On the west coast of Vancouver Island lies an enclave known to produce some of the biggest trees in Canada. They are as wide as a semi-truck and as tall as a skyscraper, with ages that approach a millennia.
Nature overwhelms here, but it expresses itself subtly, too: in a coastal rock pool teeming with anemones and sculpins and urchins like an ocean in miniature; in a stunted hemlock tree that through wind and rain remains gripped to a log in the middle of a lake; and in the quiet glide of a bald eagle above white-capped waves.
What grows in Port Renfrew is fed by the mountain rivers, by the Pacific Ocean, by the mist—and by the ancient forest itself. And what emerges is something mysterious and curious and exceptional.
This self-directed retreat is for emerging or established writers looking for the solitude and space to write or polish a non-fiction feature article or book that has a focus on the environment, nature, or travel.
STAY in a fully-equipped, ocean-view cottage unit in Port Renfrew, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, where you can focus on nothing but your work while enjoying the region’s most exciting new eco-tourism destination.
SUPPORT on your manuscript (depending on subject) will be offered in terms of discussions about your work or advice—or you can simply use the solitude for completely uninterrupted writing.
"The Port Renfrew Writers Retreat provided one of my most productive bouts of book writing yet. This cozy, quiet refuge overlooking the inlet of Port San Juan provides an inspiring backdrop for any author, especially those digging into topics concerning the natural world. I spent three days here with not a single interruption or distraction—excluding the occasional bald eagle flying past the window or hike to Botanical Beach. When I returned home I was so much more motivated to write! I highly recommend this retreat to any writer looking to get away for a few days and immerse themselves in their work."
— Gloria Dickie, journalist and author Eight Bears
”My time at the Port Renfrew Writers Retreat was such a treat. I have visited twice now, for 5 and 7 days each time, and it has been some of my most focused and enjoyable writing time. The space is comfortable and clean, with great lighting and spectacular views of bald eagles and the inlet. There are coastal trails and sandy beach nearby, to stretch the legs and have a good think when the writing feels tough. I left feeling rejuvenated—highly recommended!
— Monica Prelle, journalist
"My week at the Port Renfrew Writers Retreat was rejuvenating. The house provided a relaxing, comfortable environment that felt just like home. It was equipped with everything I needed to focus on my work and beyond. The surrounding area is one of my favourite places in the province to explore, photograph and find inspiration, it's a real treat to have old growth forests and rugged coastlines nearby. The sights and sounds from the balcony offered a melodic soundtrack of nature that made our stay even more peaceful. This retreat is a perfect haven for creators looking for both tranquility and inspiration. I hope to stay again in the future!"
— Taylor Burk, photographer
