The retreat
Why should I join a creative writing retreat?
The Write Place is born out of the belief that writing, and the process of creating, doesn’t have to be an isolating experience. If art is ultimately the biggest connector, why shouldn’t we create art in connection?
By joining a creative writing retreat, we can motivate and inspire each other to create, and have fun while doing it!
Do I need to be a published writer to come to the retreat?
Not at all!
No matter where you are in your writing journey – whether you’re in the midst of crafting a novel, have recently completed your first short story, haven’t written in years, or have yet to begin – you are welcomed.
The only thing we ask from you is a desire to explore your creativity and an open mind to what might happen.
I write poetry. Is it okay if I join?
Yes. Absolutely.
Will you teach workshops during the retreat?
No. Our goal is to create a space for writers to focus on writing.
We will host peer feedback circles and will have some exercises available to get you out of writer’s block if needed.
Peer feedback
I’ve never shared my work with anyone, should I be scared of the feedback sessions?
First of all, this is so relatable! Sharing your work can be scary. That’s why it’s important for us to create a safe place for writers to give and receive feedback.
There will be a facilitator present for each feedback session to ensure that we divide the time equally and to remind people that each writer has their own unique vision, and the most important thing is to respect and encourage each other. We’re all trying to bring something unique to this world!
It’s also up to you to make the most of the feedback sessions. Someone pointing out areas where a story may not be working, such as getting lost in a section, can be invaluable for a writer to improve their work. But you can ask for more or less specific feedback, if you wish to do so.
Practicalities
What languages are spoken at your retreat?
The common language at our retreats is English, so it is important that you are conversational in English, to interact with other guests and give peer feedback on other guests’ pieces. Most retreat guests will write in English.
You may choose to write in a different language. However, if you choose to do so, you won’t be able to receive peer feedback on your pieces.
We highly value peer feedback – it has the potential to really help you along in your writing, so we recommend our guests to write in English.
What is the schedule? How much time will I have for writing?
All organized activities (e.g., walks in nature, Yoga Nidra) are optional. We want this retreat to work for you, and if you want to spend more time writing, please feel free to do that!
However, we do expect you to set aside a portion of your day to read other’s work and give constructive feedback.
How many people do I share a room or bathroom with?
When choosing a private room option, you will have a room all to yourself. At our Limburg retreat, this means you’ll also have your own private bathroom. At our Alvarge retreat we have two options, a private room with a private bathroom and one with a shared bathroom. If you pick the latter option, you share a bathroom with two or three other guests.
When choosing a shared room option, you will share a room and bathroom with one other retreat guest.
Please let us know in the sign-up form if there is anyone you would prefer to share a room with and we’ll take that into account when finalizing room assignments.
How many retreats are you offering? And what do they cost?
We offer about two retreats each year, one in the spring and one in the fall. Keep an eye on our Instagram page and our website for our current offering. You can also find more info on current pricing and other practical details on the “our retreats” page of this site.
What is your cancellation policy?
Once you filled out the google docs form, you will receive an email from us with instructions on how to make the payment. We kindly request that you complete the payment within a week to secure your spot. If you cancel after you pay, we cannot guarantee a refund but we will help you fill the spot.
Do you offer a payment schedule?
Right now, we ask you to pay the full cost of the retreat when you sign up so we can reserve a spot for you.
If for any reason you would like to discuss a different payment plan, please message us and we will make it work!
I’m planning to drive to the retreat, can I park/charge my electric vehicle at the location?
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the location.
At the Limburg location there are two spots to charge electric vehicles. However, the location doesn’t accept outside charging cards; you have to use the charging card available and pay the location. Ask us after we arrive what their current rate is.
Accessibility
I need … can I join the retreat?
It is important to us that our retreats are accessible to anyone who wants to join.
If there is anything you need, please let us know in the sign-up sheet – we’d love to accomodate your needs.
Some examples:
Our Limburg accomodation has one wheelchair accessible room. If you have a service dog, they’re absolutely welcome. If you are sensitive to certain sounds or smells, let us know and we’ll do our best to make sure you won’t encounter those during the retreat. Sadly, neither of us speaks sign language.
If you’re in doubt, send us a message!
I have dietary restrictions, can you accomodate those?
Definitely! It is important to us that our retreats are accessible to anyone who wants to join.
Please tell us about your specific needs in the sign-up sheet.
If you’re in doubt, send us a message!