Rockvale Writers' Colony

I was way behind in meeting the start of my self-imposed book writing project and decided to go somewhere to hole up for a couple weeks and singularly focus. After browsing Airbnbs and retreat rentals I had presence of mind to google "writers retreat" and Rockvale Writers Colony (RWC) popped up. My lucky day (more like my lucky 2 weeks)!

Sandy, the welcoming and generous founder and director, provides writers of all ilk with this rich, nurturing rural environment for getting writing done and playing too – because that stimulates the writing! Hiking, pool and tennis and then go back to your deluxe ensuite bedroom in the big vintage luxe farmhouse. They all have serious writing desks and writing nooks are scattered throughout the labyrinthine main building. Before Sandy purchased and established the RWC property as a nonprofit, the place was a high end B&B so writers are tucked away in luxury yet she keeps the rates very accessible.

I highly recommend RWC when you want to cloister yourself, create a disciplined framework and revel in rejuvenating beauty! Quiet hours are 7am to 5pm.
– Becca Williams

Had a wonderful experience while a Writer-in-Residence last week. I stayed in the main building and it was amazing - so peaceful and quiet, and such a treat to have the week dedicated to writing. Everything I needed was right on hand, and the kitchen was very well-equipped. It was a joy to wake up every morning and have breakfast and some time to journal on the brick and stone patio before digging in to working on my writing project the rest of the day. A hawk, an owl, and deer were my daily entertainments, and I enjoyed hiking on the trails past the barn before leaving for home. Highly recommend the warm, non-intrusive hospitality of this place!

I had such a wonderful experience in my residency at Rockvale this summer. It was my first residency, and it was restorative and game-changing for me, reminding me just how I need to prioritize my time as a professional writer while balancing the buzz of the rest of the world. I hope to apply again in the future and stay even longer--it was that emphatically valuable to me as a writer. The land is gorgeous, the rooms exactly what I needed, and the staff is incredibly kind and flexible and helpful.

The only thing I wish I could change about my experience at Rockvale is that I had come sooner! I spent a wonderful week here in July for an individual residency and was truly surprised at how quickly I settled into the beautiful surroundings and got some serious work done. My writing output greatly exceeded my expectations, and I completed difficult projects that I would not have had the time or quiet space for at home. Sandy and Heather are perfect hosts and the atmosphere for writing couldn't be better. I loved all the little writing nooks throughout the property and the care to details throughout that draw the eye and awaken the senses. I don't know that I will be able to attend every year, but I know I will be back!

Rockvale Writers' Colony is everything it's website claims and more. It is created and staffed by those who are themselves creative, therefore understand fully the varied components contributing to a productive interlude for concentrated work. The location is not remote yet is secluded in Nature's beauty. Total comfort is found in accommodations offering vibes from rustic to luxurious. The perfect place to encounter others like yourself while losing yourself in your work. I hope to spend a week there in the not-too-distant future!