WILD WORDS & WATER
A five day, four night women’s writing retreat, nestled on a private estate in the serenity of south Cornwall.
Enjoy creativity and writing workshops, wild swimming, delicious home cooked food, talks from accomplished authors, advice from industry experts and much more…
Writing retreat in cornwall
4th-8th November 2024
A writing retreat to unleash your creative potential.
Embark on a journey to the heart of creativity with Wild Words & Water, an idyllic writing retreat nestled in the serene Cornish landscape. This retreat is not just a getaway; it's a transformative experience that combines the inspiring power of nature with the art of writing.
Brought to you by a best-selling author.
Guided by me, Gail Muller, a best-selling author of two books, Wild Words & Water is more than just a writing retreat—it's an opportunity to learn from a seasoned writer. Throughout the retreat, I’ll use my expertise and insights, to guide you on a dive deep into the world of writing, exploring techniques and strategies that have led to my own literary success.
Your sanctuary for creative writing.
Our writing retreat in Cornwall offers the perfect alchemy of outdoor beauty and creative stimulation, providing the ideal environment for anyone embarking on a literary journey, be it writing a novel, journaling, or aspiring to publish a book. Wild Words & Water is where serenity meets inspiration, guiding you from the initial stages of how to begin writing a book to the intricacies of how to get a book published. Whether you’re in your ideas stage waiting to take the jump, a fledging author or simply looking for a quiet space to nestle in and put pen to paper. Wild Words & Water is perfect for you.
Nurturing Your Writing Ambitions
In the comfort of our secluded country lodge, complete with private woodland and beach, you'll find the perfect setting to focus, write, and rejuvenate. Our retreat is tailored to writers at all stages, offering workshops on creative thinking, overcoming writer's block, and generating fresh ideas. Industry professionals and best-selling authors will share practical advice, demystifying the journey of how to write a book and navigate the publishing world.
A Blend of Writing and Wellness
Luxurious Accommodation: Stay in beautifully appointed rooms at Calamansac, a private estate with stunning views, cozy comforts, acres of forest, and a private swimming beach.
Creative and Practical Workshops: Engage in writing workshops, creative prompt sessions, and insightful Q&As with special guests.
We'll cover topics such as:
How to write a book, how to get a book published, how to begin writing a book, how to write better, how to be more creative
Talks from experts: Hear from established authors and industry professionals - past speakers include best selling author Kris Hallenga and publishing expert Miranda West from Penguin Random House.
Yoga and Breathwork: Participate in restorative Yin Yoga and Yoga Nidra sessions, perfect for writers seeking mental clarity and relaxation.
Cold Water Swimming: Experience the invigorating benefits of sea dips at our private beach, a unique aspect of our writing retreat.
Culinary Delights: Enjoy nourishing, homemade meals prepared by our talented chefs, Jasmine and Lynney, to fuel your creativity.
our venue
A Writing Retreat Aligned with Nature
Our retreat offers the peace, inspiration, and natural beauty essential for every writer. It's time to turn your dreams into reality, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Nestled along the banks of the majestic Helford River, Calamansac House is the heart of our retreat— a large private country estate that radiates tranquility and inspiration. Situated near Daphne Du Maurier’s renowned Frenchman’s Creek, here, amidst forests that dance with colourful flowers year round and a secluded beach that beckons for serene swims, you'll find a sanctuary that feels like a page from a fairy tale.
Cosy Evening Retreats
As dusk embraces the estate, cozy rooms lit by log burners transform into intimate spaces of warmth and storytelling. Here, you’ll hear from authors and experts, before settling into the air an evening of inspiration and connection with your fellow guests.
Spaces for Yoga and Breathwork
The spacious rooms of the estate unfold into tranquil arenas for yoga and breathwork. Each session is an invitation to draw deeper inspiration from the natural splendor surrounding you, blending physical wellness with creative nourishment.
Inspiring Gardens
The gardens at Calamansac are a living canvas, where flowers paint vibrant strokes against the serene river backdrop. It’s these gardens that we’ll host our writing workshops, letting inspiration seep in from the surroundings.
Quiet Nooks for Writing and Reflection
Throughout the estate, a variety of tranquil nooks offer peaceful havens for personal reflection. These serene spaces are ideal for writers to retreat into their thoughts, allowing their pens to flow freely and their ideas to take flight.
Culinary Magic in the Kitchens
At the heart of the estate, our talented chefs, Lynney and Jasmine, create culinary masterpieces. Communal dining here is not just a meal but a celebration of community, filled with laughter and enriching dialogues that nourish both body and soul.
The rooms at Calamansac are all beautifully appointed, ranging from luxury masters each with ensuite baths, to gorgeous doubles or twins with sea views, and cosy singles tucked in alcoves in a shared yet discreet space, with their own side tables and reading lamps.
“It’s hard to put the experience of this retreat into words. I learned so much about myself, and in such a short period, which says a lot about the magical qualities of Gail.”
A Retreat Designed for Every Writer's Journey
Our writing retreat is tailored to writers of all backgrounds and aspirations. If you've ever felt lost in the maze of your thoughts, unable to pin down your ideas onto the page, this retreat offers the clarity and direction you need. For those who have started their writing journey but feel their skills need refining, it provides personalised guidance to help you write the way you've always wanted to. Through myself and my guest speakers experience in crafting compelling narratives and engaging content, you’ll find a treasure trove of insights to help you learn and grow.
Your Invitation to a World of Words and Wonder
As you reach the end of this enchanting journey through Calamansac House and its myriad offerings, a question lingers in the air: Are you ready to unlock the stories within you? Wild Words & Water isn't just a retreat; it's a nurturing ground for your writing dreams, a place where creativity flows as freely as the river nearby. Here, you'll not only discover the joy of putting pen to paper but also learn the secrets of transforming your thoughts into published works. In the company of like-minded souls, against the backdrop of Cornwall's serene beauty, you'll find the perfect blend of inspiration, guidance, and tranquility. Whether you're taking the first steps in your writing journey or seeking to refine your craft, this retreat is a beacon, illuminating the path to your literary aspirations. Join us for an unforgettable experience, where each word you write is a step closer to the story you're meant to tell. The time is now, and the magic of Wild Words & Water awaits you.
“The combination of insightful and inspiring speakers, various activities and Gail’s openness, sensitivity and wit provided a nurturing and creative environment that was just what I needed to start me on my writing magic carpet ride.”
Register your interest for the next Wild Words and Water Retreat.
“In just a few days Gail managed to gently coax words out of my head and on to that blank piece of paper. Since then I have found a deep joy in the process of writing and have written many words and filled many blank pages. From the bottom of my heart, Gail, thank you.”
KIND WORDS
“I left Jamaica to go to this retreat. I had heard from others about the impact it had on them and I left it at that and took a leap of faith. I am not a professional writer, I have always loved writing in the form of journaling but I felt like an imposter going to a writing retreat. I was really touched at the capacity of Gail and her team to create such a loving and accepting environment with such a diverse group of women. That was one of the most beautiful parts of the journey. Even though I was surrounded by women who have much more experience in writing, I felt encouraged and free to take the space I needed to explore writing at my own pace.”
Shanda, 2023
“I've been on other retreats, but this one is something else. Not only a wonderfully cosy house in a spectacular location, but everything you need for a restorative week boosting your creativity: deliciously healthy meals, wild water swimming, breath work and yoga to refresh and reconnect with mind and body; and amazingly inspirational, encouraging, and supporting Gail Muller. Whatever in/experience you have of writing, if you ever have a chance to come here, do not pass it up. What a joy and privilege to have been here.”
Sue, 2023
“I arrived at this retreat feeling a little nervous that I was not actually a writer but someone with a passion to try & share my story. Gail has put together this most wonderful retreat with writing workshops that really do bring the best out of everyone. The days here have been exceptional with wild swimming, beautiful walks in the grounds & the most delicious food. I am leaving here with an achievable goal and I feel very proud of myself to be able to say that.”
Marie, 2023
“I've just attended Gail's retreat and it was one of the best things I've ever done. The words 'retreat' and 'writer' can feel loaded with whatever we have decided to attach to them but as soon as I walked through the door I knew this was going to be an amazing space to be in and I feel enormously grateful to have experienced it. I've never met such an open, funny, supportive, intelligent group of women who also have excellent taste in cocktails. Gail is the kindest, funniest and most perceptive person I've ever met and an incredible teacher, speaker, writer, facilitator and now (I'm delighted to say) very good friend. It's a totally no pressure and relaxed environment, and people are here at every stage of their writing journeys and writing for all different reasons. The activities (swimming, yoga, breath work, workshops) unlocked so much creativity, emotion and permission to be our best selves. The food and meal gatherings were extremely special. The venue is out of this world- 50 acres, a private beach, an amazing house. I'd 1000% return in a flash.”
Sophie, 2023
“It will be hard to find a retreat that is more welcoming, more nurturing, more supportive. Whether you have never written or have won copious awards for your work, the space that Gail Muller and her wonderful team create holds space for everyone to connect with their writing creatively and with authentic purpose. Here you can arrive, leave everything behind and allow yourself to be taken care of while you write. Plus the food is exquisite.”
Athena, 2023
4th-8th November 2024