☀️1 SPACE REMAINING☀️ OR: Save the date for June 20-27th, 2027!
Embark on a transformative midsummer journey to Gotland, Sweden, with Valarie Budayr and Lars Howlett. This year, we invite you to explore the labyrinth as a gateway to creative compassion amidst the island’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
This retreat is a celebration of midsummer magic, where the ancient labyrinths of Gotland become pathways to unlock your creative potential. Through reflective walks, artistic exploration, and meaningful rituals, you’ll discover how the labyrinth can inspire new perspectives and awaken your symbolic imagination.
We'll visit inspiring art studios, savor the beauty of Swedish midsummer traditions, and find the keys to the transformative power of art. Each day offers a unique blend of exploration, creativity, and connection, designed to nurture your spirit and ignite your imagination.
Explore Gotland’s Labyrinths and Sacred Sites
Step into the ancient Trojaborg labyrinths and other sacred spaces, where myths and stories are etched into the stones. These meditative walks will guide you inward, offering moments of clarity, inspiration, and transformation.
Creative Mandala and Collage Sessions
Engage in hands-on creative practices, including mandala drawing, coloring and collage. These sessions will help you channel your inner wisdom into tangible, meaningful art, reflecting the sacred geometry of nature.
Celebrate Swedish Midsummer
Experience the joy of midsummer traditions, from dancing around the maypole to walking the labyrinth under the solstice sun. This celebration of light and life will deepen your connection to the rhythms of nature and the spirit of Gotland.
A Historic and Inspiring Setting
Stay in a charming 12th-century hotel in the heart of Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our gatherings will take place in an ethereal Gothic cathedral ruin, blending history, creativity, and inspiration in a truly magical setting.
Labyrinth Soul Songs and Reflections
Let the meditative melodies of Labyrinth Soul Songs guide your journey. These reflective tunes, inspired by Gotland’s traditions, will resonate deeply as you explore the labyrinth’s mysteries and your own creative potential.
Valarie Budayr / Mongata
Through her diverse expertise and heartfelt dedication, Valarie creates empowering experiences that support personal growth, self-discovery, and the honoring of sacred traditions. Whether leading labyrinth journeys, facilitating breathwork sessions, or curating retreats, she invites others to step into deeper alignment with their true selves and the world’s cherished stories.
Valarie’s ancestral roots run deep in Gotland, her family’s homeland, where she spends nearly every summer immersed in the island’s stunning beauty and timeless traditions. It is here that she finds inspiration, sharing and preserving Gotland’s unique customs and heritage. Her deep love for cultural traditions extends beyond Gotland to include the songs and stories of Karelia and the Baltic Region, which she has studied extensively.
Fluent in nine languages, Valarie embodies a global perspective that informs her work and her teachings. Since 2012, she has had the privilege of guiding Sacred Site Retreats in Scotland, France, Spain, Iceland, Norway, New Mexico, Alaska, and many other destinations in the United States, helping participants connect with the living landscape, the spiritual, and historical significance of these extraordinary places.
Valarie Budayr is a dedicated Teacher/Guide, celebrated Author, Board Certified Sound Therapist, Clinical Musician, Trauma-Certified Breathwork Facilitator, Veriditas Labyrinth Facilitator, SoulCollage® Facilitator, Transformational Human Design Coach, and Labyrinth Builder. With a deep passion for weaving together ancient wisdom and modern practices, she helps others explore transformation, healing, and connection to self and the world around them.
Lars Howlett / Discover Labyrinths
Lars Howlett is a leading expert in the design and creation of sacred space for walking meditation, centering prayer, personal healing, conflict resolution and community building. Lars is a practitioner of mindfulness and student of sacred geometry since 2003, experimenting with a wide variety of designs, materials, intentions and settings in his personal and professional projects. Universities, churches, health centers, retirement communities, mental health centers, retreats, and individuals find Lars for inspiration and insight in creating exact replicas of historical patterns or one-of-a-kind artistic installations.
Lars was a three year apprentice to Robert Ferré, inheriting the tools, techniques, and teaching curriculum of a master builder. Lars is a Veriditas Faculty Member and Certified Advanced Labyrinth Facilitator trained by the Reverend Dr. Lauren Artress at Grace and Chartres Cathedrals. He was the Chairperson of World Labyrinth Day from 2013-18.
Lars is an inspiring teacher and passionate speaker on the history, spirituality, and practice of walking labyrinths, leading workshops to cultivate inner wisdom for personal transformation with slideshows of personal projects and visits to sacred sites on four continents.
Our retreat will be hosted in the charming inner city of Visby, Gotland, at the beautiful and family-owned, Hotel St. Clemens. Nestled within the historic city walls, this unique hotel is comprised of five historical buildings located beside the lush Botanical Garden and the stunning cathedral. The 12th-century Gothic cathedral ruin attached to the hotel will serve as our inspiring classroom and gathering space, adding a touch of timeless magic to our sessions. As Gotland’s first environmentally labeled hotel, it offers three-star accommodations that blend sustainability with comfort, providing the perfect setting for our soulful midsummer gathering.
Hotel St. Clemens is the number one rated hotel in Visby on Trip Advisor and has won it's Travellers' Choice Award for ten consecutive years!
Please take the time to read and understand the Terms & Conditions detailed below prior to booking your trip. If you decide to book the trip and pay your deposit (fully refundable until January 15th, 2026) you are providing consent and agreement to these Terms & Conditions. You will be required to acknowledge certain aspects of the Terms & Conditions during the registration process.
1. Your Payment or Deposit is Your Contract
When you register for Creative Compassion through the Labyrinth: A Swedish Midsummer Retreat in Gotland Sweden via either payment in full or a $300 per person deposit, you will be deemed to have agreed to these Terms & Conditions. Your booking deposit, together with (a) these Terms & Conditions and (b) the trip details regarding this retreat listed on the WeTravel website will constitute a legally binding contract between you and Mongata Healing Center & Discover Labyrinths (herein collectively referred to as Retreat Leaders). (Note: If you book a trip for multiple people traveling together, then all travelers in that booking will be deemed to have read and agreed to the Terms & Conditions, and to be parties to this Agreement.)
2. Payment
In order to confirm your booking with us, you may choose to either pay in full with $300 per person of your payment a refundable (until January 15th, 2026) as outlined in Section 8 Cancellation by Traveler, or pay via a payment plan, starting with a $300 refundable per person deposit (until January 15th, 2026) toward the total price of your trip. Early bird prices are in effect until February 17th, when prices return to Standard Rates.
3. Payment Plan
If you select a payment plan when you register for the trip, the balance due (package price minus the first payment of a $300 per person refundable deposit, until January 15th, 2026) will be billed in three (3) remaining installments. The payment schedule shall be as follows:
1st payment: February 15th, 2026
2nd payment: March 15th, 2026
3rd payment: April 15th, 2026
Final payment: April 15th, 2026
If you choose to pay for your retreat package via a payment plan and book the trip between any of the payment dates above, your down payment (deposit) will be $300 PLUS any amounts due for payment dates that have occurred before your registration date. You must pay the remaining balance based on the payment schedule above.
If any payment is not paid on or before the due date, we reserve the right to treat your booking as canceled, especially if you have not proactively communicated about your payment needs. All bookings must be paid in full by April 16th, 2026.
Cancellation by Traveler
If you wish to cancel your booking, you may be entitled to a full or partial refund EXCEPT for the initial $300 refundable per person deposit, until January 15th 2026. Refer to the 'cancel by' guidelines below.
- If you cancel your trip on or before [January 15th, 2026] you will receive 100% of monies paid per person on your reservation
- If you cancel your trip between [January 16th and February 15th, 2026], you will forfeit the $300 deposit per person on your reservation
- If you cancel your trip between [February 16th and April 15th, 2026], you will receive 50% of monies paid MINUS $300 per person on your reservation
- If you cancel your trip on or after [April 16th, 2026], you will forfeit ALL monies paid
Bookings may be transferable only in certain circumstances and only with prior written communication. Please contact Retreat Leaders to see if your situation qualifies. As outlined below, the purchase of travel insurance is highly recommended and can help protect you in the event of retreat cancellation. Due to the exclusive property and location, Retreat Leaders must strictly adhere to the cancellation policy to offset costs incurred prior to the commencement of retreat.
Full Terms & Conditions available at check-out.
Tips for Travelling to/from Gotland, Sweden
International Flights to Stockholm
Delta, United, SAS (Swedish Airlines) nonstop flights from NYC to Stockholm
Icelandic, Norwegian, PLAY (budget airlines) pay ala carte for seats, meals, etc
British, Swiss, Brussels, Air Canada, Lufthansa, Austrian, Air France (Other Airlines with US partners)
Airports
Arlanda Airport (ARN) – Primary, Major, InternaGonal Airport 30 miles North of Stockholm
Bromma Airport (BMA)—Domestic Airport (plus some flights from Europe) closer to downtown
Hotels in Stockholm for Layover
Clarion Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal – In airport hotel (walk to terminal!)
Backstage Hotel Stockholm – Across the street from Skansen (open air history museum)
Domestic Flights between Stockholm & Gotland:
SAS, Norwegian, Ryan, Finn (to/from Arlanda) – also flights in from Malmo, Gothenberg, Oslo, Helsinki BRA (Braathens Regional to/from Bromma) – most flights daily but not to/from int’l airport (ARN)
Ferry between Stockholm (Nynäshamn) & Gotland
Destination Gotland ~3 hours plus 1hr Bus Transfer from Stockholm or 1h45m from Arlanda
7 Nights Hotel, 6 Days of Programming
Entry into the Bungemuseet & The Gotland Museum
3 days coach bus travel provided
Mandalas & Collage
Airfare or Ferry to Gotland
Highly Recommended. See Terms & Conditions
Gratuities for personal services (including hotel personnel, dining and bar staff, additional services, airlines/luggage handlers, etc.)
Other meals not included in the package
personal items, medications, souvenirs,gifts
Our retreat begins with a heartfelt early evening gathering in the enchanting medieval city of Visby, setting the tone for our time together. Surrounded by the historic city walls and the whispers of ancient stories, we will open our retreat circle in the Gothic cathedral ruin—a place imbued with timeless spiritual energy. This sacred ceremony invites us to connect as a community, grounding ourselves in intention, reflection, and creativity. Together, we will honor the unique heritage of Visby, its deep-rooted magic, and the shared journeys that have brought us here. This opening circle will weave bonds and prepare us for the transformative days ahead.
Our first full day in Visby begins with engaging classes centered on labyrinths and myths, where immersive activities spark your imagination and connection to ancient wisdom. After a reflective morning, we’ll spend the afternoon uncovering the charm of Visby on a guided tour, exploring its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant history. The day culminates in our Evening Circle, a sacred gathering where we draw meaningful mandalas, weaving personal stories and inspirations into art.
Our northern Gotland adventure invites you into a day of discovery, creativity, and quiet reflection. Begin with a visit to the Gotland Garbage studio in Lärbro, an inspiring initiative turning plastic into art and jewelry. Walk the labyrinth in Bunge, creating moments for introspection and deep personal connection. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the charming Bunge Café before exploring the Bunge Museum, an open-air treasure showcasing Gotland’s rich cultural heritage through traditional farmsteads and artifacts. Along the way, stop at the Singing Stones, a site of natural beauty. The day concludes with a reflective mandala collage activity in the evening, blending exploration with introspection and offering a deeper connection to the land, its mysteries, and your own inner journey.
Our journey through South-West Gotland begins at the Ganarve Ship Grave, a striking and ancient monument that stands as a testament to Gotland’s Viking past.
At Fröjel’s ancient labyrinth, the oldest on Gotland, we’ll step into a place of deep history and spiritual connection. Here, we’ll explore the Tree of Life and the Norns of Fate, symbols of renewal, destiny, and the cycles of life. The experience will culminate in a sacred labyrinth ceremony, walking the same pathways that have guided reflection and transformation for centuries.
Next, we’ll visit the Kovik Fishing Museum, where Gotland’s maritime traditions are preserved and celebrated. This charming museum offers a glimpse into the island’s fishing heritage, showcasing tools, boats, and stories that connect the past to the present.
Our journey continues with a visit to Gotland artist Erik Olsson's studio, where his work embodies the essence of the island’s beauty and spirit. We’ll also stop at Lilla Bjers, an organic farm with roots dating back to the Bronze Age. Here, you’ll have the option to stay for a delicious farm-to-table dinner, savoring the flavors of Gotland’s rich agricultural traditions.
This day offers a profound exploration of Gotland’s heritage, blending history, myth, and creativity into an unforgettable experience. Evening free.
Our Eastern Gotland adventure begins with a visit to the historic church at Lye, a serene and beautiful site steeped in history. Just next door, we’ll step into one of the island’s most spectacular ceramics studios, where artistry and craftsmanship come to life in stunning creations.
From there, we’ll head to the Strand Café in Ljugarn for a delightful lunch on the beach, soaking in the coastal charm and savoring the flavors of Gotland.
After lunch, we’ll embark on an adventurous labyrinth walk at Folhammar, surrounded by the dramatic beauty of the Rauks (sea stacks). These ancient formations, shaped by time and the sea, are steeped in stories and songs, creating a magical and inspiring atmosphere for exploration and reflection.
The day concludes with a meditative mandala evening, where we’ll gather for songs, journaling, and reflections. This peaceful and creative session offers a chance to connect deeply with the day’s experiences and the essence of Gotland’s eastern landscapes.
This journey blends history, art, nature, and introspection, creating a truly enriching and memorable day.
Celebrate Midsummer in Visby, a day filled with joy and tradition. Begin your morning by gathering wildflowers and weaving fun and simple flower crowns, immersing yourself in nature’s beauty. Learn the melodies and motions of circle dance songs, connecting to centuries-old rituals. At 1 pm, join the vibrant community of Visby as we raise the majestic majstang together, symbolizing life and light. Sing, dance, and revel in the festive spirit, celebrating the longest day of the year. This cherished tradition invites you into a shared moment of culture, connection, and pure Nordic magic. In the evening we will have a Midsummer Trojaborg walk at the 1000 year old labyrinth just outside the north wall of Visby.
Our last day in Visby promises to be both enriching and reflective. The morning begins with a visit to the Gotland Museum, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the island’s rich cultural history, exploring artifacts and stories that connect us to Gotland’s past.
We’ll then gather for a heartfelt farewell lunch, sharing memories and moments from our time together.
This final day encapsulates the essence of our retreat, offering a meaningful and memorable conclusion to our time on Gotland.
