WRITING RETREATS

“ A whole week to write, what more could I ask for and in a wonderful house on a beautiful island with such stimulating and encouraging companions. It was truly a dream come true to be so well looked after and to have the support, instruction and inspiring ideas from a brilliant writer then to have a room of my own in which to work free of all distraction and interruption. If only every week could be like this.”
— Kate Fazakerley
“ Eilean Shona is a perfect writer’s retreat. A private island away from it all, which allows the world to fall away. I found a rhythm of writing at my desk and taking walks in the mossy forest like breathing in and out everyday. Rare it is to have such calm and be fed and cared for while attending to one’s craft. The food was absolutely superb; artisans inspiring artisans. I have been on writing retreats before on my own, completely unguided. Left up to me, I have been known to drift. This retreat was perfect. ”
— Peggy Markel

Eilean Shona is a stunning private island off the West Coast of Scotland with no cars, a small community and in the midst of breathtakingly beautiful wilderness. The perfect place to retreat and re-charge batteries, learn new skills or practise old ones, spend time alone or with new friends.

Our writing retreat, led by experienced teachers, will focus on exploring creativity in this unique island setting - cut off from the world and all its stresses, immersed in nature and surrounded by wildlife.  The groups spend as much time as possible outside and immersed themselves in the tranquility of the beautiful and inspiring landscape. Eilean Shona house provided comfortable accommodation and delicious homemade food, with plenty of quiet spots for writing and reading. There is time to share your own work and the writers you love, and to hear the authors read from their own work and from other writers the admire. Eilean Shona inspired J M Barrie’s writing when he visited in the 1900’s - what better recommendation could there be! The focus of these workshops is to progress your work with in-depth support from your tutor and suit all levels of writers.

What Can You Expect From A Shona Writing Retreat?

  • a mix of group sessions concentrating on learning, sharing and reflecting and 'alone' time for personal work

  • a small group with no more than twelve participants

  • workshop leaders who are passionate about communication

  • guided hikes around the island as well as the opportunity to explore on your own

  • access to stunning landscape, unspoilt nature, wilderness and an abundance of wildlife

  • yoga and meditation sessions, plus wild swimming, boat trips and the opportunity to paddle board or kayak

  • a safe and nurturing environment with supportive leaders and like-minded participants

  • beautiful, comfortable accommodation with a mix of either en-suite rooms or shared bathrooms, a billiard room, piano and library

  • delicious meals prepared by our top chef, using locally sourced ingredients

Our next annual writing workshop and retreat will take place in March 2025, confirmed dates to follow shortly. Please contact us to be on the early bird notice list.

Programme Summary

The days start with an optional loch swim and morning yoga, followed by a delicious breakfast for the group. This is an opportunity to gather, share work and set some writing challenges for the day before settling down to the morning’s work. After a group gathering for lunch, afternoons will offer exploring the island, boat trips, picnics and/or pre-booked sessions with our author, as well as independent writing time. Everyone will gather in the evening for lively discussions over dinner, and some nights will have special themed events. During the workshop, each participant can have two in-depth one-to-one sessions with our author.

Writing Scholarship

If you need to set aside some time to focus on your writing, we are offering one free place at the workshop to a young writer. The scholarship offers one week tuition with our experienced teachers, as well as full board. Standard travel in the UK to and from Eilean Shona is also included. To be eligible, you will need to be under 35 and an aspiring but unpublished writer. Applications open in June 2023, and to apply, please email Lauren to request an application .

Accommodation and Prices

The retreat is held in the beautiful Eilean Shona House, built in the 1800's, and comfortably furnished with four poster beds, large cast iron baths, a long mahogany dining table and an amazing contemporary art collection. There is a mix of double and twin bedrooms, some with en suite and others with shared bathrooms.  Food on Eilean Shona reflects the surrounding environment and the island’s commitment to health and sustainability.  As much as possible is locally grown and organic and particular dietary requirements can be catered for. 

One week guided writing workshop- full board and tuition, Double with ensuite bathroom (£2400), Double with shared bathroom (£2000), Twin with shared bathroom (£1800)

One week self led retreat -full board, Double with ensuite bathroom (£1800), Double with shared bathroom (£1400), Twin with shared bathroom (£1200)

All prices are for single occupancy and a special discount rate for combined workshop and retreat stay

Please register your interest in the retreat by emailing here.