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
