Winter Residency 2027

The Winter Residency at Drala Mountain Center is a three-month remote work retreat in the Colorado Rockies, set near Red Feather Lakes. It is made for people who can bring their laptops and their projects to the mountains and want to live inside a Shambhala Buddhist practice center while they do. It is not a break from your job. It is a change of rhythm, pace and surroundings, with meditation, community and open winter sky close at hand.

What to Expect

Work comes first in the day, and stillness comes around it. You log in from your private lodging, take calls over the center's high-speed Wi-Fi, and keep your own hours. Mornings offer optional practice sessions. Evenings offer optional meditations and community events, and on clear nights the stars are there for anyone who steps outside.

Arrival is flexible. You can come at any point during the residency window, and you can leave at any point once the second month begins. On arrival day, check-in is at the Guest Services Cabin between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm, followed by an orientation session and a welcome dinner. Over the following weeks the pattern is simple: remote work from your room, three meals a day in the community dining hall, and as much or as little contemplative practice as suits you.

Residents share in the life of the center in one practical way, with two scheduled dishwashing shifts each week. Seasonal events and community practice sessions are open to you but never required.

The Setting

Drala Mountain Center sits in the mountains about an hour from Fort Collins, the nearest city. Winter here means real mountain weather and limited supply runs, so this is a place for people who are comfortable living close to nature.

Each guest has a private room with mountain views, and rooms can host a second guest, such as a partner or friend, at a discounted rate. Three meals a day are served, with omnivore, vegetarian, vegan and wheat-free options. Linens and sheets are changed every two weeks, and laundry is available around the clock, with detergent sold in the gift store. Practice spaces are open to residents throughout their stay.

Before You Go

No meditation experience is needed. The residency welcomes all levels, and prior background in contemplative practice is not required. The program is held in English.

Travel to and from the center is not included, nor are excursions beyond the grounds. Plan for mountain conditions, and consider bringing:

- Warm, layered clothing and snow gear
- Waterproof boots and traction spikes
- A headlamp or flashlight
- A reusable water bottle
- Toiletries, medications and personal essentials

Questions about the residency can be sent to the center's winter residency team.