A Transformation in 2009

The Pepper Tree Retreat facilities have recently been renovated and reconfigured; the Retreat now features refurbished guest rooms, a new quiet room, a large meeting hall, and new landscaping.

Relax and Enjoy!

Pepper Tree Retreat is an oasis for the mind. It is a tranquil setting where individuals, couples, and friends can relax, enjoy the beauty of the Ojai Valley, and establish a new relationship with life.

“It is essential sometimes to go into retreat, to stop everything that you have been doing, to stop your experiences completely and look at them anew, not keep on repeating them like machines.  You would then let fresh air into your mind.  Wouldn’t you?

“This place must be of great beauty with trees, birds, and quietness, for beauty is truth and truth is goodness and love.”

                        --Krishnamurti

If you are looking for a place to relax, reflect on life and “let fresh air into your mind,” the Oak Grove Retreat in Ojai is that place.

Meeting Room

The Meeting Room is adaptable for yoga, corporate events or social gatherings.

What is the Oak Grove Retreat?

Oak Grove Retreat is available as quiet accommodations for any individual, couple, or small group wanting to enjoy the beauty of Ojai in a quiet, relaxing atmosphere.  The Retreat is inspired by Krishnamurti’s penetrating insights into what he called “the art of living.”

Oak Grove Retreat is an oasis of peace and serenity that complements its natural setting.  The tranquil beauty and subtle sounds of the Ojai Valley can best be appreciated with a quiet mind.  That is why the Oak Grove Retreat has no television, no amplified music, no bright lights. It is a true retreat.  Guests are encouraged to relax in the garden, take walks, and use their time on the premises for reflection and exploration of relationships.  Of course, guests can balance their time at the retreat by partaking of all the Ojai Valley has to offer.  The retreat staff can advise guests on a variety of cultural, recreational, and healthful activities in the Ojai Valley. 

A Home of Historical Significance  

Oak Grove Retreat is the former home of philosopher J. Krishnamurti, perhaps Ojai’s most famous resident.  Krishnamurti lived here from 1922 to 1986, welcoming visitors from around the world who were challenged by his penetrating inquiries into the fundamental questions of life.  These included such 20th Century luminaries as  Annie Besant, Aldous Huxley, John Barrymore, Greta Garbo, David Bohm, Dr. Jonas Salk, D.H. Lawrence, Jackson Pollack, Igor Stravinsky, The Beatles, and many others.  The retreat guest rooms are named after these visitors, some of whom stayed in the rooms that are named for them.

The original two buildings on the property, Pine Cottage and Arya Vihara, have been designated historic structures by the Ventura County Historic Preservation Commission. These two buildings were constructed in 1895 and 1910 respectively, but gained historic significance as the home and teaching center for Krishnamurti. 

Guests at Oak Grove Retreat enjoy:

• quiet, relaxing days in a vintage 1910 farmhouse, reminiscent of the days when folks came to Ojai to smell the orange blossoms, listen to the humming of bees, and enjoy the cool breezes descending from the canyons.

• simple but comfortable accommodations in one of Ojai’s most historic homes.  All rooms have a private bath, writing desk, wi-fi connectivity, and air conditioning.

• a large front porch, trellised outdoor dining area, relaxing gardens, and spectacular views.

• access to a large, shared kitchen.  Two rooms have their own kitchenette.

• numerous public rooms and outdoor meeting areas for informal conversation and small group meetings.

• breakfast is served each morning, and guests can make tea or coffee at any time in our kitchen.

• access to the nearby Krishnamurti library, where guests can draw inspiration from Krishnamurti’s insights into life.

• an ongoing schedule of classes: yoga, vegetarian cooking, dialogue groups, etc.  See our website for a schedule.

Whatever your needs--from an iron to a toothbrush--our attentive staff will do its best to insure that you have an enjoyable and relaxing stay at Oak Grove Retreat.

Please note: because we are a quiet, healthful retreat, Oak Grove Retreat:

• does not have television, radio, amplified music or other loud entertainment. 

• does not serve alcohol or allow smoking on the premises. 

• is a strictly vegetarian retreat; we do not serve meat and request that you do not cook or consume meat on the premises.

 The following are rates as of Spring 2009:

Please call or email for more information and room availability

(805)798-4111

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