Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the center and the area like?
We are located in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, 40 miles west of Asheville.  Jonathan Creek gently flows through our property.  The area is well known as a tourist attraction for the beautiful views, foliage, wildlife, and lore of the Great Smokey Mountains of western North Carolina.  The mountains and valleys here were the lands of the Cherokee Indians.  One of our nature trail guides is a Native American Cherokee and shares stories of his people and their respect for the land.  Almost every form of seasonal recreation is available within a short driving distance.  The solitude, relaxation, and reflection possibilities within the area are abundant.  The center has facilities for private and directed retreats, preached retreats, seminars and conferences.  Arrangements can be made for personal sabbaticals.  Our attractive dining room is complemented by superb, home-cooked meals prepared by our staff three times a day.  A small devotional, Eucharistic chapel is part of the Center. The parish church of St. Margaret, with its stunning views of the surrounding mountainside, is the center's main worship space, where Morning Prayer and Mass are celebrated daily.

I'm not a Roman Catholic. Is the center available to me? 
Yes.  We welcome individuals and groups of all faiths.

Can I bring my pet?
No. For the health and comfort of our guests, pets are not permitted.

Do I have to be part of a group?
No.

What about meals?
Meals prepared and served by the staff at 8:00AM, Noon and 5:00PM are included in the rates.

Do I have to attend the programs being offered?
No. You are welcomed to do so however.

How long may I stay there on a sabbatical?
Guests on sabbatical normally stay from one month to one year.

When is the swimming pool open?
May through October 1.

What is the scheduled times for weekend retreats?
They begin at 7:00PM on Friday and end after lunch on Sunday.

What are the scheduled times for non-weekend retreats?
Normally they begin at 7:00PM on the first scheduled day and end after breakfast on the last.

I will be taking a commercial plane/train/bus to get there. Do I need to have a car while there?
If you are on an extended stay we recommend you have access to a car. However, for short term retreats we can arrange for transportation to and from the Asheville airport or other commercial transport stations for a slight fee.

What commercial travel is available to reach the center?
If you fly, use the Asheville Airport.
If you come by bus, take Greyhound Trailways to Waynesville.

In the area are these available? Skiing, golf, crafting classes, pottery,  hiking trails, amusement attractions?
Yes!

Can you give me directions for driving there?
Take US 19 into Maggie Valley. LWCRC is located next to the amusement park called Ghost Town.

Can my wife and I just have a quiet meaningful anniversary "get away?"
You are encouraged to do so! It's good health for marriages.