Fun activities, beautiful nature, dedicated writing times, workshops on publishing and marketing, and an amazing community of authors working on fiction and nonfiction. In a castle.
Writing can be isolating, and sometimes you feel like you’re stuck on your computer all day. We want to give you a creative break to relax and enjoy both the social community and the nourishing power of natural beauty – while also making sure you leave with confidence, new skills and abilities to take your writing career to the next level. Sure, we could do it anywhere. But everything is better in a castle.
The castles we rent are furnished and comfortable, but also “rustic.” We want to recreate the magic of summer camp: the campfires, challenges, games and play – but also focus on building an educational program for writers. Other writing retreats will help you tell your story, but won’t provide you with the skills you need to build your platform.
We’ll be taking over the whole property; you can wander through the woods or ruins, then come back to the house to relax and write, in large indoor & outdoor working area. We’ll have plenty of outlets and the best wifi we can manage. You won’t be sleeping on the ground or cooking over the campfire (much), but it won’t be a 5 star experience either.
Writing in a castle created a truly authentic and magical experience for me. I was writing a dragon-shifter romance set in Cornwall during my time at the castle and I absorbed the inspiring and historical accurate atmosphere. It was also amazing to spend time with people from all over the world and share our love of writing.
Writing my first book ever in a castle with a bunch of experienced authors was a huge blessing. When I needed help, there was always someone ready to point me in the right direction. And of course, living in a castle was an adventure of a lifetime – don’t miss your chance!
Being in the castle inspired me in so many ways; the incredible people and ambiance gave me a boost to dream bigger, and the perfect environment to produce more. I’ll carry the great connections and memorable moments for life! I highly recommend it… with a warning that it may change your life.
Being in a castle with nomads, writers and entrepreneurs for a few weeks is as inspiring as it sounds. The environment provided me with new angles for future projects, and came with new friends that I’ve met up with numerous times since. I definitely would and recommend this to all who seek a truly memorable co-working/co-living experience.
Most writing retreats focus on craft – they help you tell the story you want to tell in the best way possible. I’m much more focused on reader-centric results… which means telling a story readers will love (and pay for).
The vast majority of authors lose money publishing their books, and I want to help writers make a living with books that sell themselves.
In just three weeks, you’ll get constructive feedback from a PhD in Literature and experience intensive writing techniques to boost your productivity and word count. You’ll leave with a firm outline, first chapter and marketing plan for your next bestseller.
There is nothing like being able to wake up in the morning in a beautiful, calm location and have the day to devote to your art and whatever inspires you. The people I met at the castle were some of the kindest and encouraging souls, and were a dream to live with and work next to. I still can remember the smell of the fireplace that we gathered around, the taste of the port we sipped, the crisp forest air as we explored the castle ground. Giving myself the time to create and rest was one of the best presents I’ve ever received.
I had no idea what to expect going into the NanoCastle experience, but it’s amazing how quickly you can adapt to waking up in an ornate bedroom, swatting away little green bugs, and spending almost your entire day investing in yourself and your story. I have never been more productive! Getting to explore the grounds, share group meals with people from around the world and play with the surprise castle-kitties was the added touch you’d be hard-pressed to find at any other kind of writing retreat. A+, would castle again.
Book your spot now with the “join now” buttons. You’ll be taken to PayPal for secure checkout.
These prices include 2 meals a day (we’ll take turns preparing a group dinner).
The castle was a magical experience, especially the people and the positive vibes. Everybody was so productive. We´d work and write during the day or go out on an occasional exploration trip. In the evening we´d have dinner, inspiring conversations and share our ideas. And all in the setting of a beautiful castle. It was one of my best experiences.
Working at NaNoCastle unleashed my creativity, connected me with a lively and inspiring group of people, and reminded me of the importance of taking care of myself with a break from the everyday. It’s like a supercharge for both work and relaxation, and it’s stuck with me as a reminder that the writing experience can be whatever story we want it to be.
At least one lucky author will win a free spot. You can also follow Derek on social media for castle updates.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I know not whether some deceitful spirits haunt this spot, or whether it be the warm, celestial fancy in my own heart which makes everything around me seem like paradise—everything imparts a pleasant but sublime impression.
