About Adytum Retreat and Spa

In 1995, early in our courtship, we were surprised to discover we both shared the common dream of starting a Spa and a think tank style of soiree. We wanted to create an idyllic fantasy; a retreat where one could experience deep rest, rejuvenation and relaxation while simultaneously enjoying expansion spiritually, mentally and physically. We held to this vision and 11 years later acquired 5 acres of virgin forest land overlooking Lake Mayfield, the Cowlitz River (which amazingly means “Spiritual Seeker” in the original Indian) and the Tilton River. We immediately began cultivating the birds, preserving habitat and feeding them while we contemplated construction, and we built a large Koi pond.

As if the lake and surrounds weren’t enough beauty to last a lifetime, territorial views also encompass the DeGoedes Tulip farm and acres of blueberries, neighboring farms and villages and a sweeping view of the mountains surrounding this rich valley with the renowned rich Cinnabar soil that nourishes many Christmas tree farms. Adytum floats above it all in a surreal sea of mists and fogs rising off the lake at daybreak with only her turreted spires visible like an enchanted castle.

In 2006, a three story Chateau very much resembling a little castle sprang up where only native Indians dwelt before leaving only arrowheads to mark their presence. Built by several of our sons, a neighbor recently commented that Adytum is a “fairy tale in the making”, and so it is. Adytum means “inner sanctum or sanctuary” in Greek, but it isn’t a sanctuary in the normal sense of the word. The Greek version denotes a sanctuary entered in by the door of the human spirit. It is a place of refuge and deep communion with oneself, God, nature and all of life.

With Adytum Retreat and Spa’s 65 windows- some allowing one to look right through the house from one side to the other- the house is flooded with light and natural beauty from every angle even on brooding Pacific Northwest days. We co-exist with hundreds of birds of varying species that call Adytum lands their home, viewing them with ease high in their canopy of the maple, alder and ancient fir trees. Despite all this transparency and being sited high on a hill, Adytum enjoys an extravagant privacy and seclusion with only glimpses of a few neighboring homes on the hill.

We acquired nearly 11 more acres of timber lands flowing with natural springs with equally stunning views adjacent to our home site which we manage entirely without herbicides, pesticides or clear cutting methods. We hold a deep respect for the land and a sense of stewardship over that which God has entrusted us and is managed for His glory alone. We became a certified Wildlife Habitat and joke that we were a “bird and breakfast” long before we served people. Inside, we maintain the same stance toward protecting the land and ultimately ourselves in our choices.

Donn is an Optometric Physician as well as obtaining the first Nutritional Therapy Practitioner certification as an optometrist. Katherine is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner as well, working part time at Medical Vision Center and Natural Health Center in Morton. The Adytum kitchen is dedicated to health and offers fresh, organic gourmet meals with an emphasis on the Mediterranean diet. Katherine is skilled in creating beautiful, delicious vegetarian menus that accommodate every diet plan from gluten free, dairy free, sugar free, vegan, raw and so on. Katherine is available for consulting during your stay, or after you leave by email with support and products available through the Adytum website.

It has been our collective labor of intense love to create a place of romantic beauty in anticipation of sharing it with you and welcoming you in. The house is unique and in every way, and not like a traditional bed and breakfast either in the intent or the eclectic décor. We are fine art aficionados and you will enjoy museum quality art and sculpture throughout the house. Adytum reflects a wealth of treasures collected around the world on travel. Adytum was recently described by a real estate appraiser as demonstrating the finest quality of craftsmanship as any she had ever seen. We have www.elitebuildersnw.com to thank for that, our son’s construction company based in Olympia, WA.

Your room or suite has exquisite attention to detail, and everything needed for pleasure and comfort is at hand. Nothing has been overlooked. The décor appeals to men and women equally and will draw you into Adytum’s spirit of grace and beauty instantly. Adytum Retreat and Spa is a destination in itself and you may feel no need to travel further. However, five minutes from your door, Lake Mayfield and the two rivers await kayaking, fishing, biking or hiking. Bring your boat or kayaks! We have several mountain bikes to share and many lawn and indoor games as well.

The DeGoedes bulb fields, in season, are a spectacular vision of beauty and color. We are the gateway to more adventure with Mt. Rainier, Mt St. Helens and multitudes of hiking, biking, skiing and fishing opportunities an hour or less away. We are located just about equally between Seattle and Portland, an hour and half away, for a day trip to the city. Outlet malls are 40 minutes north. The possibilities are literally endless and largely undiscovered locally. We often hike an entire day without seeing another soul…come and experience a return to peace, beauty, fresh inspiration and deep rejuvenation.