The Ayers Center for Spiritual Development - Sewanee, Tennessee

Heath K.

Spending a week of solitude here was the most productive thing I’ve done all year. Beautiful view and grounds and a welcoming staff. It was my first ever quiet retreat, and I hope to make it at least an annual occurrence. A heartfelt thank you to all who make this place possible.

Waterfall Y. T.

An incredible experience here for a yoga retreat. The food was delicious, thoughtful, and made with love. The rooms were comfortable and spacious. The staff was delightful and the views, particularly the sunsets are magnificent. If you are looking to retreat for quiet reflection you will enjoy the vast beauty, the silence, the simple, the history, and the soothing energy at St Mary Sewanee.

Nicole T.

There are truly no words to describe the beauty, peace, and historical sights to see here. The views overlooking the bluff are memorizing. The statues throughout, as well as the calming maze, all the way to the cemetery, even including some very interesting looking trees, were so incredibly interesting and had such a calming atmosphere. If you haven’t seen it, it’s truly a rare gem to see!

Todd ?. T. M.

One of the most beautiful overlooks in this area to meditate. A "Tipster Todd 👣 5 Star Fav!" If you do visit, it would be best to stop into the administration office to ask permission to stroll the grounds, as they may close it to public access on occasion. Please be very respectful and quiet so as not to disturb others. I find this to be a very spiritual setting with spectacular views. God Bless. 🙏 (Be sure to hit that "follow" button to see all my latest reviews and pics!)

Angelique A.

I was here for a meditation retreat. I LOVED the location. Thr rooms were comfortable, the views were amazing (late October) and the food was excellent. I fell in love with the on-site labyrinth (I walked it 4 times) in two days!

Jamie G.

We made a visit to St. Mary's for a church retreat and had a wonderful experience. The grounds are just beautiful with an incredible view of the cove below. We stayed in Anna's house. The rooms are nicely appointed and clean. One note, the rooms do not have TVs. That is a plus in my eyes because TV is not what you come to St. Mary's far. It's to get away from as many distractions as you can.

The grounds have a number of different benches and spots to sit and read, reflect and pray.

We were served three meals and all three were very good with many compliments from our group. I hope we can return some day and hopefully partake in one of their many retreats that they hope.

Adam H.

St. Mary's Sewanee: The Ayers Center for Spiritual Development enjoys one of the premier bluff vistas in the Sewanee area. The retreat center staff are warm and welcoming of people from all backgrounds, and it is an ideal setting to reflect, move inward, and let everything go. Many times I have also enjoyed the stunning sunsets that the bluff generates, transitioning into an unforgettable star-lit nighttime sky so unfamiliar to this Nashvillian. Beyond all of that, however, the true calling of this place is as a thin-place where spirit grows close and whispers in our ears. Once you arrive, be prepared to be hooked, and wish to return again and again.

Will R.

St. Mary’s is not only beautiful and serene, but has long been honored as a sacred place. The retreat center continues in that tradition, and welcomes all who seek quiet reflection and spiritual engagement. I have felt calmed and uplifted on every visit I have made to St. Mary’s over 5 years, both for retreats and meetings as well as for individual times of silence and retreat.