Spring Craft Writing Retreat

A supportive, craft-focused writing retreat

June 15–19, 2026

Collingwood, Ontario • Vandermarck Boutique Hotel

Featuring #1 New York Times & USA Today bestselling authors

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The Schedule

Five flexible days of writing classes and workshops led by three established novelists.

24 hour-long sessions (all optional) in a schedule designed to balance focused learning with time to write and recharge.

Sample day schedule here.

The Town & Venue

The venue offers a calm, walkable setting that makes it easy to shift between focused work, conversation, and quiet time.

We'll be at the centre of a Canadian resort town packed with restaurants and other amenities. Georgian Bay and nature walking trails are only minutes away.

Classes are held in the coachhouse of the historic Vandermarck Hotel. Attendees can choose to stay onsite, commute or pick from the varied local options.

The Attendees

Our spring retreat is aimed at those in the early to middle stages of their writing pursuit. It provides a supportive environment in a small-group setting (max 18 attendees)

Classes range from beginner to intermediate levels with an emphasis on building confidence & strong foundations.

If you’re a very experienced writer primarily seeking writing time or advanced craft discussion, our fall retreats may be a better fit.

The Instructors

The spring retreat is led by all three Write Way Escape authors: Kelley Armstrong, Lilith Darville & Christine D'Abo. For more on their careers & credentials, see the instructor section here on the home page.

All three instructors share the teaching load equally, offering a balanced mix of craft, discussion and practical guidance. Each brings a distinct perspective and area of expertise, providing a comprehensive learning experience.

The Details

Cost: $975 CAD / $850 USD

The cost covers the retreat only. Lodging and meals are not included, allowing attendees flexibility to choose options that best fit their needs and budgets.

We reserve two complimentary spots for writers experiencing financial hardship.

FEEDBACK FROM OUR INAUGURAL RETREAT

I loved this retreat! Kelley, Lilith, and Christine are not just successful writers, they are also fantastic and supportive teachers who offer valuable information on everything from writing and craft to current industry information and trends. No matter what stage of the writing journey you’re in, there’s something here for you. The amazing camaraderie with fellow writers is also a huge draw…I can’t wait to come back again and again!

The 2025 Write Way Retreat was the highlight of my writing year. Lilith, Kelley, and Christine are wonderful teachers and a pleasure to hang out with. I’ve also made some wonderful friends I’ve kept in touch with after the retreat. The multi-genre aspect of the retreat especially appealed to me: I write horror, and it’s rare to find that in writing groups, so meeting other spooky folks and continuing to swap critiques with them months later has been such a treat. It kept my motivation going: I’ve since published a short story I workshopped at the retreat, and am starting the fourth draft of a novel.

The retreat was exactly what I needed last year. It helped pull me out of a creative dry spell after dealing with some real-life stuff and inspired me to start a new story. I loved the small, supportive, community vibe, and the mix of experience levels. Lilith and Kelley were awesome instructors!