Ervaar de stilte, de ruimte en het ritme van het kloosterleven.
Zoek je een moment van bezinning, rust en verdieping? Tijdens een stilte retraite bij Nijkleaster – Klooster Westerhûs, georganiseerd door Nijkleaster, maak je ruimte voor jezelf. Weg van de drukte van alledag, te midden van het uitgestrekte Friese landschap, vind je een plek waar stilte mag spreken.

What is a silence retreat?

A silence retreat is a period of stillness in which you withdraw from everyday life. At Klooster Westerhûs this means:
- living to the rhythm of the monastery (prayer, silence, walking)
- simple meals
- space for personal reflection
- silence with attention - not as emptiness, but as source of life

Stilte retraite Friesland

Klooster Westerhûs is located in the middle of the Frisian mound landscape, near Jorwert. The place exudes simplicity, history and hospitality. Together with the monastic community, an old monastic tradition is given a contemporary twist here.

• Authentic monastic feeling, without imposed religious framework
• Open to all, believing or seeking
• Small-scale, personal and carried by silence
• Prachtige wandelroutes vanuit het klooster door het Friese weideland

Programma van de retraite in Friesland

Each stay at Klooster Westerhûs has a set rhythm, including:
- Morning, afternoon and evening prayers
- Vegetarian meals
- Meditative walks or time for yourself
- Opportunity for conversation (pastoral or spiritual)
- Free time to read, write or just be

❓ Frequently asked questions about a silence retreat at Klooster Westerhûs

1. What is a silence retreat at Klooster Westerhûs?A silence retreat at Klooster Westerhûs is a restful time of reflection and stillness, where you completely withdraw from everyday life. In the serene atmosphere of the monastery you experience the power of silence, contemplation and connection.
2. Why do people choose a retreat at Klooster Westerhûs?Visitors choose Klooster Westerhûs because of the authentic monastic atmosphere, the peaceful nature surrounding the monastery and the space for silence. It is a place to let go, catch your breath and reconnect with yourself.
3. How long is a silence retreat with you?At Klooster Westerhûs you can choose from different lengths of stay: from a weekend to midweek. You decide how long you want to seek silence.
4. What does "silence" mean during the retreat?During the retreat at Westerhûs, there is generally no talking except during practical moments or guidance. The silence helps to calm down and make space for inner reflection.
5. Do I have to be religious to participate?No, a silence retreat at Klooster Westerhûs is open to everyone, regardless of religious background. The atmosphere is inspired by monastic values such as simplicity, silence and hospitality, but there are no religious obligations.
6. What can I expect from a day during the retreat?A day consists of set rhythms with moments of silence, rest, walks in nature, simple meals and space for meditation or prayer.
7. Are phones and other devices allowed?We recommend not using digital devices during your stay. This helps to really disconnect from outside stimuli and fully experience the silence.
8. What should I bring to the retreat?Bring comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, toiletries and a notebook if necessary. Books or journals are welcome; please do not use laptops and phones during your stay.
9. What does a silence retreat at Klooster Westerhûs cost?Costs vary depending on the duration and type of stay. Klooster Westerhûs works with a fixed price per night including meals. Feel free to inquire about current rates.
10. Can I also stay individually, without a group?Yes, individual silence retreats are possible. You then stay independently in silence, with or without guidance, depending on your preference.
11. Kun je ook wandelen vanuit het klooster? Vanuit het klooster loop je direct het Odulphuspad en het Jabikspaad. Daarnaast zijn er veel mooie wandelroutes in de omgeving van Nijkleaster.

Practical information

- 📍 Location: Nijkleaster - Monastery Westerhûs, Friesland
- 📅 Duration: usually 2 to 5 days
- 🧘‍♀️ For whom: anyone longing for peace, depth or silence
- 🛏️ Overnight stay in simple modern guest room
- 🍲 Meals are vegetarian and prepared with care and love

Come to yourself. Come to silence. Come to Monastery Westerhûs.