Retreats at the Beach: Come for the Business, Stay for the Beach

After what seemed like an eternity, the winter of 2018 appears to be at an end and the spring weather looks to finally be here to stay.  With the suns and guns (biceps that is) at long last coming out for good, it is difficult for anyone in this area to not think about the Delaware beaches, in all of their splendor.  And, in case you were wondering, it just so happens that University of Delaware’s Conference Services has a wonderful venue downstate that can scratch all of your shore related itches.

Our Virden Retreat Center is located on the University of Delaware’s coastal campus in Lewes, Delaware.  This venue is fantastic for social events, retreats, weddings, and small meetings, all while offering relaxed and isolated meeting and event spaces with an open oceanside style and layout.  There, you will find six meeting rooms, a tented patio, video conferencing, full registration and planning services, and catering that just about covers any scenario.  We also offer newly renovated lodging for overnight events or for those who want to stay and enjoy the surrounding locale. And what a historic and beautiful location it is.

 

Rich history

Lewes was initially founded as a whaling and trading settlement by Dutch explorers in 1631 and holds the distinction of being the first European settlement founded in Delaware, which is proudly expressed in the town’s motto, “The First Town In The First State”.  The town has gone through a lot of change since then and has gathered a rich colonial history that can still be seen today. Lewes is home to a lively community with its main streets and surrounding suburbs littered with shops, restaurants, parks and historical venues, such as the Zwaanendael Museum.  Named after the settlements original title, the museum was created to honor the 300th anniversary with exhibits showing the history of Sussex County and its people over the centuries.

 

Protected lands

In addition to the rich history of Lewes, the beautiful Cape Henlopen State Park rests in the backyard of the Virden Center.  Cape Henlopen is home to some of Delaware’s best beaches, with no shortage of outdoor activities and soft sand to relax in. The park and the university campus are also connected to some of the region’s most beautiful wetlands.  The Great Marsh Preserve is an expansive and tranquil plot of protected wetlands with vibrant wildlife that can add an opportunity for amazing bird-watching, canoeing or kayaking to any trip to the area.

 

All and all, the Virden Retreat Center has so much to offer from an event standpoint, but when paired with the sights of the surrounding area, it becomes a must visit for anyone looking to have some fun with their next warm weather event.