879 Somerset Street West, Ottawa

This retreat offers a rare opportunity to step away from everyday activities and worries and embark on a meditative journey into emptiness – the true nature of reality.

Each session will include uplifting talks and guided meditations, allowing both new and experienced practitioners to relax and enjoy this step-by-step retreat, reaching deeper levels of inner peace and happiness. There will also be plenty of time for relaxing and connecting with like-minded people.

As Buddha advised, ‘Think that all phenomena are like dreams,’ and what better place to do so than in the serene beauty of the forest of Gatineau?

THE PEACE OF EMPTINESS

‘Emptiness is how things exist rather than how they appear’

“If we realize the emptiness of all phenomena, we will no longer experience suffering or problems. Instead, we will experience lasting inner peace and joy.”
Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Retreat Schedule

Friday June 20

Introduction to the retreat - 7:30-9pm

Saturday June 21

Breakfast - 8 am - 9 am (for those who are staying onsite)

Session one - 9 am -10:15 am, Teaching & Meditation

Session two - 11:15 am - 12:30 pm, Teaching & Meditation       

Lunch - 12:30 pm -1:30 pm         

Session three - 4 pm - 5:30 pm, Teaching & Meditation plus Q&A

Dinner - 6 pm - 7pm

Session four - 7:30 pm - 8:45 pm, Teaching & Meditation

Sunday June 22

Breakfast - 8 am - 9 am (for those who are staying onsite)

Session one -  9 am - 10:15 am, Teaching & Meditation

Session two - 11:15 am - 12:30 pm, Teaching & Meditation 

Lunch - 12:45 pm -1:30 pm

This retreat will be led by Resident Teacher Gen  Kelsang Thekchen, who is a senior Teacher in the New Kadampa Tradition. He has been a Kadampa Buddhist monk and Teacher under the guidance of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for more than 25 years. He is well known for his ability to present Buddha's teachings in a simple, profound, practical and often humorous way, making them easy to put into practice in everyday life. 

The venue: Le Manoir de la Forêt Retreat Centre is located at 32 Chemin River in Cantley Québec - an idyllic, private centre in the heart of a 29 acre maple forest. It is a short 20 minute drive from central Gatineau and Ottawa. Delicious & healthy vegetarian meals will be provided.  Vegan, Gluten-free and other special needs can be accommodated- simply contact Kelsang Khandro to discuss: admin@meditateinottawa.org. 

Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy guided meditations, teachings, reflective reading in the cozy library, quiet time in the forest, strolls along farm-lined country roads, stunning views from the deck, snuggling up by the indoor fireplace & comfortable sleeping accommodations in either a private or a shared room.

We offer 3 options to participate in this retreat. You may either: 

• Stay on-site which includes all meals. 
• Attend the retreat, either for all days, or just on Saturday without meals or overnight accommodation
• Stay offsite, attend the retreat and purchase meals if desired
  • Stay at nearby Cantley Camping for as low as $56/night
  • VRBO
  • AirBnB
  • Booking.com

Retreat options and pricing

Onsite: *Roommates may be requested but not guaranteed, otherwise will be matched by KMC Ottawa

Full Retreat in Private Room - $520

Full Retreat in Double Room - $445 (each)

Full Retreat in spacious Triple Room (3 people sharing) - $380 (each)

Commuting: 

Full Retreat (without meals or accommodation) -  $120

Full day Saturday only (without meals or accommodation)- $75

Free parking onsite.