Our purpose
Castaway exists to create space — space to slow down, listen, and see life through God’s eyes again.
Castaway is about renewal of heart, mind, and perspective — without rush, without pressure.
Surrounded by pine forests, olive trees, and the deep blue Aegean Sea, this retreat invites you to step away from noise and pressure, immerse yourself in God’s Word, and experience the beauty of His creation. At the same time, you’ll connect with others who share similar values and a desire for authentic Christian community.
What to
expect
A balanced daily rhythm
Each day follows a healthy and meaningful flow.
Daily Rhythm
Each day follows a gentle, life-giving rhythm
- Morning: Bible teaching session after breakfast
- Midday: Lunch followed by rest or free time
- Afternoons: 3 afternoons per week: organized recreational activities
- Other days: free time for beach, town, rest, or personal reflection
- Evenings: Community time, relaxed gatherings, or evenings out in Skopelos town
Activities & Experiences
Depending on group interests, activities may include
- Kayaking, snorkeling, free diving
- Sailing and motor boating
- Scenic forest walks and biking routes
- Glass-bottom boat trips to nearby islands
- Optional scuba diving (including shipwrecks and archaeological marine parks)
- Diving lessons for beginners or certification seekers
Some activities involve third-party providers and are optional.
our Location
Skopelos Island Greece
Secluded beaches & crystal-clear waters
Evergreen pine forests & rugged mountains
It’s the perfect place to retreat, reflect, and rediscover God’s presence.
dates & costs
Program
Included in the price
What’s Included
- Accommodation at the Olive Grove – Christian Center
- All meals (family-style Greek cuisine)
- Pickup & drop-off at Skopelos ferry port
- Group activities & island tours (3× per week)
Not included
- Rentals or tickets from third-party providers.
program
Castaway
program
Castaway
*shared, same gender adults **accommodation only, suitable for family of 4 | 20 € per person/day for meals Children under 6 years are free
More Details
Accommodation & Meals
You’ll stay at the Olive Grove – Christian Center, surrounded by peaceful greenery.
Accommodation Options
- Treehouses: Cozy glamping-style accommodation set among olive trees
- Studio Apartments: Shared apartments for 4–6 guests, with en-suite bathroom, kitchenette & AC
Meals
- Fresh Greek-style meals
- Served in a warm, family-style atmosphere
- Shared dining that encourages connection and conversation
good to know
Who can join?
Participants usually range from 20–50 years, including singles and couples, from diverse backgrounds.
- Open to all ages, including families with children
- Most guests are singles aged 20–40, though the broader range is 25–55
- Exclusive group bookings (churches, leadership teams, youth groups) available
- Custom programs & special group rates on request
FAQ about the Castaway program
Who are these programs for?
Anyone desiring to experience our Christian community, wants to learn more about God and enjoy His creation.
Where do most people come from?
Largely from central Europe, however, there is an increasing number of North Americans and other nationalities from English speaking countries.
What is the average age of guests?
Most guests are between 25 & 55, however, both younger and older than this do regularly attend.
How many usually attend?
An average group size is about 24 guests and about 4 staff
What language is spoken?
Most programs are in English, exclusive groups will run programs in their own languages these being usually Greek or German.
What is the weather like during the programs?
Warm sunny days are characteristic during Spring and Autumn, with occasional showers. Average temperature 25 – 30 deg. Celsius during the day and 20 – 25 deg. Celsius at night. Summer months are quite hot with temperatures in the mid 30’s day and night. for more detail see www.poseidon.ncmr.gr
What should I bring with me?
Toiletries and personal effects as well as a beach towel. Bedding is provided. A more detailed list will be sent which will be more relevant to the particular program you wish to join.
What other costs might I have?
Souvenirs, meals at a Greek taverna, drinks/sweets at a cafe, rental of bike/car, boat or ferry.
When do the programs start and finish?
It is prefered that guests arrive between 16:00 & 20:00 we start with the evening meal on the day of arrival and finish with breakfast of the last day. The accomodations should be vacated by 10:00 on the day of departure.
What are the accommodations like?
At the moment they are treehouses in our olive grove from single to 3triple beds in the smaller ones set up in single trees and 6 -8 in the larger decks between a few trees. Studio apartments should be ready by summer of 2026. These accommodate 4 – 6 persons. The have on-suite bathrooms and kitchenette.
Voltage at mains?
European standard 230 volts, if you bring appliances from North America you may require a voltage transformer and plug adaptor.
Will accommodation be available if I came earlier or stayed longer?
This may be possible if arranged prior to arrival.
Are there Special dietary foods available?
Our kitchen cannot guarantee it can cope with all that is required for special dietary needs at this point, however, if the cooks are informed of your need they will do whatever possible to help. You may need to consider supplementing meals with what you need from the local supermarket.
Can I make purchases with credit cards?
This is now possible at most gift and clothing shops, tavernas, fast food places and kiosks.
Who will arrange my flight to Greece?
You can do this yourself via the internet or get help from your travel agent. See “finding us” for details as to how to get to here.
What is the best airport to fly into?
Either Athens or Thessaloniki will work as we are half way between these two. The closest, however, is the airport on Skiathos island where many international charter flights now fly into and the next closest is just out of Volos.
Transport costs from the airport to the Sporades islands?
Thessaloniki or Athens to Volos is approximately a five hour trip by train or bus costing approx. 40 euro. See www.bahn.de for train info. & www.ktel.org for bus info. Then the ferry from Volos to Skopelos island is approximately a three hours ride costing approx. 40 euro.
What currency is used?
The Euro. You can find the exchange rates on this website
Regarding Insurance?
You will need to have your own health and accident insurance cover whilst here. There are various companies offering travel insurance at low cost, check out the internet or your travel agent.
How do I apply?
Go to our Reservations page fill in the online form and send. It will come to our email address for us to inform you as to whether there are still places left and what steps to take next.
How and when do I pay?
To reserve your place in our programs you will need to send us 50% of the full amount. This deposit to secure your place is not refundable upon cancellation whatever the reason. The full contribution should then be made 30 days before the start of the trip. No refunds are made after start date of program. To make you payment, see our “making payments” page under useful info on our website.
Still have questions?
Deciding on a Bible school or a retreat often raises many questions—whether it’s about traveling to Skopelos, the program details, or life in the community. Please don’t hesitate to contact us! Theo and Sandra are happy to help and will personally answer any questions you may have.