TLDR: Choosing between overnight retreats and day retreats comes down to distance from the venue and what you want to accomplish on your retreat. First, dream up all you want your retreat to be. Then dial in and choose the format that fits your vision. 

If you’re here, it’s likely because you have an idea for a retreat! That makes me SO excited. We’re all craving rest, adventure, and deeper connections with our people. Yet so few of us take the first step in making this happen. 

At Glorieta, we host both overnight retreats and day retreats. This guide is meant to help you choose between the two (and give you a dose of retreat-planning encouragement!). 

The more you read on, the more you’ll realize that hosting a retreat is a lot more possible than you think! Retreats are an EXCELLENT way to bring your people closer together and create real, lasting memories. So be encouraged: you’re working on something really special … and I hope this guide gives you the push you need to make it happen!

Expand Your Vision

At Glorieta, we define “retreat” as intentional time away with your people or yourself. Common retreats include athletic events, field trips, and church couples groups. But retreats can be unconventional, too! Family reunions, corporate trainings, and quilting marathons all count as retreats! 

So understand your options and expand your vision. If you need some ideas about thinking outside of the box, check out this post about planning your retreat schedule.

While you’re in this dreaming stage, let your imagination loose. Ask yourself what your dream retreat would be like and who you would want to experience it with. Who in your circle of influence needs this retreat the most? 

Get Practical 

Once you have your big ideas following, it’s time to get practical. This is where you ask yourself all the logistical questions and clarify your vision. What are your goals for this retreat? What does your group most need? What would feel like a successful retreat to you? 

Once you identify where you land, the rest of the planning process gets a lot easier. For reference, here are common goals we see from groups at Glorieta:

• Have fun and make memories 
• Train and learn together 
•  Reflect and plan for the future 
• Be refreshed
• Unplug from technology and explore the outdoors 

Why Host an Overnight Retreat?

Overnight retreats are the obvious choice for groups traveling more than an hour or two. But even for semi-local groups, there are strong benefits to overnight retreats. All the moments in-between (like in the hotel lobby, lingering at the dining table, a late-night walk) add up. Sometimes the sweetest retreat memories are created during un-programmed time.

One caveat here: not all venues offer onsite lodging. If it’s important to you to have your venue, lodging, and dining all in the same spot, consider that when booking a retreat. 

Why Host a Day Retreat? 

Day retreats are perfect for groups with attendees who live in close proximity to the venue and who need space for a: 

•  field trip 
• single-day training 
• large meeting space
• an economical option 
• a way to get their feet wet in the world of retreat planning and hosting

Day retreats can be just as fulfilling and impactful as longer, overnight retreats! The key is making sure the choice reflects your retreat goals and gives you exactly what you need.