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Luminous Dark Retreats

First Darkness Retreat in California
Nevada County

Our Darkness Retreat: An Invitation to Raw Transformation in the Heart of Nature

We are not a luxury resort. We are not "the Ritz."

​If you're seeking polished perfection, five-star comforts, or constant connectivity, this may not be for you. But if you're called to profound inner work—to drop societal expectations, reconnect with the elements, and emerge inspired by what's possible when you build from nothing—welcome. This is a sacred space for that.

My wife Sasha, our son Amanita, and I (Moritz) found this raw land in April 2024 after years of wandering and immigration challenges. We dreamed of a debt-free life focused on presence, practice, and connection to the earth. From that vision rose our underground temple: an 18ft earth-bermed dome, hand-built with love over a summer—first with the help of a men's workshop circle, then mostly by hand, using recycled, up-cycled, and natural materials.

This is a living homestead in progress, hosted by a family of three. You'll arrive to a rural forest setting just 10 minutes from town, yet worlds away from city noise. The first sight may be our trailer (our starting home), simple fencing, and a hand-carved wooden sign—authentic markers of off-grid pioneering. We hear birdsong, a nearby creek, occasional barking dogs, or distant chainsaws from neighbours. Cell reception can be spotty, encouraging full unplugging.

The Power of Darkness Here

Our dome is a massive, fireproof stone structure buried in the earth—like an ancient castle, deeply grounding and elemental. Complete darkness amplifies introspection, restful sleep, and visionary states. It's conducive to dropping the need for external perfection and allowing your authentic self to surface.

Yet, like all stone buildings, it's rustic and can feel cool. We're off-grid (solar-powered with generator backup), so on overcast nights, power/hot water may pause until morning when we restart systems—you won't hear the distant generator. Heat is provided (wood furnace plus electric), but not like a modern insulated home. We recommend warm wool layers, comfortable clothing, and embracing hot baths (on-demand water heater) to warm body and soul.

This intensity is part of the medicine: reconnecting with nature's rhythms, trusting spirit, and finding restoration in simplicity.

Safety and Practical Notes

Darkness retreats are profound but require self-responsibility. Navigating in total black carries risks (e.g., bumping head)—we suggest slow movements and provide orientation. 

We check in daily (meals delivered, optional notes), and have emergency protocols (on-site family, SOS button in the dome, though off-grid means no instant 911— we monitor closely). Liability insurance is in place, but guests assume personal risk for this adventurous experience.

The forest's pure energy surrounds you—refreshing for body and soul. Meals are nourishing (customisable for needs, like grounding foods).

Who This Calls To

Adventurous souls ready for rustic authenticity, deep solitude, and inspiration from a homestead built on vision. If you appreciate hand-crafted spaces, elemental living, and the mantra of possibility, you'll feel touched here. Leave expectations of conventional "professionalism" behind; take home transformative energy.

We're grateful for past guests' honesty, guiding us to refine this sacred space. If this resonates, reach out—we'd love to host you.

With love,

 

Sasha, Moritz & Amanita

Inquire & Book your Experience with us!

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