Uplands Self Directed Writing Retreats

Would you like to write in Narnia?

I’m always looking for good retreat spaces for myself. I do my best work in separate spaces where I don’t have to think about (or take care of) anyone or anything else while I’m there. I need a space where I can go and be quiet to concentrate on my creative projects. And I know that other writers are looking for that too.

Many of you know that James and I live in a bungalow, overlooking a pond, on a 500-acre piece of land. It’s only an hour from downtown Toronto (on a day of reasonable traffic!). It’s also an hour from Peterborough, just over an hour from Barrie. We’re ringed with cities and towns, but here we are surrounded by a wilderness of forests, fields and water. We affectionately refer to it as Narnia because it is a whole other world.

Last year it was decided that the house we live in needed new windows. I have always believed that the space I have used as my office for the last 11 years needed its own separate entrance, so in the process of replacing the windows, we ensured that double doors were added to that room. This not only gives more beautiful light to the space, along with an expanded view of the pond; it also means that room, and its ensuite bathroom can now be a separate retreat space.

So now, along with our guided retreats away from home — both in Canada and international — James and I are delighted to announce that we are able to provide this beautiful space for self-guided retreats.

We are offering day use time and also overnight reservations (for up to 3 nights max at the moment). Meals are included. You can click here for the price list:

Writers’ Retreat Pricing for Uplands

CLICK HERE TO MAKE A REQUEST FOR RESERVATION

 

Below is a small gallery of photos to give you a sense of the space.

Testimonials:

Something Magical Happens

This is the place to allow your Muse to join you in wonderful ways. Sue and James have created a beautiful and inspiring spot to advance your writing. Once you arrive, you can immerse yourself in your project or gaze out the window at the squirrels and birds creating live entertainment. There is a choice of comfy chairs or the desk to write at, with the option of an outdoor spot.
…..Sue welcomes you with her own special smile, attention (and even homemade muffins, if you’re lucky!). I managed to write a tricky passage in my short stay. Something magical happens when you stop your daily routine long enough.
…..And the evening conversation over dinner adds to the ‘at home’ feeling while away. I recommend this retreat to new and seasoned writers who want space to stretch your physical, mental and emotional muscles.

~ Rose Cronin, author, The Healthy Business series

A Tranquil Oasis
…with everything you could possibly need right at your fingertips. If you’re looking for a retreat space where you can unplug from your workaday world and focus on what feeds your heart, this is it.

~ Phil Dwyer, author, Conversations on Dying

I didn’t want to leave!
This space is a true oasis of peace and inspiration. I didn’t want to leave!
…..Butterflies and hummingbirds hover in the colourful flower gardens and herons fly over the pond. Every meal was absolutely delicious and I loved all the fresh vegetables from the garden. A wonderful place for writing, walking trails in the woods and enjoying good company for dinner.
…..I am already planning my next visit!

~ Fiona van Wissen, writer

Get Some Of Your Best Work Done
The zen like grounds create the perfect environment for creative writing. Whether you are gazing out the windows or walking down to the lake, you will undoubtedly feel inspired.
…..Delicious foods and a super comfy bed and chairs make this an ideal place to nurture your body so your brain can fire on all cylinders.
…..Escape to Sue’s Sanctuary and get some of your best work done. I did a very important piece of writing there and highly recommend you consider this oasis. When you need the space and time to take your writing to the next level, this is the place to be!

~ Della Smith, writer

A Space to Connect, Reconnect or Deepen Your Writing
The self-directed writing retreat at Uplands is a gift. Sue and James are consummate hosts, the accommodations are warm, comfortable and inviting, and particularly disposed to any writer who requires contemplative time to connect, reconnect or deepen their writing. It’s the perfect balance of sociability with two talented writers (and wonderful human beings), and uninterrupted and solitary time for quiet explorations into your own writing practice.

~ Renee Sgroi, poet

Peaceful in Every Way.
The experience is made to order for contemplation and writing. The space is beautifully appointed and comfortable. The views are made to order for inspiration. Peaceful in every way. And dinner with the hosts is the icing on the cake. Delicious food and lovely conversation. I’m grateful I was able to be there.

~ Marion Korn, memoirist

The Gifts of the Time Here Linger
We loved our time there. The comfortable bed, the big window out onto the pond and birdhouse filled with birds were all a delight. Big comfy chairs to write in. Delicious meals delivered or eaten together with the hosts. It was a connecting time for my partner and I and we both did some deep writing. The good effects from our retreat are lingering even a few weeks later. Highly recommend!

~ Sandra Flear, memoirist & essayist