For most of the year we are happy to be able to welcome people interested to experience a monastic environment and learn about Buddhism and the practice of meditation.

Each year Birken has a three month Winter Retreat. During this time (roughly: January to March) limited reservations are taken as the resident community dedicates itself to silent practice. For the remaining nine months of the year, Birken welcomes guests.

Most of our guests come for periods ranging from overnight to a few days. First-time retreatants are limited to stays of 10 days. (These guests may request an extension to their stay from the Abbot during this 10-day period.)

Longer periods of retreat are possible at the discretion of the Abbot, and according to the availability of space. Except with permission of the Abbot, guests' visits are limited to a total of 30 days per year.

Day-visits to Birken are also possible. (The exceptions to this are the period of the Winter Retreat and during our Scheduled Retreats.)