Mission

Seva Retreat’s luxurious accommodations make it a premier destination for wellness retreats near Philadelphia, PA.

Seated on 42 historic acres in a quiet suburb, the Elkins Estate  boasts walking trails, sculpted gardens, soft waterfalls, and the soothing sounds of a winding stream just 10 miles from Center City, Philadelphia.

Seva Retreat at the Elkins Estate offers a warm, nurturing and comfortable environment to facilitate education and healing for group retreats from 8 to 225 people.  Your retreat guests will enjoy 42 acres of beautiful grounds and walking paths, two ponds, organic gardens and more.  

Our accommodations range from private suites in historic mansions to private dorm rooms to shared rooms with shared bathrooms; we work with every budget.   We customize our pricing and packages based on your group’s unique needs.

Seva Retreat History

Seva Retreat at The Elkins Estate is seated on a private 42-acre oasis just outside the northern border of Philadelphia, PA. Designed and built as the summer home of 19th century entrepreneur and philanthropist William L.  Elkins and his family.

The Estate features two historic mansions, designed by renowned architect Horace Trumbauer. A gentle stream traverses the grounds and gathers in two tranquil ponds, and the charming rose, mediation, and organic gardens and labyrinth offer places for quiet reflection.

Sold in 1932 to the order of the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine de Ricci, the Estate operated as a convent and women’s retreat for 75 years until financial pressures forced them to sell the beautiful Estate in 2008.
 
To save this historic property at auction from certain demolition and development, Land Conservancy of Elkins Park, Inc. was formed to adapt it for re-use as a health and wellness education and group retreat center.

We look forward to hosting your overnight retreat, workshop or conference.