hosted by gail muller
I’m so excited to welcome you to a place that’s become very special to me - a quiet corner of Cornwall where the pace softens, the sea is close, and there’s space to finally exhale. This five-day retreat is for writers of all kinds, whether you’re just starting out, picking up something you put down, or deep in the messy middle. You don’t need to have a plan. Just a willingness to show up and see what happens.
We’ll gather at Calamansac House, tucked near the paths that wind down to Frenchman’s Creek. It’s calm, coastal, and full of wild beauty, the perfect backdrop for rest, reflection, and creativity.
There’ll be writing sessions, time to roam, good food, and plenty of quiet corners to curl up in. Come as you are. Leave feeling rested, reconnected, and ready to keep writing.
Save me a space!
A Typical Day at the Retreat
Our schedule is subject to gentle changes — we go with the flow and what the group needs.
Morning
Wake up slow. Tea or coffee in hand, maybe a wander in the garden or a few words on the page.
Light breakfast in the kitchen or outside if the sun’s playing nice.
Guided writing session with Gail — prompts, tools, and time to explore your voice.
Time to write, read, walk, think. No pressure. Just space.
Afternoon
A nourishing lunch — locally sourced, freshly made.
Optional creative or nature-based activity (a group walk, wild swim, or story-sharing circle).
More free time to write, nap, swim, chat or just be.
Evening
A relaxed dinner together around the table.
Optional evening session: gentle reflection, fireside sharing, Q&A, or a guest session.
Then bed — early if you like, or stay up with your notebook and a mug of something warm.
THINGS YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING
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Not at all. This retreat is for anyone with a love of words — whether you’re journalling, halfway through a novel, or haven’t picked up a pen in years. You don’t need to have a project or a plan. Just come with curiosity and a willingness to explore. There’ll be structure and support, but no pressure or expectation.
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Only if you want to. There’s absolutely no requirement to share your writing unless it feels right for you. This is a supportive, non-judgemental space — some people find sharing helpful, others prefer to keep things private. Both are completely welcome.
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We’ll explore a range of prompts and exercises designed to unlock your voice, stretch your imagination, and help you build confidence. It could be memoir, fiction, journalling, poetry — whatever feels true for you. There’s no ‘right’ style. The focus is on process, not perfection.
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No. While we encourage you to take part, this is your time — if you need to skip a session for a walk, a nap, or to stay in the flow of your own work, that’s completely okay. This retreat is about tuning in, not burning out.
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Yes — most people do. You’ll be warmly welcomed into the group, and there’s plenty of space for solo time if you need it. Many past guests have come alone and left with new friends (and a lot more confidence).
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Comfy clothes, walking shoes, something to swim in if you’re brave enough for the sea, and whatever you like to write with, a notebook, laptop, coloured pens, sticky notes... whatever helps you think and feel. You might also want a favourite book or two, and layers - Cornwall weather likes to keep us on our toes.
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Meals are fresh, seasonal, and mostly vegetarian. We can cater for vegan, gluten-free and other dietary needs, just let us know when you book and we’ll make sure you're well fed and well looked after.
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Yes. But we encourage you to unplug as much as possible. Phone signal can be patchy, and that’s part of the magic. You’re welcome to check in with home when needed, but this is also a rare chance to step back from the noise.
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We’ll send detailed directions after booking. The nearest train station is Penryn, with connections from London and beyond. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to Calamansac. If you’re driving, there’s parking available at the house.