Retreats
This retreat
is the perfect opportunity to nurture your creativity while embracing the serenity of nature.
Join us for a rejuvenating retreat that offers a unique blend of writing classes, meditation sessions, and invigorating hikes.
Immerse yourself in the creative process as our expert instructors guide you through various writing techniques, helping you to unlock your voice and express your ideas.
Find tranquility in our meditation sessions, designed to center your mind and uplift your spirit.
After honing your writing skills and connecting with your inner self, explore the breathtaking natural surroundings on our guided hikes, where you can find inspiration in every step.
Accommodations
Birch and Ink’s writing retreats offer a restorative blend of creativity, nature, and nourishment, inviting writers of all levels to immerse themselves in focused work and gentle rejuvenation. Guests can choose from 3-, 5-, 7-, or 14‑day retreats, each thoughtfully designed with daily writing classes, guided meditation sessions, and ample quiet time to dive deep into their projects. Seasonal outdoor adventures add a grounding rhythm to the experience—summer days bring lakeside hikes and prairie walks, while winter and early spring offer the peaceful thrill of snowshoeing through crisp, open landscapes. Throughout every stay, participants enjoy delicious, freshly made meals crafted with care, and a variety of accommodation options ranging from serene lakeside cabins to spacious prairie lodges, creating the perfect backdrop for inspiration to take root and flourish.
Below, you will find examples of some of the retreat accommodations that we offer. Each retreat location is thoughtfully selected to support rest, reflection, and connection. However, it is important to note that every retreat setting is unique. The images shown are meant to provide a general sense of the style and atmosphere you can expect, but they may not reflect the exact spaces or layouts of the retreat you attend.
If you are considering joining us and would like more detailed information about a specific retreat location, we encourage you to contact us directly. We’re happy to provide additional details and help you find the experience that feels right for you.
Gathering Room
During our retreat, the gathering room serves as a warm and inviting haven, perfect for fostering connection and reflection. With its cozy furnishings and the gentle crackle of the fireplace, this space envelops you in a comforting embrace. As the flames dance and cast a soft glow, participants can unwind and share stories, making the gathering room the heart of our retreat experience.
Dining Room
Whether it’s a hearty breakfast to start the day or a candlelit dinner under the stars, the dining room fosters an environment where nourishment transcends beyond just food, encouraging meaningful conversations and a deeper sense of community among participants.
Tranquility Room
The tranquility room is a serene space designed to foster deep meditation and relaxation during your retreat. With soft lighting, gentle sounds, and comfortable seating, this haven invites you to disconnect from the outside world and tune into your inner self. In this peaceful environment, practitioners can engage in mindfulness exercises, focus on their breath, or simply sit in silence, allowing the calming atmosphere to wash over them.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms at our retreat offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, designed to promote relaxation and tranquility. Each room is typically adorned with soft linens, calming colors, and comfortable furnishings that invite restful sleep.
Bathrooms
The bathrooms serve as a personal sanctuary, where one can wash away the stress of daily life, immersing in calming rituals such as long baths or invigorating showers. Thoughtfully designed with soothing colors and natural elements, the bathroom becomes a tranquil oasis, empowering individuals to unwind and reconnect with themselves.
Outdoor Patio
Imagine a serene outdoor lounge designed for ultimate relaxation during your retreat, where the gentle crackle of a firepit sets the mood as evening falls. Surrounded by fresh air, you can breathe deeply and feel the weight of the world lift away. From your inviting seating, you can enjoy breathtaking views that stretch across verdant shores and tranquil waters, inviting you to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature.
Classes
Refining your writing skills is an essential journey for any aspiring writer, and our writing classes offer the perfect environment to hone those abilities. As you engage in various exercises and receive constructive feedback, you'll learn to identify your unique voice and style.
Emphasizing clarity, coherence, and creativity, our passionate instructors encourage you to experiment with different genres and techniques. Through peer reviews and collaborative work, you will gain insights into others' perspectives while learning how to articulate your own ideas more effectively. Remember, writing is not just about putting words on paper; it's about crafting a narrative that resonates with your audience. So, embrace this opportunity to refine your craft, and watch your writing flourish!
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Memoirs
Memoirs serve as a powerful medium for individuals to share their personal stories and experiences, making them a compelling subject. In our classes, students learn to craft their narratives by reflecting on significant moments in their lives, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and personal growth. The process of writing a memoir encourages introspection and helps writers connect with their audience on a deeper level, as they transform their unique journeys into relatable tales. Through the practice of memoir writing, students not only improve their skills as storytellers but also gain valuable insights into themselves and the world around them.
Novels
Dry skin wrapped around a long finger that traces the sentence of a speech that would later resonate with listeners at the event and with generations to come. Did this figure know that he or she would inspire countless individuals to write biographies recounting that speech and life of its creator?
Whether you aspire to write a biography based on facts or a science fiction novel that pushes readers' minds into the unknown, our classes assist you in developing complex characters, intricate plots, and rich themes.
Scripts
Writing scripts is a fascinating and dynamic process that allows students to explore the art of storytelling through dialogue and character development. In class, you are encouraged to experiment with different genres, whether it be dramatic, comedic, or even documentary scripts. All of this is carried out in a supportive environment where you can share your work, receive constructive feedback, and refine your skills so that once the retreat has been completed, you have a better understanding of the key elements of scriptwriting (e.g., structure, pacing, character arcs, etc.) that aspiring writers use to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
Menu
With classes and an environment that nourish the mind and soul, your stomach has one question: " What about me?"
All of our delicious, freshly crafted meals are included in your retreat package because a meal isn't simply a meal; it is a celebration of togetherness and a moment to pause and appreciate the journey you are on.
Breakfast
Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, our breakfast is a delightful experience that sets the tone for the day. With a robust menu featuring savory European fare (e.g., croissants, scones, etc.) and classic all-American favorites like fluffy pancakes, perfectly cooked omelets, and crispy bacon, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Lunch
From hearty soups and hamburgers to paninis and fresh salads, our chefs combine unique and seasonal ingredients to form bold flavors that will certainly complement the day's activities.
Dinner
At our retreat, dinner is a cherished time for connection and reflection. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the dining area, the aroma of freshly prepared meals fills the air. Gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter, enjoying dishes that emphasize seasonal ingredients and local flavors, each bite not only satisfies our guests' hunger but also deepens the connections between us, creating a sense of community that lingers long after the last plate is cleared.
Beverages
We offer a delightful selection of both hot and cold beverages. While we do not serve alcohol, you are welcome to bring your own wine. That said, our retreat is intended to be a space for learning, reflection, and renewal, so we kindly ask that guests enjoy alcohol in moderation.
If you have any special tea preferences, simply let us know when you make your reservation, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Teas, Coffee, and Hot Cocoa
Juices
Purified Water
Smoothies
The Spa
At our spa, we offer a variety of indulgent à la carte services and packages designed to rejuvenate both the body and mind. Treat yourself to a luxurious facial that hydrates and revitalizes your skin, complemented by a relaxing massage that melts away tension and promotes overall well-being. For those looking to pamper their hands and feet, our manicure and pedicure services provide a perfect blend of care and beauty, leaving your nails looking polished and vibrant. To enhance your experience further, consider our invigorating salt scrub, which gently exfoliates and nourishes your skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and radiant.
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Pricing
One Guest
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$2,800 ~ 3 Nights
Save 10% on 4- to 7-night stays!
Save 15% on stays longer than 7 days!
Two Guests
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$2,700 per person ~ 3 Nights
Save 10% on 4- to 7-night stays!
Save 15% on stays longer than 7 days!
Three to Ten Guests
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$2,600 per person ~ 3 Nights
Save 10% on 4- to 7-night stays!
Save 15% on stays longer than 7 days!
Frequently Asked Questions
Our FAQs are crafted to spark excitement well before you arrive. It’s a quick, friendly place for future guests to uncover everything they want to know—from what their stay will feel like to the thoughtful touches that make it unforgettable. Consider it your go‑to guide for building anticipation, simplifying planning, and getting inspired for the getaway waiting for you.
What can I expect when I arrive?
Guests arriving at Birch and Ink are greeted with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for a restorative and inspiring stay, whether they’re traveling solo or as part of a group. From the moment they step onto the property, they’re met with friendly hosts, cozy gathering spaces, and a gentle sense of calm that invites them to settle in and exhale. After a brief orientation, guests are guided to their accommodations, where they can unpack, unwind, and begin easing into the retreat’s slower rhythm. Freshly prepared snacks and beverages are available to enjoy, and the communal spaces offer natural opportunities to connect with fellow writers or simply take in the surrounding beauty. It’s an arrival experience designed to make every guest feel at home, supported, and ready to begin their creative journey.
What retreat lengths do you offer?
We offer writing‑centered retreats in four flexible lengths, allowing you to choose the pace and depth that best support your creative process:
3‑day retreats — A quick but powerful creative reset, perfect for jump‑starting a project or reconnecting with your voice
5‑day retreats — A deeper immersion with guided writing sessions and space to explore new ideas
7‑day retreats — A full week to settle into your craft, refine your work, and build sustainable writing rhythms
14‑day retreats — An extended, transformative experience ideal for major projects, manuscript progress, or profound creative renewal
When do you offer your retreats?
We offer our retreats throughout the year, giving you the flexibility to find the perfect time to step away, reset, and reconnect. Each season brings its own unique atmosphere, so you can choose the experience that resonates most with you.
Where do you conduct your retreats?
We host our retreats at a variety of beautiful locations throughout the Midwest. Each gathering is intentionally set in a peaceful, nature‑rich environment—whether it’s a cozy lodge, a lakeside cabin, or a quiet countryside venue—to create the perfect atmosphere for rest, reflection, and creative exploration.
What types of writing classes can I attend?
You’ve got a wonderfully wide range of options when it comes to writing classes, and the best part is that you can choose based on your interests, goals, and comfort level.
Here’s a clear snapshot of what you can attend:
Memoir & Personal Essay
Ideal if you want to tell your own story with clarity and emotional depth.
Novel Writing
Learn how to structure a long-form story, build compelling arcs, and stay motivated through the drafting process.
Supportive for both first-time novelists and writers refining a manuscript.
Script & Screenwriting
Explore dialogue, scene structure, pacing, and visual storytelling.
Whether you're dreaming of film, TV, or stage, there’s a class for you.
Do you offer one-on-one coaching?
Yes — we offer personalized one‑on‑one writing coaching for writers at every stage, whether you're shaping a new idea, developing a manuscript, or strengthening your overall craft. Each session is tailored to your goals so you can build confidence, clarity, and momentum in your writing.
We offer 1‑, 5‑, and 10‑hour coaching packages, all starting at $140 per hour, and the more hours you purchase, the better the overall rate becomes. This gives you the flexibility to choose the level of support that fits your project and your pace.
As a welcome gift, every guest receives a complimentary one‑hour session, giving you a chance to experience the coaching process before selecting a package.
Do you offer ongoing writing support?
Absolutely, we provide both remote group writing classes and one‑on‑one coaching. Whether someone prefers the community and accountability of a group setting or the personalized guidance of individual coaching, there’s a structure that fits their style and goals.
We encourage you to visit our group class page and our one-on-one coaching page.
What amenities do you provide?
When planning our retreats, the choice of accommodation spaces plays a crucial role in creating a conducive environment for relaxation and reflection. From serene cabins nestled in nature to comfortable lodges designed for quiet contemplation, our retreat options are diverse. Many of our retreat locations offer communal living spaces that foster connection among participants, along with private rooms that provide much-needed personal time. Amenities like meditation rooms, outdoor spaces for yoga, and cozy lounges enhance the experience, allowing guests to unwind and recharge, making it memorable and transformative.
Does your retreat offer a sauna?
Yes — some of our retreats do offer a sauna. The type varies by location, ranging from traditional Finnish saunas to modern infrared options. If you have a specific retreat in mind, we’re happy to confirm exactly what’s available so you can plan the experience that feels best for you.
Are spa services included in my package?
Spa services are not included in your retreat package, but you’re welcome to book any of our treatments à la carte. If you’d prefer something more bundled, we can also add a customized spa package to your retreat—and those packages are typically more cost‑efficient than booking individual services. Just let us know what you’re envisioning, and we’ll help you create the perfect experience.
We have a group of more than ten people; can you accommodate us?
Yes, we can absolutely accommodate groups of more than ten people at our retreat. We love hosting larger gatherings, but availability and setup can vary depending on the dates and the type of experience you're looking for. Please reach out to us directly so we can walk you through the options and make sure everything is tailored to your group’s needs.
Are meals and/or snacks included in my package?
Absolutely — your package is fully inclusive. All meals, snacks, and beverages are provided throughout your stay, so you can simply relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about extra costs.
We offer meals for every lifestyle — whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, carnivorous, or an omnivore. Everyone has a place at our table.
If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, we encourage you to review our Dietary Restrictions FAQ so we can make sure everything is prepared with your needs in mind.
Do you offer meals for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, we do. Our team is happy to accommodate a variety of dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten‑free, peanut‑free, carnivorous, and omnivorous preferences. To ensure we can properly prepare for your visit, we ask that you contact us before making a reservation. This allows us to confirm whether your specific request can be met.
Please note that while we take great care in our preparation, we cannot guarantee the absence of cross‑contamination or the accuracy of product labels provided by suppliers.
Do you offer alcoholic beverages?
We don’t provide alcoholic beverages, but guests are welcome to bring their own if they wish. We simply ask that everyone enjoys responsibly and avoids excessive drinking so the environment stays comfortable and enjoyable for all.
What size beds do you offer?
We offer a variety of bed sizes — king, queen, full, and twin — but availability can vary depending on the dates and the specific room or space. To make sure you get exactly what you need, please reach out to us before making a reservation so we can confirm which bed types are available for your stay.
What do I need to bring?
We provide the essentials, but there are a few things you’ll want to pack to make your stay comfortable. Guests should bring any personal items they’ll need during their visit—such as toiletries, clothing, and any specialty items they prefer. If you have specific plans or activities in mind, it’s a good idea to bring anything related to those as well.
Do you provide transportation to your retreat?
Depending on the retreat location, we offer complimentary transportation from the nearest town or city directly to the retreat. This makes arrival simple and stress‑free once you’re nearby.
Please note that our rates do not include air travel, train tickets, coach services, taxis, or any other long‑distance transportation. However, if you’d like help coordinating those arrangements, we do offer them as an optional add‑on package.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept several convenient payment options, including check, American Express, Mastercard, Visa, Discover, and ACH deposit. Please note that we assess a $50 fee for any returned checks, so we encourage guests to verify all information before submitting payment.
Do you offer refunds if I cancel my retreat?
We do not offer refunds if a guest cancels their reservation. However, in certain situations, we may offer a credit toward a future stay at our discretion. If you think you may need flexibility, feel free to reach out so we can discuss options before you book.
Does the retreat have Wi-Fi?
Yes — the retreat does offer Wi‑Fi. Since it’s located in a peaceful, nature‑focused setting, the speed and uptime may vary. We encourage guests to treat their stay as a digital detox and minimize device use so they can fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Are the hikes strenuous?
The difficulty of our hikes is subjective, but most are considered moderate. The level of physical fitness required can vary depending on the terrain and the length of each hike.
Are pets allowed at your retreats?
No, pets are not allowed at our retreats. Our retreat spaces are designed to be calm, distraction‑free environments focused on writing, rest, and reflection.
Are children allowed at your retreats?
Absolutely — children are welcome at our retreats, with a few thoughtful guidelines to keep the experience meaningful for everyone.
Well‑behaved children aged 12 and older are allowed to attend. This age threshold helps ensure they can comfortably participate in the flow of the retreat and respect the quiet, reflective environment.
Our retreats are centered on writing classes and meditation. Because these sessions require focus, stillness, and a calm atmosphere, we ask that any attending children are able to engage respectfully with the group setting.
If you’re considering bringing a young writer or a mindful teen along, they’re more than welcome. Many families find it a beautiful way to share creativity and quiet time together.
If you’d like help deciding whether a specific retreat is a good fit for your child, we're happy to talk through it.
Is there a lifeguard on duty at your retreats that offer water activities?
Some of our retreats are held in beautiful natural settings, including locations near rivers, lakes, and other outdoor water sources. While these environments offer wonderful opportunities to swim and unwind, a lifeguard is not provided in most cases.
For everyone’s safety, we ask guests to ensure they are physically fit and confident in their swimming abilities before entering the water. We also encourage mindful, responsible enjoyment of all natural water areas during your stay.
