This was my first retreat ever and I can't recommend it enough! The food and accommodations were fantastic. I was able to meet several wonderful writers. Anita and Lauren guided us through some inspiring workshops, one in particular that helped me open up more creatively. I came away feeling more confident in my ability as a writer, I felt refreshed, and gained some new friendships, as well.

From the smell of lilacs, to the waters of Lake Simcoe, the setting at Still Water gently welcomes you to literally settle in. Then hosts Anita and Lauren guide the writing, either through workshops and exercises, or by encouraging you to achieve your individual writing goals for the weekend. This was my third retreat. Each year new things are added (two yoga options this year) and different workshops are offered. As always, the meals are excellent, the writing opportunity yields productive work, and the setting is stunning. The perfect spring getaway after a long winter!

One thing I loved about Writing on the Rocks was the largely unstructured nature of the retreat. Tarot and oracle decks and other prompts (there was a new poem every day) were available to anyone at any time, as was Anita. My goal was to kickstart my month-long leave, and for this, the retreat was perfect. A lovely cottage with more than enough room for everyone to find their ideal writing spots, a beautiful location with opportunities to wander, a casual atmosphere that encouraged bonding and camaraderie, fabulous food, and even a chance side-quest into Coldwater. It was a Mary Poppins retreat, practically perfect in every way.