RETREATS
Join us in person.
Join us in person.
NovelBound Writing Retreats are changing the narrative.
Ever dreamed of attending a writing retreat, but felt daunted by the price tag, competitive atmosphere, or stuffy feel? We get it. Many retreats can feel out of reach (or, let’s be real, just kind of boring).
Picture this:
You, immersed in your writing, surrounded by a supportive network of fellow authors. You’re not just gaining valuable industry knowledge and making significant progress on your book; you’re also cultivating lasting, real-life friendships that will fuel your journey long after the retreat ends. Not to mention the movie nights, late-night laughs, and PJ parties that keep the vibe high all retreat long.
At NovelBound retreats, you’ll:
Connect in person with fellow writers and foster genuine relationships.
Participate in fun extras like book exchanges, pajama parties, movie nights, gift bags, crafts, excursions, and more.
Engage in impactful learning experiences designed to elevate your craft and career, including workshops, critique circles, industry discussions, and network connections.
Dedicate uninterrupted time to your writing, making real progress on your manuscript.
Enjoy comfortable amenities, delicious food, and cozy housing—all included.
Join the NovelBound community and discover a retreat experience where you can truly thrive, both as a writer and as a person.
OUR NEXT RETREAT
Oregon Coast.
Oregon Coast.
Join us November 30th – December 3rd, 2025 for a writing and querying-focused retreat on the coast of Oregon!
Imagine crashing waves, a cozy camp setting, and just a dash of yuletide cheer. Sandwiched between forest and sea – you’re less than a minute from forested hiking trails, and a private bridge will lead you to the beach in under five. It’s all right there, just for us.
Not querying? No problem. There’s still lots to take away, no matter where you’re at in your journey.
Special guest, literary agent Jessica Berg, will be joining us in person for the entire retreat. She’ll lead discussions, host a workshop, and offer 1:1 office hours to help you get your query package and story to the next level.
Learn more about our location, itinerary, and the kinds of lodging we’ll be offering.
Past Retreats
April, 2025 — Savannah, Georgia
Our inaugural retreat was held in the charming and historic city of Savannah, Georgia. We spent our time delving into our manuscripts, attending a critique circle, and holding valuable discussions about writing and publishing.
But it wasn’t all work; highlights included a pajama party and book exchange, a fancy dinner in, and explorations of our beautiful, sunny location. Not only did we leave with progress on our books, but also renewed energy and genuine friendships.
Testimonials from Retreat-goers
"Room for growth to develop those skills..."
“If someone is debating whether a writing retreat would be beneficial to them, the answer is a definite yes. We learned and discussed so many different aspects of writing that no matter where you’re at as a writer, there was room for growth and time to develop those skills.”
Dessie S.
"Such a breath of fresh air..."
“I loved making new friends, I loved talking to people about my book and seeing how excited people were about what I was writing—it was just such a breath of fresh air and such a nice, welcome respite from being a very solitary person in my day-to-day life.”
Landry P.
"A phenomenal, life-giving experience...."
“It was a phenomenal, life-giving experience. It was so impactful getting to connect with so many creative, kind, welcoming folks and have the opportunity to grow as a writer.“
Colleen C.
FAQs
ABOUT RETREATS
What makes a NovelBound Retreat different from other writing retreats?
NovelBound Retreats are designed to be community-focused and accessible. While you’ll gain valuable industry knowledge and dedicated writing time, a core component is fostering real-life friendships and a supportive network, without the often high price tag or overly prestigious atmosphere of some other retreats.
Who are NovelBound Retreats for?
Our retreats are for writers of all levels, from aspiring authors just starting out to those deep into a manuscript. Some NovelBound retreats may have different focuses, but in general, our retreats are for those looking for focused writing time, valuable learning, and a supportive community.
What kind of writing can I work on at a retreat?
You can work on any genre or project you choose! Whether it’s a novel, memoir, short stories, poetry, or a non-fiction work, the dedicated time and supportive environment are designed to help you make progress on your unique project.
What's the typical size of a NovelBound Retreat?
Logistics & Inclusions:
What's included in the retreat price?
Our retreats are all-inclusive! This typically covers comfortable housing, delicious meals and snacks, valuable learning experiences, industry discussions, and a special gift bag. Please check the specific retreat page for exact inclusions, as they may vary slightly.
What's not included in the retreat price?
Airfare/transportation to and from the retreat location is not included. However, depending on the location, we sometimes offer a shuttle service from the airport. Personal expenses, extra snacks or beverages outside of scheduled meals, and any optional excursions not listed as included would also be your responsibility.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?
Absolutely! We strive to accommodate all dietary needs. Please let us know about any restrictions or allergies when you register so we can make the necessary arrangements with our caterers.
What are the accommodations like?
We prioritize comfortable and conducive environments for writing and connection. Accommodations may vary by location (e.g., private rooms, shared rooms with private baths), but will always be clean, comfortable, and designed to enhance your retreat experience. Specific details will be provided on each retreat’s individual page.
What should I bring?
A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration. Generally, you’ll want to bring your writing tools (laptop, notebooks, pens), comfortable clothing, personal toiletries, and any specific materials related to your writing project.
Is there Wi-Fi and cell service?
Yes, we aim to provide reliable Wi-Fi access at our retreat locations. Cell service may vary depending on the specific rural setting, but we’ll provide details for each location. We encourage a balance of connection and focused writing time.
Do I need to have a finished manuscript to attend?
Not at all! Whether you’re brainstorming a new idea, working on a first draft, or polishing a manuscript, our retreats are designed to support you at any stage of your writing journey.
Registration & Payment:
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we understand that retreats are an investment. We typically offer flexible payment plans to make it easier to attend. Details on payment options will be available on the registration page for each retreat. NovelBound members also receive a discount.
What is your cancellation policy?
All initial deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel at least 30 days before the retreat, you’ll receive a 50% refund on any additional installment payments (excluding your deposit). Cancellations made within 30 days of the event are non-refundable in full. We also highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.
Is a deposit required to reserve my spot?
Yes, a non-refundable deposit is typically required to secure your spot due to limited availability. The deposit amount will be clearly stated on the registration page.
Are there any age restrictions for attendees?
Attendees must be at least 18 years old to participate in NovelBound Retreats.
During the Retreat:
Do I have to participate in all activities?
While we encourage participation to get the most out of the community and learning experiences, all activities are optional. This is your retreat, and you are welcome to choose what best supports your writing and well-being.
Can I come alone, or do most people come with friends?
Many of our attendees come solo and leave with new, lasting friendships! The community-focused nature of our retreats makes it easy to connect with others, whether you arrive alone or with a friend.
Will there be opportunities to network with industry professionals?
Depending on the retreat, yes! Our retreats often include industry discussions and opportunities to connect with facilitators or guest speakers who can offer valuable insights and connections.
Will there be quiet time for individual writing?
Yes! Our schedule balances structured learning and communal activities with ample dedicated quiet time for you to focus on your writing projects without distraction.
How much critique and feedback will I receive?
Our retreats often include facilitated critique circles designed to provide constructive and supportive feedback on your work. They are optional, and the amount of feedback will vary based on the group size and schedule, but all participants will have opportunities to share and receive insights.
What if I don't feel comfortable sharing my work in critique circles?
Critique circles are a valuable part of the experience, but sharing is always optional. You’ll still benefit from listening to feedback given to others and learning from the discussions, even if you choose not to share your own work. Our focus is on supportive and constructive feedback.
What kind of follow-up or ongoing support is available after the retreat?
The connections you make at a NovelBound Retreat are often just the beginning! We encourage you to stay connected through NovelBound membership, our Discord, and our social media channels.
Want to be the first to know what’s next with NovelBound retreats?
From location reveals to special guests, never miss a beat by signing up for our email list!