FAQ’s

A retreat is time set aside to step away from everyday life responsibilities and distractions in order to rest, reflect and reconnect spiritually. It offers space for quiet time, personal renewal and prayer for those who feel drawn to it.

No. People come from many different backgrounds of faith or none. You are welcome exactly as you are.

Due to our Insurance Policy, anyone over 18 years can stay in Ballyvaloo, subject to availability.

Some Retreats are silent and some include periods of silence. Details are always provided on the brochure or website so you know what to expect. Silence is gentle and supportive – never imposed harshly.

Many guests attend for the first time feeling unsure or nervous. Retreats are designed to be welcoming, gentle and supportive. There is no “right way” to do a retreat – simply come as you are.

Yes. Retreats balance group experiences with personal downtime. You can take space whenever you need it.

All our bedrooms are private single ensuite rooms. Fresh linen and towels are provided.

Yes, Wi-Fi is available, though many guests choose to disconnect during their stay.

The cost covers an all-inclusive retreat offering. Accommodation, all meals, use of shared facilities and full access to the retreat programme.

Pets are not allowed at Ballyvaloo, exceptions are for registered service or assistance animals.

Bookings can be made online via our website www.ballyvaloo.ie or by contacting us directly on 053 9137160

Once your booking is complete, you will receive a confirmation email outlining your reservation details and deposit payment. In the week prior to your arrival, a member of our team will contact you by phone to confirm your stay and to discuss any dietary requirements or queries.

Travelling from Dublin by car; Come off the M11
at exit 23 and follow signs for Ballycanew on the R741. Continue through Ballycanew on the R741 for 17.5km, take a left onto the R744 for Blackwater Village. When you arrive in Blackwater take a right at the T Junction at the end of the street for Ballyvaloo. The Retreat Centre is sign posted on the Left. Ballyvaloo is 4km from Blackwater Village.

Travelling from Wexford by car; Cross the bridge in Wexford town and continue for 4km. Take a right turn for Curracloe. Go through the village. Ballyvaloo Retreat centre is 4km farther on the right.

Public Transport to Ballyvaloo (Train or Bus);
Train or Bus to O’Hanrahan Station. Taxi service available to bring you to Ballyvaloo.

Registration is open from 4:00 PM on arrival day. A light evening supper is served at 6:00 PM.
Departure is after lunch on the final day. Lunch is served daily at 1:00 PM.

We provide towels and soap in the bathrooms, but you will need to bring your own personal toiletries.
Tea and coffee are available in our beautiful sea view Coffee room throughout your stay – you are welcome to take a drink to your room in a travel mug, as there are no tea or coffee facilities in the bedrooms.
If you plan to enjoy our private beach access, don’t forget a beach towel, comfortable shoes, and warm clothing for cooler weather.
A notebook and pen can be helpful if you would like to journal or reflect during your retreat.
Hair dryers and an iron are available in reception for guest use.

We provide freshly prepared, home-style meals each day, with options to suit a range of dietary needs.
Breakfast – 9.00am
Breakfast is continental. This includes a selection of cereals (including gluten-free options) and slow-cooked homemade porridge (gluten-free and dairy-free are available on request). We also serve boiled eggs and toast, Greek yoghurt, natural yogurt, as well as soya yogurt, with a variety of toppings. Homemade brown bread and preserves are available each morning. Tea and coffee are provided, along with oat and soya milk as alternatives to dairy. If you prefer another option, such as almond milk, you are welcome to bring your own. A small fridge is available in the coffee room for guests to store small personal items.
Lunch – 1:00pm
Lunch is the main meal of the day and consists of a main course and dessert, followed by tea and coffee. Each day we offer a choice of three options, typically including one meat dish, one fish dish, and one vegetarian/vegan option.
Supper – 6:00pm
Supper is a light savoury meal, such as quiche with a side salad or a cold meat salad. Homemade brown bread is served, and a cheese board is available for all guests.
If you have specific dietary requirements or allergies, please let us know in advance and we will do our best to accommodate you.

The balance of your retreat fee may be paid upon arrival or at reception at any time during the retreat between 9:00am and 5:00pm. We kindly ask that full payment is made before departure day.

Cancellations & Refunds;
Deposits Refunds – In the event of cancellation all deposits are non-refundable

Deposit Transfers
We allow a one-time transfer of your deposit under the following conditions;

1. You may transfer your deposit to attend a different retreat or book a stay within the
Calendar Year.
OR
2. You may transfer your deposit to a person that would like to take your place on the
original booked retreat.
Please note that a Deposit may only be transferred Once