Self Directed Writing Retreats

Port Renfrew Writers Retreat offers self-directed retreats for emerging or established writers looking for the solitude and space to write, edit, or polish a project that has a focus on the natural world.

  • Space

    Stay in a fully-equipped cottage unit in Port Renfrew, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, one of the region’s most exciting eco-tourism destination.

  • Time

    Focus on nothing but your project—with ocean views, an expansive deck, a cozy fireplace, and plenty of spaces to write inside and out.

  • Support

    Depending on availability and project, editorial support for your work may be offered in terms of discussions, advice, or manuscript consultation by award-winning magazine editor Harley Rustad.

solitude

“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach.”

―Henry David Thoreau, Walden

  • "The Port Renfrew Writers Retreat doesn't offer much—just cozy solitude, some of the best forest hikes in the Pacific Northwest, a bald eagle for a neighbour in the hemlock out front, and the ocean. Strange how I got so much writing done there."

    Arno Kopecky, journalist and author

  • “The Port Renfrew Writers Retreat provided one of my most productive bouts of book writing yet. This cozy, quiet refuge overlooking the inlet of Port San Juan provides an inspiring backdrop for any author, especially those digging into topics concerning the natural world.”

    Gloria Dickie, author and journalist

  • “This retreat is a perfect haven for creators looking for both tranquility and inspiration.”

    Taylor Burke, photographer

  • “My time at the Port Renfrew Writers Retreat was such a treat...some of my most focused and enjoyable writing time.”

    Monica Prelle, journalist

Inquire

Contact the Port Renfrew Writers Retreat for more information about self-directed retreats. Please include a paragraph overview for your project (relating to the natural world) and an approximate date range.