It’s a new year, and you know what that means: a new crop of fun and exciting writing retreat opportunities! These getaways are designed to help get the creative juices flowing, often in particularly lovely locations. Whether you’re a regular retreat-goer or you’re looking to try one for the first time in 2025, here is a rundown of some of the most helpful writing retreats to look forward to this year.

1. Retreat with Meg
Thursday, February 13–Sunday, February 16, 2025, in Musk, Victoria, Australia

If you’re really looking to get away this year, you may want to consider this exclusive retreat on the edge of Wombat State Forest in Australia. It’s limited to six participants and is led by writer Meg Dunley, who will provide one-on-one coaching, three facilitated writing conversations to workshop ideas, and plenty of advice on how to overcome writer’s block and other snags in the creative process. Retreat cost is $1,245 and includes luxury accommodations and all meals (but not flights).

2. Write by the Lake
Wednesday, February 26–Wednesday, March 5, 2025, or Thursday, March 13–Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Casa Paloma in Guatemala

Want to escape the cold winds of March? Look no further than author Joyce Maynard’s all-inclusive memoir-writing retreat off Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. This weeklong session includes a one-hour private group conference, a group discussion of each writer’s work (which includes a manuscript of up to 2,500 words) or a whiteboard session on story structure for those who don’t have a manuscript yet, and daily craft-talk group sessions to discuss writing methods and tools. Retreat cost starts at $3,995 for a shared double room.

3. Iceland Writers Retreat
Wednesday, April 23–Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Reykjavík, Iceland

If you’ve ever wanted to explore Iceland’s natural beauty and hone your writing skills, here’s your chance. This workshop offers small-group writing sessions for all levels that are led by a group of international writers (all sessions are held in English). It also includes a literary walking tour of Reykjavík, readings, and all meals. The focus here is on books (fiction and nonfiction), but the organizers emphasize that all kinds of writers are welcome. Retreat cost starts at $2,195 (flight not included).

4. Words in the Hills
Friday May 16–Sunday May 18, 2025, in South Bloomingville, Ohio

Moving a bit closer to home, the Words in the Hills retreat takes place in the Hocking Hills and is open to creative writers of all genres. This year’s focus is on place, with a keynote workshop led by writer Bonnie Proudfoot discussing place-oriented poetry, fiction, song, and memoir. The fiction workshop, for example, will challenge writers to begin in the middle of their piece and work backward. Each day includes morning writing practice, guided hikes, yoga, and all meals. Retreat cost is $375.

5. Write Away Europe
Sunday, June 22–Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Lazio, Italy

Another chance to combine your dream travel plans with your writing aspirations, this retreat is held in a gorgeous villa with daily roundtable writing discussions and workshops with experienced facilitators. They emphasize idea generation and the benefits that relaxation can have on your writing. You also have the chance to enjoy unique free-time perks like a wine tasting and gourmet meals. Retreat cost is $4,500 for a private single (flight not included).

6. Community of Writers
Monday, July 7–Monday, July 14, 2025, in Olympic Valley, California

Held at the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, this writing retreat is application only and limited to eighty-six writers. The focus is on fiction (including YA), narrative nonfiction, and memoir (they do not accept literary criticism, self-help, scholarly work, or children’s books). If accepted, you’ll present manuscripts in the morning; attend talks and panels covering craft, editing, and publishing in the afternoon; and enjoy readings and panel discussions in the evening. You’ll also attend special seminars and individual conferences with a member of the writing staff. Retreat cost is $1,685 and includes dinners but not housing. Financial aid is available.

7. Finding Your Voice
Sunday, September 14–Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Mission Point Resort in Mackinac Island, Michigan

For fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writers, this retreat is application only and includes critical feedback on a manuscript of up to three thousand words, craft seminars, a one-on-one conference with writer Lynne Golodner, and discussions on both the art and business of writing. Free-time activities include a guided bike ride around the island, a guided hike, and kayaking. Tuition cost is $1,995.

8. The Berkshires Vibrant Landscape of Writing
Sunday, October 12–Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Boulderwood Farm in Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Led by author Page Lambert, this intimate writing retreat maxes out at seven writers. Mornings consist of a creative focus session followed by private writing time and one-on-one sessions with Lambert. Solo afternoon writing can be broken up by optional guided outdoor hikes, and the evening ends with a daily wrap-up. Retreat cost is $2,595 and includes housing and all meals.

9. Writing Workshop of Chicago
Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois

And finally, if you’re unable to commit to several days away, you may want to consider the Chicago Writing Workshop’s offering that focuses on how to get published. Session topics include how to write a query letter, how to market yourself as an author, and the art of revision. You’ll also be able to pitch literary agents throughout the conference. If you are interested in virtual opportunities, be sure to follow Writing Day Workshops for information on upcoming events.

Andrea Moran lives outside of Nashville with her husband and two kids. She’s a professional copywriter and editor who loves all things books. Find her on LinkedIn.