Give your writing the time it deserves at Retreat with Meg writing retreats
How often does your writing come last? After work, family, the people who need you and the many things that fill your days?
A writing retreat gives you the chance to step away from those demands and spend time with your work. There’s room to write, think, experiment, talk through ideas and enjoy the company of other writers who understand why this matters to you.
I bring together my experience as a writer, editor and creativity coach to create writing retreats where you can settle into your writing, work at your own pace and give your creative work the attention it deserves.
I have recently just come down to earth after attending one of Meg’s writing retreats. I went with no expectations other than granting myself many guilt-free, responsibilities-free hours to write and maybe gain some direction and guidance as to where on earth I was going.
I’m happy to say I have managed to find my direction – all it needs now is for me to do my part.
I would thoroughly recommend joining Meg on one of her retreats if you think you need a bit of direction, some space to relax and concentrate on your writing and yourself. The accommodation at Karma Kinglake was fantastic, with my own space, privacy and peace. I also enjoyed the writing exercises, some of which took me way out of my comfort zone, but now I realise I needed that and they certainly expanded my vision and tested my bravery. And the food! Just don’t go if you’re on a diet.
Thank you, Meg, for just what I needed. I now have huge plans.
Virginia L, New Zealand, March 2026
Feedback from past participants
Meg fosters a relaxed, collegiate, and creative environment | Melissa Manning, Award Winning Author
Meg’s writing retreats foster a relaxed, collegiate, and creative environment. There’s something really special about this. I have now been on three Retreat with Meg writing retreats. Every time has… Read more “Meg fosters a relaxed, collegiate, and creative environment | Melissa Manning, Award Winning Author”
Found clarity and confidence at writing retreat | Cici E, Author
I had been searching for someone or something to join, be supported by and/or mentored. In my quest to write my book, I felt stuck, not knowing which way to… Read more “Found clarity and confidence at writing retreat | Cici E, Author”
Writing retreat exceeded my expectations | Karen P, Emerging Author
Retreat with Meg at gorgeous Karma Kinglake was an incredible experience, far exceeding my expectations. I loved having my own cottage, delicious meals and the opportunity to attend a workshop… Read more “Writing retreat exceeded my expectations | Karen P, Emerging Author”
I had high expectations for this retreat, and it was so much more than I'd hoped. Meg thought of everything. From planning to execution, it was relaxing, productive, interesting, inclusive and affirming. An easy drive from Melbourne, with the bush at our doorstep we retreated to our beautiful rooms to write; came together in workshops (indoor and outdoor), to eat (amazing food prepared by Meg), and relax by the fire to talk writing and life. The dedicated time, with Meg as host and workshop leader was a privilege. It allowed me to reconnect with my writing practice and my work in progress. The other participants were such smart, warm, interested and talented people - I feel very lucky to have shared the time with them. I'm looking forward to returning next year. I highly recommend a retreat with Meg.
– Melissa Manning, Author of Smokehouse, Winner of 2022 Victorian Premier's Literary Award
Share with someone who needs time and space to write
Retreat with Meg writing retreat was a wonderful deep immersion into four days of writing. Thoughtfully put together it ensured that all of us, no matter what stage or level we were at, were all more than adequately looked after. The structure of the days meant that there was plenty of opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the location as well as spend as little or as much time with our work as we wanted. In the evenings Meg encouraged us to come together to spend time over a meal to relax and get to know each other which was also a happy way to end the day. I absolutely enjoyed all aspects of the retreat. I came away feeling like I had not only had an incredibly positive experience but also a more than special time to spend writing!
– Lynn P, Emerging author
The details
The venues
Always chosen for their beautiful surroundings
I have chosen each venue for my retreats for the quiet spaces they provide for writers to think and write, and for their proximity to beautiful and natural surroundings.
Retreat with Meg (Karma Kinglake, VIC)
Kinglake is 56 km north-east of Melbourne CBD. The Karma Kinglake property is a short distance from the town and Kinglake National Park. It's about a ninety-minute drive from Melbourne. Participants are responsible for their own transport. Options include carpooling or commuting by train to Mernda and bus to Kinglake.
The property includes four cottages, a guesthouse and studio and communal area. Each building has tables, wood fires and lounge areas. All participants have their own bedroom with kingsize beds and work table. The stunning outdoors has beautiful Australian native gardens, seating areas and surroundings to help unwind, find inspiration or explore.
My services
I coach, facilitate and nurture
As a writer, editor and creativity coach, I know that sometimes we need uninterrupted time to get the words down, and sometimes we need to stop and work out what's getting in the way.
My retreats make room for both. Depending on the retreat, there may be writing workshops, opportunities to talk through your project, individual coaching and conversations with other writers. Participation in workshops is optional, so you can make the time work for you and your writing.
Retreat with Meg structure
A balance of structured and unstructured time
Whether you are attending virtual or physical Retreat with Meg writing retreats, the structure provides you with the perfect balance of structured and unstructured time. This gives you freedom to work to your own rhythm and to listen to your body and mind.
The retreats begin with welcoming and time to set intentions. We gather each evening for readings and a communal dinner to chat about the day.
You can join the complementary one-on-one coaching session and daily optional writing workshops. Self-serve breakfasts and lunches allow for flexibility and uninterrupted writing time. You can use the time to read, nap, write or explore the surroundings.
The retreat closes with reflections and intention setting to ensure you leave with a clear plan on how to continue the attention to your writing.
Catering
My writing retreats are fully catered
Retreat with Meg writing retreats are fully catered with a fresh and healthy menu.
Breakfast and lunch are self-serve and dinners are a communal meal. Pantry items like tea and coffee, fruit and cake are provided.
The main dietary requirements are taken into account.
Number of participants
Small groups, with room to concentrate
I keep my retreats small enough for writers to get to know one another and for me to offer individual attention. There is room to share ideas and talk about your work, as well as space to close the door, settle in and write.
Inclusions
Come with your laptop and clothes
Retreat with Meg participants receive:
- luxurious accommodation with private bedrooms and ensuite
- intention setting and writing clarity masterclasses
- optional daily writing and coaching masterclass
- evening facilitated writing conversations to workshop ideas, roadblocks and breakthroughs
- access to an extensive writing and creativity resource library of over 45 titles
- goody bag on arrival
- nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and fruit and snacks for morning and afternoon tea
- delicious, healthy and seasonal dinners
- cheese platters and refreshments each evening
- a range of teas and espresso machine coffee
- two bathrooms with baths
- one hour coaching and/or mentoring
- free wifi
- extensive use of property
- access to walks in local state and national parks.
All Retreat with Meg writing retreats alumni receive the following benefits:
- 15% off the Creative Empowerment 12-Week Coaching Program (new clients only)
- a private online writing community to support each other and promote writing news
- twice-yearly face-to-face gatherings.
Retreat with Meg testimonials
Meg was born to run writing retreats and coach creative people | C Leslie, Emerging Writer
Meg was born to run retreats and coach creative people. Her energy and attention to detail turned this retreat into… Read more “Meg was born to run writing retreats and coach creative people | C Leslie, Emerging Writer”
Writing retreat was a high level of professionalism and expertise | Rhiannon D, Emerging Writer
Meg’s writing retreat was run with a high level of professionalism and expertise. Meg’s style of leadership made the time… Read more “Writing retreat was a high level of professionalism and expertise | Rhiannon D, Emerging Writer”
Writing retreat exceeded my expectations | Karen P, Emerging Author
Retreat with Meg at gorgeous Karma Kinglake was an incredible experience, far exceeding my expectations. I loved having my own… Read more “Writing retreat exceeded my expectations | Karen P, Emerging Author”
Re-energise your writing at a writing retreat | Annie R, Playwright
Before I attended Meg’s writing retreat, I had a play script that was three quarters of the way finished, so… Read more “Re-energise your writing at a writing retreat | Annie R, Playwright”
Found clarity and confidence at writing retreat | Cici E, Author
I had been searching for someone or something to join, be supported by and/or mentored. In my quest to write… Read more “Found clarity and confidence at writing retreat | Cici E, Author”
Meg fosters a relaxed, collegiate, and creative environment | Melissa Manning, Award Winning Author
Meg’s writing retreats foster a relaxed, collegiate, and creative environment. There’s something really special about this. I have now been… Read more “Meg fosters a relaxed, collegiate, and creative environment | Melissa Manning, Award Winning Author”
Writing retreat allowed me to reconnect to my writing practice | Melissa Manning, Award Winning Author
Meg’s writing retreat allowed me to reconnect with my writing practice and my work in progress. I had high expectations… Read more “Writing retreat allowed me to reconnect to my writing practice | Melissa Manning, Award Winning Author”
Writing retreat feedback | Beverly H, Author
This writing retreat feedback is after a 5 day writing retreat It was wonderful to connect with like minded people.… Read more “Writing retreat feedback | Beverly H, Author”
Writing retreat reignited my joy for writing | Susan Green, Award Winning Author
I signed up for my Retreat with Meg because I wanted to reignite my joy in writing. It was a… Read more “Writing retreat reignited my joy for writing | Susan Green, Award Winning Author”
The place and people made me work harder and get on with writing
Meg's writing retreat exceeded my expectations. The location was not too far from Melbourne and in the middle of nature and Australian bush.
The small group of five writers were interesting and comfortably shared their experience, knowledge and were open about their writing challenges. Meg served food with love.
I will be back.
– Katarina Cobain, Emerging writer
Huge gratitude, Meg!
I was amazed at what I could achieve in four days on this retreat and credit for this has to go to Meg for providing such a nourishing environment. I had modest hopes of mapping out some of my novel's structure and returned with a pretty extensive story map and a strong sense of purpose for how I will take my writing journey along this path. No coincidence that I developed new skills in managing my writing self-doubt which I believe freed me up.
– Sue White, Author of The Cut and Take the Shot
A much needed experience I didn't know I needed
The retreat provided atmosphere, privacy, sacred space and relaxation that helped me capture the words as they unravelled into story. The conversation and connection with other writers was heart-held and inspiring. I set an intention to trust myself as a writer and to own my style – all of which I achieved with Meg's coaching and guidance. Meg created a space where there was room for everything and all of it.
I will be back again.
– Annabelle Sharman, Author of The Future Ancestor
I highly recommend Meg’s retreats
Her warmth and generosity created a beautiful space for four incredible days. Meg had everything we could wish for from candles in our rooms to fabulous food. I couldn’t have been better!
– Tracy P, Emerging writer
My first time at Retreat with Meg writing retreats was fabulous
The second time was every bit as good, and valuable.
I've already booked my next one.
– Melissa Manning, Author of Smokehouse, Winner of 2022 Victorian Premier's Literary Award
Meg's writing retreat provides a safe and inspiring space to knuckle down and write
Nutritious food and a very well structured program with heaps of time to write, think, be, rest, create, refuel and reflect. Highly recommended.
– Karen Hollenbach, Writer and Editor
I enjoyed every minute a Retreat with Meg
As a writer new to the world of retreats, it's hard to quantify how much I've gained from the Retreat. It was a blessing to have the time to write in such idyllic surrounds while being nurtured with a steady supply of sustenance. I enjoyed every minute at the Retreat and will definitely be booking another Retreat with Meg soon!
– Claire McClelland, Emerging Writer
Meg’s insights on the work are deep, offering fresh points to explore
Meg’s been organising our writing retreats for years and it has never ceased to amaze me how she makes it all come together so seamlessly. The retreat’s structure and setting facilitate immersive concentration that I simply couldn’t get even if I were home alone. I leap at the opportunity to be involved in anything she offers and am forever grateful to be involved with such a generous soul!
– Nicky Heaney, Writer and Editor
Trust is the first word that springs to mind
Meg holds space for my writing and me as a creative and – perhaps more importantly – has genuine understanding and support for the world outside writing. When we take time away from our families, our lives, when we write, I can absolutely trust Meg to be dependable and have my back during this time.
– Kim Hood, Writer and Editor
A truly enabling weekend
– Katrina Watson, Author of The Bones
I feel like Meg was born to run writing retreats and coaching creative people
Her energy and attention to detail turned this writer's retreat into a magical experience.
– Carolyn Leslie, Writer and Editor
Thank you Meg!
Retreat with Meg proved to be a bootcamp for my writing, helping me to push through the dreaded 'middle of the novel' in a supportive, peaceful and motivating environment.
– Susannah Glenn, Author of Between Husbands and Wives
If you're looking for a quiet, nourishing place and time to get your writing or creative work done, can highly recommend this upcoming retreat with my wonderful friend - writer, coach & chief carer & organiser - Meg Dunley. Over the last seven years, Meg has been responsible for booking & organising our self-led writing retreats in the gorgeous surrounds of Musk Farm. As a writer, she knows first hand the value of quiet, validated space & time to work away from other life obligations, and as a coach & logistically minded human, she preempts challenges, asks timely questions & listens with compassion.
– Kate Mildenhall, Podcaster at The First Time, Author of Skylarking, The Mother Fault & The Hummingbird Effect
Retreat with Meg
Interested in a future writing retreat?
My writing retreats take place at different times and may offer different settings and experiences. If you'd like to hear when new retreats are announced, you can register your expression of interest.
I'll email you when I have news to share about upcoming retreats, so you can explore the options and decide whether one is right for you.