UCLA writing center holds a week long writing retreat at UCLA Lake Arrowhead center. Peaceful and productive week of writing with other serious writers. Usually in Sept or Oct annually. Check out - Hosted by instructor Charlie Jensen
I love the idea of a writing retreat and would love to go on one - or even host one. I must admit that these kinds of things are easier for me to do online these days - whilst doing my MA in Creative Writing, the best thing about it was the zoom calls. There are so many online retreats and workshops out there for those who can’t get away. Beth Kempton offers a superb one.
Great post. Not all writing retreats have to be structured. Found a sheltered alcove on Treasure Beach, Jamaica, last August, which inspired my creative juices while writing solo.
After watching this year’s many residents arrive, adjust, and knuckle down, I am astounded how a chunk of dedicated space and time can fuel the positive energy in such diverse writers and artists. Thanks for including the Relais de Camont in your roundup. I’d be happy to welcome any Substack writer to apply. There will be a “300 word” fellowship offered soon!
I run mini-retreats in the Algarve of Portugal for Creatives. It's more casual than structured and the location is inspiring with its natural beauty. Emphasis on morning conversations about the creative life, the pluses and challenges, and then on rest, renewal and the inspiration that comes from a different culture with its own traditions, foods, language and attitudes. Writing prompts and mindfulness practices are included for inviting the muse. More here: https://aliciamrodriguez.com/mini-retreats/ultimate-restorative-retreat-4-creatives-apr2024
I mentor on writing retreats and confirm all you say Lloyd; indeed as a mentor I get a kick out of the events too. As an attendee though I can highly recommend the Garsdale Retreat in the UK. Hamish and Rebecca's place is on the edge of the Pennines - great for walking! - and Rebecca's a great cook. I've been a number of time to focus on a project, recharge batteries, get inspired etc. Brilliant things - and a good retreat is a real gift to a writer.
I just signed up for my first writing retreat and your post has made me even more excited! I'm looking forward, especially, to being able to devote my full attention to writing for several days.
Having just applied for a residency at a Writers Retreat in Tennessee, USA., I was drawn to your post.
Alas, I was not picked, but still I dream of going there -- and writing. I've noted these retreats and will look within the USA (where I can travel for now). Since I did not win the spot, I'm making my own -- flying from NYC out to Palm Springs where a friend has offered her house. I will see friends, then a desert retreat. I'm calling this my solo writing retreat.
I'm an author, but I don't have the writing skills or writing industry experience to host a WRITING retreat, but I've wanted to hold compassion fatigue retreats for animal welfare workers and veterinarians but I never pursued the idea. Vets have a drastically high rate of suicide and I have an established platform in the animal industry, so I want my retreats to serve that market. I recently moved to an absolutely gorgeous location, just outside of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada on the must see Vancouver Island. There is SO much to see and do here! My planned events include a 2-hour sunset sailing tour, sight seeing in Victoria ending with an IMAXX movie, whale watching (orcas and humpbacks) in the Salish Sea, visiting a bird of prey sanctuary and help feed eagles, hawks, and vultures in rehab, visiting a wildlife rehabilitation centre for bears, and visiting a famous eclectic shopping mall (in Errington, BC) where there are a herd of goats on the roof. I just would LOVE to host this, but the unknown and unfamiliar details like the logistics of transporting 15 to 20 people, any hidden costs or issues I didn't know to prepare for, what type of insurance would I need, finding accommodations with a meeting space, and what to charge my attendees. Where would I learn about these issues?
Funny how I'm TOO AFRAID to launch retreats like this and yet I ONCE CHASED AN ARMED BANK ROBBER through the Santa Cruz Mountains with a S.W.A.T. team close behind me as my bloodhound A.J. tracked the suspect's scent. That was actually FUN...this having a passion but not pursuing it is NOT FUN!
UCLA writing center holds a week long writing retreat at UCLA Lake Arrowhead center. Peaceful and productive week of writing with other serious writers. Usually in Sept or Oct annually. Check out - Hosted by instructor Charlie Jensen
https://www.uclaextension.edu/writing-journalism/creative-writing/course/writing-retreat-lake-arrowhead-writing-7601
I love the idea of a writing retreat and would love to go on one - or even host one. I must admit that these kinds of things are easier for me to do online these days - whilst doing my MA in Creative Writing, the best thing about it was the zoom calls. There are so many online retreats and workshops out there for those who can’t get away. Beth Kempton offers a superb one.
Great post. Not all writing retreats have to be structured. Found a sheltered alcove on Treasure Beach, Jamaica, last August, which inspired my creative juices while writing solo.
So true, Eugenie. Sometimes, nature is more than enough!
I've never been on a writing retreat. This article makes a good case for them
You should go on one!
After watching this year’s many residents arrive, adjust, and knuckle down, I am astounded how a chunk of dedicated space and time can fuel the positive energy in such diverse writers and artists. Thanks for including the Relais de Camont in your roundup. I’d be happy to welcome any Substack writer to apply. There will be a “300 word” fellowship offered soon!
Sounds wonderful, Kate! I (and I'm sure many others) would love to hear more about the experience
Feeling inspired reading your post, Lloyd. Currently ISO where to host my next writing workshop (narrowing down the options). Speaking of writing retreats/residencies, did you see this NYT piece that ran recently? https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/16/books/booksupdate/santa-maddalena-beatrice-monti.html?unlocked_article_code=1.HE0._v6V.9SkOga0bQlZn&smid=url-share
Thanks for sharing this, Domenica! I hadn't seen this, no. Monti is amazing! And good luck with the search!
I’ve been on a writing retreat with Tanya of Ease Retreats and it was an incredible and truly inspiring experience!! 🌟
It was definitely one of the highlights of 2023 for me!
And reading your article has made me want to book on another one!! 😁
I run mini-retreats in the Algarve of Portugal for Creatives. It's more casual than structured and the location is inspiring with its natural beauty. Emphasis on morning conversations about the creative life, the pluses and challenges, and then on rest, renewal and the inspiration that comes from a different culture with its own traditions, foods, language and attitudes. Writing prompts and mindfulness practices are included for inviting the muse. More here: https://aliciamrodriguez.com/mini-retreats/ultimate-restorative-retreat-4-creatives-apr2024
Wow, looks great, Alicia! I will add you to the list! Thanks for commenting
Thank you Lloyd. Are you in Italy?
I mentor on writing retreats and confirm all you say Lloyd; indeed as a mentor I get a kick out of the events too. As an attendee though I can highly recommend the Garsdale Retreat in the UK. Hamish and Rebecca's place is on the edge of the Pennines - great for walking! - and Rebecca's a great cook. I've been a number of time to focus on a project, recharge batteries, get inspired etc. Brilliant things - and a good retreat is a real gift to a writer.
Thanks for sharing, Ian! The Pennines look gorgeous!
That would require me to first set up vacation time. Do you know how long it's been since I've been on a vacation?
Thanks so much for mentioning my retreats!
I just signed up for my first writing retreat and your post has made me even more excited! I'm looking forward, especially, to being able to devote my full attention to writing for several days.
So great to hear, Garen! Hope you have a wonderful time!
Having just applied for a residency at a Writers Retreat in Tennessee, USA., I was drawn to your post.
Alas, I was not picked, but still I dream of going there -- and writing. I've noted these retreats and will look within the USA (where I can travel for now). Since I did not win the spot, I'm making my own -- flying from NYC out to Palm Springs where a friend has offered her house. I will see friends, then a desert retreat. I'm calling this my solo writing retreat.
Sounds wonderful, Mary! Wishing you lots of inspiration!
I'm an author, but I don't have the writing skills or writing industry experience to host a WRITING retreat, but I've wanted to hold compassion fatigue retreats for animal welfare workers and veterinarians but I never pursued the idea. Vets have a drastically high rate of suicide and I have an established platform in the animal industry, so I want my retreats to serve that market. I recently moved to an absolutely gorgeous location, just outside of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada on the must see Vancouver Island. There is SO much to see and do here! My planned events include a 2-hour sunset sailing tour, sight seeing in Victoria ending with an IMAXX movie, whale watching (orcas and humpbacks) in the Salish Sea, visiting a bird of prey sanctuary and help feed eagles, hawks, and vultures in rehab, visiting a wildlife rehabilitation centre for bears, and visiting a famous eclectic shopping mall (in Errington, BC) where there are a herd of goats on the roof. I just would LOVE to host this, but the unknown and unfamiliar details like the logistics of transporting 15 to 20 people, any hidden costs or issues I didn't know to prepare for, what type of insurance would I need, finding accommodations with a meeting space, and what to charge my attendees. Where would I learn about these issues?
Funny how I'm TOO AFRAID to launch retreats like this and yet I ONCE CHASED AN ARMED BANK ROBBER through the Santa Cruz Mountains with a S.W.A.T. team close behind me as my bloodhound A.J. tracked the suspect's scent. That was actually FUN...this having a passion but not pursuing it is NOT FUN!