writing retreats australia 2023

Best Writers Retreats 2023 to Inspire You to Write!

If you get inspired by being around writing teachers and other writers, and you have some savings for self-development, then a writers’ retreat could be great for you. I believe writing retreats are more in the personal development bucket than calling it a return on investment.

Talks, creativity or speed writing workshops are usually included. Manuscript critiques (readings) are also included in some writing retreats. Then there are hybrid book writing and walking (or music) retreats and Writers at Sea – a writing workshop on an ocean liner.

Here I will go into some good value writing retreats, about half of which include accommodation.

First, ask yourself some reflection questions:

• What new technique or new creativity practice do you want to get out of the retreat?
• Or is your main motivation to be around supportive writers and learn from those further ahead?
• Could you get a group of writer friends together and your local book writing teacher/mentor and run your own? ( Enquire with me if you do; I’d be happy to be a guest teacher for book angles, chapter structuring and assessments if timelines allow).

Queensland Writers’ Retreats

Rainforest writing retreat – mount tambourine – june 21st – 23rd, 2024.

Includes 3 days of writing and publishing masterclasses, networking, and writing time. Accommodation is an extra cost. Cedar Creek Lodge – classes & networking – $695. See Rainforest Writing .

Relax & Write in Paradise – Vietnam and Bali – Feb & July 2024

These weekend retreats pack it in, with narrative techniques, character workshops and more. Edwina Shaw and crew. All levels of writer welcome. Relax and Write Retreats . See the Blissful Bali Retreat for 2024, which sounds divine and is 6 nights at an eco-resort – days of writing, yoga, and more. From $2,050.

Try this video-making tool – I use it for trailers.

Writers at Sea Retreat – from Brisbane port – 22-23 October 2023

Riding the waves of Carnival Luminosa, fiction writers and teachers Alli Sinclair & T.M. Clark will guide your new writing to greater heights, with workshops, personal development, and a 10-page critique of your manuscript and synopsis. It’s $1,300.00 p.p. and the 7-night cruise, tips and meals are not included in this retreat package. See WritersatSea for details.

Shut up and Write – 20-23 November 2023 – Gold Coast

A weekday retreat, there are three nights and two workshop days of Creative Breakthrough and Release – conducted by Andy H Smith and Wendy Manzo. Offering a good value of $1,780 for one person, one room or $1,280 if sharing a room. See the Writing Event details here.

NSW Writers’ Retreats

Creative writing retreats.

The beginners’ class has a music and writing angle, which is taught by creative writing teacher and author, Sue Woolfe. It doesn’t say the costs on their website. CreativityRetreats.net (Their form is failing so just call up).

Easter Mindful Writing Retreat – GlassHouse Mountains – Easter 2024

Situated in the mountains just north of Brisbane, this four-day Easter writing retreat is at the Buddhist retreat centre, Namgyalgar. You can stay elsewhere or opt for budget to deluxe residences. Costs are from $950 to $1350 with accommodation or $460 for the workshop days, including lunch. See WritersJouney .

Other Retreats of Interest

Festival – huon, tasmania – 21 october – 11 november 2023.

Not just Salmon but also writers go there, for 6 nights of accommodation, 6 tutor-led sessions and 5 days of structured writing time. See TAF2022/23

From $1800 for one week or $3,300 for two weeks, meals are also included.

European Writers Retreats or Spaces

Beer Budget: Here is a Self-Guided Retreat in South France – any time, including London Writer’s Salon online sessions. From $749

Champagne Writer Retreat: Creative Writing Retreat in South France (8 days) – ironically called Champagne House. From $2,650

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Three of the best writer's retreats in Australia

30 October 2023

Could this be the year you finally embrace that masterpiece just waiting to flow out of your pen and straight onto the best-seller list?

The writers retreat in hardys bay.

Settle in for the long haul then, somewhere beautiful and inspiring, just like The Writers Retreat in Hardys Bay, just 90 minutes north of Sydney and isolated enough to get rid of that writer’s block.

With a waterfront position and expansive bay views, this recently restored and renovated retreat is stylishly decorated, to preserve the perfect writer’s environment – and is also minutes from the beach, incase you need to go off in search of some inspiration.

Described as the “quintessential Australian holiday home”, the fishing cottage is split into two levels, and all rooms have floor to ceiling glass doors that open to an expansive deck that overlooks the water.

Discounts for writers

The home is open to all guests, however substantial discounts are available to writers and other creative people booking the house for four weeks or more.

Hardy’s Bay Writer’s Retreat.

Mount Lofty House in Adelaide

Garden-set Mount Lofty House in Adelaide is the perfect setting to nestle in and get that first book done – finally.

This home, which resembles something from Downton Abbey, offers a vast selection of rooms and fit-outs, including the House Original, Piccadilly Garden – and for a more ‘Lord of the house’ feel, you can even book one of the luxurious suites.

The expansive home was founded by Arthur Hardy, who arrived in Australia from England when he was just 21. He overcame illness to become a grazier on land around the Adelaide foothills, before starting a professional career in politics in law. He was also Australia’s first Grand Master of the Freemasons, and at one point a government minister and a member of the supreme court.

It is hoped that others who stay in the home will find similar success to Arthur Hardy.

Mount Loft House, Adelaide.

Camp Creative

But if you need more than just a quiet room (and a fragrant bath), join in a summer camp for grown-ups in the creative hub of Bellingen at Camp Creative and take the ‘Write your life story’ course.

The summer camp is a creative experience for all ages, where you’ll mix with other creatives who are passionate about expressing themselves. The camp provides tutors who are experts in their fields, to help guide creatives pursue or find a new passion.

The camp is open to all ages, and they encourage people to come with a friend, in a group, or alone – as there’s ample opportunity to meet new friends.

The camps go for one week, running Monday to Friday, and you can choose from half or full-day courses. They’re held at either Bellingen High School or Bellingen Primary School.

Bonus: if you don’t want to spend too much of that inevitable author’s advance on your future best-seller, there’s camping available at the local showground from a very eloquent $10 a night.

Take part in the ‘Write your life story’ course at Camp Creative, Bellingen.

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• BUYING SHARES
• NEW LODGE & ACCOMMODATION

Write Your Story & Let Nature Help You Get Unstuck

3 Day Writers Retreat

Have you secretly dreamed about writing stories or a book?

What if it’s as simple as choosing the next step of taking your desire seriously and investing in your creativity?

Embrace this unique opportunity to be inspired by magnificent world heritage rainforest, and experience your writing as an easy, enjoyable, and achievable process.

Over this three-day writing retreat in Binna Burra, you will receive intensive group and individual input from acclaimed writing tutor and author of over fifty nationally and internationally published books – Melaina Faranda. Nature will also be a teacher, with a variety of creative exercises designed to help you detox from digital chatter, and free you to discover your own original thinking.

Expect to be creatively energised as well as nourished on many levels by connecting with pristine nature. You will take away a boosted word count, grab bag of fun and effective writing and self-editing tools and techniques, plus a bespoke plan, process, structure, and timeline for completion of your story or book!

Suitable for all backgrounds and levels of experience, from an unwritten idea to a partly completed project.

ACCOMMODATION AND TICKET BUNDLES

SKY LODGE STUDIO SINGLE Participant Bundle – $1500

• Includes two nights accommodation in a Sky Lodge Studio
• Includes two course dinner and breakfast daily for one adult
• Includes writers retreat tickets for   one   participant

SKY LODGE STUDIO TWIN Participant Bundle – $2280

• Includes two course dinner and breakfast daily for two adults
• Includes writers retreat tickets for   two   participants

TINY WILD HOUSE SINGLE Participant Bundle – $1450

• Includes two nights accommodation in a Tiny Wild House

TINY WILD HOUSE TWIN Participant Bundle – $2150

• Includes writers retreat tickets for two   participants

*Make your retreat even more enjoyable by extending your stay!   You can add an extra night before or after the retreat at a fixed rate. This rate includes accommodation and daily meals for two adults, including both dinner and breakfast. You can choose to extend your stay for one night before the retreat starts and/or one night after it concludes.

Retreat only ticket:

Objectives of this workshop

Opportunities will be provided to explore and plan for your unique needs, conditions, approaches, structures, and routines – to get unstuck and see your writing through to completion. You’ll discover playful ways to wrangle your inner critic, work through writers’ block, and techniques to overcome procrastination. You will also learn how to self-edit your work, saving you both time and resources, and empowering you to create work closer to publication standard. This will all be done while making new writer friends and experiencing ways in which the natural environment can support you to create!

Supplies to bring

Whatever you best prefer to write on or with. Please make sure you have a notebook suitable for times we will be writing outside.

Your Facilitator

Melaina Faranda is the author of over fifty books and a manuscript appraisal consultant. A passionate, energetic, and enthusiastic writing tutor, she receives rave feedback and repeat invitations to inspire and empower word loving kin through the many workshops, courses, masterclasses and retreats she delivers at writers’ centres, schools, organisations, private groups, and literature festivals throughout Australia.

How this fits into our Art. Nature. Science. Program

This three-day writing retreat, experienced within Lamington National Park, creatively engages with the natural environment through writing. A guided approach of focussed attention, appreciation, and applying imagination to the rainforest, can offer nourishment, inspiration, and a deepened reverence for the connection between nature and bringing creative processes to fruition.

• Minimum 8 participants for this event to go ahead
• Maximum 20 participants

Here's What Past Writing Workshop Participants Have to Say…

‘I just want you to know how grateful I am… It has inspired me to write again. I’m actually sitting in my office editing the first chapter of my memoir, which I have been writing for about fifteen years.’ Michelle

‘Fantastic. I’ve been to many workshops in different areas of my career, and I loved this one the most.’ Mariska

‘Most practical workshop I’ve attended – so useful.’ Bill

‘Absolutely loved it! Lots of movement, packed richly, more than I had expected – thanks.’ Graeme

‘Amazing momentum, ability to articulate knowledge well, oozing talent and creative ability.’ Jenny

‘I had the best time at the retreat. Your stories and advice helped spark some creative juices in us all!’ Shannon

‘Wow! I have never received such glowing reports for a course before.’ Jacqui

‘Melaina is a wonderful tutor – generous and empathetic. Fantastic!’ Alice

‘Melaina…my soul is still singing. I admit to being anxious prior to meeting you; I was uncertain of what would be expected of me and I felt vulnerable. This feeling dissolved quickly thanks to your reassurance, encouragement and humour. You generously imparted to us skills that you had learned over your 20-year career as author and teacher of your craft. By the end of Day 1, I couldn’t wait for the following day. Thank you so much for lavishly sharing yourself with us.’ Dian

‘Melaina runs an excellent course, very inspirational and supportive and energetic. This workshop is definitely something that I would love to do again. Thank you so much!!!’ Ally

‘Great! Great! Great! Gigantically Great! Seeds have been planted within me are growing already.’ Wayne

‘Melaina’s weekend workshop was one of the most inspiring workshops I have attended in 40 years of attending workshops.’ Lynn

‘Your course is ten times better than the creative writing unit I did at university while studying for my Bachelor of Arts in Communications. The course there was boring, and we were made to feel as if we weren’t good enough, but you give everything of yourself, you pour it out, making sure that everyone really gets it and that we can all write.’ Natalie

‘Your experience and knowledge in writing and editing skills were shared in a generous and lively way. Not only did we all feel enjoyment in getting to know you, but we came to relax and connect with each other, and your warm hearted and open approach gave us a solid and confident basis on which to build our own skills. There was no sense of pressure or living up to the standards of some of the more experienced writers in the group. Thank you, Melaina, for a wonderfully enriching, enjoyable and educational retreat – you have set me on the path of writing. I am very grateful to you for what you have taught me.’ Mary

I was buzzing after we did that amazing activity. I found myself writing before I went to work this morning which I never normally do. I am absolutely loving your course.’ Melissa

“I would highly recommend Melaina’s creative writing course. Her significant writing and teaching experience was clear in how she was able to craft the sessions to take into account the group composition and be responsive to the group’s requests for particular elements of the creative writing process. I loved it and look forward to doing more of Melaina’s courses in the future.’ Sheree

‘I could see all the writers emerging from where they were into the light of writing. I feel we all soared, gaining insights, camaraderie, and honing our writing skills. I feel ‘fine-tuned’, as if a new life has opened up for me. Thank you for sharing your skills and knowledge with us. I have been entranced, intrigued, elated. I have learned so much.’ Gloria

‘Thank you for your wonderful creative writing course, Melaina. I felt enriched and inspired and learned some things about myself that I didn’t know before! As a teacher you are so entertaining, creative, affirming, and non-confrontational. You made what was for me a slightly daunting prospect, an effortless and surprisingly fun process. I would recommend this course to anyone wanting to access their creativity.’ Sue

‘Thank you for allowing myself to experience creative writing in a way I think I’ll enjoy for the rest of my life.’ Lucy

‘Fabulous. Really engaging. I loved the way you share your knowledge. It wasn’t all about you – you were here for others. Instead of just telling the people to be creative you were telling them HOW to be creative – giving us actual specific techniques and something to do. I was really impressed. You shared yourself. You were real.’ Kelly

‘This was one of the best courses I’ve done, and I’ve done a lot of courses!’ Mary

‘Thanks so much, Melaina, you are truly inspiring and amazing… You were absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. You did an extremely interactive session and got some brilliant results. I hope you have the opportunity to do many more of these. The world needs it.’ Terri

‘I enjoyed thinking differently about my writing process. I think I surprised myself actually! It was fun just writing – I didn’t feel any pressure to come up with something technically perfect. Thank You.’ Grace

‘I’ve often had difficulty with “writer’s block” but now feel more confident that I can overcome this with the techniques learned. I also feel much more confident that I will be able to better ‘craft’ these ideas with what was learned in the editing workshop. Thankyou!’ Paizli

‘It helped me create stories and plots completely left of field of anything I’ve ever thought. You brought up many concepts of storytelling that has only occurred in my subconscious.’ Thomas

‘Inspiring and very helpful. Makes me want to jump straight into writing a piece, using what I’ve been told. I will definitely retain and apply this information.’ Daniella

Shipwrecked? Here's a lifebuoy!

Writers  at  sea, 2024 writers retreats, join us in december 2024 for our 5 th voyage.

Join best-selling and award-winning authors Alli Sinclair and T.M. Clark on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas out of Sydney.

The perfect retreat to inspire creativity and rejuvenate your spirit.

Ideal for writers of any genre and experience.

You will get the chance to join in multiple writing workshops, group discussions and group writing sessions with fellow writers. You will also get the opportunity to have private mentoring sessions with Tina and Alli, where you will get to discuss your work.

Interested in paying for the retreat in instalments?

You'll be given the option to spread the cost of the retreat

over the coming months when you complete your booking.

WHAT PAST ATTENDEES SAY

Writers at Sea was simply an incredible experience! Educational and inspiring. The writing sessions and personal feedback from Tina and Alli helped improve my writing, and gave me the confidence to finish my novel!

~ Nick Levy (2020)

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

If you would like to talk to us, please send your phone number and the best time to call. 

We look forward to seeing you on board for a week of creativity, learning and fun!

[email protected]

Your inquiry were sent successfully!

• Previous Programs
• Submissions

2023 Event Program

Workshops & masterclasses.

Update for January 2023

Unfortunately, Jack Heath is unable to present for 2023. However, we have a great new workshop to fill this space and look forward to seeing Jack at our future retreats.

TENSION FOR COMMERCIAL FICTION

WITH ANNA CAMPBELL

Anna Campbell returns as a Presenter for RWR23 in this saucy masterclass. Learn how to get your reader turning the page with trembling fingers. Lots of tips, whispered secrets and spicy writing activities. You may need a long cold drink to keep down the heat. This class will sizzle!

ANNA CAMPBELL

Anna Campbell is possibly Australia’s best known author for sexy Regency romance. She has a huge body of work and many of her stories and novels have won awards. Anna has published with HarperCollins and Hachette. She has also independently released bestselling novellas and novels. Anna regularly mentors other writers in technical skills, marketing, romance, and commercial fiction, so we are very lucky to have her return to RWR for 2023. You can find out more about Anna on her website: www.annacampbell.com

THE ROMANCE WRITING FORMULA

WITH ALICIA LEIGH

Make sure you hit all the right beats in this intense writing masterclass by Alicia Leigh. Always wanted to attempt a romance? It is one of the bestselling genres and quite a profitable market. Not sure where to begin? Alicia is author of ‘The Romance Writing Formula’ and a very patient and vivacious teacher. We are excited to have Alicia turn from Retreater to Presenter for our 2023 RWR.

ALICIA LEIGH

Alicia Leigh is a bestselling non-fiction author, international-selling romance author, and writing coach. She has completed her master’s degree in writing at Swinburne University and is currently embarking upon her PhD in Creative Arts (writing) at Central Queensland University. She is active on social media and encourages readers and writers to interact with her there. She writes romantic fiction novels under the pseudonyms A.K. Leigh and Leigh Hatchmann. You can find out more about Alicia at: www.fallinlovewithleigh.com

WRITING THE PAGE TURNER

WITH JAN-ANDREW HENDERSON

Master pacing, hooks and cliff-hangers to learn how to make the reader turn the page. Jan will also take you through the most common mistakes writers make in their early drafts and how to mend those mistakes.

JAN-ANDREW HENDERSON

Jan-Andrew (J A) Henderson is the author of 36 books and has been published in several short story anthologies. His novels have been short listed for fifteen literary awards and he is the winner of The Royal Mail, Aurelis and Doncaster Awards. His books have been published in the UK, USA, Australia, Canada and Europe, by Oxford University Press, Collins Books, Hardcourt Press, Amberley Books, Oetinger Publishing, Mlada Fronta, Black Hart, Mainstream Books, Black & White Publishers and Floris Books. Jan-Andrew hosts online workshops through Romance Writers Australia (RWA) and is also a professional editor and mentor. You can find out more about Jan-Andrew Henderson at www.janandrewhenderson.com

PITCH TO PUBLISHERS

WITH SARAH WILLIAMS

Write the perfect pitch, tag line and synopsis in this in-depth masterclasses on empowering you to approach your dream publisher. You’ll learn the secrets to winning over editors and agents so everyone will want to read your manuscript. Sarah is offering Retreaters the opportunity to pitch their novel to Serenade Publishing!

SARAH WILLIAMS

Sarah Williams is the best-selling romance author and CEO of Serenade Publishing. She currently resides in Maleny on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. When she’s not absorbed in her fictional writing world, Sarah is running after her family of four kids, three dogs and an ever-growing number of chickens. She regularly runs writers' workshops, mentors and supports her peers to achieve their publishing dreams. To learn more about her books visit: www.sarahwilliamsauthor.com

A DIFFERENT ROAD TO TAKE

WITH JOANNE AUSTEN BROWN

Getting frustrated submitting to publisher after publisher, only to receive rejections? Joanne Austen Brown will take you down an alternate path. In this mini-workshop, you’ll plan out a pathway to publish your own novel.

JOANNE AUSTEN BROWN

Joanne Austen Brown has been published since 2020 and currently has 5 books and 3 novellas published to her name. She got tired of the positive rejections and decided to self-publish. Now with a great following from all parts around the world, and over 1,000 followers in her newsletter and on Facebook, she wants to share what she did and what might help you if you wish to go down the same road. Learn more about Joanne at https://www.joanneaustenbrown.com

your character's love language

WITH KELLIE M COX

Discover your character's love languages and how this aspect can move your story forward and create conflict.

KELLIE M COX

With qualifications in psychology, she relishes writing about the human condition and the vulnerability of the psyche.Wanting to see a change in the narrative of gender roles in storytelling, Kellie has created her publishing and production enterprise, Strong Female Protagonists and encourages others to write and produce work that challenges our preconceived ideas of societal values. You can find out more about Kellie at: https://www.kelliemcox.com

Create your id list

WITH CHRISTINE BETTS

Writing ‘what you love’ is easier if you have an extensive list of those things that appeal to your Id. Use psychological analysis to understand your character's true motivations to help shape your story.

CHRISTINE BETTS Christine Betts is an award-winning writer, living and working in Bundjalung country (Northern Rivers of New South Wales.) She is the Newsletter Editor for the Gold Coast Writers’ Association and co-facilitates the popular Write & Sip fundraising events. Learn more about Christine at https://writerpainter.com

UNDERSTANDING GENRE

WITH LEXCIA DALTON

What makes a story fit a certain genre? In this workshop, you'll analyse the tropes of genre and how to make sure you are writing your story to fulfil the expectations of the reader.

LEXCIA DALTON

Lexica is a frequent Retreater at RWR and has been writing for 45 years. She has self-published two romance novels and continues to research the craft of writing. You can find out more about Lexical at: https://www.lgdaltonnovelist.com

CAST YOUR ROMANCE

WITH CHARMAINE CLANCY

Choose the perfect cast of characters for your romance story. If you are submitting to our anthology collection of rom-com short stories, this will be perfect for getting started. Charmaine will also be your RWR Host for 2023.

CHARMAINE CLANCY

Charmaine Clancy is an award-winning author of short stories and has published three children's novels. She is passionate about improving literacy skills in children and occasionally hosts workshops. You can find out more about Charmaine at https://charmaineclancy.com

The Past 3 events have sold out!

Get your ticket now to reserve your place. Then we'll make sure you get a special Retreat discount on accommodation with your ticket as proof you're attending.

WORKSHOPS BY YOU!

WITH RWR RETREATERS

We are bringing back the Retreater sessions! You could add, Rainforest Writing Retreat Presenter to your resume. We will allocate between 30minutes – 1hour for you to present a writing workshop. How can you become a Retreater Presenter for these short sessions?

Plan out what you would like to present. All presentations MUST be activity-based, we do not have talks, discussion or seminars – we promise workshops. Provide activities on planning, writing, editing, producing or marketing stories and novels.

Draft up a plan and provide an estimate of the time-frame you think you will need (we might not be able to allocate the time allowance you request, but it will give us an idea when we plan out our itinerary).

Email your proposal to [email protected] – use ‘Workshop Proposal’ in your subject line.

We will announce our choices for workshops in the private Facebook page.

**This is not a paid presentation – this is offered only as an opportunity for our Retreater-writers to gain experience presenting a short workshop in a safe and nurturing environment.

'Fantastic effort, organisers and presenters.Very well done, indeed.'

Frank Prem (poet & Retreater)

'The presentations by Charmaine and Anthony were packed with useful information, and the interaction of those involved made me feel so lucky to be part of this talented group of writers. Huge thanks to the amazing Christine and Charmaine for organising this!'

Robin Thomas (Author & Retreater)

'As a newbie to RWR it was such an enjoyable experience. I learnt so much and everyone was so welcoming. It was very well put together and I look foward to the next one!! Big thanks to Charmaine and Christine!'

Sarah Tegerdine (Author & Retreater)

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• Retreat 2025
• 2025 Attendees
• 2024 Schedule

READY  TO  WRITE  IN  PARADISE?

       our mission.

• The first writers retreat was held in February 2007 with one session consisting of 28 writers. The idea was to create at least one time and place in the year where all but writing was put aside. The objective was to create an annual writers' gathering that focused on: 
• Writers gather at a location of minimized outside interference or influence, ready to spend an intensive four or five days on their own work, with others involved in the same who were present for support and interactive development of written creative work as art, craft, and science. Balanced against this is a schedule of events aimed at supporting this process, with the number of retreat guests and attendees kept to a limit.
• The retreats are held at the Rain Forest Resort Village situated on Lake Quinault, nestled on the Olympic Pennisula and the Quinault Rainforest. Local populations are small and centers of civilization are approximately 50 miles from the resort. Close enough for those who wish to seek them out, and far enough for others not to have to seek escape from them. The resort has no phones in the rooms or cabins, and has spotty cell phone service. It is its own little village, with a restaurant, general store, gift shop, lounge, post office, and laundromat on site. ​  ​ ​
• ​ Participants get writing time free of work and daily social life. They get professional advice from, and interaction with, guests who have had success in the writing business.

• 1st session: Randy Henderson
• 2nd session: Brenda Cooper
• 3rd session: Erik Grove
• 4th session: Barb Ferrer

WILD WRITING 

With inga simpson  ​, 26th feb - 5th march, writing wonder.

Explore the wild places of your imagination,

where writing meets the wonder of nature.

Nature writing has never been more relevant.  How do we express, in words, our wonder for the natural world?  How do we begin to write about our landscapes after the fires, the pandemic, the year we have had?  How can non-Indigenous Australians write about connection to landscape and place? 

At this Nature Writing retreat we will delve into the connections between identity, landscape, ethics and cultural change. Discover why rewriting our relationship with nature plays a critical role in this emerging and essential conversation. 

Nature and story appeal to our hearts, and Nature Writing that acknowledges our innate love for the natural world can inspire us to care, to believe and to participate in the creation of a more beautiful world.

During the immersion in nature and writing we will explore a range of practices designed to strengthen your connection with nature, hone your observation skills, and convey your experiences through story.  Aligning your external, physical landscapes with your interior, imaginative landscapes allows a greater intimacy with the natural world – and brings authenticity to your writing.

Throughout the retreat you will be learning and applying Nature Writing practices and techniques, developing new and fresh work while you are here.  You will also have the chance to submit a short personal essay to Inga for feedback, and join in discussion regarding submitting your work for publication.

The daily writing workshops will explore practical techniques for writing about the natural world through a mixture of tuition, examples (including from works set in the Southern Highlands), writing exercises, and group discussion. We’ll cover evocative description, character and place, story and emotion, as well as research. We’ll also consider the challenges faced when writing with an environmental message, and the ethical issues to consider when writing nature in Australia today.

The program includes time and space for you to write as well as  optional, complimentary sessions and  field excursions. 

You’ll receive written and verbal feedback from Inga on up to 5000 words from any genre submitted beforehand.

what others say about Inga & our writing retreats

"It is somewhere in the gaps between the observational nature writing and the memoir aspect, the telling of her life, that something subterranean and magical happens. Something powerful that takes hold of the reader and transports her to the forest floor in a kind of awe.”

Sydney Morning Herald

Read more of what our past guests have had to say here . 

Meet The Authors

Inga Simpson

Inga Simpson is Inga is an Australian novelist and nature writer.

In a previous life she was a professional writer and researcher, including for federal parliament and the Commonwealth Ombudsman.

Her first novel, Mr Wigg (Hachette, 2013), was published following her participation in the 2011 QWC/Hachette Manuscript Development Program, and shortlisted for the Indie Debut Book Award. Her follow up novel, Nest (Hachette, 2014) was shortlisted for the Courier Mail People’s Choice Award, the ALS Gold Medal, and longlisted for the 2015 Miles Franklin Literary Award and the Stella Prize. Where the Trees Were (Hachette, 2016) was shortlisted for an Indie Book Award, and longlisted for the 2017 Miles Franklin Literary Award, the Australian Book Industry Awards, and the Green Carnation Prize.

Inga’s first work of nature writing, Understory: a life with trees (Hachette, 2017), about her decade spent living inside a south east Queensland forest, was shortlisted for the Adelaide Writers Week Award for Nonfiction. She was also the winner of the final Eric Rolls Nature Essay Prize.

Inga has PhDs in creative writing and English literature. Her most recent thesis explored the history of Australian nature writing. She has been teaching nature writing workshops and retreats for more than a decade. And her short work has been published in Chicago Quarterly Review, Review of Australian Fiction, Griffith Review, Clues, Writing Queensland, and the Dictionary of Literary Biography.

Inga was born in central west NSW. After living in Canberra, Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast hinterland, she has now settled on the far south coast of NSW.

Poetry Workshop with Kirli Saunders

Join award winning writer and artist Gundungurra raised Gunai Woman, Kirli Saunders to explore the connection of language to land through poetic prose writing prompts and tailored readings. 

Kirli Saunders is a proud Gunai Woman and award-winning international writer of poetry, plays and picture books. She is a teacher, cultural consultant and artist. In 2020, Kirli was named the NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year. 

Kirli created Poetry in First Languages, delivered by Red Room Poetry. Her debut picture book The Incredible Freedom Machines was shortlisted for the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards and CBCA notables. Her poetry collection, Kindred was shortlisted for the ABIA 2020 Book Awards. Her verse novel, Bindi (Magabala Books) was the inaugural winner of the WA Premiers, Daisy Utemorrah Award and was recently released.

Kirli has four forthcoming titles and her poetry features in anthologies published by Magabala Books, UQP and Penguin. Kirli is the winner of the University of Canberra ATSI Poetry prize (2019). Kirli has been shortlisted for the Nakata Brophy prize in 2018 and 2020. She is an esteemed judge for the 2020 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards and QPF Val Vallis Award.

Kirli’s was a finalist in the Contemporary NOW prize, and her artworks works have been commissioned for Wollongong Gallery, Shoalhaven Gallery and Curio Gallery. With the support of Australia Council for the Arts, she will hold her first solo poetic arts exhibition Returning in 2021.

As a playwright, Kirli is co-creating Dead Horse Gap with Merrigong Theatre and South East Arts. Her first Solo play, Going Home has been supported by Playwriting Australia, and will take the stage in 2022.

LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE, DON'T MISS OUT!

What to expect .

On this retreat you’ll have the opportunity to write what you’ve always wanted to write. Your writing will be supported by Springfield’s signature creative ecology. Our retreat includes optional sessions of morning yoga, nature hike with a local guide, foraging and gardening, and making art with objects found in nature.  Being on retreat in a beautiful natural place will bring insight to your work in surprising ways. Prepare to feel open and spacious as you tune into a different state of mind. Writing on retreat is so special. It initiates that altered state of mind we’re in when we’re writing. That’s when the magic happens. We’ll also take a break mid-week to refresh. You can use your free time to go even deeper into your writing, or take a break to enjoy the pool (weather permitting), treat yourself to a massage, visit one of the local villages, galleries or wineries, or simply sip a cappuccino, write postcards, and enjoy the gardens and views. 

A DAY AT NATURE WRITING  ​

6:30 - 7 :                Optional gentle morning yoga 

7:30 - 8:30 :         Breakfast 

10:30 - 12 :           Morning Writers Studio 

12:30 - 1 :              Lunch  

1 - 4 :                       One on one consults 

  Free / writing time

  Optional daily massage 

4:30 - 6 :               Afternoon Writers Studio 

6:30 - 7:30 :        Dinner 

PREPARATION. 

Registered participants are invited to speak to the group about your writing project.  You’ll have 10 minutes each to talk about  your work.  For example, you may choose to talk about what you’re writing, why you’re writing this particular piece, how long you’ve been working on it,  what challenges  you are currently facing, or what you hope to achieve at this Retreat.  You may also use some of this time to read some of your work.

Please send up to 5000 words (12pt font, double spaced, numbered pages with your name as footnote) for Inga to read before the retreat.  Only writing submitted by Monday 12th February will be read.

As numbers for this retreat are strictly limited (6-12) registration forms and deposit/payments must be received before your place is secured.

ROOMS, PRICES AND ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation is allocated according to availability and your first preference at the time of booking. We have two private bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, if this is your preference please book  early.  If you choose to share we’ll pair you with a like-minded roommate, or bring a friend!

Please explore room options and descriptions  here before booking.

$2,000* non-residential (includes all meals)

$2,500*pp shared room, shared bathroom:

(Avocado Room, Drover's Rest Rooms) ​

$3,000* private room, shared bathroom: 

(Avocado Room, Indigo Room, Drover's Rest Rooms, Farm House Rooms)

$3,000*pp shared room with private ensuite:

(Rose Room, Blue Room)

$3,500* private room with private ensuite:

(Rose Room, Blue Room) ​

INCLUSIONS ​

Close reading and feedback regarding your work (5000 words) by Inga

One:one consultation with Inga

Morning workshops exploring practical techniques for writing about the natural world

Afternoon workshops exploring character, place, story, emotion, and research

Writing exercises to generate new work

Discussion regarding the challenges and the ethical issues to consider when writing nature in Australia today

An opportunity to present and discuss your current project

The option to do a reading from your writing to fellow retreat participants 

The option to develop a personal essay to submit to Inga for feedback after the retreat

Discussion regarding submitting your work for publication

Time to truly slow down and sink in to your writing in a beautiful country setting 

Swimming Pool 

Nourishment of organic farm to table meals made with fresh produce straight from our very own veggie gardens. Vegetarian and vegan options. 

Truly slow down and amongst the countryside

A week of luxury accomodation

Optional daily gentle morning yoga 

Optional massage, garden tours and bush walks 

Beautiful workshop studio 

Transfer to and from Bowral train station

Concierge staff and onsite laundry 

IS THIS RETREAT FOR YOU?

This retreat is for writers with an open mind and a passion for the natural world. It is suitable for writers at all levels, whether interested in nature writing, environmental writing, travel writing, memoir, fiction, narrative non-fiction, short pieces or book-length projects. Content will be tailored to suit the interests and skills of participants – as well as the surrounding landscapes of the Southern Highlands. ​

Springfield is situated on traditional lands that were shared by people of the Gundungurra, Dharawal and Yuin nations. Springfield is only five minutes drive from Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park.  

We are 15 minutes from Bowral, Moss Vale and Robertson in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW. The energy here has been described as peaceful, still and even soporific, making it an excellent place for writers who want the quiet time and space needed to hear their writer's voice and sink in to the wonder of creative flow. 

Pen Your Next Chapter in Paradise: Victoria’s Writing Retreats

by Kirsten Macdonald | Inspire , Latest Edition , Prosper , Reflect | 4 comments

May Sarton, prolific poet, novelist and memoirist, once said:

“the world is full of places. why aren’t they enough why can’t i go somewhere and write.

For the creative (it takes one to know one), finding the perfectly comfortable spot, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, inspiring that “flow” can be tricky to find. I know from experience! I’m not sure about you, but I find, along with many other writing and creative friends, that nature stimulates the soul.

In fact, in a study published in  Frontiers in Psychology in 2019 , researchers found that spending time in nature can significantly improve cognitive function, including working memory and attention. The study also found that spending time in nature can improve mood and reduce stress. 

So if you are looking for nature and are in Victoria, Australia, you’re in luck – this stunning region is home to some of the best writing nature-filled retreats in the country. 

Here is just a handful for you to Ponder. 

https://www.writersretreatgarden.com

The Storytellers Nook, Panmure:  This charming retreat is housed in a beautifully restored church, complete with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The gallery-style luxury retreat has an extensive library, luxe kitchen, beautiful writing desk, fast wifi and an open fire. Not to mention the claw foot tub, chef’s kitchen and Alice in Wonderland-inspired bedroom. With beautiful gardens to explore and the nearby Great Ocean Road, the Storytellers Nook is a must-visit for any writer seeking inspiration. Check out their website at  www.thestorytellersnook.com.au .

Wiggly Bottom Farm, Yarra Valley  – This peaceful retreat is situated in the lush Yarra Valley, offering writers a serene and idyllic setting to focus on their writing. The charming cottage accommodation with a wood-burning fireplace is the perfect place to cozy up with your notebook or laptop. With beautiful gardens and a farm full of friendly animals, Wiggly Bottom Farm is the perfect place to escape the stresses of daily life and reconnect with nature. For more information, visit their website at  www.wigglybottomfarm.com.au .

Wombat Bend, Yarra Valley:  Located on the banks of the Yarra River, The Burrow at Wombat Bend provides writers a tranquil and inspiring environment to focus on their work. The private balcony with stunning views and comfortable accommodation make this retreat a must-visit for writers seeking solitude and inspiration. With abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery, Wombat Bend is the perfect place to let your creativity flow. Check out their website at  www.wombatbend.com.au .

So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, writing retreats in Victoria offer the perfect environment to focus on your craft. With beautiful surroundings, accommodation, and an abundance of inspiration, they provide a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. So pack your bags, grab your notebook or laptop, and get ready to let your creativity soar! 

Want to become a Ponderings Patreon?

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When Ronni Kahn walks into a room, you know it. It isn’t just because she is dressed in powerful layered shades of honey, laguna and mustard, her signature colour is yellow. She has a presence. We ponder with Ronni about Oz Harvest and her book…

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I held some close conversations with my women folk. I am an editor of a magazine, I have a voice, I have a platform, so F*ck the small talk. Let’s do this. Why? We lived it and these are the voices of survivors.

Jenny thank you so very much for your kind words.

For aspiring writers seeking a rejuvenating escape and dedicated time to focus on their craft, your post provides valuable insights and options.

Thank you Carol, Victoria really is a gem for places to stay and create! Would love for you to check out our new Online Book Club!

The testimonials from previous participants add a genuine touch, showcasing the transformative impact of these retreats.

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Creative Writing Retreat Australia

How about a writing holiday under palm trees?

Join me in the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics of Australia, Far North Queensland on an exclusive small group writing retreat.

 Writers of all levels are welcome.

Retreats are on hold in 2023

We are changing things up in the new year and sadly we can no longer offer retreats in Mission Beach.

But we hope to offer a new retreat in the near future.

Find out when we resume retreats in Far North Queensland,

Sign up to my monthly newsletter

I send out writing prompts, nice photos and inspiration about the writing life (& life in general).

No spam ever.

What would happen if you gave yourself the gift of a creative writing retreat?

What would happen if you took a pause from everything that keeps you busy to nourish yourself with creative, expressive writing exercises, mindfulness, daily yoga, healthy home-cooked food and long beach walks?

Imagine falling asleep to the sound of the ocean and starting your day with a sunrise walk along an empty, palm-fringed beach that extends as far as the eye can see.

Imagine sipping your preferred morning beverage sitting under palm trees, scribbling first thoughts into your journal.

Imagine your senses are alive to the sounds and smells of the rainforest and the ocean. You are deeply relaxed and connected. Your pen glides effortlessly over the page. Your mind is awake and alive. Imagine the joy of deep creative connection.

Sharpen your powers of observation   Experience the unique environment of the World Heritage listed Wet Tropics in Far North Queensland and fill your voice with a sense of wonder. Connect deeply, emerge restored and creatively re-charged.

Give yourself the gift of a creative writing retreat

This Australia writing retreat is suitable for anybody who believes in the soul-nourishing power of writing.

Whether you have an established writing practice or have always wanted to write but never had the time, this retreat is for you.

There will be plenty of free writing time , guided writing exercises, workshops and feedback, including one-on-one feedback. The retreat is designed to nourish mind, body and soul. Feedback will be constructive and gentle and you have the option to share as much or as little of your writing as you wish.

We begin our days with gentle yoga, beach walks and a short meditation and end with opportunities for after-dinner chats and readings.

We combine the quiet, contemplative practice of Yin Yoga with gentle Hatha yoga to connect deeply. Yin Yoga is as much a physical practice of releasing tension, softening and lubricating tight muscles and joints, as it is a contemplative practice in stillness and mindful awareness.

We use mindfulness practices of the Vietnamese Buddhist Zen monk Thích Nhất Hạnh to learn how to feel at home in the present moment using the breath as an anchor. Whether you are an experienced meditation practitioner or new to meditation, the practices used in this retreat are simple yet very powerful to calm the mental chatter and to feel grounded.

All activities are optional and there will be no judgement if you prefer not to join the yoga sessions and meditations, or if you skip a few. This is your retreat and whatever we do is there to serve your wellbeing and your creative process.

Your home away from home in magical Mission Beach

where World Heritage-listed Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef

ACCOMMODATION

You will be staying in my private absolute beachfront home which I have operated as a popular holiday rental for many years. It is located right on the beach and a 2-minute walk from the Village Green, where you will find local restaurants, a juice bar, a live music venue and a few funky shops, including an art gallery.

The house features a spacious living room and kitchen, four tastefully decorated bedrooms, a library, a large wrap-around veranda with floor to ceiling bistro blinds so that it can be enjoyed in any weather. There are plenty of individual break-out spaces, including a lush pool area and a day bed where you can let your writing flow and retreat into your own inner creative cave.

We are located 2 hours south of Cairns in an unspoiled beachfront town where two World Heritage sites meet, the oldest rainforest in the world and the Great Barrier Reef.

There’s a walking track right outside the house that will take you through remnant littoral rainforest along the foreshore. The ocean is right outside and the stinger net is 100 metres away.

The area boasts plenty of walking tracks and natural swimming holes and we offer guided excursions to stimulate your senses and to nourish ourselves in nature’s embrace.

To take the stress out of your holiday, this retreat is all-inclusive (alcoholic beverages can be bought at cost price).

We provide nourishing home-cooked meals made from locally sourced ingredients. We offer a wide range of vegetarian options.

ABOUT MISSION BEACH

Mission Beach is a small laid-back beach-side community and one of very few places in the world where two World Heritage sites come together: ancient rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

It is home to the highest number of the endangered Southern Cassowary living in the wild in Australia. This majestic flightless bird is only found in two places in the world, in Australia’s Wet Tropics and in Papua New Guinea.

Conveniently located between the airports of Townsville to the south and Cairns to the north, Mission Beach consists of four separate neighborhoods spread along a 14km stretch of unspoiled palm-fringed beach. It’s what Port Douglas looked like before development.

Iconic Dunk Island, just opposite, was home to a thriving artists colony in the 1970s established by Bruce Arthur, an Olympic wrestler turned tapestry maker. In 1969 it was the setting of the film Age of Consent by British director Michael Powell, starring a teenage Helen Mirren opposite James Mason who plays a successful artist who moves from New York to a tropical island seeking inspiration.

But its reputation as a place where artists come to retreat from the world to loose themselves in creative pursuit goes back to the 1908 bestseller Confessions Of A Beachcomber by E.J. Banfield, a Townsville journalist seeking refuge on a deserted tropical island after suffering burnout.

• 4 x nights accommodation in a beachfront property with private pool
• All breakfasts & lunches, welcome dinner, farewell dinner, tea, coffee, juice and fresh coconuts
• Guided excursions in the World Heritage-listed rainforest
• Daily morning yoga & meditation
• 5x writing workshops + daily writing and feedback sessions
• 1-hour private mentoring session (includes feedback on your draft up to 1000 words)
• Return transfer to/from Cairns airport in shared private car
• Pre-retreat Zoom meeting

Early BIRD PRICE* available now!

Private Room with en-suite (only available at some retreats) $2595 $2295

Private Room (shared bathroom)  $2295 $1895

Twin-share Room with en-suite (only available at some retreats)  $2095 $1695

Twin-share Room (shared bathroom) $1695 $1495

Bring a friend and share a room. 

SPECIAL EARLY BIRD rate: $2750 for two in twinshare (shared bathroom)

A non-refundable deposit of $ 450 will reserve your spot.

*All prices in Australian dollars

*Early Bird expires two months prior to retreat start

• 1x 60 minutes via Zoom or in-person: $175
• or buy a package of THREE individual mentoring sessions for $455

Includes reading up to 1500 words of your work per session

The priceless things you will take away with you from this writing retreat:

• a stack of new writing
• insight into your creative potential
• a new sense of wonder and deep connection with yourself
• mindfulness practices to keep you centred and focused
• re-newed focus on where you are headed as a writer and on life’s journey
• self-care practices and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of writing
• knowledge of easy yoga asanas you’ll be able to do at home to prevent writer’s back pain, hunched shoulders, tightness in hips and legs

Hi, I am Kerstin, your retreat leader.

I am a former academic with nearly 20 years university teaching experience, a RYT 200 qualified yoga teacher and a published author.

My publications include an academic monograph, book chapters for Oxford University Press, peer-reviewed academic articles as well as travel features including for The New York Times , The Australian , The Sydney Morning Herald, and for travel industry magazines in the Maldives. I am currently completing my memoir Never waste a good crisis .

A series of difficult life challenges made me discover the healing power of writing. I believe we are the authors of our own life. It is never too late to write a new chapter.

I created WriteYourJourney in 2017, whilst living in Vietnam, to share the tools that helped me heal, grow and transform.

Since then I have helped over 2000 women experience the joy of creative self expression and the healing power of writing in retreats and online courses.

To learn more, watch my TEDx talk about The Healing Power of Writing .

Here’s what we’re not going to do:

• therapy; We’ll use writing as a form of self-care, to get to the deep stories, but we are not therapists, we just facilitate the journey to access your true voice
• network to get published or pitch industry experts
• lecture you on plot or structure; Of course I’ll share with you everything I know about the nuts and bolts of storytelling, crafting good sentences and characters, but I’ve retired from my position as University teacher. I am here to guide you towards the stories you need to write and to discover your voice
• athletic yoga; we’re not about Ashtanga or Power Yoga, but will make you feel fabulous with Gentle Hatha Flow and Restorative Yin Yoga
• critique your writing; of course we will share our writing in daily reading circles and I’ll be available for one-on-one feedback, but this retreat is about letting your writing flow without judgement or anxiety
• preach Eastern philosophy; we are about using mindfulness and sound bowl balancing sans all the esoteric fluff

Praise for our Writing Retreats

As the week progressed, we all went deeper and deeper into our creative expression. I particularly liked that there were a variety of approaches to opening up our writing: visual, verbal, drawing.

The yoga, meditation, sound baths and excursions were all wonderful. Kerstin attended to every aspect of being in a foreign country. The individual consultations were extremely helpful, motivating and inspiring and as a result, I am leaving with a project that I knew I needed to do but was avoiding.”

“If you are thinking of a writing retreat, I wholeheartedly recommend Kerstin’s retreats, for seeing with fresh eyes. You will love the self-care, stimulation, reflection and perspective it provides. The writing experience on the retreat prompted us to hone in on our unique voice. Writing sessions focused on a theme such as beginner’s mind, writing for the senses, storytelling, memoir and crafting a personal creative manifesto.

Kerstin was adept at crafting a gentle writing curriculum experience that opened us up to our voice and skill. It was so valuable for me to work with themes, prompts and exercises to dust off and access my voice.

An individual hour-long sound bowl meditation with Nigel was included and involved the placing of sound bowls around us and on our body. It was the deepest of relaxation experiences. That night I slept like I hadn’t slept for a long time.

Kerstin arranged a well-balanced itinerary and journey through the week. The yoga and writing complemented each other perfectly as we attended to both practices.”

Terri, life coach, Sydney. Read her full write-up on her blog Quiet Writing .

The individual sound bowl session that I had with Nigel was my first time doing sound bowl meditation. I will definitely be trying it again, it was so relaxing and calming, literally the best thing ever!

The overall organization was fantastic. I enjoyed everything about An Villa! The staff were fantastic it was so good of them to provide us with all that we needed and go out of their way to ensure that we were comfortable.”

Tropical Writers Retreat Australia

Mission Beach 2022

Price per person from: $1425* A $ 450 deposit will reserve your spot.

We always try to fill your spot or move your deposit to another retreat in case you need to cancel. 😎 *Early Bird Price available until eight weeks prior to retreat start

Have more questions? Please get in touch:

Email Address

What kind of writing will we do?

We will do timed free writing exercises to carefully selected writing prompts. The power of freewriting is that it allows you to bypass the harsh inner critic. You write straight from your core, without stopping to think or edit or worrying about grammar and spelling.

At the end of each session there will be a sharing circle. Sharing your writing is totally optional, as the aim of writing practice is to allow you to write freely, connecting with your unedited inner voice.

The writing sessions are aimed at any level of writer, whether you are working on a project, or simply writing for yourself as a way to make sense of your personal self-narrative and to experience the healing benefits of writing.

What makes writing so effective as a wellbeing practice is the fact that we use narrative to create meaning for ourselves. Our identities are made up of the stories we tell about who we are, what has been and where we are headed.

Writing is a way of letting go of everything that no longer serves us. We release untold stories. We name painful emotions. And then we turn the page of our journal and write on.

When we write our thoughts and feelings down, honestly and raw, we gain insight into our motivations and actions. We learn to say “Ah, I can see now why …”. That’s when we will be able to write new, healthier, self narratives.

What if I don't write in English?

How much meditation will we do.

All activities are optional and there will be no judgement if you’d rather not join us for yoga or meditation.

What kind of yoga will we do?

In case you are new to Yin yoga here’s some info:

Yin Yoga uses long-held floor poses that allow us to go deeper in the body to access the fascia and the tissue around the muscles, the joints and the energy pathways that run through the body,

Yin Yoga is a great complement to more energetic styles of yoga and other forms of physical exercise, like running or cycling, that work the muscles.

By working on the meridians of the body, activating ch’i flow, Yin Yoga helps to nourish our internal organs and the denser tissues of the body with vital fluids.

The practice can also give you greater range of motion, improved joint mobility and flexibility.

The most important benefit of Yin Yoga, no doubt, is that it helps to release deeply held tension not just on a physical level but also on an emotional and mental level.

Sample schedule

7:00–8:00 Gentle morning yoga & meditation

8:30–9:00 Breakfast

10:00–12:00 Writing workshop

12:00–13:00 Lunch

13:00–15:00 Rest & time for your 1-1 mentoring session

15:00–17:00 Afternoon Writing Workshop or excursion

18: 30 – 20:00 Dinner

Terms & Conditions

• Full payment for all bookings required two weeks prior to retreat start. Any bookings made thereafter, must be paid in full.

How do I reach Mission Beach?

You may also choose to rent a car, especially if arriving with a friend, as this will give you more flexibility.

Mission Link offers daily airport transfers to Cairns.

If arriving in Townsville, it is recommended to arrive by hire car (it’s about 3 hours).

Ebooks, Publishing, and Everything in Between

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Top 2023 Writing Retreats from All Over the World

• on Nov 28, 2022
• in Writing Tips
• Last update: January 4th, 2024

Note: Make sure to check out our list of 2024 writing retreats .

Every writer’s dream is to be able to enjoy some quiet time so they can focus and get creative. But with the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is pretty hard to do. That is what makes writing retreats a great opportunity for writers to get their much-needed focus time.

If you’d like to join a writing retreat but don’t know where to start, we have got you covered! Check the retreats happening these years and prepare yourself for some quality writing time.

ACPA: 2023 Writer’s Retreat

The Clockhouse Retreats

Winter Poetry & Prose Getaway

Winter On the Farm Creative Writing Retreat ​at ZigBone Farm

Puerto Escondido, Mexico Retreat

Winter Writers Retreat

Casa Ana Creative Writing Retreat

Island Time Writing Retreat

Write Here, Write Now

Foxes’ Writing Retreat

Centauri Arts Creative Writing Retreat

Art of Writing Retreat

Stay at Home Writing Retreat

The Rainforest Writers Village Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored February Retreat

Stylish Writing Intensive

Gunnas Weekend Writing Retreat

Foxes’ Retreat Festival of Writing

Ossabaw Island Writers’ Retreat

Susan Hagens: Women’s Writing Retreat

Spring Novel Retreat

Writing on the Big Sur Coast with Laura

Himalayan Writers Retreat

Haven Writing Retreats

Mission of the Algonkian Writer Retreat and Novel Workshop

Ego Break Retreat

Foxes’ Quilting Retreat

Ireland Writing Retreat

Western Caribbean Writing Retreat Cruise

Rocaberti Writers Retreat

Mission of the Writer Retreat in California

Weaving Words and Women

Writers in the Wild Blue Ridge Retreat

Write Your Way In: A Week in Spain

Imagine Retreat

Retreat. Create. Revitalize.

The Taos Deep Dive & Revision Writer’s Retreat

Iceland Writers Retreat

Indian Summer House: Writer’s Retreat

Shine: Creative Writing + Pilates Retreat

Paros Greek Island Retreat

Deep of writing

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored May Retreat

Writing Retreat for Academics, PhD students and other professionals

Foxes’ Reiki The Awakening Retreat

Writeaway in New Mexico

A Retreat For The Senses

A Writer Within Retreat in Tuscany

The Garsdale Retreat: Developing Your Poetry

Write, Travel, Transform: Tuscany

The Writing Retreat

Valeria Vescina Writing Retreat

Memories into Memoir Writing Retreat

Paris Writers Retreat

Literature & Landscape of the Horse Retreat

Rainforest Writing Retreat

Composed Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored June Retreat

Greece Writer’s Retreat

Greece Writers Retreat

Greece’s Writer’s Retreat

AWCS Writers’ Retreat

Mountain Rise Writing Retreat

All-Genre NIP Bookcamp Workshop & Writing Retreat

Come to Your Senses Writing Retreat with Author Karen Karbo

Tuscany Writing Retreat

Open You Art Retreat

Writeaway in France

Casa Ana Novel Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Novel Writing

Journey into Sacred Expression Retreat

Summer on the Farm Novel Writing Retreat at ZigBone Farm

Writers’ Retreats with Tours of Ireland

Write. Run. Connect.

The White Mountain Book Writing Retreat

Write Away Plovdiv Retreat

Creative Writing Retreats in the Pyrenees

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

Foxes’ Wellbeing Retreat

Writing & Hiking Retreat in the Swiss Alps

GoodLit Writers Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored August Retreat

Writing Retreat in Tuscany, Italy

Fiction & Autobiographical Writing Retreat

A Creative Pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago

Mythic Creativity Retreat

Write Away: France Writing Retreat

The Okoboji Writers’ Retreat

Grand Tourist Writer’s Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored October Retreat

Himalayan International Writers Retreat

Autumn Novel Retreat

Writeaway in Italy

Fall Retreat in the Beautiful Berkshires

Radical Craft Retreats

True Life Stories

Annual November 4-Day Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored November Retreat

Unplug and Write All-Inclusive Writing Retreat

The Garsdale Retreat: Untutored December Retreat

La Bodeguita Writing Retreat

La Casa Grande Writing Retreat

Words and Wanderlust Retreat

Whatever your writing expertise is, you could definitely use a writing retreat to finish your manuscript, meet fellow writers, or just relax and get some writing done!

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The Comprehensive List of 2024 Writing Contests

Thank you guys, you’ve spent a lot of time gathering all these retreats and organizing them in one place. Good job!

Thank you Nour for your kind words 🙂

I really appreciate the information you provided. Now I can properly prepare for my next writing retreat. Congrats on a wonderful job. All the best!

Thank you for your kind words! We’re glad to hear that our article was helpful to you. Wishing you all the best with your writing journey!

Grateful for your research. Thanks.

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A writing room: the new marketplace of writer classes, retreats, and collectives.

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A Writing Room is one of the fast-growing writer collectives. The four co-founders (left to right): ... [+] Reese Zecchin, Director of Production; Jacob Nordby, Director of Writer Development; A. Ashe, Creative Director; Claire Giovino, Community Director.

The past decade has brought an explosion in the number of books published each year in the United States (an estimated three to four million annually). In turn, this explosion is bringing a growing and evolving marketplace of writer classes, retreats and collectives. It is a marketplace creating new jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities—both for mainstream tech, marketing and managerial workers, as well as for writer/artist denizens of America’s bohemia.

The Drivers of Growth in Book Publishing

The number of book sales in the United States remains healthy, though it has leveled off in the past four years. In 2020, 756.82 million book unit sales were made in the US alone. This number climbed to 837.66 million in 2021, before falling slightly to 787.65 million units in 2022 and 767.36 million units in 2023.

What has changed dramatically has been the number of books published. Steve Piersanti of Berrett-Koehler Publishers estimates that three million books were published in the US, up 10 times from the number only 16 years ago . Other estimates put the number of published books annually at closer to four million .

The main driver of this growth in books published has been self-publishing. According to Bowker , which provides tools for self-publishing, an estimated 2.3 million books were self-published in 2021. Up through the 1990s (now the distant past in publishing), writers of all types of books, fiction and nonfiction, were dependent on convincing publishing houses to publish their work. As the technology for self-publishing and print on demand grew in the early 2000s, writers could publish on their own, and a very large number of Americans began to do so.

Fueling growth also is the level of affluence and discretionary income that an increasing segment of American society is reaching. For centuries, theorists across the political spectrum have envisioned a society, freed from basic economic needs, pursuing creative activities, with writing as a primary activity. In The German Ideology , Karl Marx could write about the economy of abundance in which individuals pursue writing as one of a series of daily activities—hunt in the morning, fish in the afternoon, write criticism in the evening. John Maynard Keynes in a 1930 essay, “ Economic Possibilities for Our Grandchildren” , envisions a time a hundred years forward (2030) in which writing is no longer the province of the upper classes. Contemporary theorists on the future of work, such as John Tamny, similarly see a blooming of creative and artistic activities by the average citizen.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, a writing room, and the emerging marketplace of writer training.

A marketplace of writing coaches, classes and retreats expanded throughout the late twentieth century and first years of the twentieth century. Published authors and even recently-minted graduates of MFA programs hung out shingles for individual coaching and small classes. Colleges expanded their writing programs and certifications, and writer retreats multiplied. Co-working and literary event spaces were established in major cities ( The Writers Room in New York, The Writers Grotto in San Francisco). But the marketplace continued to bump up against geographic and logistical limitations.

Then, along the came the internet, and its evolution.

Today, hundreds of businesses throughout the country offer assistance to aspiring writers. Many continue to offer some in-person assistance through coaching, classes or retreats. But as in other fields, the internet has allowed for a nationwide (worldwide) reach that these businesses are taking advantage of to scale. The major pre-internet writer assistance companies, such as The Writers Studio , added online courses and instruction, and the early internet-based companies from the 1990s, such as Writers.com (a pioneer in the internet field), steadily expanded their offerings. New enterprises are springing up on a regular basis, including the writer collectives.

A Writing Room is one of the fastest growing of the writer collectives, and its suite of services illustrate the how the field is evolving.

A Writing Room has its roots in the writing classes that novelist Anne Lamott had been teaching for some years, and her interest by the early 2020s in creating a larger on-going community of writers. Lamott connected with a team of four entrepreneurs who had experience with previous start-ups and expertise in online tools. In early 2023 they set out to develop A Writing Room.

Novelist Anne Lamott, one of the partners in A Writing Room.

A Writing Room launched in June 2023, and followed a few months later with an inaugural writers retreat in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Though hastily arranged, the retreat attracted more than 400 in person attendees and over 1600 attendees online. In the first half of 2024, the company set up a membership structure of monthly and annual memberships. Within months, over 550 writers had joined.

The products that members can access are aimed in part at teaching the craft of writing. In a recent author discussion (with close to 400 participants joining online) Lamott discussed the craft of writing with novelist Donna Levin . Both started publishing in the 1980s. They noted how much publishing and the role of the writer have changed, but emphasized the fundamentals that have remained over their forty years, related to craft and the responsibility of the writer: the daily commitment, the careful development of plot and characters, the numerous rewrites (as many as you think you need, and one more).

A Writing Room offers a series of on-demand courses, online discussions with authors and publishing professionals, and daily writing prompts, built around writing as craft. It further offers instruction on the paths to and options for publication, building a following of readers.

At its center, A Writing Room is about being part of a community of writers, giving and receiving regular feedback from other members, as well as feedback from writing mentors and coaches. In an interview earlier this year, Lamott explained:

The great myth about writing is that it's an entirely solitary activity. This really isn't true. Every book I've ever written has been with a lot of help from my community. I wouldn't be the writer I am today — and wouldn't even want to write — without people to share the process and finished work. Writing is a process, but it doesn't have to (and really shouldn't be) done in total isolation.

The writing process can feel overwhelming. It often does for me. Believe me, a trusted writing friend is a secret to life.

Other emerging writing collectives also emphasize community and cooperation. Levin underscored this point in the recent online discussion: “Writing can be such an isolated activity, and to some extent needs to be. You want to seek out a community that can give you the support you need and also the honest feedback.”

How the New Marketplace Is Evolving And Jobs Created

The founders of A Writing Room know that the marketplace for writer assistance is fast changing, and they need to be quick to adapt to increased competition. Already, several developments are driving change in the field:

· The entrance of major online education companies (i.e. Masters Class , Coursera, Udemy ).

· Faculty recruitment of writers with built-in audiences of sizable twitter and other social media followings.

· Partnerships with the major publishers and agencies, who hold out the promise of publication to participants of the classes, retreats and collectives.

· Specializations by race and ethnicity, gender, geography and genre.

· Market segmentation, and attention to higher income consumers.

A number of these developments reflect the changes in the broader publishing world and are likely to continue. Overall, the marketplace itself will be expanding, as publishing technology advances, along with discretionary income.

The jobs being generated by this new marketplace are a mix of tech, administrative, and writing coach positions. At A Writing Room, recent hires include a community liaison, video editor, customer support, and a “beta reader” providing feedback to writers on their drafts. The hiring process is sweeping up into jobs not only workers who have been in the regular economy, but also residents of America’s bohemia: writers and artists who previously were outside of (and often scornful of) the market system. What can be better than that.

In his 2023 book, The Novel, Who Needs It , Joseph Epstein, former editor of American Scholar , offers a paean to fiction as above all other intellectual endeavors that seek to understand human behavior. But what he says of fiction is true of other writing (memoir, history, even forms of self-help) that arouses the mind.

Yes, there are way too many books published each year, and yes only a very small percentage of writers will earn any significant income from their writing. But who knows what individual book will succeed commercially or critically, or add to our shared knowledge or wisdom. And really, why not encourage the craft of writing. How much does America benefit from most of the paper-pushing, meetings and e-mails that now pass for work in our economy of affluence.

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