending on when you visit, the mountains will be covered in beautiful fall foliage! Take an opportunity to appreciate God’s creation by walking around our campus and looking at the various trees as their colors change. If you are feeling more adventurous, consider hiking one of our many trails. The Montreat Wilderness includes 2,500 acres of pristine wilderness, traversable by a network of hiking trails ranging in length and difficulty. Learn more about hiking in Montreat here.
Spend Time at Moore Center
Now, sometimes Sabbath looks like a quiet walk in the woods, but other times, it looks like ice cream and a rocking chair.
At Moore Center, you can enjoy a scoop from The Huckleberry, browse for a gift at The Montreat Store, peruse items made by local and global artisans at The Good Steward, or simply settle into a rocking chair on the porch and watch the rhythm of the Montreat community unfold around you.
Give yourself permission to enjoy the simple things. Sabbath doesn’t have to be complicated in order to be meaningful!
Rest Beside Lake Susan
Lake Susan is one of Montreat’s most recognizable landmarks and a natural place to pause and reflect. Take a walk along its banks, spend some time fishing, or find a quiet spot to sit and watch the water as you enjoy your Sabbath time.
Explore Western North Carolina
You are also welcome to venture beyond Montreat to nearby Black Mountain, with its charming shops and eateries, or spend a day exploring Asheville’s galleries, museums, restaurants, shops, and parks.
Choose what brings you joy and refreshment, whether that means spending the entire day in Montreat or venturing out to discover something new.
Fall reminds us that change and release are natural parts of life. As the leaves let go and the mountains settle into a new season, we too can embrace the invitation to slow down, release what we have been carrying, and make room for renewal. If you are longing for a few quiet days away from the noise of everyday life, consider Montreat this fall. Come to the mountains, breathe deeply, rest your soul, and rediscover the gift of Sabbath.
This article was originally published in the August 2026 edition of Montreat Conference Center’s email newsletter Embodying Hospitality which highlights information related to retreats and guest groups at Montreat. Sign up to receive Embodying Hospitality directly in your inbox by clicking here.