Trevor Corkum

FAQS

I have never attended a writing retreat before. I’m not sure what to expect.

No prior writing experience necessary! This is a safe, supportive space for you to begin exploring your voice. The retreat will combine morning workshops, optional cultural activities, and unstructured writing time in the afternoon.

What types of writing workshops will be held?

The workshops are open to folks working in any genre (fiction, non-fiction, memoir, poetry). We’ll use writing prompts and other creative exercises to bring a sense of play, curiosity, and presence to our writing. Each participant will have the chance to share a a short piece of writing and receive feedback from the instructor and the group, though this is entirely optional.

How many people will attend the workshop?

In order to facilitate an optimal workshop experience, Write from the Heart is designed to be intentionally intimate. Spaces are limited. The maximum number of retreat participants this year will be 8.

Do I have to read my work out loud?

There will be several opportunities to share excerpts from your work, and a chance to read a passage during the final celebration on Sunday morning. Reading is not mandatory.

What are the benefits of a writing retreat?

For both new and experienced writers, having the opportunity to step away from the responsibilities of careers, family, and other obligations—particularly in a beautiful setting like PEI—can inspire and help re-ground us in our practise and routine. For some, it’s a chance to reconnect with our practise after a prolonged absence. Others may take the opportunity to dip their toes into the creative waters for the first time.

What is included in the retreat price?

The retreat price covers the cost of all workshops (7 hours), unlimited snacks, all breakfasts, meals, and dinners, feedback from the instructor, and future discounts on One Life retreats, workshops, and courses. See What’s Included for more information.

What’s not included?

The only things not included in the retreat are the costs of your own travel to and from PEI and any alcoholic beverages purchased at the opening group dinner in Victoria-by-the-Sea.

What are some of the optional activities?

It’s up to you! Long walks along quiet country roads, visiting local antique shops and artisans, a beach walk or a nap ;) If the weather cooperates, there’s a gorgeous outdoor fire pit on site. There will be lots of books on hand if you prefer to read more deeply about the writing craft or get lost in a novel.

How do I get to PEI?

Canada’s leading airlines offer daily direct flights to PEI from Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary (seasonally), Edmonton (seasonally), and Kitchener-Waterloo (seasonally). Victoria-by-the-Sea is about three hours driving from Halifax.

Where will I stay?

Our home base is a luxurious, spacious, three-story farmhouse that’s just been entirely renovated. We’re about seven minutes outside Victoria-by-the-Sea, and about ten minutes from the Confederation Bridge.

Can I make my own accommodation options?

To maintain the intimate group feel of the retreat, this year’s retreat is only open to participants staying at the farmhouse.

Is the retreat accessible for folks with mobility issues?

The farmhouse is three stories, and the bedrooms are located on the second and third floors. The third floor stairs are a little steep. Full shared bathrooms are located on both the second and third floors. A powder room is located on the first floor. There is a den with a pullout bed (not advertised) which may be suitable as a sleeping space for someone who is not able to use stairs. Be in touch to discuss this option, or with any specific questions or concerns about accessibility.

What can I do in Victoria-by-the-Sea?

Victoria-by-the-Sea is a lively historical seaside village, bustling with shops, restaurants, artisans, and activities like kayaking and cycling. It has walking trails and a beach. Check out this link for more information.

What else is there to do on PEI?

Too much to mention here! PEI is a food lover’s paradise and known for its incredible array of arts and antique shops. It boasts incredible hiking, biking and ocean kayaking, and of course the best beaches on the East Coast. Visit the About PEI section for more.

Do I need to rent a car?

If you’re travelling from afar, I strongly encourage participants to consider renting (or sharing) a car during their time on the Island, to make the most of your visit. The farmhouse is in a rural part of PEI with no scheduled transportation options, though with advanced planning, a shuttle or taxi can be arranged to drive you to the farmhouse from Charlottetown or elsewhere on the Island.

I’m not planning to rent a car. How to I get to Victoria-by-the-Sea?

Taxis are available from the Charlottetown airport. It’s about a half-hour ride.

What’s the weather like in May?

Variable. It’s an island, after all! Evenings will be cool, but days are generally warm, with daytime temperatures reaching the high teens. In other words, the perfect temperature to enjoy some time outside, but cozy enough to snuggle in with your writing.

What if I want to travel with a friend?

Great! We offer a special incentive and discount for friends joining the retreat together. Check out our Rates + Booking page for more information.

Can I bring my partner if they’re not part of the retreat?

Absolutely. Your partner can enjoy the Island while you dive deeper into your writing practise. Partners will still need to pay the full retreat cost, even if they do not plan to take part in the writing. Partners or friends sharing a room will be charged the retreat rate for double occupancy.

Looking for a sneak peek behind the scenes? Read my interview with Yolande Essiembre, a previous retreat participant.