What should I say on my application?

Tell us a bit about who you are, what you care about, and why you want to attend. What we want to know is that you’re keen to show up in/for community. (In other words, we care way more about your heart than your creative output).

What’s the deadline to apply?

Applications are assessed on a rolling basis until the retreat is at capacity.

I’m not a “writer” by trade. Can I attend?

Absolutely. We welcome all folks (ages 22+!), regardless of formal training. What matters is a willingness to engage thoughtfully with the group and be open to the workshop offerings. The workshops are designed so that new and established writers can find something generative and meaningful to add to their practice.

What’s included in the Retreat Ticket?

Your Retreat Ticket includes four nights at the gorgeous retreat house, all writing and art workshops led by our amazing teachers, 10 nourishing catered meals, group field trips, special evening events, and bottomless coffee + tea.

What’s not included?

Travel to/from the retreat is not included. If you are in need of carpooling, we will do our best to connect you with others travelling to the retreat. We can also provide advice on public transit options, as it is possible to travel to Roberts Creek BC on public transit.

Travel insurance (highly recommended!), alcohol, and personal snacks are not included in the ticket price. One self-led dinner will be at the participants’ expense during a trip into town.

How much does the retreat cost in total?

Total costs are $1606 - $1867 USD (or $2280 - $2650 CAD) per person, depending on your room type. This includes both accommodation and programming: four nights at our beautiful retreat house and three+ days of workshops, field trips, evening events, and nourishing catered meals. Please note that Early Bird Pricing, Scholarships, and BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ discounts can reduce pricing.

Your total is based on your room and bed choice for the duration of the retreat. You can view photos of the different room options here.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, there are partial scholarships available! When you apply, please indicate whether you would like to be considered for a scholarship. Please note that as we are a new organization, funding is limited, but we are working to find sponsors to increase the number of scholarships offered each retreat.

Those who wish to support the creation of scholarships at the Writing&& Retreat can get in touch at contact@artistsandand.ca or make a donation here. Please note that this is not a tax-deductible donation, though it is deeply appreciated!

What are the accommodations like? Are rooms shared?

There’s a selection of beautiful, charming rooms at the Retreat House. Shared and private rooms are available, and pricing is tiered based on bed size and room style. When you pay your ticket deposit, there will be a drop-down menu with different room + bed types. Room selection is first-come, first-served, so apply early to ensure you get your preferred arrangement.

If you’d like to room with a friend, let us know and we can ensure you’re placed together, pending overall room/bed availability. If you’d like to share a bed with someone you know, please email info@artistsandand.ca and we can arrange as much at a slight discount, pending overall retreat space.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian/vegan diets will all be accommodated. We will send out a survey asking for your dietary restrictions beforehand. If you have a highly specialized diet, we will work with you to ensure we can accommodate your needs as much as possible.

How far is the Sunshine Coast from Vancouver, BC?

The ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale is only 39-minutes. Depending on where you’re based and what time of day you’re travelling, travel times will vary. From downtown Vancouver to Roberts Creek, plan for around 2 hours with a ferry reservation.

We highly recommend booking a ferry reservation well in advance you are driving. If you are unable to get your desired reservation, get in touch - we have held some reservations and may be able to help.

What should I bring?

Participants will be sent thorough packing and info lists in advance! Plan for all weather and to enjoy the lengthening light — chances are we’ll take some sessions outside in the sunshine.

Are Sunshine Coast locals able to participate?

Yes, there are some tickets held for locals to the Sunshine Coast! Once accepted, you’ll simply request to book a Locals’ Ticket, which will include everything except accommodation at our retreat house. This will still include all meals, as they are a key part of the group experience.

I still have questions!

Get in touch and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.