Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about the Esalen Massage Global Village 2026.
If something is unclear, you are welcome to contact us directly at info@esalenmassageschweiz.ch.
Who can join the gathering?
The practitioners’ gathering (July 8–12, 2026) is open to all certified or in-training Esalen Massage practitioners worldwide. The teachers’ retreat (July 6–8, 2026) is for Esalen Massage teachers.
In which language is the gathering held?
The main language is English, but the language of touch, movement, and presence goes beyond words. Many participants are not native English speakers — patience and cross-cultural connection are part of our village.
When does the gathering start?
The Esalen Massage Global Village for the Practitioners begins on Wednesday at 17:00 with the Opening Circle. Check-in at Kientalerhof is possible from 14:00 the same day. After the circle we share dinner and a gentle evening program to arrive together in community.
Can I arrive earlier than Wednesday?
Yes. If you wish, you may already arrive on Monday as a private guest of the Kientalerhof. This gives you two extra days to enjoy the surroundings, explore the mountains, and relax before the program begins.
What is the ticket price?
Teacher’s Gathering (July 6–8, 2026):
There is no ticket price. The Teacher’s Gathering is a dedicated retreat for Esalen Massage teachers, and participation is free of charge.
Practitioner’s Gathering (July 8–12, 2026):
• Early Bird: CHF 720 (January–February 2026)
• Regular: CHF 820 (from March 2026 onwards)
The ticket includes all workshops, movement sessions, and evening events.
What is not included in the ticket price?
Accommodation and meals are booked separately with Kientalerhof.
Do you offer sponsorships or discounted prices?
At this time, EMGV is not able to offer sponsorships or additional discounts, as the Gathering itself is not sponsored.
However, those who register early — between January and February — can benefit from the Early Bird price for the Gathering fee.
You may also choose a more affordable accommodation option by bringing your own tent or booking a sleeping bag space at Kientalerhof.
How does registration work?
Pre-registration is open now until the end of the year. It is non-binding and gives you early access — simply fill out the form.
Registration is a two-step process and opens in January 2026:
Register for the event through our website: → Registration
Reserve your room and meals separately with Kientalerhof Retreat Center: → How to book.
What is the cancellation policy?
There are two different policies for the Practitioners’ Gathering registration and the retreat center. Kientalerhof has its own cancellation terms, which apply once you book with them.
What is the fee for accommodation and meals?
For price and options on rooms check out the Kiental Website: → Rooms and apartments.
Sleeping bag / Tent: Flat rates for the four-day Practitioners’ Gathering (including full board): Sleeping bag pace: CHF 312, Tent space: CHF 272.
Can I only eat lunch or dinner at Kientalerhof or book without meals?
No. For all participants, all meals at Kientalerhof (full board) are included and required — even if you stay outside the retreat center.
The cost for the Practitioners’ Gathering is CHF 272.
This shared arrangement allows the kitchen to care for everyone smoothly and keeps the flow of the Gathering simple and harmonious.
Does Kientalerhof offer sleeping bag or tent spaces?
Yes. A limited number of simple sleeping bag (dormitory) and tent spaces are available.
If you would like to stay on the tent site or in the dormitory, please include this request when booking through the Kientalerhof website, or reach out directly to Renata at renata.pfeiler@kientalerhof.ch — she will be happy to assist you. Flat rates for the four-day Practitioners’ Gathering (including all meals): Dormitory space: CHF 312, Tent space: CHF 272.
Can I stay in my camper van during the retreat at Kientalerhof?
No. Kientalerhof does not allow overnight stays in camper vans on their grounds. Wild camping or parking overnight in a camper van outside official sites is prohibited anywhere in Kiental.
However, there is a small campground in the village of Kiental where you may stay. You will still need to purchase full board (meals) from Kientalerhof. The flat rate for the four-day Practitioners’ Gathering is CHF 272.
Can I attend part of the gathering?
To support group coherence, the program is designed as a full immersion. We recommend attending the entire gathering.
What do I need to bring?
Please see the full checklist here: → What to Bring
How do I get to Kientalerhof?
Address: Kientalerhof, Griesalpstrasse 44, CH-3723 Kiental
Can I receive a certificate of participation?
You will receive a certificate of participation at the end of the gathering, which Swiss practitioners may use for their ASCA/EMR continuing education.
What is there to discover around Kiental?
The Kiental valley is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers many opportunities for hiking, biking, and excursions. For detailed information about activities, routes, and local highlights, please visit the official tourism page of the region: → Tourism Kiental