Day 2. Monday, July 19. Visit from author Nichols Mann, Glastonbury Tor, Chalice Well (B)
This morning we will be blessed by a visit from local resident Nicholas Mann, author of Energy Secrets of Glastonbury Tor and The Isle of Avalon. He will share fascinating information about his research in this powerful area, presenting a lecture and meditation about "The Mysteries of Avalon", which will include exciting material about the nature and function of this ancient sacred site, as well as his latest research about the Sun, Moon and star alignments of the Isle, especially their relevance to the current aeonic shift. Additionally, Nicholas will have copies of his books for you to purchase directly from him, and of course he'll be more than happy to autograph your personal copy.

After lunch we make the short walk from downtown to Glastonbury Tor with Nicholas Mann, our Guide for the morning. Rich in legend and mythological associations, the Tor may have been a place of ancient ritual. Today, it is still a destination for spiritual seekers. The terracing on the slopes of the Tor may be the remains of an ancient observatory, a seven-tiered sacred mount, a great three-dimensional labyrinth, a ceremonial way to the Otherworld. At the top of the Tor stands the remains of the Medieval St. Michael's Church, dedicated to Archangel Michael. We take the footpath to the top to enjoy its sweeping view of the Somerset countryside. Take time to gaze at the landscape; you can see for miles. Though the Tor is a majestic hill rising enigmatically above the flat surrounding meadows, it's no ordinary hill!  Some say it's home to the King of the Fairies, Gwyn ap Nudd, a psychopomp who helps those who cross over to the Otherworld. Centuries of legends and folklore about the Tor all arrive at the same conclusion: it is a place where the veil between the worlds is thin. You will have time for individual meditation to connect to these powerful energies.

We return walking to the foot of the Tor and stop in at the Chalice Well, a pilgrimage site for many thousands of years for those seeking physical and emotional healing from its iron-red waters, thought by some to represent the blood of the Goddess. During the Middle Ages and in the 18th Century Glastonbury gained a great reputation as a place of healing, and the Well was one of the centers where pilgrims came to take advantage of its curative powers. Today the waters of both the Red Spring and the adjoining White Spring still have a reputation for their cleansing, healing and transformative qualities. Like pilgrims who have come here since ancient times seeking physical and emotional healing from its iron-red waters blessed by the Goddess, we too may receive our healings! At the bottom of the garden we stop at the pool that has water flowing into it through a series of flowing steps from the body of the Goddess Herself. We then continue to the main well, with its cover in the shape of the Vesica Pisces, one of the most fundamental symbols of sacred geometry, symbolizing the Sacred Marriage, the divine union of the male and female energies. Here at this ancient sacred place, we have time to meditate and reflect on our own Divine Union. If there is the opportunity, we will also stop in at the well house for the White Spring, replete with altars to various Goddesses, taking time for meditation. 
Return walking to town. The afternoon is free for more individual exploration and/or rest and integration. Lunch on your own.


In the later afternoon we'll meet with Christina for a session focusing on working with the internal cauldron through qigong and the inner search for the Holy Grail, in preparation for connecting with Silbury Hill tomorrow, followed by Group Dream Work.

Dinner on your own. Overnight Glastonbury. 

Day 3. Tuesday, July 20. Silbury Hill, Avebury World Heritage Site, Crop Circles (B)
After breakfast we're off to begin to explore and experience the local sacred sites and ancient mysteries! We begin our exploration of the area at the huge and mysterious Silbury Hill, a grass-covered man-made chalk mound that is the biggest prehistoric artificial mound in Europe. Evidence from radiocarbon dating indicates that Silbury was constructed about 4,400 years ago in the Neolithic period. Its construction is estimated to have involved roughly 4 million hours of work using 500,000 tons of material, mostly chalk that was quarried and cleared from the surrounding terraces and ditches. Some people see the Hill as a symbolic effigy of the ancient Mother Goddess that was associated with fertility rituals which marked the course of the year. The festival of Lammas in August, when it is thought Silbury was founded, celebrates the first fruits of the harvest. Christina will lead a short Qigong Dreaming discussion and Sacred Serpent Spiral Qigong practice to connect with the still-palpable transformational energies here. Then Koko, Peter and Christina will lead a short meditation to connect with the Mother Goddess.

We then continue to Avebury World Heritage site, one of the world's largest and most complex monuments of the Megalithic Age, an ancient Druidic initiation site of immense standing stones. Two avenues of about 100 megaliths run out from Avebury. Today its mysteries are still being explored and solved by multi-disciplinary scholars in archaeology, science and ancient religion. As there are lunar and solar ley-lines that cross in this area, we will connect with these powerful energies through ritual facilitated by Koko to balance our own masculine and feminine energies. Lunch on your own at Avebury.

Then we're off to explore Crop Circles. These geometric symbols of unknown origin form in fields of grain, and have appeared in this area over the past 20 years. The county of Wiltshire is one of the most active areas for crop circles in the world, particularly around the historical stones of Avebury and Silbury Hill. In this ancient landscape, the grassy whorls take over the fields of rape, barley and wheat like massive installation art. If we are fortunate we may be able to enter one or more of the formations and have private meditation time to connect with and experience the other-dimensional energies that many researchers believe form them. What is the general communication that is being given to us by these circles? What is the particular communication from each circle? Where do they come from? Who/what forms them? Why here? Why now? AND, why have we been lead here to experience them? What does all this mean for our personal and planetary transformation?

Later return to our B and B. Dinner on your own. There are several excellent restaurants in the center of town, just a few minutes walk away, that offer varied ethnic cuisines. Overnight Glastonbury.  

Day 4. Wednesday, July 21. Tintagel Castle and Merlin's Cave (B)
After an early breakfast, we're off for a full day journey to Cornwall, the fabled and enchanted land of King Arthur's birth. The poet Tennyson wrote about it as the place where Arthur fought his last terrible battle with his son Mordred. We arrive at Tintagel Castle, on a rocky windswept headland above the sea, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic Ocean. The name Tintagel derives from Din Taggel, meaning fortress of the narrow entrance. Since 1136 when Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote about it in the History of the Kings of Britain legend has held that this is the place where Uther Pendragon mated with Arthur's mother, Igraine, and conceived the future king.

Excavations in the 1930's uncovered 5th to 6th century Dark Age settlement and monastic remains. In the 1998 excavations by Glasgow University led to the discovery of an inscription on a piece of slate reading ARTOgNOV, which is a Latin form of the Celtic name Arthnou, derived from the Celtic word Arth, meaning bear. As you walk through these ancient ruins, keep your Third Eye open to see between the veils to those days long past. Perhaps you'll glimpse Arthur and receive a message from him.

Tide allowing, we then descend to the beach to Merlin's Cave, located under the rocks close to Tintagel Castle. If not, we'll view it from above. Legend maintains that the spirit of the great Druid Merlin still inhabits this lonely place. If we're able to enter the cave, we'll take time to meditate and connect with the energies that reach out to us from the misty past.

Return to Glastonbury in the later afternoon. Dinner on your own. Overnight Glastonbury.

Day 5. Thursday, July 22. Stanton Drew Stone Circle, Free Time, Evening Private Entrance at the Chalice Well (B)
This morning we visit to the huge megalithic complex of Stanton Drew. The Great Circle, the second largest English stone ring after the outer circle at Avebury, consists of three stone circles, two stone avenues, a cove of stones and an outlier. From the two visible circles there are two avenues running eastward towards the nearby river. As Professor Aubrey Burl writes: Midsummer processions and ceremonies may be imagined, rituals by moonlight celebrated by hundreds of people from the countryside, assembling for reasons long forgotten but preserved silently in the stones themselves.


After our time for exploration at the site, Koko will facilitate our group ceremony and meditation. What will be your Gift of Spirit that you will receive as a farewell? Hold it close to your heart as you carry it home with you. We'll close our time here by sending out Prayers for Peace from the world's many spiritual traditions.

Return to Glastonbury. After lunch on your own, you then have free time to explore! Here are some options:
1. Glastonbury Abbey. Set in 37 acres of beautifully peaceful parkland in the center of town. Built in the Middle Ages, it's described by some historians as "the holiest place in all of England". St Mary's Chapel marks the site where Joseph of Arimathea established the first above-ground church in all of Christendom. The Celts had a deity named Easus who died and was supposed to come back to life. When they heard about Jesus from Joseph of Arimathea, they saw the return of Easus in the story, and gave Ynys Witrin, or Glastonbury, to him as a site for a church. This was the birthplace of Celtic Christianity, and grew to be a powerful pilgrimage site. Many people believe that the Holy Thorn tree that can be seen in the grounds originated from Joseph of Arimathea's staff. Graves thought to be those of Arthur and Guinevere have been unearthed here. Take time to wander among these ancient ruins and powerful energies, exploring their mysteries through reflection and meditation.

2. Stop in at the Glastonbury Goddess Temple off of Hight Street and meditate at the Flame of Avalon.

3. Visit the St. Margaret's Chapel / Magdalene Almshouses and Garden in Magdalene Close in downtown, for a time of peaceful meditation, prayer and reflection. The original structure was built in the 1070's but burned down in the great Abbey fire of 1184. The present one was re-built in 1444. Today its a sacred space of prayer, sanctuary and spirituality.

4. Take a walk to visit Gog and Magog, two ancient oak trees in Wick Hollow thought by some of the locals to be the root chakra of the area. Others honor them as the last remains of a Druidical avenue leading up to the Tor.

5. Go into St. John's Church in the heart of town, dedicated to John the Baptist, one of the original teachers of the Goddess Tradition. Here you can view the beautiful stained glass window depicting Joseph of Arimathea holding two vials of "Holy Grail."

6. Or take in some Retail Therapy as you wander along High Street in the center of town, where shops full of new and used books on every topic you can imagine, Celtic jewelry, clothes, artwork, crystals and gemstone and many more treasures abound!

Dinner on your own. Overnight Glastonbury.  

After an early dinner on your own we return walking to the foot of the Tor for our private entrance into the Chalice Well. Koko, in her role as Priestess of Avalon, will offer our group a special initiation into the age-old Goddess Mysteries connected to this area, as she inducts us as Brothers and Sisters of Avalon. We'll gather at the well head to honor each person by singing our names. Then you'll have time for private meditation and to wander the grounds on your own, while Koko offers each person a private reading with a message from The Lady.

We return walking to town. Overnight Glastonbury.  

Day 6. Friday, July 23. Stonehenge Private Entrance, Free Time, Sharing Circle & Closing Ceremony, Farewell Dinner (B/D)
We depart early morning for one of the highlights of our journey: our private entrance inside the circle at Stonehenge for Sacred Ceremony and Meditation. There is much debate as to the age of Stonehenge, as well as who built it.  History says that the site was begun in the agricultural Neolithic Age and was completed in the Early Bronze Age by early Britons known as the Beaker Folk, so called because of beakers, drinking vessels, found in their grave goods. Around 1500 BCE some disaster or systems collapse progressively brought the impressive Megalithic Age to an end, not only here, but throughout the whole of Britain and Ireland. Although we can never know exactly who the architects were who planned Stonehenge, the face sculptured into the side of trilithon stone 54 does give us cause to wonder if he or she was so influential that his/her facial features were placed here to be preserved forever as a representation of the Divine Marriage, the concept of Sacred Marriage between an Earth Mother and Sky Father, that was universal in early or primitive agricultural and Goddess-oriented societies. Those who are sensitive to this massive temple claim that the megalithic blocks are constantly radiating tremendous amounts of energy. Some say it is because the ancient Druids turned themselves into the stones, while others assert that they hold the power of innumerable Druid ceremonies held there in the past. Koko, Peter and Christina will facilitate a Divine Feminine Initiation & Meditation among the magical stones and their powerful energies. Part of the time inside the circle will be a walking meditation facilitated by Christina to connect with these ancient energies. What ancient secrets will be revealed to you? What will be your Gift of Spirit that you will receive? Open your heart, mind, and soul…and receive!                (Photo on right - Credit: J. Krasse)

We return to Glastonbury later morning. You have the rest of the morning and early afternoon to explore more in Glastonbury. Lunch on your own. Perhaps visit some of the area's sacred sites and power spots you've not made it to yet. OR revisit those that have you have been particularly drawn to. More gifts of Spirit await you today as you take time to make your lasting connections in Avalon.

In the later afternoon we gather for our final Sharing Circle. Christina will facilitate a Group Dream Work session, followed by a Closing Ceremony. Then it's time to celebrate and say our fond Good-byes at our Farewell Dinner. Overnight Glastonbury.

Day 7. Saturday, July 24. Depart England (B)
After an early breakfast we transfer via motorcoach to the airport in Bristol to connect with our international flights.
NOTE: Please book your flight to depart at 10:00AM or later.

Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.

A Few Words from Sacred Sites Journeys Pilgrimages to England

Glastonbury/Avalon is a beautiful and magical place – a sacred site in and of itself, and near to so many other sacred sites in England. I would recommend this tour to anyone who is called to it. There is so much to explore and experience, from the ruins in Tintagel to the crop circles! The private entrances to the Chalice Well and Stonehenge were highlights of this tour for me. These are things that most people do not get to experience, and this is what makes Sacred Sites Journeys special. Koko Newport is a delightful and fascinating woman, and I thoroughly enjoyed and benefitted from time spent with her. It was also incredible to have Nicholas Mann as a speaker. His knowledge of the history and legends of Glastonbury/Avalon held us all in thrall during his lecture. I was privileged to have a reading with him. I hope to return to Glastonbury in the not too distant future, either as part of a tour or on my own, and I certainly will be interested in Sacred Sites Journeys to Ireland and Scotland, too! From there, who knows? The world has opened up to me! - J.  Dunn, Illinois

Traveling to Glastonbury is an experience you will never forget. This sacred land will transform you and your life. You will quickly understand why so many people have made pilgrimage to this sacred land over the ages. These sacred sites are powerful and breathtaking. From Stonehenge to the Chalice Well each place is uniquely inspirational and transformational.  And of course you are truly blessed to have Andrea serve as your guide. Helping others travel on these spiritual journeys is truly her love and it is reflected in all of her actions. It is her goal to help you have the most meaningful experience possible. Scared Site Journeys have helped me discover myself and created dreams I never thought possible. Thank you Andrea!  - M. Zwirn, Minnesota 

The spiritual pilgrimage to Glastonbury was excellent! My most meaningful experiences were at Stonehenge, the Chalice Well, and inside the crop circle. Andrea did an excellent job as our Tour Director, and facilitator of the meditations. AND, the food at the welcome dinner was really good! - V. Keller, Ohio

The sacred journey was a great introduction to Glastonbury and its many gifts. It had the right amount of scheduled time with ample free time. I found Andrea to be very conscientious of the individuals and the group, without trying to micromanage or force and experiences.
The provided information left room for my own conclusions and perceptions to integrate in the way it was meant to. This was the perfect combination of introduction and detail to help one start the integration process into the Magick and mysteries of our foundations.   The experience was a beautiful and fulfilling experience that opened my eyes to new things. Humorous, fun and intellectual - my mind was fed  and I was left wanting more information, more experience and more time. I thoroughly enjoyed the Nicholas Mann's visit and discussion; his kind, compassionate and integrity of  manner inspired me to think, to feel and most importantly - to remember. - J. Krasse, Maine

This Goddess-oriented journey was all I could have dreamed of and more. It was a healing pilgrimage for myself and my soul. The visit to the Chalice Well and the ritual with Koko were very meaningful and moving for me. Stonehenge and the Tor were exceptional! I loved Andrea's perceptions, and also her channeling session. Made a lot of sense!  I felt she was very plugged into all of us and our issues. She was a ray of sunshine! - R. Merrill, Maine

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Your Sacred Sites Journey to ENGLAND Includes:
- Roundtrip transfers between airport and Bed and Breakfasts in Glastonbury
- Accommodations in First Class Bed & Breakfasts, including daily breakfast
- Welcome and Farewell Dinnes (vegetarian always available)
- Sightseeing tours as per itinerary, including entrance fees
- Escorted on arrival in Bristol by Speakers Christina Bjergo and Peter Sterling
- Pre-Paid Gratuities for driver, guide, waiters, etc.

SPECIAL FEATURES:
- Travel with other spirit-centered people
- Spiritual Tour Guide: Koko Newport, Priestss of Avalon
- Optional ceremonies, initiations & meditations at sacred sites facilitated by Koko Newport
- Music by Harpist and Speaker Peter Sterling
- Group dream work and energy work sessions, with Speaker Christina Bjergo
- Private group entrance at Stonehenge for sacred ceremony and meditation
- Private group entrance into the Chalice Well for Initiation into the Mysteries of Avalon facilitated by Koko Newport
- Presentation by Nicholas Mann, author of Energy Secrets of Glastonbury Tor and The Mysteries of Avalon
- Visit to Glastonbury Tor and the Chalice Well with author Nicholas Mann
- Sacred sites of Avebury World Heritage Site, including Avebury and Silbury Hill
- Tintagel Castle and Merlin's cave
- Possible crop circle sightings
- Free time in Glastonbury to explore on your own
- Welcome and Farewell Dinners

NOT INCLUDED:
- Roundtrip international flight to England (Arrive/Depart Bristol Airport)
- Meals not included, as indicated in the itinerary
- Cost to obtain valid passport
- Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, internet access and telephone calls. Any item that is not specifically detailed on the Sacred Sites Journeys website, in the tour brochure or final trip itinerary

This tour is LAND ONLY. You are responsible to book your international flights to and from Bristol, England.
ARRIVAL: Please arrive in Bristol on Sunday, July 18th by 9:00AM  in order to connect with our morning group transfer to Glastonbury.
DEPARTURE: For your departure on Saturday, July 24th, please book your international flight to depart at 10:00AM or later.

DISCOUNT! Make ALL of your payments by check or money order and receive a 4% discount! This discount is INCLUDED in the prices below listed for this payment option.
NOTE: We are only able to take credit cards until June 2, 2010. After that you can pay with a credit card check, bank cashier's check, or money order. Or wire funds to our bank account (additional $50.00 fee applies for wires originating from outside the U.S.).

Sacred Journey of Initiation to Avalon (July 18 - 24, 2009)
Per Person, double occupancy, land only:
$1,769.00 for payments via check or money order
OR $1,843.00 for payments via credit card

Single Room Supplement: There are no single rooms left in this group. We have women and men who would like to share a twin-bedded room. Please consider sharing.

TOUR REGISTRATION

This Sacred Sites Journey to ENGLAND is open to the first 20 people who register.
We encourage you to reserve your space now!

Registration closes June 12, 2010, or sooner if the group fills before that date.

Reserve your space NOW in order to assure your participation.

To access a registration form that you can print out,  Click Here

Questions? Email info@SacredSitesJourneys.com
Or, call our office at 888 501-3853 (Toll free in the US) or 928 284-2384

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