If you’ve ever dreamed of recreating the opening scene of The Sound of Music, we have the perfect spot for you to try it without ever leaving Colorado. Just be sure not to disturb the other visitors and residents, who appreciate the quiet and solitude as much as the scenery.

St. Benedict’s Monastery is located in the Rockies near the small community of Snowmass, about 20 miles from Aspen. It is home to a small community of Trappist monks who live, work, and pray here year-round.

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Surrounded by verdant foothills and snow-capped mountains, it’s easy to see why this location was chosen as the site of this spiritual community.

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The heavenly scenery of the Elk Mountains surrounds the charming stone cottage-like buildings that populate the monastery’s 3,000 acres. This is the perfect place for those seeking serenity.

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St. Benedict’s contains a working ranch, retreat houses for groups, hermitages for individual guests, and a bookstore with a large selection of books and goods made by monks here and elsewhere.

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St. Benedict’s does not offer guided retreats, but a chance to escape the hectic buzz of everyday life and lose yourself in prayer, meditation or contemplation.

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When you think of Trappist monks, you might think of your favorite brew, but the monks at St. Benedict’s are known for their homemade cookies. Pick some up at the bookstore to sweeten your trip even more. (Cash only, please.)

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In the spirit of St. Benedict, visitors are welcome to attend certain morning and evening prayers with the community.

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If a short visit is not enough, St. Benedict’s also welcomes overnight guests who want to experience a small slice of the solitude of monastic life. Guests can stay anywhere from a minimum of two to a maximum of ten days.

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To learn more information about Saint Benedict’s monastery, the prayer schedule, or how to plan your stay, please visit its website. Want to learn about more cool day trip spots in Colorado? Check out these 10 Unique Day Trips In Colorado, and start planning!

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snowmassmonks.com

Address: 1012 Monastery Road, Snowmass, CO 81654

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