September 2026
Rite of Passage in Athos
Price: €1,795
including all meals, lodging and local transport.
September 27-October 2, 2026
Athos, Greece.
Pilgrimage retreat for men.
The retreat will be conducted in both Dutch and English.
Price €1,795. Including all meals, lodging and local transport. Transport to Greece (Thessaloniki) is not included.
Rite of Passage in Athos
What can you expect?
Pieter Ruysschaert and myself invite a select group of 6 men on a unique journey to the Mountain Athos in Greece. This walking trail offers an opportunity to pause, connect with like-minded individuals, and reflect on the important roles in your life: as a father, partner, and leader in your company.
During this journey, we will explore what it means to break patterns and redefine yourself, focusing on personal development and initiation as a man. The program combines in-depth discussions with time for silence and self-reflection.
What is included ?
- Accommodation:
- We will stay in a cozy family hotel in Ouranoupoli in individual rooms.
- We will stay in three different monasteries on Athos in shared rooms.
Meals:
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- We dine in restaurants in Ouranoupoli and enjoy Greek specialties.
- In the monasteries, we share meals with the monks.
Transportation:
- Ferry to Athos and rental cars from Thessaloniki airport.
Why Athos?
Athos, exclusively accessible to male pilgrims and monks since 1046, is home to twenty monasteries. The peninsula is dedicated to the feminine archetype of Mary, offering a unique setting for men to reflect on feminine themes in their lives.
Why This Journey?
In a world full of busyness, this pilgrimage offers an opportunity to slow down, gain new insights, and return to your daily life with renewed energy. This experience is exclusively for men and focused on deep connection, growth, and authenticity.
Athos Retreat for Men
Walking Trail
The Experience
- Unique Setting: Discover the rhythm of monastic life, stroll along rustic paths, and feel the power of the sea and nature.
- 6-Day Workshop: Our workshop begins immediately in Ouranoupoli, featuring guided meditation, bodywork, and men’s circles.
- Inspiring Conversations: Daily moments of reflection on themes such as leadership, fatherhood, and personal growth, all within a safe and familiar environment.
- Connection: Share experiences with other men who, like you, are in search of meaning and balance.
Practical Details
- Dates: September 27 to October 2, 2026
- Group Size: Limited to 6 participants for an exclusive and personal experience.
- Visa (‘Diamonitirion’): Application must be submitted no later than June 23, 2026.
- Itinerary:
- Arrival in Thessaloniki
- Transfer to Ouranoupoli
- 4-day pilgrimage on Athos
- Price: €1,795
Included:
- 6-day workshop focused on personal growth
- Personal support
- Full board accommodation for the entire week
- Visa for access to Athos
- Transportation from Thessaloniki airport (rental cars, ferry)
- Hotel accommodations
Not Included:
- Flight Charleroi – Thessaloniki (and return):
- Outbound flight: September 27th
- Return flight: October 2nd
Guidance
Olivier Vaneeckhout
Olivier is an experienced facilitator specializing in personal growth and leadership development. He offers tailor-made retreats and guidance in the Cathar region of southern France. Combining 25 years of experience in the corporate world with an intuitive, personal approach, he supports participants through their transformative journey.
Pieter Ruysschaert
Pieter is the founder of Academy Of Life and guides men, fathers, and sons in their personal growth. He possesses deep expertise in entrepreneurship, leadership, and initiation rituals, and organizes father-son weekends and initiation programs as part of the Belgian Men’s Festival. His approach is imbued with empathy and understanding, creating a safe space for transformation.
In short, an unforgettable experience filled with challenge, reflection, and connection!
We are very excited to walk this amazing historical walking path with you!
Athos retreat for men
How to book?
Here’s a guide on how to book your walking trail in Athos:
- Click on the contact page and book a free information session with me.
- Or send me an email.
- Specify any special requirements you might have.
- I will contact you as soon as possible.
Remember, if you have any questions or need assistance during the booking process, don’t hesitate to contact us for help.
“Olivier takes you on a journey. I traveled through the rich history, through the beautiful landscapes, through myself. Olivier is the perfect guide on all these layers. Athos serves as the perfect base for beautiful views and nourishing insights.”