The Blue Shore Writers Retreat
May 31 to June 6, 2026
Isle of Lewis, Scotland
The view on arrival is sea, stone, and sky—strandlines, ancient mountains, the historic Uig Lodge—
Surfaces shimmer in pure Hebridean light. Wind traveled heather threads the air. Take your sweet time to settle in, then wander afield to find the poems, a waterfall, or a secret pool.
An oystercatcher’s call signals an evening of candlelight and camaraderie. Dinner is served at a long table—meet us there. We promise laughter, friendship, and delicious food.
Our days begin softly, with quiet time to read and write, followed by guided workshops, animal encounters, and opportunities to wander off wherever you like.
Of course we'll also introduce you to some of our favorite local points of interest: each one a marvel. Allow us to surprise you with what we've planned!
By week's end, you'll have written and read, laughed and feasted and celebrated with us. You'll have gasped at the beauty of this place, over and over. You'll leave having been change—a little or a lot—by all of it.
How we spend our days
~unhurried hours to write, read, think, and speak about the things that matter most to us, right now
~writing time and creative facilitation to usher in new poems
~shared quiet and collective awe
~wandering the land to the blue edge of the sea
~wild swims, birdwatching, inspiring hikes
~deeper practice, forward movement, new directions
Join us—
Pack your notebook and a good pen.
This is where writers retreat.
Space for 14
For Invited Poets
If you have received a personal invitation—
→ Please go ahead and submit your retreat deposit below.
→ Details pertaining to the retreat location, lodging, and travel may be found here.
For Those Wishing to Join a Future Retreat
If you would like to be considered for a future gathering, you may add your name to our retreat interest list.
→ Inquire for Future Years
We warmly welcome poets—and secret poets—who are drawn to the poetics of place, to practices of attention and awe, and to the refreshment that comes from slowing down and stepping into "island time" within a gentle, supportive community of writers.
Come write with us at the edge of the world.
Meet us by the sea, in the fire lit evenings, and at the long table.
Make poems with us from the shimmer and wind.
We look forward to hosting you.
— Holly & Heather
Invited Poets: Register Here
Holly Wren Spaulding
Poet, writer, founder of Poetry Forge, and co-host of the Blue Shore Writers Retreat.
Heather Mackay Young
Poet, writer, healer, island-born guide, and co-host of the Blue Shore Writers Retreat.
Landing here, even once, is to find yourself
shaken into being.
—Niall Campbell, "The Island in the Sound"