Fall 2020

Rural Retreat: Discovering Food and Farming at 6Oaks

Photo Credit: Sigrun Strangmann Photography

Participants enjoyed an intimate retreat in rural Germany, designed to explore and discover sustainable food and farming systems while experiencing tranquility in a small farm community. Accompanied by a professional chef, they explored local farms and met local producers. Activities included cooking and baking workshops led by experts in food and farming, along with ample time to relax in a contemporary house set in a peaceful rural environment.

3-night Retreat to Discover Food & Farm Life in Rural Germany

6Oaks, a rural, modernized farm near Oldenburg, Germany, served as the retreat location. This historic farm, founded in 1850 and used as a working farm until 1881, is now a seminar and workshop retreat creating a space for creative thinking and idea exchange. The facility includes 10 beds, a generous living space, and a fully equipped kitchen designed for cooking classes and food-related workshops. 6Oaks has partnered with independent, ethically minded producers and artisans, redefining the region by producing sustainable products for future generations.

Experiences Included:

• Enjoying a tranquil rural retreat in a stylish and modern facility at the historic 6Oaks farm.

• Learning about the history of food and farming in the region and developing a deeper intellectual understanding of the system.

• Meeting farmers and food producers who are creating more sustainable food models and learning how to cook delicious meals using local ingredients.

• Building meaningful relationships with fellow participants through shared experiences and creating a common language based on these interactions.

The retreat provided a profound learning journey into local food systems, emphasizing the connection between the health of the mind and nature.