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Writer's pictureGathering Oaks Retreat

The Best Location in Texas to Host a Retreat: 4 Things to Look for When Choosing a Destination.

Updated: Jan 31

Retreats offers the space and opportunity to retreat from the busyness of life to gain a new perspective, regroup, and re-energize. It is not a surprise that many organizations are taking advantage of these wonderful amenities by hosting retreats.


Here are four things to look for when choosing a destination for your next retreat:



1. Atmosphere – Gathering Oaks offers a beautiful, quiet setting unlike any other retreat center. Every cottage and meeting room are within walking distance of one another and all are nestled in lush foliage with seasonal landscape. If you need a place that allows you to unplug and unwind, Gathering Oaks offers the space and opportunity for attendees to connect while relaxing by the pool, taking a nature stroll, sitting by the campfire, swinging in the breeze, and playing washers or corn hole in the courtyard. Gathering Oaks knows that retreats are about learning, growing, and building community with others. We give visitors the opportunity to connect, brainstorm, and bond in between sessions.




2. Location – Gathering Oaks is located just 15 miles outside downtown Waco, which is halfway between Dallas and Austin and three hours from Houston and San Antonio. Waco was named the #2 travel destination by TripAdvisor in 2018, and not only are we famous for Magnolia Silos, but we are also home to Baylor University, the Dr. Pepper Museum, Mayborn Museum, Cameron Park, Waco Zoo, Mammoth National Monument, and Fixer Upper antique shopping galore! If retreat attendees want to come early or stay late, Waco offers plenty of entertainment and fun for people of all ages and interests.




3. Versatility – Gathering Oaks Retreat offers indoor and outdoor meeting spaces to accommodate groups of various sizes. Inside the Gathering House, you’ll find a cozy living room setting as well as an open dining room for 32 people seated at farm tables with extra pub-style seating for twelve. Whispering Vines holds up to 50 for more formal meetings, and we can accommodate 75 in the courtyard under the soft twinkling of string lights. The property sleeps now sleeps up to 70, but more guests could visit during the day and sleep off-site if needed. Retreats can take advantage of custom seating arrangements with on-site round and rectangular tables, plus white padded chairs. There is room to roam, unwind, exercise, enjoy a massage, dine, relax, and host workshops throughout the stay.




4. Value- The research has been done and these prices can't be beat! Custom packages fit into many budgets. Some groups rent the entire property to take advantage of the biggest discount and ensure privacy. Other groups start by renting The 5 Bedroom Gathering House or Meeting Room, then attendees can book and pay for their own rooms online, first come first serve. There is a full-time property hostess that can help assist you during your stay with questions or needs. Many groups choose to bring in their own food and beverage, but recommendations can also be made for caterers that have done a stellar job during previous retreats. You'll save a ton of money on food and beverage with this venue style.





The pictures above were taken by Let’s Echo, a ministry reaching women who desire to communicate the Gospel with confidence. They've hosted two retreats at Gathering Oaks and are scheduled to host their third retreat in December 2019.


Amie, founder of Let's Echo, gives Gathering Oaks a 5 Star Review:


"Lacy has been an angel to work with, she goes above and beyond to make sure things are running smoothly for everyone involved. The entire Let’s Echo team has been super happy with all aspects of our time at GOR. The land and lodging are beautiful with personal touches in each room and lots of fun amenities outside. We have already booked two more retreats there in 2019. Would fully recommend to all!"


To learn more about Let's Echo visit www.letsecho.co




Another guest recently commented:


“We had our company retreat at Gathering Oaks and it was a huge success! We rented the entire property and every room was so nicely decorated and clean. Our employees all mentioned how they could not wait to come back next year! Lacy was SO helpful with every difficult request that we had. She is quick to respond and was willing to go out of her way to make us comfortable. We will definitely be booking our working retreat at Gathering Oaks next year!"


Whether you want to host a retreat for a large group or small, a corporate meeting, a networking opportunity, or a church retreat, Gathering Oaks offers the space and amenities you need. Contact us today for availability and pricing.


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