Writing retreats

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"The missing piece was trust in myself. I arrived in Iceland, feeling drained by work and full of doubt about whether I had it in me to share the story of my heart with the world. Now, I am leaving with a new rod of confidence in my power to be a storyteller. "

—Lin L.
“Take the leap! It’s such an incredible experience being surrounded by like-minded writers who will support you and cheer you on.”

—Julia R.
"I am leaving with a sense of peace and freedom. I feel creatively recharged and inspired. Iceland has been such a joyful departure from the home of regular life. The community and adventure has been a lovely open door."

—Christi
"The trip ignited my creativity and got this draft moving!"

—Kelly K.

A Blooming

I had been writing all my life, but I’d been doing it alone the whole way through. I barely even had the conviction to call myself a writer.

For the longest time I knew I wanted an agent and a book deal, but I didn’t really know what that meant or how to get there.

I’d never had anyone critique my writing, let alone simply read my words outside of workshops where it was expected through some sadistic academic requirement (I really disliked sharing my words).

But then, in 2022, just as I was in the first years of my career in publishing, I went on my first in-person writing retreat, and everything changed. It was the most magical experience to be surrounded by other writers who shared my passion, my dreams.

As someone who struggles with extreme anxiety (particularly in social settings), I would walk into a room filled with women and feel so very safe, which is something I had never experienced before. I even met one of my critique partners there, who, while we ate lunch one day, sold her very first book!

Listening to the veritable magic generated through a group critique of my first chapter (the first I had ever shared of my own volition), I had no idea the fire this would set within my bones, how deeply this retreat would change the trajectory of my personal and bookish life.

Return to the Wild was born of this kindling… but I digress, we aren’t at that part of the story yet. I had no idea that this first writing retreat would be my personal inciting incident…

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What our storytellers

are saying

“The Return to the Wild Retreat was so magical. So much care and love went into planning the event, and I felt safe and loved at every step of the journey.” - Katherine H.

“There are no egos here. Marina has set up a creative haven with these retreats—a place where your voice matters, your presence is a delight, and the only real focus is storytelling in whatever form that might be.” - Maggie R.

“The energy of this group had a huge impact on my sense of belonging to the writers' community. I'm glad I got to meet so many talented, smart and kind woman willing to share their experiences. I'll be forever grateful for all the knowledge I gathered thanks to them!.” - Noella

What to Expect

at our retreats

Every morning we’ll venture on a wild walk (rain or shine—unless it’s torrential, of course) through the countryside or into the forest. We pause and we’ll notice, we’ll be sure to pack our imaginations too! Oh, and we’ll be hugging all the trees.
There is nothing like a room full of kind women who also happen to be writers. There’s some type of very special magic in it.
Whether it’s first chapter critiques or spontaneous writing in one of our daily workshops, there will be ample opportunity for feedback on your writing from fellow writers and our author faculty alike. Coming to one of our Query Letter Sessions retreats? There’s ample time for pitch and query critique throughout the week.
For a writer, no adventure, whether it is a trip to the grocery store or to the mountains, is wasted! We’ll venture on foot or by coach to spread our winds and soak up the world. From hikes and wild swims, to archery lessons and brewery tours, your stories will be teeming with sensory experiences!
There’s nothing to disturb you here. No expectations, no children demanding your energy, no dinner to plan, no pressure to be published. At Return to the Wild you are simply a friend and a wild, blooming writer. Whether that means resting or reconnecting with the craft you thought had left you behind—there’s no blueprint, just you, just joy and reconnection.

“There is an endless energy and power in women supporting each other. Despite our different genres, countries and languages, we have so many shared stories of hope, belonging, and resilience.”

— Christi

Our Retreats

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British Columbia Writing Retreat

Set against the lush backdrop of the PNW, where old growth trees and storytelling prevail, this Return to the Wild Writing Retreat is designed to give writers a safe space to elevate their craft alongside faculty and fellow writers, while reconnecting to story and the nature around them. This retreat features group craft & critique sessions.

US$500.00

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Iceland Writing Retreat

A 1:1 Retreat Experience. With an emphasis on writing time and scheduled one-on-one sessions with faculty, this retreat is a truly immersive experience. Write in an Icelandic turf house and relax in a geothermal basalt tub as wild Icelandic horses meander by. We’ll also embark on some truly magnificent adventures, collecting Icelandic folklore as we go.

US$750.00

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The Return to the Wild

Experience

These retreats are open to all women who write. Whether you’ve never been able to finish writing a book or you have a veritable arsenal of published books behind you. Return to the Wild is for lovers of story and makers of magic.

There’s inspiration at every turn in gentle adventure, wild writing, and plenty of time spent dreaming outdoors.

We keep our groups small (between 10-25 writers) to ensure an easeful and individual experience.

At the end of every trip together, you’ll have new friends, be armed with craft and industry knowledge, and feel rooted in your writing practice.

We can’t wait to welcome you.

Craft

Our craft-based writing retreats are all about elevating your skill, your story, and your connection to writing by diving deep into process and the natural world around us. We’ll collect local myths, hug trees, and engage in gentle but truthful critiques of your work. With daily workshops hosted by your author faculty, you’ll leave positively dripping in knowledge, nature, and friendship.
Career

Our Behind the Book publishing industry retreats are truly one-of-a-kind. These week-long summits are designed to combat the 10-minute writer pitch sessions at high-octane, single-day conferences. Here you aren’t just pressing all the buttons and hoping for success, at The Query Letter Sessions, you’re taking the time you need to be sure your query package is the strongest it can be. From working out your hook, to developing a pitch that leaves a lasting impression, you’ll also be invited on wild walks, industry talks with agent & publishing faculty, and perhaps indulge in a little adventure too.

“Fresh air. Wide open fields. My favourite support group of smart, strong woman is a wonderful magical elixir that has helped my heart.”

— Christi

“Even if your energy has limit, immersing yourself in nature is like tapping into a renewable resource for nurturing your creative spirit.”

— Lin

FAQs

Absolutely! Writing is more than words on a page—it’s a mindset! You’re welcome to join Return to the Wild at any stage of your career.
We always love hosting publishing authors! No matter the stage of your career, all writers are welcome to join our retreats!
If you’re a traditionally published author who’d like to join us as faculty, please send us a note—we’d love to work with you!
Solo travel is the best! Most of our guests arrive solo, but leave with all kinds of new connections! Solo travel is so empowering and our job at Return to the Wild is to facilitate connection and ensure you never feel alone (unless you want to be alone, in which case, we can get behind that choice too!).
All over the world! From Australia to Canada and The United States, to Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Our community of wild writers is growing every year!
Yes. We highly recommend you do your best to attend the entire retreat. Arriving late or leaving early will mean you won’t get the full experience. This might mean you fly to Glasgow a day early to ensure your timely arrival. Arriving early can also help you get through those worst hours of jet lag if you’re coming from a different part of the world.
Any travel you do before or after the retreat will be on your own budget and is not included or affiliated with the Return to the Wild Writing Retreat.
We will provide a detailed packing list before each experience. We adventure to many climates, so each retreat is different. We always recommend your favourite writing tools, comfy walking shoes, and an open mind.
You must be at least 19 years old to participate.
Yes! Shortly after you sign up for each of our retreats, you’ll receive an enrollment form where you’ll be able to disclose any dietary requirements and preferences. Many of our retreats are focused on being vegan and vegetarian, but we cater to all diets.
Yes! Although, if you’re an extra hungry hobbit like Marina, consider bring your own non-perishable stash just in case you get peckish!
After your deposits, most retreats are split into two subsequent payments. You are welcome to pay in full at any time though! It is also important to note that all of our deposits are ineligible for refunds.
To read more about Return to the Wild’s cancellation policy, please click here.