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DUNLAP, CALIFORNIA

Alexander the Great, Greek Philosophy, and Experience Greece Without Leaving the U.S.

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Road Scholar
Program #6479RJ

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6 Days | 5 Nights
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Easy
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While all of our learning adventures offer extraordinary value, our "Best Value" programs were rated by our participants themselves who thought their dollar went particularly far.
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EasyFor people looking to exercise their minds more than their bodies. There’s minimal walking and not too many stairs.
ModerateThese programs get you on your feet and include activities such as walking up to a mile in a day through a city and standing in a museum for a few hours.
ActiveFor people who enjoy walking as much as two miles a day, perhaps to explore historic neighborhoods or a nature trail.
Moderately ChallengingFor hardy explorers who enjoy a good physical challenge, spending most of their days on the go.
ChallengingGet ready to keep up with our highest-energy group. These demanding — and rewarding — programs are for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Program Details > Daily Schedule

Elevation Note
Optional free-time excursion to Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park - 6,000' elevation.

Itinerary for Sep 8 — Sep 13, 2013

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Type: Conference Center

 Description: THEME OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAM: "ALEXANDER THE GREAT": He was worshipped as a god by the Asians, a hero descended from Hercules to the Greeks. He considered himself the "New Achilles." Study the feats of the man who established the first world empire by the age of thirty-two and died when there was nothing left to conquer. This is a three-course program that also includes "Greek Philosophy and the Roots of Western Civilization" and "Experience Greece Without Leaving the USA." ABOUT ST. NICHOLAS RANCH: "The Ranch" as the locals call it, is a conference and retreat center located in Dunlap, California, 40 miles east of Fresno in the foothills leading up to Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park. Rolling hills, ancient oaks, a small lake with fish, an apple orchard and an olive grove provide gorgeous natural surroundings. Nestled on 230 acres of what was once a working horse ranch, our lodges, meeting spaces, and recreational facilities provide for very comfortable accommodations surrounded by rugged landscape. Both the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are only 30 minutes away from our facility, making it possible to visit both in one day! A breathtaking new Byzantine-style monastery is also on the property. Hiking trails and a swimming pool are also available. THE ACCOMMODATIONS: All rooms come with a private bath, individual air-conditioning and heating, with twin beds. All the lodge rooms, dining, and classrooms are located together on level ground. All meals are included in the registration fee. VISIT OUR WEBISITE: www.stnicholasranch.org.

Contact info:
38526 Dunlap Road PO Box 400
Dunlap, CA 93621 USA
phone: 559-338-2103
web: www.stnicholasranch.org

Room amenities: Individual air conditioning and heating. Linens and towels provided for each guest. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms.

Facility amenities: Trails for hiking, swimming pool, library, WiFi Access

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Additional nights before: $50-$75.
Contact St Nicholas Ranch at 559-338-2103

Check in time: 4:00 PM

Day One: Sunday, September 08 - Dinner/7pm Orientation  
Arrive To: Check in at 4 PM.

Dinner: Dinner at 5:30pm. Greek Cuisine

Evening: 7:00 PM. Wine and cheese reception with a look at the week ahead.

Lodging: St. Nicholas Ranch

Meals Included: Dinner
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Type: Conference Center

 Description: THEME OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAM: "ALEXANDER THE GREAT": He was worshipped as a god by the Asians, a hero descended from Hercules to the Greeks. He considered himself the "New Achilles." Study the feats of the man who established the first world empire by the age of thirty-two and died when there was nothing left to conquer. This is a three-course program that also includes "Greek Philosophy and the Roots of Western Civilization" and "Experience Greece Without Leaving the USA." ABOUT ST. NICHOLAS RANCH: "The Ranch" as the locals call it, is a conference and retreat center located in Dunlap, California, 40 miles east of Fresno in the foothills leading up to Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park. Rolling hills, ancient oaks, a small lake with fish, an apple orchard and an olive grove provide gorgeous natural surroundings. Nestled on 230 acres of what was once a working horse ranch, our lodges, meeting spaces, and recreational facilities provide for very comfortable accommodations surrounded by rugged landscape. Both the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are only 30 minutes away from our facility, making it possible to visit both in one day! A breathtaking new Byzantine-style monastery is also on the property. Hiking trails and a swimming pool are also available. THE ACCOMMODATIONS: All rooms come with a private bath, individual air-conditioning and heating, with twin beds. All the lodge rooms, dining, and classrooms are located together on level ground. All meals are included in the registration fee. VISIT OUR WEBISITE: www.stnicholasranch.org.

Contact info:
38526 Dunlap Road PO Box 400
Dunlap, CA 93621 USA
phone: 559-338-2103
web: www.stnicholasranch.org

Room amenities: Individual air conditioning and heating. Linens and towels provided for each guest. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms.

Facility amenities: Trails for hiking, swimming pool, library, WiFi Access

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Additional nights before: $50-$75.
Contact St Nicholas Ranch at 559-338-2103

Check in time: 4:00 PM

Day Two: Monday, September 09 - Breakfast/Lecture/Lunch/Greek Cooking Class/Dinner/The Iliad "Live" 
Breakfast: 8am Breakfast. A simple continental breakfast with a choice of Greek Fare.

Morning: Alexander the Great, Part I.

Lunch: Greek Cuisine

Afternoon: 2pm. A truly Greek experience work with phyllo and grape leaves. And then sample your art on Thursday evening at the Glendi.

Dinner: 5:30 pm. A sampling of Greek dishes.

Evening: 7pm.Professional actor Eldon Quick's dramatic reading of the Iliad brings this classic work alive in a unique and exciting way. Listening to him speak you will think you are on the beach of Troy 3,500 years ago, with Achilles, Agamemnon and Odysseus standing before you.

Lodging: St. Nicholas Ranch

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Conference Center

 Description: THEME OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAM: "ALEXANDER THE GREAT": He was worshipped as a god by the Asians, a hero descended from Hercules to the Greeks. He considered himself the "New Achilles." Study the feats of the man who established the first world empire by the age of thirty-two and died when there was nothing left to conquer. This is a three-course program that also includes "Greek Philosophy and the Roots of Western Civilization" and "Experience Greece Without Leaving the USA." ABOUT ST. NICHOLAS RANCH: "The Ranch" as the locals call it, is a conference and retreat center located in Dunlap, California, 40 miles east of Fresno in the foothills leading up to Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park. Rolling hills, ancient oaks, a small lake with fish, an apple orchard and an olive grove provide gorgeous natural surroundings. Nestled on 230 acres of what was once a working horse ranch, our lodges, meeting spaces, and recreational facilities provide for very comfortable accommodations surrounded by rugged landscape. Both the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are only 30 minutes away from our facility, making it possible to visit both in one day! A breathtaking new Byzantine-style monastery is also on the property. Hiking trails and a swimming pool are also available. THE ACCOMMODATIONS: All rooms come with a private bath, individual air-conditioning and heating, with twin beds. All the lodge rooms, dining, and classrooms are located together on level ground. All meals are included in the registration fee. VISIT OUR WEBISITE: www.stnicholasranch.org.

Contact info:
38526 Dunlap Road PO Box 400
Dunlap, CA 93621 USA
phone: 559-338-2103
web: www.stnicholasranch.org

Room amenities: Individual air conditioning and heating. Linens and towels provided for each guest. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms.

Facility amenities: Trails for hiking, swimming pool, library, WiFi Access

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Additional nights before: $50-$75.
Contact St Nicholas Ranch at 559-338-2103

Check in time: 4:00 PM

Day Three: Tuesday, September 10 - Breakfast/Lecture/Lunch/Squaw Valley Herb Garden/Dinner/Greek Dancing... 
Breakfast/Lecture/Lunch/Squaw Valley Herb Garden/Dinner/Greek Dancing

Breakfast: 8am. Buffet style breakfast.

Morning: Lecture on Alexander the Great, Part II.

Lunch: 12pm Phyllo & Yogurt, has Greek written all over it.

Afternoon: 2 pm Dave McFadden takes us on an adventure, both in the classroom, and on a modest hike around the Ranch.

Dinner: 5:30pm. Sampling of great Greek food and Fresh Bread.

Evening: The local dance troupe, Kamari, from St. George Greek Orthodox Church joins us with their instructor George Papangellin. George will have you joining the dance group before the night is over.

Lodging: St. Nicholas Ranch

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Conference Center

 Description: THEME OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAM: "ALEXANDER THE GREAT": He was worshipped as a god by the Asians, a hero descended from Hercules to the Greeks. He considered himself the "New Achilles." Study the feats of the man who established the first world empire by the age of thirty-two and died when there was nothing left to conquer. This is a three-course program that also includes "Greek Philosophy and the Roots of Western Civilization" and "Experience Greece Without Leaving the USA." ABOUT ST. NICHOLAS RANCH: "The Ranch" as the locals call it, is a conference and retreat center located in Dunlap, California, 40 miles east of Fresno in the foothills leading up to Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park. Rolling hills, ancient oaks, a small lake with fish, an apple orchard and an olive grove provide gorgeous natural surroundings. Nestled on 230 acres of what was once a working horse ranch, our lodges, meeting spaces, and recreational facilities provide for very comfortable accommodations surrounded by rugged landscape. Both the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are only 30 minutes away from our facility, making it possible to visit both in one day! A breathtaking new Byzantine-style monastery is also on the property. Hiking trails and a swimming pool are also available. THE ACCOMMODATIONS: All rooms come with a private bath, individual air-conditioning and heating, with twin beds. All the lodge rooms, dining, and classrooms are located together on level ground. All meals are included in the registration fee. VISIT OUR WEBISITE: www.stnicholasranch.org.

Contact info:
38526 Dunlap Road PO Box 400
Dunlap, CA 93621 USA
phone: 559-338-2103
web: www.stnicholasranch.org

Room amenities: Individual air conditioning and heating. Linens and towels provided for each guest. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms.

Facility amenities: Trails for hiking, swimming pool, library, WiFi Access

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Additional nights before: $50-$75.
Contact St Nicholas Ranch at 559-338-2103

Check in time: 4:00 PM

Day Four: Wednesday, September 11 - Breakfast/Lecture/Free Time/Sack Lunch/Dinner/Greek Language,... 
Breakfast/Lecture/Free Time/Sack Lunch/Dinner/Greek Language, Traditions, and Customs

Breakfast: 8am. Continental sampling.

Morning: The day is yours! Choose to peruse the many books in the Library, or check out the surrounding area with a hike. For other ideas and local attractions give us a call at 559-338-2103

Lunch: 9am. A sack lunch will be available for you to pick up after breakfast.

Afternoon: 2pm. A visit from the Squaw Valley Herb Garden, Rosemary brings her beautiful garden to the ranch.

Dinner: 5:30pm

Evening: 7pm. We will take a light hearted look at the Greek Language, and the traditions and customs of Greece. A great introduction for those of you planning to visit Greece in the future or simply want to better understand your Greek neighbors.

Lodging: St. Nicholas Ranch

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Conference Center

 Description: THEME OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAM: "ALEXANDER THE GREAT": He was worshipped as a god by the Asians, a hero descended from Hercules to the Greeks. He considered himself the "New Achilles." Study the feats of the man who established the first world empire by the age of thirty-two and died when there was nothing left to conquer. This is a three-course program that also includes "Greek Philosophy and the Roots of Western Civilization" and "Experience Greece Without Leaving the USA." ABOUT ST. NICHOLAS RANCH: "The Ranch" as the locals call it, is a conference and retreat center located in Dunlap, California, 40 miles east of Fresno in the foothills leading up to Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park. Rolling hills, ancient oaks, a small lake with fish, an apple orchard and an olive grove provide gorgeous natural surroundings. Nestled on 230 acres of what was once a working horse ranch, our lodges, meeting spaces, and recreational facilities provide for very comfortable accommodations surrounded by rugged landscape. Both the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are only 30 minutes away from our facility, making it possible to visit both in one day! A breathtaking new Byzantine-style monastery is also on the property. Hiking trails and a swimming pool are also available. THE ACCOMMODATIONS: All rooms come with a private bath, individual air-conditioning and heating, with twin beds. All the lodge rooms, dining, and classrooms are located together on level ground. All meals are included in the registration fee. VISIT OUR WEBISITE: www.stnicholasranch.org.

Contact info:
38526 Dunlap Road PO Box 400
Dunlap, CA 93621 USA
phone: 559-338-2103
web: www.stnicholasranch.org

Room amenities: Individual air conditioning and heating. Linens and towels provided for each guest. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms.

Facility amenities: Trails for hiking, swimming pool, library, WiFi Access

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Additional nights before: $50-$75.
Contact St Nicholas Ranch at 559-338-2103

Check in time: 4:00 PM

Day Five: Thursday, September 12 - Breakfast/Lecture/Lunch/Monastery Tour/Greek Orthodox Evening... 
Breakfast/Lecture/Lunch/Monastery Tour/Greek Orthodox Evening Vespers/Dinner/A Nights Festivities

Breakfast: 8am. Greek and American Fare

Morning: Lecture on "The Greek Philosophers and the Roots of Western Civilization".

Lunch: 12pm. Soup and Sandwiches Greek Style

Afternoon: 1pm. One of the most unique features of St. Nicholas Ranch is that it is home to an authentic Greek Orthodox Convent which follows the Orthodox Byzantine tradition. It is an opportunity to experience a living witness of Byzantium. Enjoy the hospitality of the nuns who will provide a tour of the convent followed by Greek coffee and pastries.

Afternoon: 4pm. (Optional) You will have the opportunity to attend a Greek Orthodox Evening Vespers service at the convent which last approximately one hour.

Dinner: 5:30pm. "Glendi Night" A social hour starts the nights festivities, with a Traditional Lamb dinner to follow.

Evening: 7pm. Talent Show, Movies, Charades, Dancing! An evening of Fun for all.

Lodging: St. Nicholas Ranch

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Six: Friday, September 13 - Breakfast/Lecture/Lunch  
Breakfast: 8am. Continental Breakfast

Morning: Lecture on "The Greek Philosophers and the Roots of Western Civilization" Part II.

Lunch: 12pm. A final good bye to our Greek Cuisine.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch


Free Time Opportunities


Dunlap, CA
Mennonite Quilt Center and World HandicraftsThe Mennonite Quilt Center and World Handicrafts are located in scenic Reedley, CA... about a 30 minute drive from the Ranch. World Handicrafts sell international gifts. The Mennonite Quilt Center is a full fabric store offering a full line of 100% cotton quilting fabrics, quilt books and patterns, and quilting classes for all levels. Phone: 559.638.3560.
Monastery of the Theotokos, the Life-Giving SpringVisit a genuine Greek Orthodox Women's Monastery and you will enter into another world! A living and working monastery, located on the Ranch grounds, the convent is a unique spiritual and cultural experience. You would have to travel to Greece to get the same authentic Greek Orthodox monastic experience! Guests will also be served Greek coffee and cookies, as well as have a visit with the abbess.
Sequoia/Kings Canyon National ParkThe entrance to both parks is a mere 30 minutes away. Visit Grant's Grove and see the giant sequoias... the largest living things on earth! Visit Crystal and Boyden Caverns. Have lunch and rent a canoe or motor boat at Hume Lake. Cedar Grove is also nearby.
Sierra Endangered Cat HavenCome face-to-face with Bengal tigers, leopards, black panthers, and more. This one-of-a-kind zoo exists to raise awareness of the Cat Haven's world-wide cat restoration programs. This zoo is the best kept secret among zoos… a must see! Phone: 559.338.3216.
Squaw Valley Herb GardensThis unique and relaxing stop is located ten minutes from the Ranch and is included as part of the Ranch's Road Scholar program. The Herb Gardens is an aesthetically pleasing and relaxing experience. This is more than a tour… it is a whimsical, musical, and culinary delight!
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Important information about your itinerary:
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date.
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•5 nights of accommodations
•15 meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
•4 Expert-led lectures
•1 Hands-on experiences
•1 Performances
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