By Paul Cecchini
We all need to get away from time to time. Whether you’re seeking to refresh your mind and body, get in touch with the beauty of nature, renew your spiritual vitality, rekindle that romantic spark with your significant other, or anything in between, Missouri is a veritable treasure trove of relaxing retreats. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin in the woods, your favorite outdoor activities at your doorstep, or a peaceful place to take in the soothing sounds of nature, you’ll find it among these six retreats.
Chateau on the Lake
Branson is well known as a buzzing Midwest entertainment hub, but it has plenty to offer in the realm of rest and relaxation as well. Chateau on the Lake, overlooking the tranquil shores of Table Rock Lake and the majestic Ozark Mountains, is a pleasant alternative to Branson’s many energetic shows and attractions. There are numerous opportunities to relax: pools, spas, nature trails, hiking, and all sorts of sporting options for those who find it easier to unwind and refresh their minds by vigorous physical activity. The resort’s Spa Chateau is particularly appealing, offering a eucalyptus steam room, 10 private treatment rooms, heated tables, facials, and massages. Fishing fans will no doubt be eager to take a short shuttle ride down to the marina for a relaxing day on the water. Experienced anglers can tackle their fishing excursions on their own, while novices or those more comfortable with a structured outing can take advantage of the guided tours.
Old Caledonian Bed & Breakfast
The small blink-and-you-miss-it Missouri village of Caledonia, about an hour and a half south of St. Louis, has a population of only 133 and is an especially delightful place to unwind. Old Caledonian Bed & Breakfast, a historic home, retains the charms of a simpler time while still offering modern amenities. Visitors can take advantage of the yoga studio, and a cute, barrel-shaped sauna is nestled off on its own, a short distance from the home, offering a uniquely intimate feel. The rooms themselves provide other means of relaxation, such as sound generators and salt lamps. Visitors can also unwind with the sights and sounds of nature from the comfort of the home’s extensive patio and gazebo, whether by watching koi swim in the pond, listening to the birds, or meditating on the clouds. If you’re looking to extend your stay longer than a weekend, it’s a quick jaunt to other popular Missouri attractions like Elephant Rocks State Park, Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, and Mark Twain National Forest.
Hermann Hill
Many Missourians love to unwind with a nice glass of wine at the end of the day. If you’re among them, then one great place to be is at the heart of Missouri wine country. Peer out the window of one of Hermann Hill’s 20 hotel suites or cozy cottages, and you’ll be treated to beautiful sights in all directions, from vivid green vineyards and the charming buildings of downtown Hermann to the sun setting over the magnificent Missouri River. Guests can drift away in comfort without ever leaving their rooms, thanks to the steam showers, jetted tubs, and warm, crackling fireplaces. For a more pampered experience, Hermann Hill offers spa packages tailored to the needs of their guests. Fans of the outdoors will appreciate the three miles of walking trails along a pleasant, paved path, and biking enthusiasts who like to unwind with a nice ride have at their disposal a free shuttle service to Missouri’s famous Katy Trail. Couples can add some extra romance to their stay with a peaceful stroll through Hermann Hill’s Forest of Gongs or focus on a quiet reflection with a peaceful stroll to the chapel. Oh, and of course, taste the wine!
Pomme De Terre State Park
Pomme de Terre State Park, about 40 minutes southeast of Camdenton, offers something that you’ll find in only a scant few other Missouri state parks: yurts. These unique tiny “homes” are becoming increasingly popular with the glamping crowd as a more upscale, comfortable, and homey means of camping over a standard tent. Enjoy the rustic feeling of being immersed in the Missouri wilderness while still having the amenities of home, including a nice warm bed, air conditioning or heat, and a minifridge. When you’re ready to get “out of the house,” Pomme de Terre offers plenty of outdoor activities and beautiful scenery, flora, and fauna. Its numerous sandy beaches are perfect for fishing and basking in the sun. Soothing wildflowers dot the landscape, and during certain times of the year, rare birds can be spotted during their migration period. Whatever type of restful retreat you’re after, Pomme de Terre is an ideal relaxation spot for campers and glampers alike.
Timber Creek Retreat House
The goal of the nonprofit Timber Creek Retreat House in Drexel, about an hour south of Kansas City, is to help guests focus on the three Rs: renew, refresh, and return to life. Director Tom Jacobs is well aware that the definition of “retreat” can vary widely from one person to another, so Timber Creek provides a variety of options, whether you are in the mood for a massage, meditation, nondenominational spiritual guidance, or if you are simply looking to get out and reconnect with nature via the two miles of walking trails that snake through 80 acres of woods and pastures. Healthy gluten-free meals are served. Complimentary yoga classes are offered on Saturday, but you can visit the studio on your own. Those seeking a spiritual boost can sign up for mentoring to help navigate challenges or to help create a more fulfilling life. The house itself exemplifies rustic charm and comfort, like a cozy cabin in the woods but with seven rooms and bathrooms. One can get away from the hustle and bustle and return to daily life rejuvenated with a new zeal for love and service.
Assumption Abbey
Tucked away in the Ozark hills near Ava in southern Missouri is a spiritual retreat unlike anywhere else in the state. At Assumption Abbey, there is elegance in simplicity. There’s no WiFi signal to be found, and odds are, you won’t be able to get phone reception either. Of course, this is all by design. The goal of Assumption Abbey—not only for its guests but also for the friendly community of monks who call the place home—is to provide a getaway that allows the mind to be completely free of the distractions and complications of daily life. Instead of the sounds of traffic, you can hear the soft chirping of birds and water gently flowing in nearby Bryant Creek. For those seeking solitude, spiritual or otherwise, there’s plenty of outdoor space to be at peace with nature. Visitors who are open to a more communal experience are welcome to eat with other retreatants and enjoy a contemplative conversation. Speaking of eating, if you have a sweet tooth, you don’t want to miss out on perhaps Assumption Abbey’s biggest claim to fame: their world-renowned homemade fruitcakes.
This article was originally published in the June 2024 issue of Missouri Life.
