The reviews below are on Facebook or Google Business. They were written by participants in an activity at Ekãyano. A maximum of 5 stars can be given on both sites.

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Dirk   Samadhi retraite  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I recently did the Samadhi retreat at Ekayano. Meditating for several hours a day is intense, let that be clear, but the reward afterwards is great. I was really able to go deep and am noticing the benefits that serious meditation practice brings again. The motivation to do longer daily sessions at home again is back, and I am happy about that.

Delicious meals were cooked for us every day, and I also found the daily lectures very interesting. In short, a retreat that was more than worth the investment in money and time. (April 2026)

Kees| Tantra training   ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4.5 stars is better, 5 stars is 100%; I always find this difficult to give. (but certainly a 5 rather than a 4).

The B&B plus was the ultimate experience for me: the peace, the garden, the walking.

Simple, but that's perfectly fine; didn't feel the need for music, no WiFi for a few days. Nice walking.

Good food and delicious salads. (September 2025)

John | B&B   ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks for your hospitality, Ivar!

Warm regards, Sensei John. Ming Zen Center. (August 2025)

Wido | Tantra training   ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ekãyano is, in a word, beautiful and provides a learning environment unlike anything I have experienced before.
Ivar ensures that the entire stay is a continuous series of lessons and insights, so many that it is hardly comprehensible and sometimes takes a while for the penny to drop.......
if it falls ..... (May 2024)

Tinne   4-daagse Samadhi retraite  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you very much, Ivar!

It was certainly a beautiful retreat.

Being allowed to descend to a deeper layer within myself and reaching it is only possible when the water is very calm and clear. Then you can go into the depths.

On the evening of returning home, a deep pain was released, for which I am very grateful. So lighter now, freer... blissful.

It also helped me that you were just yourself, were also busy with earthly tasks, and left us free in our spiritual process, guiding where necessary.

So thank you! Wonderful mission! And who knows… until our paths cross again.

Take care.

And the departure was difficult, inwardly and outwardly.April 2024)

Sam   Massage week  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My recent experience with this organization's retreat center in the French Ardennes was truly exceptional. Under the guidance of the expert Ivar, the Sweda massage training offered a unique opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.

What distinguishes this organization is its dedication to providing a holistic learning experience, rooted in practical aspects and profound wisdom. Ivar's extensive library on Buddhism, carefully curated during the retreat, offers valuable resources for those seeking deeper insights into spiritual teachings.

The course itself was impeccably organized, allowing for a seamless blend of theory and practice. Despite the intensive schedule, every moment felt enriching and fulfilling.

Moreover, I must commend the exceptional service of the staff. Ivar's friendliness and attention to detail, demonstrated by thoughtful gestures such as quickly sending forgotten items and ensuring the comfort of the participants, truly enhanced the overall experience.

In summary, I can highly recommend this organization to anyone looking for a transformative retreat experience. Immerse yourself in their offerings and you will discover a peaceful oasis of wisdom amidst the picturesque French countryside. (March 2024)

Linda D. | Culture your Tantra | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Ekãyano. An old farmhouse completely transformed into a retreat center without tripping over Buddha statues.

The lessons are serious and sometimes tough. Ivar is also serious and tough, but also a real sweetheart; what a lovely person. He doesn't say a word too much, doesn't interfere with the group process, and respects everyone.

He challenges you in your own process, doesn't mince words, but also remains very respectful.

Ivar plays no role. He is what he projects, and that is given to few.

Too bad I can't give 6 stars :-). (August 2023)

Linda H. | kum-nye Tantra training day | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beautiful center with a distinctly Buddhist character. Ivar is wonderful and of the "what you see is what you get" type. He gives beautiful lectures and teaches clearly (yet strictly), cooks delicious food, cares for and nurtures everyone, and lets the group be the group. I have visited many other centers where the teachers were very overbearing, and I found that disturbing. That is not the case here; everything exudes peace and calm. I do think people should be well aware that Ivar himself is also a Buddhist and does everything based on that vision. There is room for everyone's process without anything being done with it on an individual level. I found that very pleasant. (September 2023)

Environment | B&B | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Very beautiful and nice place!! (September 2023)

Linda | Kum-nye Tantra training day | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beautiful center with a distinctly Buddhist character. Ivar is wonderful and of the "what you see is what you get" type. He gives beautiful lectures and teaches clearly (yet strictly), cooks delicious food, cares for and nurtures everyone, and lets the group be the group. I have visited many other centers where the teachers were very overbearing, and I found that disturbing. That is not the case here; everything exudes peace and calm. I do think people should be well aware that Ivar himself is also a Buddhist and does everything based on that vision. There is room for everyone's process without anything being done with it on an individual level. I found that very pleasant. (September 2023)

Ivar and the Dharma Lotus team consistently create a setting at Ekayano where silence, dedication, nature, expertise, healthy and delicious food, a no-nonsense mindset, intriguing workshops, and lectures offer everyone the chance to find balance and... to stay in it. If you REALLY want to work on your personal processes, Ekayano is truly top-notch! Thank you for the special offering and the authentic way you present it. We look forward to seeing you again soon 🙂 (September 2021)

Lovely and quiet place with good guidance. I would love to come back again to admire the new garden layout! (June 2021)