Shrine Mont

A few weeks ago I attended a church retreat at Shrine Mont in Orkney Springs, Virginia, a beautiful retreat center nestled in the Shenandoah Valley. We had a free afternoon, which I spent exploring the grounds and taking a hike up to the Cross. The site originally operated as a resort spa in the 19th century, where one could "take the waters," and today the original building is on the National Register of Historic Places.

My room was in the Maryland House, seen here.

A view of the Virginia House, which has the dining hall and meeting rooms.

Lots of picturesque scenery.

This is the Orkney Spring. I did not sample the waters.

The site is also home to the Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration. I assume it's named after the Transfiguration because it's on the side of a mountain. It is absolutely stunning, and I spent some time sitting here, taking in the beauty.

There is also a small indoor chapel.

A chair made out of rock.

The Cathedral is the start of the hike up to the Cross.

Along the trail were the Stations of the Cross. As a Protestant, I've never really been exposed to this before, but it was a good opportunity for quiet reflection and meditation.

After reaching the top of the mountain, there's an additional climb up to the Cross.

The platform offers views of West Virginia (which is barely visible through the fog).

Afterwards, I was very grateful to sit down and rest my feet!