Glen Lake Retreat: “Writing Camp Heaven!”

Next Glen Lake Retreat: September 7-14, 2024

Download the archived 2023 Summer Retreat Brochure here

Peninsula Writers has moved the newly renamed Glen Lake Retreat (formerly known as the PW Summer Retreat but also AKA “Writing Camp Heaven”) from June to September. Villa Glen is under new management, and the new management is unable to accommodate our group during the busy, high demand summer months. We are planning the next late summer retreat for September, 2023.

History

Every June for decades, PW members have had the opportunity to attend a week-long writing conference/retreat at Villa Glen, on the shores of Glen Lake.  For many members, this is the highlight of the PW experience: writers have opportunities to discuss their craft with others who share their passion, daily small group meetings offer help and support with specific pieces of writing, large group gatherings build camaraderie, and ample time for writing is always provided.  Several small, optional craft talks by members are offered throughout the week.  And there are many opportunities for informal discussion and activities.

Villa Glen circa 1993

In addition, each conference presents a professional writer as a keynote speaker (except for this year, 2021). Past presenters include: poet Mary Ann Samyn; Laura Kasischke; Jack Driscoll; Heather Sellers; Gerry LaFemina; among many others. All have stimulated thought and discussion—and writing.  Also, each conference ends with a “read-around,” a gathering allowing a chance for everyone to hear a small sample of each writer’s work.

Writers looking for a break from their work will find plenty of opportunities, from swimming or kayaking in Glen Lake itself to campfires and s’mores on the beach.  Leelanau County also has more than its share of natural beauty to explore: checking out the view of Glen Lake from Inspiration Point, hiking Pyramid Point for its stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands, taking Pierce Stocking Drive into the National Park, visiting the bluffs at Empire or the remains of the old farming community at Port Oneida – too many opportunities to list here.  And for those who want to shop, there are plenty of art galleries, craft shops and independent book sellers.

But lovely as the Leelanau is, for most PW members it is the writing and the conference atmosphere that bring them back to future conferences.  We hope you’ll consider joining us.