Silent Meditation Retreat 13.-17.8.2026
At Lapuanjoki Rantakeidas, Alahärmä Finland
Imagine yourself gazing across serene river and field landscapes in the Finnish countryside.
You breathe in the pure, fresh air that this land of a thousand lakes and forests offers.
You have just stepped out of the sauna and watch as the sun sets behind the ripening grain.
Your mind is calm and quiet – clear.
Peace fills you from within, because you can clearly hear your inner voice and know which direction to take when you return to your everyday life.
But for now—there is no rush, no other place you would rather be, and nothing else you need to do.
You are simply present in this moment, watching the sunset while floating on the gentle waves of your tranquil mind.
This Retreat in a nutshell
Dates: August 13–17, 2026 (Thursday–Monday, 4 nights / 5 days)
Arrival: Thursday, August 13 at 16:00 (dinner is included)
Departure: Monday, August 17 at 12:00 (breakfast is included)
Included in the retreat : The full retreat program, selected accomodation and 3 delicious vegan meals per day (Thu Dinner and Mon Breakfast)
No prior experience is required. Silence and the practices meet each participant exactly where they are on their individual path.
Price from 595€ depending on the selected accommodation
Retreat is guided in English
This silent meditation retreat
is a conscious step away from everyday life and an invitation to turn inward.
Entering silence requires permission from yourself and a conscious choice—and this retreat offers the perfect setting for that choice.
In silence, you may receive life-changing insights about yourself and your life.
You may catch a glimpse of your true Self beneath the layers of conditioning, or learn to sit with yourself and your emotions without escaping.
While participants remain in silence, all meditations, practices, and workshops are beautifully guided and gently supported by the facilitator.
When was the last time you felt deeply connected to yourself?
This retreat strengthens that connection.
It offers a safe space to pause, to breathe deeply, and to allow the mind to settle.
As both you and your surroundings fall silent, creativity and insight awaken—and you may hear your inner voice guiding you in the right direction.
Many people experience meaningful shifts in their lives after a silent retreat.
It may help you find your path and reconnect with your essence.
As a sufi mystic Rumi, once said in his beautiful poem:
“When our lips are silent, our hearts speak a thousand tongues.”
— Rumi
Entering Silence Together
During the retreat we enter silence together with respect. On the first evening, we begin our period of noble silence, committing to honor our shared space by refraining from speech and from other communication through gestures and eye contact.
This way, everyone has the chance to experience a profound and meaningful field of silence in a safe environment where all your needs are cared for—and you can simply rest in the embrace of quiet. You’ll be served a delicious vegan breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We gently wake you with a singing bowl and invite you to each session with its sound, so you won’t need a clock at any point.
Many say that hurry—and time itself—lose their grip during the retreat.
Peak into the retreat location
We also commit to switching off our phones and all digital devices for the duration of the retreat. We won’t scroll social media, check messages, or watch television. These modern tools distract us from hearing the voice of our deepest self—the voice we are giving space to during this retreat.
Please do not bring reading material. If you wish to read, you can borrow a book from Lauri’s shelf for the duration of the retreat. You’re welcome to make notes, but it’s recommended that you don’t spend all your time reading or writing – allow yourself to listen within.
The Flow of the Retreat
On the first evening, we share dinner, get to know each other, and set our intention for the days ahead.
We then settle into our first meditation, after which we begin three full days of silence.
Our days include morning, afternoon, and evening meditations, as well as insightful talks and guided sessions.
We start with shorter meditations and gradually extend the sittings, moving towards deeper states of awareness.
Meditation is practiced both seated and walking -in the beautiful meditation hall and, when weather allows, outdoors.
Lauri’s special interest lies in the realization of the Self and the nature of existence, drawing from non-dual meditation techniques and the teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi. During this retreat, you will be guided gently and compassionately into deeper layers of your own being and toward timeless wisdom.
Each day also includes a changing workshop – gentle asana yoga, breathwork, releasing practice, or perhaps a sound journey.
You’ll also have free time simply to be, allowing intuition and insights to rise from deep within. In the evenings, the wood-burning sauna is heated; you’re welcome to slip into silence there and savor the warmth of the stove. Sauna is a sacred space for Finns to bath but also to contemplate. The retreat center sits right on the banks of the Lapuanjoki River, and you can swim in the river whenever you like.
On Sunday evening, we close the silence with a beautiful sharing circle and closing ceremony.
Those who wish may share their reflections and insights, though sharing is entirely optional.
After the ceremony, there is time to talk and connect freely with other participants.
On Monday morning, we gather for a final meditation and breakfast before the retreat concludes and we begin our journey home.
Location
Our venue is a beautiful riverside sanctuary on the Lapuanjoki River in Ala-Härmä, on Finland’s west coast. The entire center is reserved for the retreat, giving us complete peace to dive into silence together. The property rests by a stunning river amid idyllic Finnish fields. Each accommodation is unique and full of character. The buildings honor traditional Finnish craftsmanship, with calming old log structures and natural stone. Shared rooms for 2–4 people and private rooms are available.
The center is the long-time owners’ homestead, lovingly crafted by their own hands into the beautiful place we now get to enjoy. The host Risto is a master of traditional building methods and craftsmanship —his skill is visible in the structures and details throughout the area. The hostess Leila is the resident cook while Risto’s sister Ritva tends the garden and vegetable patch, providing fresh ingredients for our food.
The center is located 60 km from Vaasa, which also has an airport.
The nearest train station is Härmä station, about 10 km away. The trains from Helsinki – Oulu – Helsinki stop there.
For those who wish, we can arrange shared transportation from Vaasa for an additional fee.
Meditation Hall
The meditation hall is a harmonious, thoughtfully designed space and its polygonal shape evokes calm and stillness. The energy of the room is very special and supports your inner journey.
The walls are hewn from old timber, and one wall holds a magnificent, hand-built natural-stone fireplace. In the center of the floor lies a large amethyst from a Lapland amethyst mine. It is believed to enhance intuition and connection with higher consciousness—perhaps part of what gives the room its uniquely meditative energy.
Facilitator
The retreat is facilitated by Lauri Nieppo, a long-time practitioner of meditation and Eastern philosophy.
Lauri has been practicing meditation for over ten years and has studied both in Finland and abroad.
He is experienced in many meditation techniques, with a focus on non-dual practices that explore the nature of the Self and reality.
Lauri has participated in and led silent retreats across Europe and Finland for several years, and studied silence and Self-realization in Ramana Maharshis ashram in Tiruvannamalai, India.
Participants often describe Lauri’s presence as calm, grounding, and deeply supportive—his steady energy holds the space and group with care and compassion throughout the retreat.
Food
You’ll be served three wholesome vegan meals each day, lovingly prepared by the hostess using seasonal ingredients.
Whenever possible, produce is sourced from nearby farms and the retreat’s own garden.
Allergies can be accommodated, though purely voluntary special diets may not always be possible.
Accommodations
Each accommodation is unique and characterful.
All rooms are of high quality, with comfortable beds and interiors built using natural materials such as timber and stone.
The solid old log structures create a timeless atmosphere of peace and stillness that can be felt with all your senses.
The total price of the retreat depends on your chosen accommodation.
All prices include meals and the full retreat program.
Beds in shared rooms are allocated on site once the final participant list is confirmed.
The Lighthouse of Love
The Lighthouse of Love (Rakkauden majakka) is a unique log-built suite, a handcrafted creation completed in the summer of 2021.
This beautiful octagonal cabin offers both comfort and serenity in perfect harmony.
Upstairs, you’ll find a high-quality double bed, with windows opening to peaceful views of the Lapuanjoki River.
Downstairs, there is a private bathroom with shower, as well as a cozy sitting area.
Outside, your own sun terrace invites you to relax and soak in the stillness of nature.
The old log walls radiate calm and timeless tranquility — this is a truly one-of-a-kind space where you can experience peace in a way that can’t be found elsewhere.
Size: 22 m²
Beds: 1 double bed
Toilet: Private
Shower: Private
Amenities: Coffee maker, electric kettle, refrigerator, underfloor heating, private toilet and shower, private terrace
Retreat price in the Lighthouse of Love: 990€ (incl. VAT 25.5%)
Pictures of the Lighthouse of Love
The Workshop’s Atmosphere Room
The Workshop’s Atmosphere Room (Pajan tunnelmahuone) is a cozy and private space filled with a warm, intimate ambience.
The room features a high-quality double bed, soft mood lighting, and a small sitting nook for relaxation.
Beautifully decorated with a harmonious touch, the room also includes its own rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy peaceful sunsets over the river.
Size: 15 m²
Beds: 1 double bed
Toilet: Private
Shower: Private
Amenities: Coffee maker, electric kettle, refrigerator, private rooftop terrace
Retreat price in the Workshop’s Atmosphere Room: 890€ (incl. VAT 25.5%)
Pictures of The Workshop’s Atmosphere Room
The Riverside Cabin
The Riverside Cabin (Jokimaja) is a romantic little log cottage set right on the riverbank.
Its atmosphere is intimate yet inviting — a perfect place to enjoy your own uninterrupted peace and quiet.
The natural log walls create a soothing and grounding presence, while the cabin’s spacious terrace with chairs sits just above the water, bathed in sunlight for most of the day. From here, you can also watch the sunset over the river in the evening.
Inside, you’ll find a high-quality double bed, a small refrigerator, and a cozy, tranquil ambiance.
Nearby, you’ll have access to shared shower and toilet facilities, the wood-fired sauna, and the swimming area on the river.
Size: 7 m²
Beds: 1 double bed
Toilet: Shared
Shower: Shared
Amenities: Coffee maker, electric kettle, refrigerator, private terrace
Retreat price in the Riverside Cabin: 890€ (incl. VAT 25.5%)
Pictures of The Riverside Cabin
The Little Black Cabin
The Little Black Cabin (Pikkumusta) is a romantic riverside cottage nestled right at the water’s edge.
Its atmosphere is intimate yet cozy — a peaceful retreat where you can fully unwind in your own private silence.
The natural log walls radiate calmness and create a grounding, soothing energy.
Inside, you’ll find a luxurious double bed and a warm, inviting ambiance.
The cabin also features its own terrace with river views, perfect for enjoying quiet mornings or watching the evening light over the water.
Nearby, you’ll have access to shared shower and toilet facilities, the wood-fired sauna, and the swimming area on the river.
Size: 7 m²
Beds: 1 double bed
Toilet: Shared
Shower: Shared
Amenities: Coffee maker, electric kettle, refrigerator, private terrace
Retreat price in the Little Black Cabin: 890€ (incl. VAT 25.5%)
Pictures of The Little Black Cabin
The Magic Chamber
The Magic Chamber (Taikakamari) is located in a beautiful stone-and-log building by the river — the very heart of Rantakeidas.
Its high, arched ceiling looks like something out of The Lord of the Rings, and the room carries a magical energy and serene atmosphere.
Furnished with a double bed, the Magic Chamber opens directly toward the river, offering peaceful water views.
It stays pleasantly cool even on warm summer days, and in winter you can light a fire in the fireplace to create cozy warmth.
The room also includes a small water basin.
Shared shower and toilet facilities are located in a separate building nearby.
In front of the house, there is a large patio area available for all retreat participants to enjoy.
Size: 11 m²
Beds: 1 double bed
Toilet: Shared
Shower: Shared
Amenities: Coffee maker, electric kettle, refrigerator, fireplace
Retreat price in the Magic Chamber: 890€ (incl. VAT 25.5%)
Pictures of The Magic Chamber
Shared Rooms
At Rantakeidas, there are four shared accommodations for 2–4 guests each, offering a total of 10 beds.
These rooms and cabins carry the same idyllic, natural atmosphere and sense of peace as the private lodgings — handcrafted spaces where simplicity, comfort, and harmony meet.
Staying in a shared room offers a beautiful balance between privacy and connection. Many participants find that simply being in silent presence with others deepens their experience and creates a gentle feeling of community without words.
Beds are assigned at the beginning of the retreat once the final participant list is confirmed.
Beds available: 10
Toilet: Shared
Shower: Shared
Amenities: Coffee maker, electric kettle, refrigerator
Retreat price in a Shared Room: 790€ (incl. VAT 25.5%))
Pictures of Shared Rooms
Camper Van Parking
You are warmly welcome to join the retreat while staying in your own camper van or travel vehicle.
This option allows you to enjoy the full retreat experience while resting in the comfort and familiarity of your own space.
All facilities of the retreat center are available to you — including shared toilets, showers, and all common areas. Naturally, meals and the full retreat program are included in the price.
The parking area is surrounded by peaceful countryside and soft greenery. Its located right in the area.
Vehicle spaces available: 4
Toilet: Shared
Shower: Shared
Retreat price in Camper Van Parking: 595€ (incl. VAT 25.5%)
