La Casa de Maria Retreat & Conference Center

La Casa de Maria is nestled in the foothills of Santa Barbara, sheltered within a 26 acre oak woodland ~ sacred land, once inhabitated by the Chumash Indians. Meandering walking paths encircle the enclave reavealing expansive views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The San Ysidro Creek runs along one side of the property with benches placed at several scenic overlooks. Gracefully designed buildings dot the campus supplying meeting rooms and sleeping accommodations for the retreat and conference center.A large chapel, designed in the early California Mission style, seats 150 people and is centerally located. It is available for groups to use, as well as a small meditation chapel tucked snugly into one of the gardens.There is a three acre historic and organic orchard and vegetable garden. Produce is grown for the kitchens to serve guests. There is an outdoor stone Labyrinth for walking meditation. La Casa is also home to one of the International Gardens of Peace - the Sadako Peace Garden. It has seating an can be used as a gathering place for goups.