You are invited to join us not as a tourist, but as a pilgrim. Along the way you will be encouraged to approach each experience with contemplative awareness and each sacred site with care. Time will be given for learning, integration, meditation and interaction. As we journey together, we will focus on major themes in the spiritual tradition of each country we’re in. Time will be spent exploring how those themes can be integrated into our lives.
Optional meditative sessions will include such things as the music of the Taizé community, Mandala work, journaling, small group interaction, discussions with our leaders, indigenous music and prayer. Because registration is typically limited to 15 participants, group size will encourage personal interaction in style and content.
Often, we will be joined by local specialists, mythologist, artisans, musicians and storytellers to share experiences and offer guidance to us. There will always be opportunities for interaction.
We are confident that your journey will be a fulfilling one. We have gone before you, having traveled to each country many times to meet with those who will join us as we go. We have visited the sites on our schedule, and have personally chosen the retreat centers, accommodations and meals. You are assured of a complete and well planned journey.
Illuminated Journeys pilgrimage experiences are designed to help you reach deeply into the spiritual tradition of each destination by exposing you to the most profound examples of each of the themes and providing time to reflect on those themes, places, and people.
The Camino Frances across Northern Spain is one of the most important pilgrimage routes in Europe. Part of a network of “Caminos” crisscrossing the Iberian peninsula leading to the cathedral city of St. James in Galicia, the Camino provides geography, beauty, culture and history that expands our hearts and challenges our bodies. Since studying classical
The depth and complexity of Spain’s rich history come together in a soul-expanding way in Andalusia. Indigenous, Jewish, Roman, Byzantine, Muslim, Christian and modern influences combine to make this a particularly meaningful and popular Illuminated Journeys experience. Spain’s unique art, music, food and wine are celebrated as we go.
The spiritual riches of Ireland await you in what many call “the best time of year in the Irish countryside.” After the tourists have gone and the Irish people settle into their fall routines, the inner riches of this remarkable landscape open up to the thoughtful visitor. We begin our pilgrimage in Co. Meath in
The central seaside Italian region of Tuscany is known for being one of the most beautiful areas of the country. In addition to its rolling green hills, olive groves, vineyards, and coastal elegance, Tuscany is famous for its alluring, rustic villages which reflect the history of the region. Umbria, Tuscany’s neighbor to the East is
The Camino Frances across northern Spain is one of the most important pilgrimage routes in Europe. Part of a network of “Caminos” criss-crossing the Iberian peninsula leading to the cathedral City of St. James in Galicia, the Camino provides geography, beauty, culture and history that expands our hearts of challenges our bodies. Since studying classical
The Republic of Georgia, nestled between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea in the Southern Caucus region of Central Eurasia, has been at the crossroads of humanity for thousands of years. With an ancient language, early Christian culture and the oldest wine-producing history in the world, this small country will surprise and delight you. Brad and Rita
Join us as we celebrate 25 years of Illuminated Journeys with a special cultural experience in Northern Spain. You could call it an active gourmet food walk through amazing landscapes, mountain trails, coastal paths and wine country roads. We have added in a mix of experiences, including special cheese and tapas that will keep your
The spiritual riches of Ireland await you in what many call “the best time of year in the Irish countryside.” After the tourists have gone and the Irish people settle into their fall routines, the inner riches of this remarkable landscape open up to the thoughtful visitor. We begin our pilgrimage in Co. Meath in
The central seaside Italian region of Tuscany is known for being one of the most beautiful areas of the country. In addition to its rolling green hills, olive groves, vineyards, and coastal elegance, Tuscany is famous for its alluring, rustic villages which reflect the history of the region. Umbria, Tuscany’s neighbor to the East, is