Whispers of the Forest October 16th - 18th, 2026
Join us in a playful and imaginative exploration of art-making, movement, meditations, circles and heart-centred musings that centre the trees as inspirational beings, teachers and companions.
Held among the forests and rolling meadows of Fells Meadows, this retreat offers time to slow down, listen deeply and experience the quiet presence of the trees.
Facilitators: Julia Aplin & Leslie Fell (Testimonials below)
A Journey and Connection with Trees
This retreat is for people who are curious to explore arts-based imaginative ways of attuning to self and others and to attentively experience the sentience and beauty of the living world. Together we will explore creative and embodied ways of connecting with the forest.
At this retreat, Julia will share her movement meditation practice that explores the teachings of the Celtic Ogham, the ancient druidic alphabet of the trees, offer her practices of befriending and listening to trees and creatively collaborate with you to find ways to behold and honour the magnificent grandmother trees, the quiet forests and the rolling lands of Fell’s Meadows. Leslie will guide meditation, nature walks, circles and a Dream Council, a reflective space where we can share dreams, insights and experiences related to trees and nature. She’ll introduce you to the young and wise elder trees located on the property. We’ll then invite quiet moments of listening and presence with them.
Together we will create a welcoming space where creativity, peace and meaningful connection can unfold. We guarantee this retreat to be a time and space full of joy, peace and connection.
You will have the opportunity to:
- Experience relational practices with trees
- Explore symbolism and mythology of tree teachings
- Deepen your connection with the land and trees
- Allow a sense of joy and wonder in relation to others
- Wander into wild creativity and be part of inspiring circles and councils
- Join in a playful forest parade and spontaneous dance
- Engage in movement meditations inspired by the Celtic Ogham
- Create a supportive connection with others
- Bring awareness to our living world
Our Facilitators
Julia Aplin
Julia has been studying and practicing art-making for over 40 years. Julia is an experienced hiker, canoe tripper with an AQ from the Ontario College of Teachers in Outdoor Education, a diploma in Environmental Education and Remote First Aid certification. She holds a Masters of Environmental Studies and her research focuses on embodiment and kinship through human and tree relations. She has led outdoor performances, forest retreats and tree workshops through organizations such as LEAF, Guelph University, York University, Urbanvessel, Moonhorse Dance, Wild Soma and Dusk Dances as well as her own practice, Upward Spiral.
Leslie Fell
Leslie has 40+ years of experience in health, community care and philanthropy. She has a degree in Rehabilitation Medicine, a Masters Degree in Community Health, and leadership experience with senior management roles in areas of rehabilitation, community development, wellness and research. Travel abroad and connection with scholars and indigenous elders profoundly influenced her life. She then moved from Toronto to Northumberland County and created Fells Meadows, a sanctuary space which protects the land and enables people to have a place to rejuvenate in nature, with each other and within. It is the spirit of the trees that called her to the property in Castleton. She is the founder of the registered Canadian charity Living Ways Foundation.
“The Whispers of the Forest retreat reconnected me with the forest, my ancestors and my love for dance. It was magical. I felt loved and valued. Fells Meadows really nurtures through nature.” - M. Mackay
“Calling all tree huggers: don’t miss this next level amp-up held with such integrity and joy in the blissful, loving and nourishing cocoon of Fells Meadows.” - Alice K
Others described their experience at the Oct 2025 Whispers of the Forest Retreat as:
“It was wonder-full! It deepened my connection as well as love and respect for the awesome beings who supply our lungs with the breath of life.”
“Absolutely delightful.”
“It was sacred”.
Details
Accommodations when booking a shared or private room or cabin (linens provided)
Six Delicious Home-made Meals
Private on a tranquil 100-acre country property in Northumberland County, between Toronto and Kingston where the trees and all nature is treasured, honoured and cared for.
An exquisite weekend retreat led by two experienced facilitators. Details noted in tab above.
Fells Meadows Farms is a tranquil 100-acre country property in Northumberland County, between Toronto and Kingston.
Easily reach us from major areas:
Toronto: 75 minutes east of Toronto
Kingston: 75 minutes west of Kingston
Ottawa: 3 hours southwest of Ottawa
Peterborough: 45 minutes southeast of Peterborough
Toronto Pearson Airport: 90 minutes east of Toronto Pearson Airport
Dates: Friday Oct 16th - Sunday Oct 18th, 2026
Schedule:
Arrival: Friday between 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Welcome Circle 5:30 pm
Optional early arrival on Thursday for an additional fee.
Departure: Sunday at 3:00 p.m.
Option to extend your stay beyond the retreat for an additional fee.
If you want to hear about the more detailed schedule please email info@fellsmeadows.com
Meals: Six delicious, homemade meals.
Group Size: Limited spots available, first come, first served.
Investment
Shared Accommodations (Farmhouse or Cabin, limited number)
- Early Bird: $660 (until August 15, 2026)
- Regular: $725 (as of August 16, 2026 )
Private Accommodations (Cabin or Farmhouse, limited number)
- Early Bird: $830 (until August 15, 2026 )
- Regular: $895 (as of August 16, 2026)
A limited number of spaces without accommodations are available for those whose circumstances prevent them from staying on site.
- Early Bird: $595 (until August 15, 2026)
- Regular: $660 (as of August 16, 2026)
All prices are subject to HST.
Accommodations are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration Policies:
Please complete the registration form. An invoice will be sent to you for a 50 % deposit confirming your spot upon your registration and an invoice for the balance is due by Sept 15th, 2026.
Deposit Amount Early Bird
Shared $373. Private $469. No Accommodations $337.
Deposit amounts Regular
Shared $410. Private $506. No Accommodations $373.
A minimum of 7 participants is required. If fewer than 7 book, deposits will be refunded. If the facilitator(s) needs to cancel for any reason, participants will receive a full refund. Participants must agree to the house rules and financial & cancellation policy, and sign a waiver upon arrival (insurance requirement).
Please see the website for photos and details.
Other Fells Meadows Facilitated Retreats
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Women’s Circle Weekend
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