WinShape Retreat is a caring, safe place for growth and transformation. It sits atop 40 acres of unspoiled mountain wilderness, serenely nestled within a national wildlife refuge in beautiful Rome, Georgia.

In this ideal setting, individuals and groups alike, can seek refuge from the frantic pace of daily life. WinShape Retreat's setting is sequestered from the outside world for a season of focus, refreshment and restoration.

WinShape Retreat offers a "media free" environment which encourages the opportunity to step away from the busy pace and hectic demand of life. You will not find a TV, telephone or Internet connection in a WinShape room. Whether you take an adventurous hike up one of the wilderness trails, or a romantic stroll along a lakeside path, you'll find peaceful seclusion shared only with the curious deer and the occasional wild turkey.

The hilltop retreat center is itself a place of peace and beauty. Made of white-washed, hand-made bricks, red tile roofs and spires that point to the heavens, the entire complex was designed to resemble Normandy, France.

There are beautifully decorated bed & breakfast suites, as well as a larger, 62-room campus-style retreat center. WinShape Retreat offers a gift shop and a fitness facility. In addition, group leaders are encouraged to schedule time for the group to enjoy the Cafe, pottery making, massages and even bon fires. At WinShape Retreat you'll find:

Hiking Trails
Hiking through the trails around Lavender Mountain is both beautiful and relaxing. One moderate hike begins at the world-renowned Old Mill and ends at Berry College Reservoir. The out and back trail takes you through the forest and past meadows and covers just over two miles. If you desire a longer adventure, there are many loops to choose from, ranging from 3 to 10 miles.
Bike Trails
See the beautiful Berry College Mountain Campus by bike. The campus is laden with miles of trails. Be sure to stop by Possum Trot, also referred to as "the birthplace of Berry College," where Martha Berry began teaching mountain children Sunday school lessons. WinShape has limited bikes for rental, but we encourage you to bring your own.
Hay Rides
The hayride remains a staple of special outings and romantic retreats for a very good reason: it's a lot of fun! A tractor-pulled wagon stuffed with sweet, soft hay is a time-honored way to enjoy the open air and lush mountain scenery. Hayrides are ideal for Romantic Adventures, or any couples or women's retreat. Those planning such events are encouraged to notify WinShape Retreat at least two weeks in advance if a hayride is desired, as they are based on availability.
Horseback Riding
Sometimes the best way to experience the true wilderness is on horseback. Horseback riding is a great addition to any retreat. WinShape offers traditional trail rides with one guide for every six riders. Both novice riders and experts are welcome to participate. Event planners are encouraged to notify WinShape Retreat at least two weeks in advance if horseback riding is desired, as it is based on availability.

Ropes Course
The WinShape Wilderness ropes course is an important component in many of our programs. It's a great area for team-building exercises, designed to strengthen and foster growth in terms of trust, communication, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Ropes activities should be embraced in a spirit of mutual encouragement, where every accomplishment is celebrated.

Ropes activities start light, on the ground. Physical limitations are not an issue at this point. Even pregnant women can participate! If you can walk, you have all the skills you need to join in at this level.

The course gradually progresses, higher and higher. You don't have to be an athlete to participate, but the activities are physical in nature. However, you're never forced to go farther than you want to; where you stop is always up to you. There are points along the way where pregnant women and those with physical limitations should not proceed.
Sight-seeing drive
With 28,000 acres of campus, there is so much to see at Berry College. What better way than to take a driving tour of this corner of God's wonderful creation. Sights along the tour include Frost Chapel, the Old Mill, the House o' Dreams, and the Berry College Reservoir. (Those wishing to take a drive to the House o' Dreams and the Reservoir must have prior arrangements because these sites are on gated forest access roads that are otherwise locked. However, these sites are always accessible by hiking.)
Oak Hill
Tour Oak Hill and the Martha Berry Museum and get a taste of what Berry is all about. Oak Hill is the colonial revival home of Berry College founder, Martha Berry. Come see the beautiful home and immaculate gardens. Experience the fascinating history inside Berry Museum. The is the perfect place to catch the vision of Martha Berry, and to see how that vision has, and is, becoming a reality.