Where to go for the Best Meditation Retreats in Georgia

April 30, 2025

If you’re looking for the perfect meditation retreat in Georgia, you’re in for a treat. From the misty Blue Ridge Mountains to the coastal charm of Savannah and the Golden Isles, Georgia offers a diverse landscape for deep inner work, relaxation, and spiritual renewal. Whether you’re into silent retreats, guided mindfulness sessions, or immersive nature-based meditation experiences, this state has something for every seeker.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the best meditation retreats in Georgia, covering serene mountain sanctuaries, oceanfront havens, and urban wellness escapes. You’ll also find mindful travel tips and practical details on when to visit each location for the ultimate experience.

Let’s dive in.


6. Blue Ridge Mountains – A Serene Escape for Deep Meditation

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Why Choose the Blue Ridge Mountains for a Meditation Retreat?

The Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia provide a peaceful and secluded environment for meditation retreats. With mist-covered peaks, lush forests, and serene waterfalls, this region is home to some of the best Buddhist retreats, silent meditation sanctuaries, and holistic wellness centers. Whether you’re seeking guided mindfulness sessions or an immersive silent retreat, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer an unparalleled space for deep reflection and relaxation.

Best Meditation Retreats in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Nature-Focused & Eco Retreats

  • Elohee Retreat Center (Sautee Nacoochee, GA)
    • Located on a mountaintop with breathtaking panoramic views.
    • Offers guided meditation, yoga, and holistic wellness programs.
  • Dahlonega Spa Resort (Dahlonega, GA)
    • A tranquil retreat surrounded by dense forests and peaceful landscapes.
    • Features mindfulness meditation, yoga sessions, and relaxation therapy.

Silent & Spiritual Retreats

  • Southern Dharma Retreat Center (Near Clayton, GA)
    • A Buddhist Vipassana retreat focusing on silent meditation and mindfulness training.
    • Provides structured meditation programs and spiritual teachings.
  • Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center (Atlanta, GA)
    • A Christian retreat emphasizing silent reflection, spiritual healing, and meditative practices.
    • Surrounded by nature trails and peaceful riverside settings.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

  • Amicalola Falls Meditation Retreat (Dawsonville, GA)
    • Located near Georgia’s tallest waterfall, offering a serene and inspiring setting.
    • Combines guided meditation, yoga, and sound healing.
  • Shambhala Meditation Center (Decatur, GA)
    • A Tibetan Buddhist retreat center providing mindfulness training, meditation workshops, and Dharma talks.

Best Time to Visit the Blue Ridge Mountains for a Retreat

The ideal time to visit for a meditation retreat depends on your preference for weather and scenery:

  • Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, ideal for outdoor meditation.
  • Fall (September–November): Cool weather and stunning fall foliage, perfect for a calming, nature-immersed retreat.
  • Summer (June–August): Lush green forests, though temperatures can be warm.
  • Winter (December–February): Quiet and peaceful with snow-covered landscapes, great for deep introspection.

How to Get to the Blue Ridge Mountains

Nearest Airports

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)2 hours from Blue Ridge, offering international and domestic flights.
  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)1.5 hours from Blue Ridge, a smaller alternative with regional flights.

Transport Options

  • Car Rental: Best way to reach remote retreat centers. Rentals are available at ATL and CHA airports.
  • Shuttle Services: Some retreat centers offer private transportation from Atlanta or nearby cities.

Budget & Cost Overview

  • Retreats – $250–$600/day (all-inclusive), $50–$150/session (drop-in).
  • Accommodation – $150–$400/night (wellness lodges, eco-retreats).
  • Food & Transport – $15–$50/meal, $40–$100/day (car rental, local transport).

Mindful Travel Tip

Choose eco-conscious retreats that prioritize sustainability, organic food, and local business support to enhance your wellness experience.

5. Savannah – A Historic and Spiritual Escape for Mindfulness

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Why Is Savannah a Great Meditation Retreat Destination?

Savannah, with its moss-draped oaks, historic squares, and riverfront serenity, offers a unique setting for mindful retreats. The city’s blend of Southern charm, spiritual sanctuaries, and coastal tranquility makes it an ideal destination for meditation, yoga, and holistic healing. Whether you prefer silent retreats, guided mindfulness practices, or meditative walks through historic gardens, Savannah provides an immersive experience for self-discovery and inner peace.

Best Meditation Retreats in Savannah

Nature-Focused & Eco Retreats

  • Mosswood Retreat Center – A peaceful sanctuary offering meditation, sound healing, and yoga amid ancient oak trees.
  • Savannah Spirit & Wellness Retreat – A boutique retreat blending nature walks, energy healing, and mindfulness workshops.

Silent & Spiritual Retreats

  • New Camaldoli Hermitage (Accessible from Savannah) – A Benedictine retreat offering silent meditation and deep spiritual reflection.
  • Bon Secours Retreat Center (Nearby in Bluffton, SC) – A Christian retreat focused on contemplative prayer and spiritual growth.
Also Read  Best Wellness Resorts in Florida USA (2025)

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

  • Savannah Yoga Retreat – A coastal retreat featuring yoga, meditation, and mindful movement sessions.
  • Otium Retreat Center – A holistic healing space with guided meditation, breathwork, and stress-relief techniques.

Best Time to Visit Savannah for a Retreat

  • Spring (March–May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens make for a tranquil outdoor meditation experience.
  • Fall (September–November) – Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Winter (December–February) – A quiet retreat season, perfect for deep reflection.

How to Get to Savannah

Nearest Airport

  • Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) – The primary airport, about 20 minutes from downtown.

Transport Options

  • Car Rental – Ideal for exploring retreat centers outside the city.
  • Public Transit & Shuttles – Savannah’s DOT shuttle and retreat-provided transfers offer convenient travel options.

Budget & Cost Overview

  • Retreats – $200–$600/day (all-inclusive programs), $50–$150/session (drop-in).
  • Accommodation – $100–$400/night (wellness lodges, boutique hotels, eco-retreats).
  • Food & Transport – $15–$50/meal, $40–$80/day (car rental and local transport).

Mindful Travel Tip

For a truly grounding experience, take an early morning meditative walk along Forsyth Park—the stillness, fresh air, and centuries-old trees create a natural sanctuary for mindfulness.

4. Atlanta – A Meditation Retreat in the Heart of the City

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Why Is Atlanta a Great Meditation Retreat Destination?

Atlanta blends urban energy with serene natural escapes, making it a unique hub for meditation retreats. From Zen-inspired centers to hidden nature sanctuaries, the city offers diverse options for those seeking inner peace. Whether you prefer guided mindfulness sessions in lush gardens or silent meditation retreats, Atlanta has a space for deep relaxation and self-discovery.

Best Meditation Retreats in Atlanta

Nature-Focused & Eco Retreats

  • Sweetwater Creek Retreat Center – Guided meditation, yoga, and forest bathing in a peaceful, nature-immersed setting.
  • Serenbe Wellness Retreat – Holistic wellness retreat with meditation, sustainable living workshops, and nature-based mindfulness practices.

Silent & Spiritual Retreats

  • Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center – Silent meditation, spiritual guidance, and deep reflection.
  • Shambhala Meditation Center – Tibetan Buddhist retreat with silent meditation, mindfulness training, and dharma talks.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

  • Atlanta Meditation Center – Guided meditation, breathwork, and stress-relief practices.
  • Piedmont Park Zen Sessions – Outdoor guided meditation and yoga in Atlanta’s most scenic park.

Best Time to Visit Atlanta for a Retreat

The best time for a retreat in Atlanta is spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is mild and outdoor meditation is most enjoyable. Summers can be hot, but many retreats offer air-conditioned indoor sessions.

How to Get to Atlanta

Nearest Airport

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – A major hub with easy access to retreat locations.

Transport Options

  • Car Rental – Best for reaching retreats outside the city.
  • Public Transport – MARTA trains and buses connect key areas.

Budget & Cost Overview

  • Retreats – $200–$600/day (all-inclusive), $50–$150/session (drop-in).
  • Accommodation – $100–$400/night (retreat centers, eco-lodges, boutique stays).
  • Food & Transport – $15–$50/meal, $40–$100/day (car rental, transport).

Mindful Travel Tip

Visit Atlanta Botanical Garden for a mindfulness walk—its peaceful gardens and calming water features create a perfect space for silent reflection.

3. Chattahoochee National Forest – A Wilderness Retreat for Mindfulness

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Why Is Chattahoochee National Forest a Great Meditation Retreat Destination?

Spanning over 750,000 acres of pristine wilderness, Chattahoochee National Forest is a haven for nature lovers seeking peace and mindfulness. With its cascading waterfalls, ancient forests, and secluded retreat centers, it’s an ideal destination for deep meditation, silent reflection, and holistic healing. Whether you prefer guided meditation by a river or a self-led retreat in a remote cabin, this forest offers the ultimate escape from urban distractions.

Best Meditation Retreats in Chattahoochee National Forest

Nature-Focused & Eco Retreats

  • Elohee Retreat Center (Sautee Nacoochee) – A stunning mountaintop sanctuary offering meditation, yoga, and holistic healing.
  • Mountain Light Sanctuary (Dahlonega) – A peaceful eco-retreat blending meditation, forest therapy, and silent reflection.

Silent & Spiritual Retreats

  • Southern Dharma Retreat Center (Clayton, GA) – Buddhist-focused silent meditation retreats for deep mindfulness practice.
  • Heartwood Retreat Center (Blue Ridge) – Silent retreats with a focus on nature-based healing and self-discovery.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

  • Amicalola Falls Meditation Retreat (Dawsonville) – Yoga, sound healing, and mindfulness practices near Georgia’s tallest waterfall.
  • Wildwood Yoga & Wellness (Helen, GA) – Outdoor yoga and meditation experiences set in the tranquil Appalachian foothills.
Also Read  Where To Go For The Best Meditation Retreats in Oregon

Best Time to Visit Chattahoochee National Forest for a Retreat

For the best experience, visit in spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) when the weather is mild, and the foliage creates a stunning backdrop. Summer offers lush greenery but can be warm, while winter provides a peaceful, snow-dusted retreat experience.

How to Get to Chattahoochee National Forest

Nearest Airports

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – The largest hub, about 2–3 hours away.
  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) – A smaller alternative, roughly 2 hours from key retreat areas.

Transport Options

  • Car Rental – The best way to reach remote retreat locations.
  • Shuttle Services – Some retreat centers provide transportation from Atlanta or nearby towns.

Budget & Cost Overview

  • Retreats – $250–$600/day (all-inclusive), $50–$150/session (drop-in).
  • Accommodation – $100–$350/night (eco-lodges, cabins, retreat centers).
  • Food & Transport – $15–$50/meal, $50–$100/day (car rental, fuel).

Mindful Travel Tip

Hike to Raven Cliff Falls for a serene meditation spot—the sound of cascading water enhances deep relaxation and mindfulness.

2. Jekyll Island & Golden Isles – Coastal Serenity for Mindful Retreats

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Why Are Jekyll Island & Golden Isles Great Meditation Retreat Destinations?

The Golden Isles of Georgia—Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and Little St. Simons—offer a peaceful coastal escape for meditation and mindfulness. With unspoiled beaches, salt marshes, and ancient oak forests draped in Spanish moss, this region fosters deep relaxation. Whether you seek guided spiritual retreats or solo mindfulness escapes by the ocean, the Golden Isles provide the perfect backdrop for inner healing.

Best Meditation Retreats in Jekyll Island & Golden Isles

Nature-Focused & Eco Retreats

  • Jekyll Island Yoga & Meditation Retreat – A beachfront retreat offering yoga, meditation, and holistic healing sessions.
  • Little St. Simons Island Retreat – A secluded, eco-conscious retreat with guided meditation in untouched nature.

Silent & Spiritual Retreats

  • Epworth by the Sea (St. Simons Island) – A Christian retreat center offering silent reflection and spiritual renewal.
  • The Cloister at Sea Island – A luxurious wellness retreat blending meditation, mindfulness, and nature-based healing.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

  • Salt Marsh Sanctuary Retreat (Jekyll Island) – Yoga and meditation experiences surrounded by coastal beauty.
  • Omcore Yoga & Body (St. Simons Island) – A mindful retreat combining yoga, meditation, and breathwork practices.

Best Time to Visit Jekyll Island & Golden Isles for a Retreat

The best time for a retreat is spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when temperatures are comfortable, and the beaches are peaceful. Winter is a quieter season with mild weather, while summer is warmer but offers vibrant coastal energy.

How to Get to Jekyll Island & Golden Isles

Nearest Airports

  • Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) – The closest regional airport, about 30 minutes away.
  • Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – A major airport, roughly 1.5 hours from the Golden Isles.

Transport Options

  • Car Rental – Essential for exploring the islands.
  • Shuttle & Taxi Services – Available from airports to Jekyll Island and St. Simons.

Budget & Cost Overview

  • Retreats – $200–$500/day (all-inclusive), $50–$150/session (drop-in).
  • Accommodation – $150–$400/night (beach resorts, eco-lodges).
  • Food & Transport – $20–$60/meal, $50–$100/day (car rental, local transport).

Mindful Travel Tip

For a truly meditative experience, visit Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island at sunrise—its otherworldly scenery and tranquil waves create the perfect setting for deep mindfulness.

1. Dahlonega & North Georgia Wine Country – A Tranquil Haven for Mindful Retreats

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Why Is Dahlonega & North Georgia Wine Country a Great Meditation Retreat Destination?

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega and the surrounding North Georgia Wine Country offer a peaceful retreat for mindfulness and meditation. The rolling vineyards, quiet forests, and fresh mountain air create a perfect environment for spiritual healing and self-reflection. Whether you seek a silent retreat in nature or a wellness escape infused with mindful wine tasting, this region provides a unique setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Best Meditation Retreats in Dahlonega & North Georgia Wine Country

Nature-Focused & Eco Retreats

  • Dahlonega Spa Resort – A scenic retreat offering meditation, yoga, and holistic wellness in a serene vineyard setting.
  • Elohee Retreat Center – A mountaintop sanctuary for mindfulness, meditation, and energy healing.
Also Read  10 Best Wellness Retreat Destinations California Has For Relaxation and Overall Wellness

Silent & Spiritual Retreats

  • Enota Mountain Retreat (Hiawassee) – A nature-immersed retreat with silent meditation, organic farming, and eco-friendly lodging.
  • Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center (Atlanta, accessible from Dahlonega) – A Christian retreat for spiritual renewal and silent contemplation.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

  • Five Elements Retreat (Near Helen, GA) – A yoga and meditation retreat combining Ayurveda, breathwork, and mindfulness practices.
  • Heartwood Retreat Center (Blue Ridge) – A peaceful space for guided meditation, holistic healing, and deep relaxation.

Best Time to Visit Dahlonega & North Georgia Wine Country for a Retreat

  • Spring (March–May) – Blooming vineyards, mild weather, and serene landscapes.
  • Fall (September–November) – Peak foliage season, with stunning autumn colors and crisp mountain air.
  • Winter (December–February) – A cozy, quiet retreat season, ideal for introspection.

How to Get to Dahlonega & North Georgia Wine Country

Nearest Airports

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – The closest major airport, about 1.5 hours from Dahlonega.
  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) – A secondary option, roughly 2 hours away.

Transport Options

  • Car Rental – The best way to explore the scenic countryside and retreat locations.
  • Private Transfers & Shuttles – Some retreats offer transport from Atlanta.

Budget & Cost Overview

  • Retreats – $200–$500/day (all-inclusive programs), $50–$150/session (drop-in).
  • Accommodation – $120–$350/night (wellness resorts, vineyard lodges, mountain cabins).
  • Food & Transport – $15–$50/meal, $50–$100/day (car rental and local transport).

Mindful Travel Tip

For a grounding meditation experience, visit Amicalola Falls, Georgia’s tallest waterfall, and practice breathwork by the cascading waters—it’s nature’s way of resetting your energy.

FAQ

1. What are the best meditation retreats in Georgia?
Some of the best meditation retreats in Georgia include Elohee Retreat Center in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Southern Dharma Retreat Center in Clayton, and Dahlonega Spa Resort, each offering unique experiences focused on mindfulness, yoga, and spiritual healing.

2. How much do meditation retreats in Georgia cost?
Meditation retreats in Georgia typically range from $200 to $600 per day for all-inclusive programs, while drop-in sessions for meditation or yoga can range from $50 to $150 per session. Accommodation prices vary from $100 to $400 per night, depending on the retreat type.

3. When is the best time to visit Georgia for a meditation retreat?
The best times to visit for a meditation retreat are during spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when the weather is most pleasant, and the state’s natural beauty is at its peak.

4. What types of meditation retreats are available in Georgia?
Georgia offers a variety of meditation retreats, including nature-focused retreats, silent retreats, Buddhist meditation centers, and spiritual healing retreats. Some retreats offer specific focuses like yoga, mindfulness, and Vipassana.

5. Do I need to have prior meditation experience to attend a retreat in Georgia?
Most retreats in Georgia cater to all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Whether you’re just starting your meditation journey or looking to deepen your practice, you’ll find retreats that suit your needs.



Conclusion

Georgia is a hidden gem for those seeking mindfulness, peace, and rejuvenation through meditation. From the serene Blue Ridge Mountains to the tranquil shores of Jekyll Island, the state offers diverse destinations ideal for deep meditation and spiritual retreats. Whether you prefer a nature-centric getaway or a quiet sanctuary for silent reflection, Georgia’s retreat centers provide the perfect environment to unplug, recharge, and reconnect with your inner self.

Choosing a meditation retreat in Georgia not only supports your well-being but also gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the state’s natural beauty and rich history. With so many options across the state, there’s a perfect retreat waiting for every type of traveler—whether you’re looking for a serene escape, a guided journey, or a spiritual awakening.

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