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20 Writer Retreats: Where To Take Your Next Creative Adventure

Sarah Rexford

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Writer retreats are highly anticipated events that can give writers the boost they need to move forward in their next project.

If you feel that the excitement of the new year has long worn off and you’re looking for a way to re-inspire yourself in your writing endeavors, you may want to look into writer retreats near you. Or, if you have the ability to travel, you might consider making an extended trip out of it.

No matter where you are in your writing process, choosing the best writing retreat for your needs can help you continue toward your goals.

The goal of writer retreats is to to use dedicated writing time to progress any project in a supportive environment . Unlike writing conferences, retreats primarily focus on the activity of writing. When you attend a conference, the goal is usually multifaceted:

Learn from the workshops you attend
Pitch your project during appointments
Network with other writers

While writer retreats are a great place to network, their sole focus is to help you, the writer, get closer to the finish line in your work-in-progress. If you’re mid-project or need help getting started, here is a list of writer retreats you can attend no matter where you are in the world.

Writer retreats span the globe. Whether you find yourself living in the US, Canada, or across the pond in Europe or Asia, below are twenty writer retreat options for you to choose from.

First, let’s take a look at five writer retreats in the United States.

This nonprofit residency program offers over 100 residencies and various themed residencies. No matter which session you attend, you will experience:

Uninterrupted time for writing
An environment built to support your goals
Fifty acres of idyllic prairie
Community dinner every night

Looking for writer retreats based out of New York? Millay offers writer retreats that are both two and four weeks long. These residencies are geared for poets and creative fiction and nonfiction writers.

Located in New England, this writers’ retreat offers both workshops to strengthen your writing abilities and extended time to put your newfound skills to work.

Join just one or two other writers and the retreat’s host in a private home. Surrounded by the scenes and scents of Hawaii, spend your mornings walking the beach and the rest of your day writing.

Have you heard of writer retreats including massages and yoga? Look no further. This retreat offers solitary time to write, the option for community meals, and hiking to inspire you imagination.

Next up, writer retreats in Canada. Whether you want to cross the border to attend or already reside there, these retreats could help your career.

Writer retreats are frequently open to writers in any stage of the process. This retreat in Canada is aimed at writers who have a minimum of one professionally published book. If you’re looking to surround yourself with established writers and fit the criteria, this is for you.

This retreat offers the option of fireside feedback. While you have time to write on your own, you can spend the evenings with other writers in the firelight, swapping tips.

Don’t have much time but want a brief getaway? This single day writing retreat gives you space to write, workshop your story, and of course, enjoy the wine and dine offerings.

Rent space at a discounted rate, surround yourself with other creatives in a peaceful environment, and write your book at Warbler’s Roost in Ontario.

Writ e rs’ Residency

A two-week residency focused on poetry writers, this getaway is designed to help you take your writing to the next level in just two weeks.

Who doesn’t love a creative getaway in Europe? Let’s start in Greece.

This six night, seven day retreat takes place in Greece, surrounded by just four to seven other writers. If you’re ready for tantalizing food and fantastic views, this writer retreat is for you.

Targeted for both writers and aspiring writers, this week away in Tuscany will fuel your creative juices and help you focus on writing in a breath-taking environment.

Travel to rural France for peaceful writing sessions. Whether you’re a fiction writer, poet, songwriter, or academic, this retreat is for you.

Writer retreats often offer one or two of the following, this one offers all three: Quiet time to write, workshops, and feedback sessions to aid your growth.

This one week writer retreat helps you write your book in the time you spend in Mallorca. Are you on deadline? Sequester yourself on this island and crank out your novel!

Last, but certainly not least, writer retreats throughout Asia.

Located in India, this retreat brings in professionals to teach you how to level-up your writing. If you can’t make the retreat in person, they offer online writing courses as well.

This retreat encourages writers to bring their book ideas, first chapters, or even completed draft for feedback, and offer a wide array of idyllic locations for writing.

Set in Vietnam, this six day writing retreat provides you the atmosphere and leisure time to write your book.

Writer retreats focused on the business aspect are few and far between, and this one is led by an author of six books who also provides business coaching.

This week-long retreat takes place on a tropical island. Its focus is to help you take large steps toward the completion of your book, wherever you may be in the process.

If flying out of the country or even taking a week off work seems like a luxury you’re not sure you should take, don’t click away just yet.

Most of us have some vacation time we can take, and even if traveling to one of the above retreats isn’t an option at this time, there is always the option of online writer retreats .

If you can take the time off, but you’re not sure traveling to an aesthetic location can really balance out the other variables, consider these few points. Writer retreats:

Provide you a change of pace and environment to stimulate creativity
Allow you to meet other like-minded creatives and network
Create a space for you to write without distraction

Provided that you do have the option of going on a retreat this year, you may want to consider the pros of devoting time specifically to your writing.

Yes, you can tell your friends and family you’ll be in your writing cave and not to disturb you, but we all know sometimes changing our location is the only way to eliminate distractions.

Besides, you never know what ideas a change of scenery may inspire, what friends you may meet, or how restful writer retreats can be. Let us know if you decide to go on one, and which one you pick!

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Best Writers' Retreats Around the World in 2024

Do you dream of getting away from it all to write?

Do you need some help to improve your writing style or keen to start a novel or memoir? Would you like to meet and interact with other writers in a beautiful location? Then a creative writing retreat might be the answer.

Most retreats are mentored by a professional writer and offer a combination of workshops and creative interaction with small groups of writers, and there’s also time set aside so you can relax and explore the location you’re in.

You'll get to learn away from the demands and stresses of everyday life, and most retreats are set in beautiful surroundings.

Now here are our recommendations for the 12 best inspiring writers’ retreats worldwide that allow you to meet new people, relax in peaceful surroundings and get help, advice and inspirtion to help you develop your skills.

1. Inspired Writer's Retreat, Utah, United States

How many people have told you, “Wow! You ought to write a book!" and you know they're right? Have you thought, "In order to leap forward in my life and career, I've GOT to get this book out of my head, and onto the page" but you also know you want bestseller quality? Whether you have been writing for years or just getting started, our Inspired Writer's Retreat is here for you!

In a beautiful, intimate setting with only a small group of authors, we dive deep into Your Inspired Story . The retreat includes:

1-on-1 time with your host and book mentor, Bridget Cook-Burch (a NYT and WSJ Bestselling Author)
A specially selected keynote speaker/author with an incredible story to share
Our in-house editor
A private chef to provide delicious meals and needs
Cozy accommodations with stunning views, including some private room availability
A safe space to inspire and provide quiet writing time
Writing, outlining and craft development activities with experiential exercises you can't get in a classroom!

For writers of all levels, this accelerated learning takes you from outlining a true bestseller to navigating the best ways to publish. Visit our website to learn more: www.inspiredwritersretreat.com .

2. Writing Retreats in Mexico

Get Out of the Cold and Write , is what VSW (Vancouver School of Writing) likes to call their Mexico Writing Retreats. You can have a holiday and improve and finish your writing. Frankly, it's easier to write outside on a sunny day, a few palm trees and a balmy breeze.

But, what if someone experienced is there to help you along the way? Not only an inspiring coach, but a small group of other supportive writers? That is why VSW retreats are special, the great support and learning that writers get. People not only get their writing done, but bond at VSW retreats and frequently return.

These Mexico retreats feature:

Two-hour daily classes, with breakfast
Camaraderie of group
Evening share events and readings
One-on-one consultations with Kathrin Lake, writing coach
Open time to write and relax in tropical paradise
Guided workbook with great tools for any writing
Guided tours of lagoon and island
On site accommodation: Private bedroom/bathrooms and garden and terraza common areas
2 blocks to beach

Annually VSW's Mexico writing retreats happen at the Retreat Centre, Casa Creatividad, at a town just north of Manzanillo, Mexico. Retreats start on Monday and go to Sunday. 10 person maximum. They keep group size small so quality and individual attention is high. Participants often come a day or two early so they are refreshed for morning class (accommodation fees are separate to allow for extra days).

For this year you will be able to book one of four possible weeks. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

3. Arvon, UK

Arvon has been running annual residential writing courses and retreats in Yorkshire, Shropshire and Devon since 1968. These retreats, located in beautiful countryside locations, give writers the time, space and inspiration to write. Expert tuition from leading authors is also on offer. The programme includes a wide range of literary genres, and caters for new and published writers. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

4. Victoria, BC, Canada Writer's Retreat

This retreat encompasses both fiction and non-fiction writers and includes 4 classes and one workshop, tour and picnic at the historic Craigdarroch Castle.

The retreat aims to build a solid support group of writers who will stay at their tranquil Ross Bay Beach house in Victoria. You also get customized one-on-one writing coaching included. Meanwhile, there will be optional guided and unguided time to explore historic and quaint Victoria, stroll beaches and visit restaurants and shops.

Due to Covid-19, this writing retreat is currently on hold for the moment. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

5. The Memoir Retreat, Greece

This writers’ retreat is held in Skala Eressos, on the lush, green island of Lesvos (sometimes called Lesbos or Mytilini).

Skala Eressos is a beach town and the retreat studios are set back from the beach on a beautiful allotment of land. It’s just a short walk from the main square and the beach with tavernas, cafes bars and small grocery stores. The sea is crystal clear and warm all summer.

All courses at The Memoir Retreat are suitable for beginners and writers who just need some help with plotting or character development. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

6. Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, USA

Here’s a retreat a little further from home where you can pitch your laptop for a week or so and write. This is not a formal workshop, it’s just a wonderful place to let your fingers glide over the keyboard and finish your novel.

The rustic but utterly charming Whiteface Lodge, with its cast-iron fireplaces, pine beams and 6 million acres of mountain parkland, is in New York State. Your suite has a full kitchen, a writing desk and glorious mountain views.

If you prefer, you can work in front of the fire in the downstairs lounge, and once you’ve hit your daily word count, why not take off for some hiking, skiing, fishing or even canoeing. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

7. Moniack Mhor, UK

Moniack Mhor Creative Writing Centre in the Scottish Highlands, is just 14 miles from Inverness. The creative writing courses are tutored by some of the finest authors in the published world. Participants are accommodated in the original croft house at Moniack Mhor.

It has 2 en-suite bedrooms and a guest bedroom, and is warmed by a wood-burning stove. The centre offers a variety of courses and retreats. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

8. Wales National Writing Centre, Gwynedd, Wales

Ty Newydd is a beautiful house set in the gorgeous Llyn Peninsula overlooking Cardigan Bay in Wales. The Wales National Writing Centre is hosting a busy schedule of writing courses that include literary novels, scriptwriting, short fiction, and crime writing. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

9. The Writer’s Lab, Greece

Writers on the Skyros retreats at The Writer’ Lab are accommodated in traditional Greek townhouses and enjoy healthy breakfasts and some gentle yoga on the sunny terrace before writing lessons begin. Professional writers guide and mentor the participants until lunchtime; the afternoons being left free for swimming and sightseeing. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

10. The Grange by the Sea, Isle of Wight, UK

Closer to home, The Grange Country House Hotel on the Isle of Wight offers writing courses throughout the year, all led by experienced tutors. Courses include Life Writing, Your Writer’s Voice, and Your Story, among others. The island and hotel has a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and long walks along the beach. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

11. Moroccan Caravan, Morocco

This 5-day writers’ travelling adventure takes you deep into the heart of the Moroccan desert and will inspire and revitalise your creativity. Finish that novel you’ve been working on or start a new project based on the sounds, smells and experiences of Morocco at Moroccan Caravan. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

12. Mont Blanc, Chamonix, France

The core of the Mont Blanc Writing programme is an intensive, 2-week workshop, during which time writers work together with a single faculty member.

Classes are no bigger than 12 and the instructor, a professional writer, helps you focus on your writing. The courses follow a traditional workshop format – each student’s work is critiqued twice by the group. Classes meet in the morning and typically last for about three hours.

Writers need to arrange their own accommodation, but booking an apartment or a room is remarkably easy. When it comes to food, Mont Blanc hosts several events with plenty to eat, but in general writers have to feed themselves. Most chalets and apartments in Chamonix have their own kitchens. New dates to be announced soon, check back soon.

Have you ever attended a writing retreat that you would recommend? Or do you have any advice for going? Let us know in the comments section below.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Writing Retreats for Authors and Creatives

Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to the Best Writing Retreats for Authors and Creatives. Whether you\’re a budding writer, an experienced author looking for inspiration, or a creative seeking a tranquil space to unleash your imagination, this guide is here to help you find the perfect writing retreat. Writing retreats offer a unique opportunity to escape the distractions of everyday life and immerse yourself in a serene and supportive environment. From picturesque countryside cottages to seaside cabins, we have curated a list of the most incredible retreats that will nurture your creativity and elevate your writing skills. So, pack your notebooks and pens as we embark on a journey to discover the finest writing retreats that will ignite your literary passion.

The Best Writing Retreats for Authors and Creatives

Benefits of attending writing retreats

When it comes to nurturing your creative writing skills and fueling your imagination, attending a writing retreat can be the perfect solution. These retreats provide authors and creatives with dedicated time and space to focus solely on their writing projects, away from the distractions of everyday life. But what other benefits do these retreats offer that make them worth considering? Let\’s explore:

Opportunities to focus on writing

One of the biggest advantages of attending a writing retreat is the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in your writing. With no other responsibilities or distractions, you can give your undivided attention to your work, allowing for increased productivity and creativity. Whether you\’re a novelist, poet, screenwriter, or any other type of writer, having uninterrupted time to concentrate on your craft is invaluable.

Inspiration and motivation

Another remarkable benefit of writing retreats is the ability to find inspiration and rekindle your motivation. By surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion for writing, you enter a creative environment that can ignite new ideas and approaches. Engaging in discussions and workshops with fellow writers allows you to tap into different perspectives, techniques, and styles, revitalizing your own writing process.

Networking and collaboration

Writing retreats also provide a platform for networking and collaboration. Connecting with other authors and creatives can open doors to new opportunities, such as potential collaborations on projects or the formation of critique groups. Sharing your work-in-progress and receiving feedback from peers can be invaluable, helping you refine your storytelling and writing techniques. Furthermore, these connections can result in lasting friendships and a supportive writing community even after the retreat ends.

Overall, attending a writing retreat offers numerous benefits for authors and creatives. It presents a focused environment where you can dedicate your time solely to your writing, allowing for increased productivity and creative growth. Additionally, these retreats inspire and motivate by surrounding you with like-minded individuals who share your passion for writing, offering opportunities to exchange ideas and techniques. Finally, the networking and collaboration potential of writing retreats can open doors to new possibilities and support from a community of fellow writers. So, if you\’re looking to enhance your writing skills, gain inspiration, and connect with others in the writing world, attending one of these retreats may just be the perfect choice for you.

Popular Writing Retreats Around the World

Tuscany, Italy – Writing Under the Tuscan Sun

When it comes to combining creativity with the beauty of the Italian countryside, nothing beats the writing retreats in Tuscany. Imagine immersing yourself in picturesque landscapes while honing your writing skills, receiving feedback, and engaging in one-on-one sessions with experienced mentors.

But it\’s not just all about the writing. Tuscany offers a plethora of highlights and amenities that make this retreat truly special. Indulge in the mouthwatering local cuisine, made from fresh ingredients harvested from the surrounding farms. Take a break from writing and visit historic sites, like Florence\’s stunning Duomo or the medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano. And to enhance your overall experience, guided tours are available to introduce you to the rich history and culture of this remarkable region.

Don\’t just take our word for it. Countless testimonials and success stories from previous attendees highlight the transformative power of this retreat. Many writers have experienced significant breakthroughs in their writing journeys, finding renewed inspiration and confidence to pursue their creative endeavors.

Banff, Canada – Mountain Retreat for Writers

Nestled in the breathtaking Banff National Park, this retreat offers writers and creatives a serene environment that is sure to inspire and enrich their work. Imagine finding yourself surrounded by snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, and abundant wildlife as you dive into your writing.

But it\’s not just the natural beauty that sets this retreat apart. Renowned authors lead workshops where you can learn from the best in the field, gaining invaluable insights and honing your craft. And when it\’s time to take a break from writing, you can explore the wilderness through guided hikes, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery and drawing inspiration from the wonders of nature. For those who wish to showcase their work, open mic nights provide the perfect platform to share your stories with fellow retreat attendees.

When it comes to accommodations, the retreat offers cozy and comfortable lodging options such as private cabins, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating stay. Additional services, such as gourmet dining options and spa treatments, further enhance the overall experience, making this retreat a true haven for writers and creatives.

Bali, Indonesia – Paradise for Writers

Escape to the enchanting island of Bali for a writing retreat that combines creativity with relaxation and self-discovery. This retreat offers a unique blend of writing workshops, meditation, and yoga sessions, fostering a holistic and transformative experience.

During the writing workshops, experienced mentors guide participants through various topics essential to the craft of writing. From plot development to character-building, these workshops provide a comprehensive toolkit to hone your skills and refine your writing techniques. Whether you\’re a seasoned author or just beginning your writing journey, these workshops offer something for everyone.

But a retreat in Bali is not just about writing. It\’s also an opportunity for cultural immersion and self-exploration. Take a break from your writing and explore Bali\’s rich culture, visiting ancient temples, experiencing traditional rituals, and immersing yourself in the vibrant local arts scene. And when it\’s time to unwind, Bali\’s stunning beaches provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

So, whether you\’re seeking inspiration from the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, the serenity of Banff\’s mountains, or the holistic creative experience in Bali, these writing retreats offer a perfect escape for authors and creatives looking to elevate their craft. Let your creativity soar in these idyllic settings and watch as your writing journey takes on new heights.

Choosing the Right Writing Retreat for You

When it comes to finding the perfect writing retreat, it\’s important to consider your goals and needs, as well as your personal preferences and comfort. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when selecting the ideal retreat for your creative journey.

Determining your goals and needs

1. Analyzing your writing goals: Before choosing a writing retreat, take the time to evaluate what you hope to achieve from the experience. Are you seeking guidance to improve your writing skills, inspiration to spark your creativity, networking opportunities to connect with other authors, or perhaps a combination of these elements? Knowing your goals will help you select a retreat that aligns with your specific desires.

2. Considering the retreat format: Retreats can vary in their structure. Some offer a pre-designed schedule with workshops, classes, and group activities, while others provide a more flexible format that allows for personalized writing time. Decide which format suits you best and consider how much structure you require to make the most of your retreat.

3. Budget and logistics: It\’s essential to take into account the financial aspect of attending a writing retreat. Consider the overall cost, including accommodation, meals, and travel expenses, to ensure it fits within your budget. Additionally, think about the logistics of getting to and from the retreat location, as well as the duration of the retreat and any personal responsibilities you may have.

Researching and reviewing retreat options

1. Online resources and testimonials: Start your search for the perfect writing retreat by utilizing reputable websites, forums, and social media groups dedicated to retreat recommendations. These platforms can provide valuable insights and feedback from previous attendees, giving you a better idea of what to expect from a specific retreat.

2. Contacting organizers: Once you\’ve narrowed down your list of potential retreats, reach out to the organizers with any questions or concerns you may have. Inquire about the program details, the expertise of the mentors involved, the amenities offered, and any other information that will help you make an informed decision.

3. Considering location and surroundings: Reflect on the type of environment that enhances your creativity. Do you thrive in a serene countryside setting, or do you prefer the energy of a vibrant city? Consider the location and surroundings of the retreats you\’re considering and select a destination that resonates with you.

Personal preferences and comfort

1. Retreat size and atmosphere: Think about whether you prefer a small, intimate setting with a close-knit group of fellow writers, or if you thrive in a larger retreat with a more bustling atmosphere. The size and atmosphere of the retreat can greatly impact your experience and the level of interaction you have with others.

2. Accommodation and amenities: Determine the level of comfort you desire during your retreat. Some writers may prefer a rustic cabin in the woods, while others may enjoy the luxury of a resort overlooking the ocean. Consider your personal preferences and ensure that the accommodation and amenities provided by the retreat meet your expectations.

3. Accessibility and duration: Take into account the travel distance to the retreat location and the practicality of reaching it. Additionally, consider the length of the retreat and how it fits with your schedule and personal responsibilities. Choose a retreat that is easily accessible and offers a duration that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Writing Retreats

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding the time and space to focus on your writing can be a challenge. That’s where writing retreats come in. These immersive experiences provide the perfect environment for writers to escape the distractions of everyday life, focus on their craft, and find inspiration in new surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a beginner looking to hone your skills, a writing retreat could be just what you need to take your work to the next level.

Why You Need a Writing Retreat

Writing retreats offer a unique opportunity to dedicate uninterrupted time to your writing. They provide a supportive environment where you can focus solely on your craft, away from the distractions and demands of your daily routine. Whether you’re working on a novel, a collection of short stories, or a screenplay, a writing retreat can provide the time, space, and inspiration you need to make significant progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at a writing retreat? At a writing retreat, you’ll typically spend your days writing, with breaks for meals, relaxation, and optional activities like workshops, seminars, or local excursions. Some retreats also offer one-on-one mentoring sessions with established authors or industry professionals.

Who should attend a writing retreat? Anyone with a passion for writing can benefit from a writing retreat. Whether you’re a seasoned author working on your latest novel, a beginner looking to improve your skills, or a busy professional seeking a creative outlet, a writing retreat can provide the time, space, and inspiration you need.

How do I choose the right writing retreat? Consider what you hope to achieve, your budget, and the type of environment in which you work best. Do you want a structured program with workshops and critiques, or do you prefer plenty of free time for independent writing? Do you want a solitary experience, or do you thrive in a community of writers? Research each retreat carefully to ensure it aligns with your goals and preferences.

Benefits of Writing Retreats

Focused Writing Time: With no distractions or responsibilities to pull you away, you can fully immerse yourself in your writing.

Inspiration: New environments, cultures, and experiences can spark creativity and provide fresh ideas for your writing.

Community: You’ll be surrounded by other passionate writers, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and feedback.

Skill Development: Many retreats offer workshops, seminars, and mentoring sessions where you can learn new techniques and receive personalized advice to improve your writing.

Wellbeing: Beyond the writing benefits, retreats often offer activities like yoga, meditation, hiking, and more, promoting a balance of physical and mental wellbeing.

In conclusion, writing retreats are a valuable investment in your writing journey. They offer a unique blend of focused writing time, professional development, and personal growth. Whether you’re looking to finish a manuscript, seeking inspiration, or wanting to connect with a community of writers, a writing retreat could be the perfect solution.

Best writing retreats for 2023

This list is a bit of a mess, please search for all the details if one sounds interesting! I’ll probably rent another castle eventually if you want to sign up to my list.

Writers in the Wild, Catskills Oct 20th to 24th.

Catskills Retreat

October 20-24, 2023

Located on a beautiful country estate with 355 acres and miles of trails to wander, you’ll leave your cares behind and truly dive into your creativity. More details here .

The Ireland Writing Retreat in Donegal, Ireland, offers several retreats in 2023:

Spring Writing Retreat 2023
Summer Writing Retreat 2023
Autumn Writing Retreat 2023
Paris Writing Retreat 2023

However, the website does not provide specific dates and pricing information for these retreats. The retreats offer a combination of writing workshops, author talks, cultural experiences, and scenic walks. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, I recommend checking their official website or contacting them directly.

Here is the link to their website: Ireland Writing Retreat

The Himalayan Writing Retreat in India offers several retreats and workshops in 2023:

Creative Writing Course – Himalayas : July 19 – July 23, 2023, for ₹32,000.
Writing for the Screen – big & small : August 2 – August 6, 2023, for ₹29,000.
Creative Writing Course – Himalayas : September 2 – September 6, 2023, for ₹29,000.
Writing Masterclass with Jerry Pinto : September 20 – September 24, 2023, for ₹44,000.
Writing and Performing in Meter: Poetry Masterclass with Annie Finch : September 26 – October 1, 2023, for ₹36,000.
The Himalayan International Writers Retreat – Fall 2023 : October 3 – October 13, 2023, for $3,300.
Translation Masterclass with Arunava Sinha : November 1 – November 5, 2023, for ₹34,000.

Please note that prices are in Indian Rupees (₹) and US Dollars ($), and may vary depending on the specific retreat or workshop.

Here is the link to their website: The Himalayan Writing Retreat

Write Away Europe , Prague Writing Retreat – Here is the link to their website: Write Away Europe, Prague Writing Retreat

Iceland Writers Retreat , Reykjavik, Iceland: An annual retreat typically held in April, featuring a series of intimate writing workshops led by acclaimed authors and cultural tours across Iceland. Participants get a chance to network with fellow writers and get inspired by the country’s breathtaking landscapes. Website

Under the Volcano , Tepoztlán, Mexico: A 10-day retreat held annually in January, this program provides masterclasses for writers looking to advance their craft. It offers immersive learning with renowned authors, fostering a community of writers. Website

Paris American Academy’s Creative Writing Workshop, Paris, France: This month-long retreat every July offers writers a chance to work intensively on their projects while experiencing Paris’ rich culture. It includes writing workshops and cultural tours, providing ample inspiration for writers. Website

Arvon Foundation , United Kingdom: Offering week-long creative writing courses and retreats in serene countryside locations throughout the year. Each course is led by two tutors, allowing participants to engage in an intimate and focused learning environment. Website

Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference , Ripton, Vermont, USA: An annual 10-day event held in August, this conference features workshops, lectures, and classes for writers of all levels. It’s a great opportunity for networking and learning from renowned authors. Website

The Art of Writing , Tuscany, Italy: This retreat occurs in June, focusing on both writing and personal development. It offers a peaceful environment for writers to create, grow, and connect with other creative minds in the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Website

Greece Writers Retreat , Island of Thasos: A week-long retreat taking place in September. Participants can enjoy writing workshops, yoga sessions, and lots of free time to write, relax, and explore the picturesque island. Website

Vancouver and Victoria Schools of Writing , Canada: These schools offer various workshops and classes throughout the year. With a focus on fostering creativity and improving writing skills, these sessions provide a space for writers to learn and connect. Website

Centauri Arts Costa Rica Writing Retreat : This retreat caters to writers of all levels and provides coaching, classes, and communal activities amid the lush Costa Rican landscape. A perfect blend of learning and relaxation. Website

Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ Retreat , Colorado Springs, USA: This annual event is dedicated to fiction writers, providing a space to focus on their work and learn from experts in the genre. Writers can also network and share ideas with like-minded individuals. Website

Wide Open Writing , Isla Holbox Retreat, Mexico: This retreat offers guided writing sessions and recreational activities like yoga. A perfect opportunity for writers to combine creative exploration with relaxation and wellness. Website

Ireland Writing Retreat , Travel Writing Retreat, Donegal, Ireland: Based in the heart of Donegal, this retreat helps writers develop and enrich their travel writing skills through workshops and field experiences. Website

Verse Kraken Writing Retreat , Peumerit, France: Open to writers of all genres, this retreat offers a relaxing environment to hone writing skills in the French countryside.

Here is the link to their website: Verse Kraken Writing Retreat

Write Away Europe , Prague Writing Retreat: This retreat offers guided writing sessions, workshops, and cultural exploration in the vibrant city of Prague, Czech Republic. A unique opportunity for writers to immerse themselves in a different culture while refining their craft. Website

The Aegean Arts Circle Writing Workshops in Andros, Greece, are scheduled to take place from June 17th-25th, 2023. The workshops are led by award-winning authors and are designed for writers who need time away from their regular lives to write. The workshops are intensive and provide a small, close-knit writing community. The workshops meet every day and are challenging enough to bring out the best in participants, whether they are aspiring or published writers. However, the website does not provide specific pricing information for these workshops.

Here is the link to their website: Aegean Arts Circle Workshops

Black Sea Writing Retreat , Mai, Romania: This retreat specializes in travel, food, and entertainment writing. Participants get a chance to hone their skills in a specific genre, while also exploring the culturally rich region. Here is the link to their website: Black Sea Writing Retreat

The Creative Writer’s Workshop in Ireland offers several workshops and retreats in 2023:

Writing Retreats | Workshops
Fiction Writing Retreats | Workshops
Memoir Writing Retreats | Workshops
Fiction Writing Course Online

However, the website does not provide specific dates and pricing information for these workshops and retreats. The workshops are designed for writers of all levels and focus on both fiction and memoir writing. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, I recommend checking their official website or contacting them directly.

Here is the link to their website: The Creative Writer’s Workshop

Writing On Water Croatia Retreat: This retreat offers a variety of writing workshops in a villa overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Participants can enjoy the natural beauty of Croatia while focusing on their writing projects. Here is the link to their website: Writing On Water Croatia Retreat

Writing With Care at the Ochre House Retreat: A retreat for writers and creative artists providing an environment conducive to creativity. The location and activities are designed to foster a sense of community and inspire creativity. Here is the link to their website: Writing With Care at the Ochre House Retreat

Women Reading Aloud, Greece Writing Retreat: A women’s retreat on the island of Alonnisos in Greece, offering writing workshops and communal activities in an empowering, supportive environment. Here is the link to their website: Women Reading Aloud, Greece Writing Retreat

The Writers Who Run (Or Walk) Retreat in North Carolina, USA, is scheduled to take place from July 10-16, 2023. The deadline to register is June 23, 2023. The retreat is a week-long event that combines writing workshops with a 5K and 10K race. It offers a supportive and friendly environment for writers to be inspired, productive, and creative. However, the website does not provide specific pricing information for the retreat.

Here is the link to their website: Writers Who Run (Or Walk)

The Storyteller Within, Journey Into Sacred Expression Women’s Retreat in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, has two sessions scheduled for 2023:

July 7-15, 2023
August 25 – September 2, 2023

The retreat is designed for all women who want to reveal their own truths, connect to their intuition, reclaim their soul voice, feel empowered in their unique self-expression, and be inspired as the courageous storyteller of their own lives. However, the website does not provide specific pricing information for the retreat.

Here is the link to their website: The Storyteller Within

Hamlet’s Hideaway , Denmark: This retreat offers mentoring from established writers in a quiet, peaceful setting in Denmark. Participants can enjoy the solitude needed to focus on their work while also benefiting from expert guidance. Here is the link to their website: Hamlet’s Hideaway

Pink Pangaea , Writing and Hiking Retreat in the Swiss Alps: This retreat combines writing workshops with outdoor activities in the Swiss Alps. Participants can draw inspiration from nature while honing their writing skills. Here is the link to their website: Pink Pangaea, Writing and Hiking Retreat in the Swiss Alps

The Taos Writer’s Retreat , Taos, New Mexico, USA: A retreat for women writers offering workshops, meals, and activities at The Mabel Lodge Luhan House. A combination of professional guidance and community building. Here is the link to their website: The Taos Writer’s Retreat

The Writing Room , Write n’ Walk Spain, Asturias: This retreat offers a guided trek and writing sessions in Asturias, Spain. A perfect blend of outdoor exploration and focused writing. Here is the link to their website: The Writing Room, Write n’ Walk Spain

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Amazing Writing Retreats to Attend in 2024

on Nov 21, 2023
in International Writing Events
Last update: January 4th, 2024

Have you been going through a writing slump lately? We know the feeling. Fortunately, there are many ways to revive your creative spirits, and we just so happen to have a great solution for you: writing retreats!

If you’ve tried one in the past, then you know how a change in scenery can boost your spirits. You can sidestep the hassle of searching for the perfect writing retreat in 2024 by checking out the selection below.

Winter Poetry & Prose Getaway

Winter On the Farm Creative Writing Retreat

Arvon Tutored Retreat: Fiction

Banff Winter Writers Retreat

Rekindle Creativity Women’s Writing Retreat

Foxes’ Day Writing Retreat

Writing Workshops: Hawaii Retreat

Casa Ana Creative Writing Retreat

Open Your Art Flash Fiction Retreat

Open You Art Retreat

Write Your Journey: Vietnam Writing Retreat

The Drilling Axe: It Was a Dark and Stormy Night

Wandering Writers Retreat

Centauri Arts Creative Writing Retreat

Island Time Writing Retreat

Writing at Serra Retreat

Valeria Vescina Writing Retreat

The Rainforest Writers Village Retreat

Art of Writing Retreat

Kāpiti Writers’ Retreat

Art of Writing Retreat: Deep Dive into Writing

Gunnas Weekend Writing Retreat

Ossabaw Island Writers’ Retreat

Rocaberti Writers Retreat

Fabled Retreats in New Hope

Susan Hagens: Women’s Writing Retreat

Ego Break Retreat

Himalayan Writers Retreat

Develop your Novel Writers Retreat

Haven Writing Retreats

The Algonkian Writer Retreat and Novel Workshop

Stylish Writing Intensive

Steph Jagger: The Nature of Narrative Retreat

Ireland Writing Retreat

Mission of the Writer Retreat in California

Writing Workshops: New York Retreat

Fabled Retreats in Cape May

Foreword Retreats: David Rocklin Writing Retreat

Novel Whisperer Galveston

Writing Workshops: Biltmore Retreat

Arvon: Fiction Retreat

Writers in the Wild Blue Ridge Retreat

Write Away: France Writing Retreat

Iceland Writers Retreat

Writing Workshops: Dublin Retreat

The Taos Deep Dive & Revision Writer’s Retreat

Writing Retreat for Academics, PhD students and other professionals

Writing as a Pathway Through Grief, Loss, Uncertainty and Change: A Weeklong Retreat

Pink Panega: Writer’s Retreat in Rhodes

A Writer Within Retreat in Tuscany

Shine: Creative Writing + Pilates Retreat

Write Away Europe: Paros Greek Island Retreat

Foreword Retreats: Jamie Ford Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored May Retreat

Fabled Retreats in Poconos

Writeaway in New Mexico

Memories into Memoir Writing Retreat

Paris Writers Retreat

Wide Open Writing: Italy Retreat

Foreword Retreats: Ellen Sussman Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Developing Your Poetry

Write, Travel, Transform: Back Roads of Bali

Retreat. Create. Revitalize.

Come to Your Senses Writing Retreat with Author Karen Karbo

The Writing Room Retreat: Greece Writer’s Retreat

Writing Workshops: Paris Retreat

Women Reading Aloud: Greece’s Writer’s Retreat

Las Chimeneas Writing Retreat

All-Genre NIP Bookcamp Workshop & Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Novel Writing

Creative Connections Writing Retreat

Rainforest Writing Retreat

Mountain Rise Writing Retreat

Write Away Europe: Tuscany Writing Retreat

Writing Workshops: Iceland Retreat

Writing Retreat in Tuscany, Italy

The White Mountain Book Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored July Retreat

Summer on the Farm Novel Writing Retreat at ZigBone Farm

Denmark’s Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored August Retreat

Write. Run. Connect.

A Creative Pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago

Foreword Retreats: Christina Baker Kline & Paula McLain Writing Retreat

Writeaway in Ireland

Fiction & Autobiographical Writing Retreat

Words & Clay Women’s River Trip

Writing Workshops: Mackinac Island Retreat

Writeaway in France

Wide Open Writing: Ireland Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored September Retreat

Novel Whisperer Writing Adventure Retreat

Grand Tourist Writer’s Retreat

The Okoboji Writers’ Retreat

Casa Ana Novel Writing Retreat

The Writing Room: Writing Retreat in Mexico

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored November Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored December Retreat

The Clockhouse Retreats

Foxes’ Weekend Writing Retreat

Foxes’ Working Week Writing Retreats

La Bodeguita Writing Retreat

La Casa Grande Writing Retreat

Words and Wanderlust Retreat

Writers Retreat UK: Residential Guided Retreats

No matter where in the world you choose, writing retreats offer you benefits worth their weight in gold; you get to meet fellow writers, finish your manuscript, or simply relax and keep writing. It’s a golden opportunity to rejuvenate your mind and soul!

The 2024 International Book Fairs Calendar

The Comprehensive List of 2024 Writing Contests

Best Writing Residencies in 2024 for Emerging Writers

The Best Writing Conferences and Workshops to Attend in 2024

The 8 Best Affordable Writing Retreats That Won’t Break the Bank

Reading Lists

Gift a friend (or yourself) what writers want most: time, space, and a place to focus.

Networking, hustle, and industry understanding are unfortunate burdens of the life of a young and working writer. But trickier still is finding solitude. Privacy, quiet, and uninterruption are crucial to the craft; if solitude is one of the challenges of writing, it is also essential.

While residencies and fellowships are wonderful, most ask for applications and portfolios, and that can be prohibitive when you’re just starting out. Writing retreats are another means of getting away — and they can be done affordably, some even offering scholarships. Most bring together a small community of writers for a few days, so there is the opportunity for socializing and meeting the like-minded. Some involve travel to local sites or parks, or daily meetings to discuss the industry or the craft.

If you’re looking to get some peace and focus — or the best gift for your writerly friend this holiday season — here are some of the best writing retreats we found that won’t break your bank.

Wellspring House Retreat — Ashfield, Massachusetts, $260-$280/week

Retired English professor Preston Browning is the co-director of Wellspring House with his wife, author Ann Hutt Browning. The Wellspring House is run exclusively as a retreat for writers and artists, and as such is open all year: winter rates (mid-November to April 1st) are $260/week for an individual, and $290/week for a couple. Normal rates are only slightly higher: $280/week for an individual, and $310/week for a couple. You can also choose to stay just one to three nights for about $60–$90 per night. Each stay comes with access to the large living room and kitchen, along with access to one of the two common bathrooms (in total, the house hosts about six rooms). And if you’re really looking to get away, this retreat will help you do it: while the house offers modern amenities like laundry, the website warns that the house has no cell phone service.

Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Retreat — Colorado Springs, Colorado, $65-$399

The Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Retreat takes place in the foothills of the Colorado Rockies, at the Franciscan Retreat Center. Spanning three nights, it often contains special agent and author guests — in 2018, for example, Sandra Bond from the Bond Literacy and authors Heather Webb and Corinne O’Flynn will be there, leading talks and workshops, including a Publishing AMA by Sandra Bond. Residents can choose days only ($65 total, including meals), to stay and share a bedroom with one other resident ($299 total), or to have their own private bedroom for the duration of the retreat ($399 total).

God’s Whisper Farm Writer’s Retreat — Radiant, Virginia, $195 + $25/night

At the God’s Whisper Farm Writer’s Retreat, writers stay on a farm containing goats, chickens, dogs, and cats. They can enjoy writing workshops, talks from writers, meditation sessions, open mics, and shared, home-cooked meals. All rooms have two bunks and cost $25/night, but if you want slightly more private accommodations, you can opt to stay at a nearby Airbnb or at Best Western. If you want to avoid fees altogether, there are also ten free campsites nearby. Keep in mind the $195 rate is an early bird rate; prices may go up if you book within about three months of the retreat, hosted in late June.

Kundiman Retreat, in partnership with Fordham University — Bronx, New York, $375 + $25 application fee

In partnership with Fordham University, the nonprofit organization Kundiman offers a retreat for 36 lucky participants who apply. Kundiman, according to their site, aims to nurture writers and readers of Asian American literature. Keeping with this mission, top Asian American poets and writers lead the Master Classes and manuscript consultations at the retreat. The five-day retreat also includes reading, writing circles, and informal social gatherings, with room and board included in the subsidized tuition fee. Applicants can apply to either the poetry or writing track: as part of the retreat, poetry fellows get a free consultation on a 10-page manuscript, while fiction fellows get a free consultation on a 15-page manuscript.

‘The Moth’ Retreat for Artists and Writers , Cavan, Ireland, €300, or about $355 a week

If you want to submerse yourself in history during your retreat, try crossing the pond and attending The Moth Retreat for Artists and Writers, located at a house in Cavan, Ireland. According to the retreat website, Samuel Beckett went to school just a half an hour northwest of the home, while renowned writers like Seamus Heaney and Patrick Kavanagh all lived within an hour’s drive. The house itself is completely private, and includes a large studio, kitchen, and breakfast room downstairs, and a bedroom and bathroom upstairs. Fresh eggs are provided every morning, though you are expected to furnish your own meals. If you want to bring a friend or guest, that will cost you an extra 100 euros. Need a ride to the bus station or help finding other provisions? The publishers of The Moth are nearby and ready to help, according to the retreat website.

The Good Contrivance Farm Writer’s Retreat — Reisterstown, Maryland, $550 for one week

Another solitary retreat you could try is run by The Good Contrivance Farm, and is hosted in a contemporary loft apartment in the farm’s main barn. The Good Contrivance Farm is a non-profit that aims to preserve and restore historic farms in Maryland. To apply, send in a résumé and writing sample (space is booked on a first-come, first-served basis). Once booked, you’ll enjoy private use of the apartment, which includes great views of the farm, a full kitchen, 1.5 baths, a small library, and free WiFi. You can stay up to 4 weeks, with discounted rates the longer you stay (going as low as $450 per week if you stay the full four — though add $100 a week if you plan on having a second person stay with you.) Proceeds of the retreat all go to the non-profit.

The Watering Hole Winter Retreat — McCormick, South Carolina, $299–$399

The Watering Hole Winter Retreat is focused on building community among its 42 hosted poets. The retreat has no traditional classrooms, and aims to provide more publishing opportunities for poets of color, according to its site. Facilitators and speakers include renowned National Book Award winners, MacArthur Geniuses, recipients of the NAACP Image Award, and more. Interested writers can apply with a cover letter and three poems, and the site mentions that preference is given to applicants who are members of The Watering Hole Facebook Group and those who follow the organization’s Facebook fan page. During the fellowship, writers stay at modern cabins at Hickory Knob State Park.

The Mariandale Center’s Life Writing/Memoir Retreat — Ossining, New York, $350

The Mariandale Center is a quiet spot in Ossining, New York that hosts retreats and other programs. Included in the writing retreat are daily workshops, craft discussions, writing prompts, feedback on writing, and time to work on projects. Writers can also enjoy walks near the mountains and river. For this particular retreat, which spans three nights, all meals are included, and writers of all genres and experience levels are welcome.

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Creative retreats: 9 havens for artists, writers and musicians

Stedsans in the Woods, Halland, Sweden

For foodies Permafarming meets wilderness living at this foodie creative retreat in Sweden’s Halland region. Stedsans is the brainchild of restaurateurs Mette Helbæk and Flemming Hansen, and comprises a farm-to-table restaurant and 14 glass-fronted guest cabins and tents on the banks of Lake Halla. Practice Lendager Group designed the outpost’s rustic boltholes and restaurant, which is the heart of the project. They’ve been built with rammed earth and upcycled materials found on-site, including abandoned greenhouses, barns and discarded wood. Says Helbœk and Hansen: ‘We call the place a “lab for the lifestyle of the future”, and try to make every choice and action as sustainable as possible, for the sake of our guests, our staff, and the planet.’ On weekdays, guests cook their own dinners, with produce included in the price, while at weekends, they can enjoy six-course dinners cooked for them in the restaurant.

Diane Middlebrook Studios, California, USA

For writers This set of four self-contained cedar cabins in California offers a distraction-free environment for writers to get down to work in – that is unless you count the view overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Designed by Cass Calder Smith , the ‘almost monastic’ chalets nestle close together while maintaining strict privacy for each inhabitant. Authors can apply online for a residency. The studios are part of the Djerassi Resident Artists Program, which has been running since 1979.

Wagon Station Encampment, California, USA

Wagon Station Encampment in Joshua Tree, USA

For artists and writers With lift-up lids and beds just big enough for one person, these tin can-style wagons are among some of the more diminutive getaways on our list of creative retreats. Set in the stark and cactus-dotted landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, the 12 ‘stations’ by artist Andrea Zittel are open to artists and writers seeking inspiration from the high desert. Arranged like a campground, the site’s amenities include outdoor showers and a communal cooking area – designed to encourage visitors to socialise. Stays are by invite-only and require an online form and a letter of intent to qualify.

Casa Wabi, Oaxaca, Mexico

Photography: Edmund Sumner and Fernanda Romandia

For artists Set between the beach and the mountains, this creative retreat on the Mexican seafront offers a set of six huts for guests to stay in. Japanese architect Tadao Ando paired his trademark concrete with a local thatching technique to design the complex, which is divided into zones by a huge curved wall. Casa Wabi is directed by Patricia Martin, who is also the curator of Coleccíon Jumex – reportedly the largest private contemporary art collection in Latin America. Art residencies are by invite-only, with artists’ work judged on its social merits.

Fordypningsrommet, the Arctic Circle, Norway

For artists Musician Håvard Lund founded Fordypningsrommet, which claims to be the northernmost artist’s retreat in the world. The enclave of cabins was designed by TYIN Tegnestue Architects and their mentor Sami Rintala, and are set into the rocky terrain of the Fleinvær archipelago in the Arctic Circle. Artists can apply to stay for free but amateurs are welcome too – groups of up to 12 people can spend the week for 30,000 NOK. Among the stilted dwellings is a sauna, kitchen house, studio, bathhouse, sleeping houses and a ‘tower for big thoughts’, no doubt inspired by the dramatic coastline and dreamy Northern Lights.

Villa Lena in Tuscany, Italy

For writers, musicians and artists This 19th-century neo-Renaissance villa, set atop a hill in the Tuscan countryside, offers views across nearby olive groves and vineyards. Its residency programme welcomes writers, musicians and artists for two-month-long periods, with accommodation and studio space provided in exchange for a programme of talks and workshops. Guests can roam the creative retreat’s surrounding wilderness and enjoy food cooked with ingredients from the villa’s own garden, before leaving an artwork behind as a record of their stay. Prospective residents can apply online.

The Bothy Project, Scotland

For artists and researchers This growing network of off-grid art spaces was set up by artist Bobby Niven and architect Iain MacLeod. Taking traditional bothies – basic shelters usually found in remote areas across Scotland and left unlocked for passersby to use – as their model, they have created three cabins in collaboration with artists and designers including Alex Finlay and Douglas Flett Architects. Artists, makers and researchers can apply to stay in the dwellings for self-funded residencies, including Sweeney’s Bothy which inhabits the isolated surroundings of the Isle of Eigg.

Ocean Sound Recording Studio in Giske, Norway

For musicians Forget Abbey Road. This shoreside r ecording retreat gives guests the chance to completely immerse themselves in the landscape. Windows offer panoramic views across the sea, and double-height ceilings amplify the studio’s acoustics. Visiting musicians can enjoy the region’s isolated surroundings while making the most of a studio fully stocked with the requisite analogue and digital equipment.

Fogo Island off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada

For artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, curators and designers Occupying a remote crop of land off the northeast coast of Newfoundland, Fogo Island Arts welcomes creatives from across disciplines to embark on residencies that can last up to a year – with the aim of helping to develop the region and encourage tourism. Guests can stay in one of four cabins designed by architect Todd Saunders, which are set on metal stilts and scattered across the landscape. In true creative retreat style, each hut is off the grid, powered by solar panels and heated by wood-burning stoves. For those that absolutely can’t go without, high-speed internet is still on hand.

9 inspiring artists’ studios you can visit

1 A historic Singaporean warehouse is now Jiak Kim House restaurant
2 Time capsule residence: a 1930s gem in Warwickshire
3 A Hackney townhouse infused with Georgian design
4 Hilton is getting into glamping thanks to its new partnership with AutoCamp
5 Is ‘boring architecture’ making us depressed? Thomas Heatherwick thinks so
6 This postcard-worthy Cornwall cottage is wrapped in walled gardens
7 Inside LRNCE’s Rosemary Marrakech – a boutique stay years in the making
8 In Scotland, a renovated cottage offers tranquil views and minimalist design

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Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books.

10 of the Best Writing Retreats

By Novelicious

This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.

1. Whiteface Lodge , Lake Placid, USA – Pine beams, cast-iron fireplaces and six million acres of mountainous parkland, the rustic and incredibly cozy Whiteface Lodge in New York State is the perfect place to pitch your laptop for a week or two. Each suite boasts a full kitchen, a writing desk and a seriously stunning view or, if you prefer a little people watching while you write, you can work in the downstairs lounge by the fireplace. Once you’ve logged your daily word count, there are plenty of opportunities for skiing, skating, bobsledding, fishing and canoeing, and the 5,800-square-foot spa offers “a heaven-sent four-handed massage”. We’ll take two of those, please.

3. Watermill , Posara, Italy – Sun-drenched Italian courtyards, plenty of hearty Tuscan fare and tutorage from bestselling authors are all key ingredients of the writing retreats at The Watermill in Italy. Visit in May and enjoy a week-long romance writing course with Sharon Kendrick, who has written more than 90 books for Harlequin Mills & Boon and is a USA TODAY bestseller. Or, if you fancy yourself as more of an Agatha Christie type, stay in October for lessons with award-winning thriller author, Meg Gardiner. All meals at the restored 17th century mill are provided, so all you have to do is write. Absolute bliss.

5. Wales National Writing Centre , Gwynedd, Wales – Tŷ Newydd, a beautiful house set in the stunning landscape of the Llŷn Peninsula and overlooking Cardigan Bay in Wales, meanwhile, will play host to a packed schedule of writing courses this year. Scriptwriting, storytelling, short fiction, literary novels and crime writing are just some of the study options offered by Literature Wales with funding and bursaries available to lower income writers.

6. The Writer’s Lab , Skyros, Greece – Meals of fresh fruit, yogurt and whole grains, accommodation in charmingly traditional Greek townhouses and lessons from Booker and Pulitzer Prize winners, The Writer’s Lab on the ancient island of Skyros has it all. Start your day with breakfast and some gentle yoga on the sunny terrace before morning courses begin. The afternoons are left free for sun-worship, sightseeing or more writing if you’re so inclined.

7. The Grange by the Sea , Isle of Wight, UK – For a creative island experience a little closer to home, the gorgeous Grange country hotel on the Isle of Wight offers year-round writing courses, which are led by experienced tutors. You can choose from The Art of Writing Fiction, Writing for the Screen of Your Voice among others.

9. Literary Adventures , Las Alpujarras, Spain – The 400 year old Spanish house Casa Ana plays host to this inspiring autumnal week long writing retreat. Led by award-winning author, journalist and creative writing tutor Rebecca Abrams in October, writing exercises and sessions are sandwiched between guest speakers, one-on-one tutorage and excursions to neighbouring towns for meals and shopping.

10. Arvon , Various, UK – Creative writing foundation Arvon has been giving people the time and space to write since 1968. The foundation’s four rural retreats, including Lumb Bank in Yorkshire – former home of Ted Hughes, offer a beautiful setting for expert tuition from knowledgeable authors. Thanks to the support of Arts Council England and generous donors, Arvon offers grants to cover some or all of attendees’ course fees, too.

Have you ever been on a writing retreat? Did it help your writing? Which of these would you choose?

Write Away Europe Writing Retreats

Writers retreats in france, italy & the greek islands, join the journey: take your story into the world, cross into creativity: creative writing retreats in captivating locales.

Ready to take your writing to the next level? Write Away Europe’s writing retreats are an opportunity to disconnect from your everyday life and reconnect with your creative vision in an inspiring setting surrounded by a small supportive group of like-minded writers and knowledgeable experienced facilitators.

Write Away Europe has been helping writers of every level achieve their creative goals for over a decade in some of the most beautiful and inspiring settings in Europe.

WRITE AWAY EUROPE'S WRITING RETREATS ARE PASSIONATELY DEDICATED TO INSPIRING & ENCOURAGING YOUR:

Write away creativity.

Giving you the tools to harness your creative vision and expand and embrace your creative potential.

Write Away Craft

Daily Writing Workshops clarify and demystify the essential elements of good storytelling.

Write Away Confidence

Get the insight and encouragement to empower you to tell the story only you can tell.

Write Away Commitment

Learn to live the write way: to make writing an integral part of your life and find your ideal creative process.

Europe's Best Writing Retreats to reinvigorate your writing & creativity

France writing retreat.

Get inspired at the Write Away France Retreat in this historic chateau in the stunning Périgord region, storied surroundings sure to stir your soul and inspire your writing.

Hydra Greek Island Writing Retreat

Hydra, Naxos & Paros Greek Island Writing Retreats

Connect with your muse at the Hydra Writers Retreat. This captivating island has inspired writers and artists for centuries and will summon the best of your creative spirit.

Tuscany Writing Retreat

The Italy Writers Retreat in timeless Tuscany is a week of creativity and inspiration to nurture your creative vision in a beautiful locale that will stir your senses.

Italy Countryside Writing Retreat

September in the Tuscan countryside is the perfect time to harvest your full creative potential surrounded by like-minded writers and the scenic grandeur of early autumn Italy.

How Write Away Europe Retreats Revitalize Your Writing and Your Life

When you join a Write Away Europe Writing Retreat, you’ll be taking a big step toward achieving your creative goals. After over a decade of experience hosting dozens of Write Away Retreats and helping hundreds of writers, we’ve established and refined a successful structure that lays the groundwork for a fulfilling week of inspiration and interaction, connection and creativity.

Open to Emerging & Established Writers Seeking to Tell Their Story

Write Away Europe participants have included writers of every level, from beginning writers seeking to take the first steps in their writing journey to successfully published award-winners and Oscar-nominated screenwriters. Whether writing fiction or non-fiction, for stage or screen, for personal reasons or publication, writers share many of the same challenges and the same goals — how to tell their story to the very best of their ability.

Genius Germinates in Groups: Creativity, Confidence & Community

The Writer Away Europe Retreats are here to help you on that journey. Whether you need a creative recharge, a boost in confidence, guidance on elements of craft, or a chance to disconnect from the demands of your everyday life and reconnect with your creative vision, the Write Away Retreat experience offers all that. And more.

Write Away Europe Retreats include:

Daily morning round-table writing workshop discussions led by experienced facilitators to explore and explain the craft of writing and its many components to help you find out how to best tell your story., deep-dive discussions of character, pov & well-crafted dialogue, setting, sensory writing & scenes, structure & narrative arc, theme & messaging, daily evening round-table writing workshops for sharing and workshopping the day’s writing or works-in-progress in a safe and supportive environment., convivial meals prepared by on-site private chef (or at curated local venues)., interesting excursions and plenty of time for writing, reflecting and connecting with yourself and the group., writer's inventory & self-assessment, write away europe writers companion, creating the conditions for a stimulating environment of inspiration, guidance & support.

Write Away Europe Retreats offer what many writers don’t always get in their everyday lives: a wholly immersive opportunity to connect with a group of like-minded creatives in a beautiful, safe, and inspiring setting. As the retreat experience unfolds, you find that you have become a part of a community of creatives all sharing the same passions and invigorating experience. Most participants stay in touch with one another long after the retreats, helping one another pursue their creative visions. You’ll benefit from the forging of community, the inspiration of the group, and the helpful guidance of the Write Away Europe facilitators.

Write Away Europe Retreats are designed to help you glean inspiration from the group and also to help you get to know yourself better as a writer. To help you build ownership of your creative purpose — and pursue it with new commitment, confidence and enthusiasm.

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A Guide To Creating Your Own Writing Retreat

Apr 3, 2019

When you read this, I’ll be halfway through a seven-day writer’s retreat in a cabin off the grid, up high in the Colorado Rockies.

I wanted to share my prep and my fears about going on a creative writing retreat because while I lead super fantastic in-person and online writing retreats, you can make your own writing retreat, and they can be terrific too!

What is a writing retreat?

It’s time you set aside from your ordinary life and away from your regular responsibilities (kids! lunches! eldercare! job! emails! dirty bathtub! cats on your keyboard!) to write AND to fill up your creative heart and remember the sound of your own writing voice.

A writer’s retreat reminds you “I have something to say.”
A writer’s retreat lets you rest, read, think.
A writer’s retreat gives you space to NOT be interrupted so you can string thoughts and sentences together.
A writer’s retreat refreshes your creative soul as cliched as that sounds.

But going on a solo writing retreat takes planning and courage revving.

When I hold retreats for my writers, I prep A LOT.

Holding space for women writers to go deep whether it’s a book writing retreat or an online writing retreat or one of my yearly general creative writing retreats, is work and you have to do that prep work fo yourself

Because a writing retreat is not a vacation!

Also, if your life is anything like mine, finding an entire week to devote to a writing retreat is as rare as spying a snow leopard, so you want to make the most of it.

Without putting too much pressure on yourself.

Start by asking yourself, why do I want to go on a writing retreat?

Maybe to…

Start a project and gain the sweet chug-chug along to the finish line momentum
Get a bead on the whole scope of a project — tricky to do when you’ve been writing in small blocks of time
Quiet your jittery phone-addled mind so you can have an original thought (you have so many!)
Stop putting everything else and your chickens ahead of your writing (fun fact: my bonus son’s girlfriend has a tattoo of a chicken. She loves chickens that much.)
Take yourself and your desires seriously because if you don’t, chicken, nobody else will

Now ask your wise adorable self what do I want out of my creative writing retreat?

If you can get away, consider what kind of place would best support you. I’ve been fantasizing for years about being able to write without the Internet, without people, and with nature to walk in right outside my door. Hence my off-the-grid cabin I’m renting.

But you may want to go out at night and people watch, take a morning yoga class, or visit museums to conduct research. Get clear on where would support your best writing.

If you can’t get away, what kind of space could you borrow or create at home that would fill this need? Don’t assume because you can’t spend money on a getaway, you have to stay home. Follow your desire!

Is a friend going out of town? Could you do an apartment swap with someone? Cat or dog sit for someone? Take over a buddy’s mobile home or tiny house?

If you do need or want to stay home, can you ship your family out? Or sit your roommates down and explain you will be locked in your room in silence? Clear clutter even if that means putting distractions in a closet so you can’t see them.

Set super clear parameters with yourself (no house cleaning, no opening the mail, no answering the phone, no letting the cat highjack your time) so you have a sense of containment.

Eliminate ways to numb out aka shadow comforts . I don’t take any wine, tequila, or refined carbs with me on a writing retreat except my favorite popcorn. I want my head to be clear and free from distractions.

What would muddle your head or make it easy to escape when your writing gets hard? Can you leave it behind, take it out of the house, or turn it off?

Prime the pump. Do not – I repeat, do not! – go on a creative writing retreat or book writing retreat having not written or even having not thought about your project for weeks or longer. This is a total set-up for frustration and so-called writer’s block. Writer’s block is often “I don’t know what to write” or “I don’t know enough to write this yet” and “I don’t have faith in myself to write this well enough.” You can address all of these potential blocks by preparing ahead of time.

Write for fifteen minutes a day and increase by one minute each day. Read material in your field and make notes before bed or on your commute. Make a bullet-point outline for each chapter. If writing fiction, do the first few exercises in Story Genius .

Build-in outdoor time and ways to move. The body needs to move to think.

Make sure your writer’s retreat includes time for dance, yoga, walking, running, and/or rolling around on the floor moaning.

Gather supplies. I packed two boxes of books and files to take on my book writing retreat, along with a yoga mat, snowshoes (I’ll be at 10,000+ feet), running shoes, my sketching stuff, and my sweet old dog Stuart. I researched how to sync Scrivener with Dropbox when working offline. Lastly, I brought huge pieces of paper because I love writing out my chapter outlines on big paper and making “cluster” maps.

You do not need to pack a lot but give it some thought. What do you really need?

What will satisfy you? This is the question I ask people at my writers retreats to reflect on before we start and again when we end. I tell them satisfaction is not about a particular outcome – finishing a draft, writing brilliantly – because you can’t guarantee an outcome. But what you can guarantee is that you show up for so many hours without multitasking. Or you that you give yourself pleasurable breaks. Or that if the Itty-Bitty-Shitty-Committee gets loud and nasty, you practice self-compassion.

Focus on what is enough for you. Name it.

I hope you create a wonderful creative writing retreat for yourself very soon and tell me about it when you do.

And I hope you will join one of my very affordable online writing retreats or one of a book writing retreat soon too!

Want to get your bother on starting now?

Read the first chapter from my new book for a jolt of fresh perspective and possibility, and a radical reframe on what to do when you are feeling lost, blah, unmotivated, or burned out, in any area of your life or for any reason — even success!

Jettison Self-Doubt and Lose the Itty-Bitty-Shitty Committee and Make Your Thing Now

From the national best-selling author of The Woman’s Comfort Book and Why Bother.

Made for writers, artists, mail art makers, knitters of sock puppets, creative entrepreneurs, photographers, Tarot readers, and anybody who needs to make stuff they love.

I’m not one of those creepy people who make it hard to unsubscribe or email you again nine years after you’ve unsubscribed. Giving me your email is like a coffee date, not a marriage proposal.

Retreats to Unblock Your Creativity with Lauren Carter Your Writing Retreat Connection

If you're a writer who's experienced creative anxiety, I think you're going to really appreciate this interview with award-winning author and writing retreat host, Lauren Carter. We chatted about how she combines her deep knowledge of writing craft with tools to help writers navigate through perfectionism and anxiety. She also shared details about the three writing retreats she's hosting in 2024, and so much more! Show Links: Wild Ground Writing Retreats To register for the Boreal Writing Retreat in April, email Stephanie, [email protected] and ask if there are rooms left for the Wild Writing in the Boreal retreat hosted by Lauren Carter. If you have questions about any of the retreats, email Lauren at [email protected] Lauren Carter's Amazon Author page Dr. Eric Maisel, creativity coach and psychologist Sage Hill Writing ---------- Resources: Get the latest information about promoting, planning, or finding a writing retreat. Promote Your Writing Retreat Find a Writing Retreat Writing Retreat Hosts Community Facebook Group (for current and aspiring writing retreat hosts) Connect with Lisa & the Writing Retreat Directory: On Instagram @writingretreatdirectory On Facebook @writingretreatdirectory On LinkedIn @writingretreatdirectory Make sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

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The sea provides the inspiration on courses at Whitehouse Studio Painting Holidays in Argyll

Top 10 art holidays and creative writing retreats in the UK

Getting away from it all on a writing retreat or art break offers an opportunity to combine a hobby with a holiday where it’s possible to learn new skills at beautiful and inspiring locations

Enjoyed your writing or art experiences? Share a tip in the comments

Whitehouse Studio Painting Holidays, Tarbert, Argyll

The promise of never being far from the sea provides the inspiration on these courses, at the home of artist Karen Beauchamp on the west coast of Scotland. Beauchamp, who was previously a wallpaper designer with Cole and Son, offers three- and five-day residential courses that mix location and studio-based sessions. Tuition is in two three-hour sessions per day, with a break for a buffet, picnic or cafe lunch. There is also time for talks and discussions, and the occasional musical evening after a hard day’s painting. Some art materials are supplied – such as drawing boards and easels – but guests are advised to bring their preferred tools and equipment with them. Upcoming courses include September’s Colour and Form in the Landscape with Jane Human . Three-day course £595 based on two sharing, £100 single supplement; five-day course £895 sharing, £150 single supplement. 01880 730287, whitehouseart.co.uk

Brambles Art Retreat, Lifton, Devon

At their beautiful 17th-century cottage – only 10 miles from the edges of Dartmoor national park – tutors Peter Davies and Janet Brady offer art holidays for beginners, improvers and experienced artists. The versatile tutors work with in watercolour, oil, acrylic, drawing, life drawing or mixed media and tailor breaks to suit guests’ tastes. Small group sizes mean there is plenty of one-to-one tuition, while the holiday options available are: the weekender (Friday evening to Sunday afternoon) or a five-day course (Sunday evening to Friday afternoon). Though courses often start with work in the tutors’ studio and nearby locations it can, and often does, extend to scenic spots around the area. Brambles Art Retreat also runs art breaks abroad to Venice, Greece, Morocco and India. Five-day UK course from £625, weekender from £320, both full board. 01566 784359, bramblesartretreat.com

Norfolk Painting School, North Creake, Norfolk

A working studio and gallery, as well as a centre that caters for all ability levels, this is a specialist oil painting school where the emphasis is on traditional skills. The school was established in 2006 by Martin and Jane Kinnear in the village of North Creake, three miles from Burnham Market. Martin does the majority of the teaching on the two- three-, four- and five-day courses, which include Simply Oils, Impressionist Oils, Light and Atmosphere, and a Glazing Workshop. There’s also a Returner’s Course and the school even offers its own one-year diploma course. All the materials you need are supplied and group numbers are limited to 10. Accommodation costs extra but the choice on offer is wide, featuring self-catering suites (from £55 a night) and B&Bs (from £60). Two-day Beginner’s Oils course £275; three-day Light and Atmosphere £425. 01328 730203, norfolkpaintingschool.com

St Ives School of Painting, Cornwall

This part of Cornwall has long bewitched the UK’s leading artists; its atmospheric light and beautiful surroundings inspiring artists including Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Henrietta Dubrey and Luke Frost to create some of their best work. The St Ives School of Painting is itself part of that legacy, having opened in 1938 under the auspices of two first world war officers who had studied art, Borlase Smart and Leonard Fuller. There are 20 tutors linked to the school, whose studio is a Grade II-listed property on the edge of Porthmeor Beach, and the extensive list of courses – for both new and experienced artists – covers oil, mixed media, water-based, drawing and printmaking. Special course categories include St Ives Modernists, Beginners and Marine Landscape, while 2015 has seen the introduction of Creative Weekender, a new two-day (Sat-Sun) course restricted to eight students with a different focus each month. Lodging is not provided but the website features links to a range of accommodation. Creative Weekend £165, three-day courses from £235 (all art materials are provided). 01736 797180, schoolofpainting.co.uk

Learn to paint with Dermot Cavanagh, County Tyrone

The Argory irish gentry house county armagh northern ireland

Artist Dermot Cavanagh’s extensive selection of art breaks and workshops includes one-day courses around the UK, as well as longer excursions to France and Croatia. However, he also has a three-day painting course at National Trust property The Argory , in Moy, County Tyrone. Artists of all levels are welcome, and are offered tuition in colour mixing, perspective and “washes” during sessions that run from 9.30 to 4.30. The courses run year round, so the changing seasons give artists different perspectives of the estate grounds of a property that dates back to the 1820s. Flights to Belfast and accommodation are not provided but can be organised; B&B stays cost from £40 a night. Three-day course £199 (all painting materials provided). 028 87 784166, learntopaintwithdermotcavanagh.com

Arvon Foundation: Shropshire, West Yorkshire, Devon

Lumb Bank, near Hebden Bridge, is Ted Hughes’ former home

Across courses that cover fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting and radio drama, Arvon offers new and developing writers a beautiful escape to learn their craft. The organisation was set up in 1968 by poets John Moat and John Fairfax and offers five-day residential retreats at three atmospheric English centres: Ted Hughes’ former home Lumb Bank, near Hebden Bridge; Totleigh Barton in Devon and The Hurst, in Shropshire – the former home of playwright John Osborne. The focus of the retreats is on improving skills, so accommodation (some shared) is simple rather than plush and there is no TV – or Wi-Fi. Morning workshop sessions with tutors provide the chance to learn and practise, while afternoons mean free time for writing, reading or walks in the countryside. There is an appearance from a guest writer during the week for added inspiration, along with tutorials to get feedback on work. Arvon is developing a new retreat centre at The Hurst – in addition to the existing centre – specifically for writers coming on their own for writing time; it is set to open in 2016. Courses usually run Mon-Sat, single rooms £725, shared room £680. Grants are available for those on low incomes to help with course fees. 020 7324 2554, arvon.org

Creative Thursday, crime writing festival, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Fans of crime fiction who fancy wielding a dagger or developing a detective who can out-twirl Hercule Poirot, can hone their skills at this one-day course at the Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate. The hotel has previous when it comes to crime writing: it was where Agatha Christie went during her famous “disappearance” in 1926 and it also hosts the three-day crime writing festival, which starts the following day; the 2015 event (16-19 July) is chaired by Ann Cleeves and guests will include Lee Child, Sally Wainwright and Val McDermid. This year, Creative Thursday will focus on scriptwriting, with workshops and seminars helmed by TV and radio writers and producers. And Gaby Chiappe, who has adapted Ann Cleeves’ Vera and Shetland for TV, will host a writing-for-radio session and an insight into how TV crime drama differs from written crime fiction. Thursday 16 July, 9am-5.30pm, £99pp. A range of accommodation packages are available, which include festival tickets. 01423 562 303, harrogateinternationalfestivals.com

Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre, Llanystumdwy, Llŷn peninsula

If views over Snowdonia and Cardigan Bay, or walks in the woodland nearby, aren’t enough to inspire, perhaps the history behind this writing centre may do the trick. Tŷ Newydd is a 16th-century, Grade II-listed property and home of former prime minister David Lloyd George – who commissioned the architect of Portmeirion, Clough Williams-Ellis, to make alterations to it. The centre, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, offers a mix of taught residential courses (weekend and week-long) as well as retreats without tutors where the focus is solely on writing. There are courses to suit all levels of experience and group sizes are usually no larger than 16. Although there is a focus on poetry, the centre has courses on novel writing, women’s popular fiction and nature/wildlife/health writing. In November it will host a poetry masterclass by the national poet of Wales Gillian Clarke and poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy. Week-long courses £575 single room, £475 shared room; retreats £415 (prices may vary). The centre has a limited number of bursaries for those on low incomes on a case-by-case basis. 01766 522 811, tynewydd.org

Moniack Mhor, the Highlands

The storytelling tradition is alive and well at Scotland’s Creative Writing Centre thanks, in part, to its Community Garden Project. The acre of land that surrounds the buildings of Moniack Mhor was developed in 2013 to include a giant alpine rockery, stone patio, herb garden and a dry-stone storytelling circle “for the sharing of words under a moonlit sky”. The centre has been residential courses for over 20 years – either week-long or three-night stays, tutored by high-profile writers and attended by guest speakers. For the remainder of 2015 Moniack Mhor, which is south-west of Inverness, offers fiction, non-fiction, poetry, playwriting and travel writing courses. However, early September also offers a thriller-writing course, tutored by Peter Robinson and Morag Joss and with the don of tartan noir William McIlvanney as a guest speaker. Anyone keen to unleash their inner Hilary Mantel might enjoy the historical fiction course, from 7-12 September. Week-long courses £550 single room, £490 shared room; three-night courses £375 single room, £325 shared room. Grants for those on low incomes can be applied for and there are also grants for primary and secondary school teachers. 01463 741675, moniackmhor.org.uk

Urban Writers’ Retreat, London and Devon

Urban Writers’ Retreat is in country house in Devon

Some aspiring writers just want a space to write in and the time to do it rather than workshops, seminars and tutorial. That’s where Urban Writers’ Retreat comes in. It has three- and six-day retreats to a country house in the wilds of Devon – or rather, about 20 minutes’ drive from Newton Abbott. Here, in your own room (en suite doubles, doubles and singles are available), or sharing if you prefer, it’s possible to work in peace and quiet. As well as the company of fellow writers (up to a maximum of nine), Charlie, who runs Urban Writers’ Retreat, is on hand with “tea and empathy” where necessary. If time and finances are even more pressing, one-day London retreats in groups of 10-20 are also available for £45pp including lunch. Three-day stays from £255, six-day stays from £460. urbanwritersretreat.co.uk

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The Home of Creative Writing

Festival of writing.

Arvon is a charity that runs creative writing courses, events and retreats both in-person and online. Our courses are tutored by leading authors and include a powerful mix of workshops and individual tutorials, with time and space to write, free from distractions of everyday life. Grants and concessions are available to help with course fees.

ARVON COURSES & RETREATS

Residential writing week: poetry.

Honing your wildest creative self

Totleigh Barton

Fiction , Short Story

Residential Writing Week: Short Story

Stories that reach beyond

Fiction , Poetry , Non-Fiction , Starting to Write , Theatre , Children & YA , Screenwriting , Short Story , Publishing , Other

Untutored Writers’ Retreat

Taking time for yourself

Masterclass: Funny Fiction with Emma Jane Unsworth

Make 'em laugh

Online Writing Day: Assembling Your Poetry Pamphlet

Putting your poems together

Masterclass: Historical Fiction

Inhabiting the past in your writing

Theatre , Other

Masterclass: How to Teach Creative Writing – Theatre

Raise the curtain on teaching creative playwriting

Non-Fiction

Online Writing Week: Memoir

Translate your experience into memoir and bring your stories to life

“Every time I’ve taught at Arvon - going back over fifteen years now - I’ve seen how much difference just a handful of days can make in the life of writers. There’s a perfect mix of tutorials, writing time, socializing, and discussion - all those elements come together to create an atmosphere in which writing projects move in that longed-for but often unattainable direction: forward.”

— Kamila Shamsie

ARVON AT HOME

Our online programme of courses, events and writing support

Virtual versions of our famous Writing Weeks, plus Masterclasses, free How I Write events, Online Writing Weekends, Writing Days and more . . . all accessible from the comfort of your sofa.

SUPPORT ARVON NORTH

Arvon North is an ambitious capital project to adapt Lumb Bank into a beacon of creativity for the North

Help us transform Lumb Bank into an engine-house for creative writing development in the North of England, connecting the rich literary collateral of the region with a community of writers locally, regionally, nationally and globally.

CLOCKHOUSE WRITERS' RETREAT

Give your writing the time and space it deserves with Arvon’s dedicated Writers Retreat at The Clockhouse

The Clockhouse is specifically designed for writers on retreat. It has four apartments for writers, each with bedroom, study-lounge and bathroom. All food is provided for you, so you can spend your time as you please.

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Arvon is a charity that believes everyone deserves the freedom to imagine, write and explore ideas regardless of their age or financial background.

OUR SCHOOLS & GROUPS WORK

We offer residential weeks for schools, young people and adult groups.

Our weeks for schools and groups follow the same pattern as our adult course programme – led by two professional writers, with tutorials, group workshops, and time and space to write.

ARVON BLOGS

SI Leeds Literary Prize 2024

07 Mar 2024 / General

A writing prize that helps discover exciting new talent from underrepresented groups will be accepting entries again next month. The SI…

Arvon and Creative Minds Calderdale to Develop Writing for Change Project

28 Feb 2024 / News

Arvon and Creative Minds Charity, hosted by South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, are embarking on an exciting project aimed…

My Arvon Journey: Gráinne O’Hare

27 Feb 2024 / My Arvon Journey

When I logged on to my first online Arvon workshop, it was autumn 2022 and already chilly at my writing desk;…

My Arvon Week: Debi Barry

27 Feb 2024 / My Arvon Week

Friendships are formed over food, (or a glass of wine in my case!) and cemented over shared life experiences – so…

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20+ Amazing Writing Retreats To Check Out This Year!
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25+ Incredible Writers Retreats to Attend in 2024
Willow Writers' Retreat is facilitated by Susan Isaak Lolis, a published and award-winning writer. Attendees have access to workshops, including one with creative writing instructor Margaret Harrington, plus a reading on the last evening to celebrate your work. Cost: TBD; 2022 rate was $350.
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8 Day Creative Writing Retreat in Champagne House, France. Condom, Occitanie, France. Jun 18 - 25 | Sep 10 - 17, 2024. 5.00. (5 reviews) 6 people are interested. In writing, the setting is important and can sometimes be seen as a character that adds depth and. From.
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Canada. 3. Europe. 4. Asia. Writer retreats are highly anticipated events that can give writers the boost they need to move forward in their next project. If you feel that the excitement of the new year has long worn off and you're looking for a way to re-inspire yourself in your writing endeavors, you may want to look into writer retreats ...
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7. Moniack Mhor, UK. Moniack Mhor Creative Writing Centre in the Scottish Highlands, is just 14 miles from Inverness. The creative writing courses are tutored by some of the finest authors in the published world. Participants are accommodated in the original croft house at Moniack Mhor.
7+ Best Writing Retreats for 2024 (In Person & Online)
Basic Writer ($2,125) Advanced Writer ($2,525) Super Awesome Author ($3,125) All packages include food, lodging, daily runs, a writing group workshop, social events, and race entry. 2. Rekindle Retreat — Juneau, Alaska. The Rekindle Retreat is a writing retreat hosted by the Lighthouse Writer'syou'll Workshop.
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The Best Writing Retreats for Authors and Creatives. Benefits of attending writing retreats. When it comes to nurturing your creative writing skills and fueling your imagination, attending a writing retreat can be the perfect solution. These retreats provide authors and creatives with dedicated time and space to focus solely on their writing ...
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Writing and Performing in Meter: Poetry Masterclass with Annie Finch: September 26 - October 1, 2023, for ₹36,000. The Himalayan International Writers Retreat - Fall 2023: October 3 - October 13, 2023, for $3,300. Translation Masterclass with Arunava Sinha: November 1 - November 5, 2023, for ₹34,000.
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Find details about every creative writing competition—including poetry contests, short story competitions, essay contests, awards for novels, grants for translators, and more—that we've published in the Grants & Awards section of Poets & Writers Magazine during the past year. We carefully review the practices and policies of each contest before including it in the Writing Contests ...
THE 10 BEST Writing Retreats in United States for 2024
3 Day Women's Writing and Wellness Retreat in Mattawan, MI, USA. Mattawan, Michigan, United States. Aug 16 - 18, 2024. Enjoy a 3-day, 2-night stay at our beautiful retreat center, all meals are included.This opportunity.
Creative Writing Retreats
You should receive your welcome email containing a free gift within 24 hours. JLC Creative Retreats, LLC. 504 13th Avenue North, Sartell, MN, 56377, United States. [email protected]. Hours. Creative Writing Retreats. "Travel brings power and love back into your life.".
Top 2023 Writing Retreats from All Over the World
The creative writing retreat is ideal even for people who have not traveled before. Finca Luna Nueva. Feb 11-18, 2023. $410-$1,265. No Deadline. Shropshire, UK Arvon Creative Writing. The Clockhouse Retreats. ... Do your best writing at this five-day, five-night deep-dive, small-group writing retreat at scenic ZigBone Farm, just one hour from ...
Amazing Writing Retreats to Attend in 2024
This 4-day retreat includes daily writing exercises & workshops, daily readings, daily meditations & journaling, a private 1:1 session, daily breakfast, and a 3-night stay in a charming restored colonial manor. Pineapple Hill Inn. Mar 8-11, 2024. $165-$285.
The 8 Best Affordable Writing Retreats That Won't Break the Bank
Wellspring House Retreat — Ashfield, Massachusetts, $260-$280/week. Retired English professor Preston Browning is the co-director of Wellspring House with his wife, author Ann Hutt Browning. The Wellspring House is run exclusively as a retreat for writers and artists, and as such is open all year: winter rates (mid-November to April 1st) are ...
Creative retreats: 9 havens for artists, writers and musicians
Retreats are no longer just the preserve of hippies and health fanatics - a growing breed are springing up with creatives in mind. From a Tadao Ando-designed haven in Mexico to a recording studio in a Norwegian cabin, these are spaces to re-charge and re-inspire artists far away from the pressures of daily life. We'd like to book in for a residency at these 9 creative retreats…
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10 of the Best Writing Retreats. By Novelicious. ... Spain - The 400 year old Spanish house Casa Ana plays host to this inspiring autumnal week long writing retreat. Led by award-winning author, journalist and creative writing tutor Rebecca Abrams in October, writing exercises and sessions are sandwiched between guest speakers, one-on-one ...
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Here are some women's writing retreat options to consider: 1. Pink Pangea Travel Writing Retreats. Pink Pangea is a community for women who love to travel, and in addition to holding online writing workshops, they run international writing retreats. While travel writing is the primary focus, writers interested in a broader range of genres are ...
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Writing retreats are concentrated amounts of time to dedicate to your stories with few outside distractions. Editor Michael Woodson shares three things he learned from his first-ever writing retreat. The morning I was meant to leave for my writing retreat, I woke up to yet another rejection email. "Thank you for submitting your story for ...
Write Away Europe Creative Writing Retreats
Cross into Creativity: Creative Writing Retreats in Captivating Locales. Ready to take your writing to the next level? Write Away Europe's writing retreats are an opportunity to disconnect from your everyday life and reconnect with your creative vision in an inspiring setting surrounded by a small supportive group of like-minded writers and knowledgeable experienced facilitators.
A Guide To Creating Your Own Writing Retreat
Make a bullet-point outline for each chapter. If writing fiction, do the first few exercises in Story Genius. Build-in outdoor time and ways to move. The body needs to move to think. Make sure your writer's retreat includes time for dance, yoga, walking, running, and/or rolling around on the floor moaning. Gather supplies.
‎Your Writing Retreat Connection: Retreats to Unblock Your Creativity
If you're a writer who's experienced creative anxiety, I think you're going to really appreciate this interview with award-winning author and writing retreat host, Lauren Carter. We chatted about how she combines her deep knowledge of writing craft with tools to help writers navigate through… ‎Show Your Writing Retreat Connection, Ep ...
Top 10 art holidays and creative writing retreats in the UK
Though courses often start with work in the tutors' studio and nearby locations it can, and often does, extend to scenic spots around the area. Brambles Art Retreat also runs art breaks abroad ...
Arvon
1. 2. Arvon is a charity that runs creative writing courses, events and retreats both in-person and online. Our courses are tutored by leading authors and include a powerful mix of workshops and individual tutorials, with time and space to write, free from distractions of everyday life. Grants and concessions are available to help with course fees.
Best Writing Retreats: UK and Beyond
The Garsdale Retreat is a creative writing centre, providing courses and untutored retreats, in the remote and beautiful setting of The Yorkshire Dales. Their courses offer opportunities for new, emerging and experienced writers. The tutors, all professional writers, lead workshops and also give one-to-one tutorials to help the individual student.
17 Canadian Writing Retreats for Creative Writers and Poets
Berton House Writers' Retreat. The Berton House Writers' Retreat is located in the Yukon, on the edge of Dawson City. The house is acclaimed writer, Pierre Berton's childhood home. Berton House offers 3 month writing residencies together with a $9000 honorarium, plus travel costs are covered.

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