Rest, Reflect, and Renew
A Place to Heal,
A Space to Breathe
Welcome to Browning Retreat Center, where simplicity meets serenity. Our retreat offers cozy single-room cabins with electricity to help you unwind. Enjoy two-hour blocks for creativity, meditation, or reflection.
Unplug, Connect, Breathe
Reconnect with Nature,
Reconnect with Yourself
At The Browning Retreat, nestled in the heart of Matthews, NC, we invite you to step away from the chaos and into a sanctuary designed for healing and reflection.

Find Peace in the Heart of Nature at The Browning Retreat
Escape the noise of everyday life and reconnect with your inner peace at The Browning Retreat in Matthews, NC.
Our charming, cozy cabins offer the perfect setting for daytime
meditation, self-reflection, and recovery. Nestled deep in the
woods, you'll find solitude and tranquility, with the gentle
sounds of nature surrounding you. Whether you're seeking a
quiet space for personal growth or a peaceful respite from
the hustle, the retreat provides an oasis to rejuvenate your
mind and spirit. Embrace the serenity, and let the beauty of
the forest guide you toward clarity and calm.
The Meaning Behind the Name: A Deeper Look
Will Browning was a remarkable soul whose brilliance and depth left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was a man of immense intellect, an avid reader who found inspiration in the layered works of Faulkner and the vivid storytelling of Flannery O’Connor. His love for literature was more than a pastime; it was a reflection of his own creative and restless mind, a testament to the way his thoughts danced between profound wisdom and sharp wit. Will’s wisdom often shone in the quiet moments when his words, perfectly chosen and effortlessly delivered, illuminated truths that others might overlook. He carried within him a world of ideas, a relentless thinker whose insights were as stirring as they were thoughtful.
As Faulkner once wrote, “The past is never dead. It's not even past.” In Will’s presence, one felt the weight and beauty of history, art, and humanity woven together in his mind and conversation. He embodied Whitman’s belief that “the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse.” Will’s verse was unforgettable: a blend of humor, brilliance, and creativity that added richness to the lives he touched.
Yet even as he poured light into the lives of others, peace often eluded him. His impulsive nature, while a source of creativity and wit, also bore a weight that could not be shared. His “too-soon” death is a heartbreak that echoes the complexities of his extraordinary mind and spirit. Though his loss leaves an ache that words can scarcely soothe, his light remains with us in the memories we cherish and the inspiration he gave to those lucky enough to know him.







Finding Solace in Solitude
A Quiet Escape at The Browning Retreat
The Browning Retreat offers a peaceful, secluded space where you can unplug, reflect,
and reconnect with yourself. Open exclusively during daylight hours, we offer intimate 2-hour booking slots, giving you a
dedicated time to focus on healing, writing, art, crafting, or simply being still. Surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, this
retreat is designed to nurture your creativity and personal growth in complete privacy. While we don't yet offer restrooms on site,
the tranquility of the environment more than makes up for it.
The Writer's Red Cabin: Your Sanctuary for Creativity
Nestled in the quiet embrace of nature, our small, single-room red cabin is the perfect retreat for authors seeking a peaceful sanctuary to craft their next memoir. Designed with the writer in mind, this intimate space offers everything you need to spark inspiration and flow-soft, natural light, cozy furnishings, and an atmosphere of undisturbed silence. As you sit at your desk, the outside world fades away, leaving only you and your words. With no distractions but the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional chirp of wildlife, you'll find a safe, nurturing environment to dive deep into your thoughts, reflect on your journey, and create your masterpiece.
Chelsea's Place: A Creative Haven for Artists
Step into Chelsea's Place, a charming single, room green cabin designed to awaken the artist within you. Nestled in nature, this tranquil retreat offers a serene environment where your creativity can truly flourish. Whether you're a painter, sculptor, or mixed- media artist, you'll find the perfect space to explore your craft. The cabin comes equipped with a selection of high-quality art supplies for your use, allowing you to dive right into your next exhibit-worthy masterpiece. With no distractions, but the soothing sounds of the Forest, Chelsea's Place provides the ideal setting for inspiration to flow freely and your artistic vision to take shape.
Escape to Scott's Place: A Cozy Off-Grid Cabin with Modern Comforts in the Heart of Nature
Discover Scott's Place, a tranquil single-room blue cabin designed for creative thinkers and yoga enthusiasts seeking peace and solitude. Surrounded by calming natural beauty, this serene retreat offers the perfect escape to quiet your restless mind. Whether you're brainstorming your next big idea or flowing through a private yoga session, Scott's Place provides a peaceful sanctuary to recharge and reconnect. Available in 2-hour time blocks throughout the day, it’s your perfect haven for mindfulness and inspiration.