Be prepared at the Hermitage for the silence:
“At the Hermitage, most of our retreat accommodations are for one person, meals are taken in one's room and an atmosphere of gentle but profound silence pervades the Hermitage grounds.”
“In the interest of maintaining a silent and contemplative atmosphere, retreatants are asked to refrain from using radios, typewriters, or musical instruments.”
Be prepared too for the bells:
Meals may be very simple (depending on which monk is cooking). Be prepared to supplement.
Be prepared for a very long walk to any
beach and back.