The Write Way Escape (Collingwood) Retreat Details

Application form here

Schedule & instructor overview here.

Ever wanted to just get away and work on your novel? To take time to focus on improving your craft and marketing skills while meeting other writers? Maybe in a waterfront vacation town brimming with coffee shops, tea shops and restaurants, with endless trails and places to walk and think about your book (or talk about it with others.)

The Write Way Escape focuses on novel writing, with an emphasis on genre/commercial fiction. Kelley Armstrong will dive deep into writing craft while Lilith Darville covers editing and marketing.

This retreat is ideal for writers with a solid foundation in their craft—whether you are published, actively seeking publication, or simply looking to sharpen your skills/grow as an author. 

Dates: June 8-12, 2025

Location: The VanderMarck hotel, Collingwood ON.

The retreat will be held at VanderMarck boutique hotel, a restored historic landmark. The VanderMarck is the heart of Collingwood (2 hrs north of Toronto) and is located one road over from the main street and all its amenities.

Classes and group sessions will be held in the fully accessible renovated coach house on the property.

Size: max 20 attendees

Cost: $850 CDN / $700 USD (includes all classes and group sessions, coffee/tea service, cold drinks & snacks.) There will be two comped passes for writers who otherwise could not attend, and this will be noted on the application form. The comped passes cover the retreat fee only.

Rooms & Meals

To make this the most flexible retreat possible (meeting the needs of attendees with special requirements), accommodations and meals are all separate.

Rooms at the VanderMarck will be booked separately by attendees. Note that the VanderMarck does require full payment at the time of booking but it does offer full refunds up to May 31. VanderMarck is an all-suites hotel, meaning guests all have full private kitchens and sitting areas. Hotel prices for four nights range from $1100 (studio) to $1800 (2 bedroom.)

Currently there is only one suite left at the VanderMarck. Day passes are also being offered to fill the remaining slots. Note that the coach house, where sessions will be held, is fully accessible. The VanderMarck house itself is three stories and doesn’t have a lift or a bellhop.

Meals will also be up to the attendees, with the VanderMarck’s suite kitchens (and a nearby large supermarket) allowing the option of homemade meals, particularly for those with dietary restrictions. We will be organizing group dinner reservations for those who wish to join the hosts.

Questions?

Contact Alison at mail@kelleyarmstrong.com

The Fine Print

Payments will be accepted in either CAD or USD. Due in full by December 15, 2024.

Cancellation Policy:

December 15 – March 31: 50% refund of retreat fee

After April 1: No refunds will be made

Note that the above applies to the retreat fee. The VanderMarck offers full refunds before May 31.