ABOUT THE RETREAT
Introduction to Nature Writing at Cabilla
Find a supportive and inspiring space
in which to develop your voice and creativity.
What happens when we slow down enough to truly notice the world around us?
Nestled within the ancient temperate rainforest of Cabilla, the home of Our Oaken Bones, this three-night retreat invites you to immerse yourself in nature, creativity and the art of attentive observation.
Inspired by the landscape that shaped Merlin Hanbury-Tenison's bestselling memoir and the remarkable restoration of this unique corner of Cornwall, we will explore how paying close attention to the natural world can deepen both our writing and our connection to place.
Through guided walks, practical workshops and quiet moments of reflection, participants will learn the foundations of nature writing: observing with curiosity, writing with authenticity and discovering the stories held within landscapes, wildlife and personal experience. There will also be opportunities for optional yoga, nature sketching and one-to-one guidance, alongside plenty of time to wander the woods, read, write and simply be.
Whether you are an experienced writer or putting pen to paper for the first time, this retreat offers a supportive and inspiring space in which to develop your voice and creativity.
Throughout the Retreat:
No previous writing experience is required.
Daily optional yoga
Guided nature writing workshops
Individual tutor consultations
Ample free time for writing, reading and walking
Optional nature sketching and field journalling
Supportive sharing opportunities in a relaxed environment
The Itinerary
-
3:00-4.00pm - Arrivals
4.00pm - Afternoon Tea
5.00–6.00pm - Welcome Gathering
• Introduction from hosts
• Meet your tutor and fellow participants
• Overview of the retreat structure
• What is nature writing?
• Setting intentions for the week6.00–7.00pm - Free Time
Settle into rooms, explore the grounds or relax.7.00–8.30pm - Dinner
8.30pm - Informal Evening Gathering
A relaxed conversation in the lounge with readings from the tutor and an opportunity to get to know one another. -
7.30 am - Optional Yoga Session
8.30–9.30am - Breakfast
9.30–11.00am - Outdoor Nature Writing Session
A guided walk exploring observation, attention and sensory awareness. Practical notebook exercises designed to help participants notice the details of landscape, wildlife and atmosphere.11.00am–12.30pm - Indoor Workshop:
From Observation to Description
Exploring how field notes become vivid prose through writing exercises and discussion.12.30–1.30pm - Lunch
2.00–5.30pm - Free Writing and Reflection Time
Participants are encouraged to write, read, walk or spend time in nature.Optional Activities:
• Nature sketching and field journalling
• Independent writing exercises
• Suggested reading from the tutorDuring this period:
2.00–4.00pm - Individual One-to-One Sessions:
15–20 minute consultations with the tutor to discuss writing ideas, projects and questions.7.00–8.30pm - Dinner
8.30pm - Evening Gathering
Reading nature writing excerpts, discussion of craft, and conversation about developing a personal writing practice. -
7:30 - Optional Yoga Session
8.30–9.30am - Breakfast
9.30–11.00am - Outdoor Session:
Place, Memory and Story
Exploring the relationship between landscape, experience and personal voice.11.00am–12.30pm - Indoor Workshop:
Shaping a Nature Writing Piece
Structure, voice, editing and revision techniques.12.30–1.30pm - Buffet Lunch
2.00–5.30pm - Free Writing and Reflection Time
Optional Activities:
• Nature sketching session
• Solo writing time
• Reading and editingDuring this period:
2.00–4.00pm - Individual One-to-One Sessions7.00–8.30pm - Dinner
8.30pm - Evening Gathering:
Pathways to Publication
Relaxing evening by the outdoor fire-pit to reflect and share ideas.* -
8.00–9.00am - Breakfast
9.00–10.15am - Final Workshop and Sharing
Participants are invited to share excerpts from work created during the retreat and reflect on their experience.10.15–10.45am - Closing Circle
Resources, next steps and farewell reflections.11.00am - Departure
We are finalising our itinerary so timings and some sessions are subject to change. If you have already booked you will be informed prior to the retreat.
*Fire-pit sessions weather dependant.
Pricing
£2,099
Single Occupancy
Single occupancy in a Koyt at Cabilla Cornwall offers a quiet, luxurious sanctuary surrounded by ancient woodland. With soft light, natural materials and deep stillness, it’s a space designed for rest, reflection and creative focus. Perfect for guests seeking solitude, comfort and uninterrupted connection to the landscape.
$1,499
Twin Occupancy
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Planning Your Stay
Dietary and Accessibility Requests
We will ask about any bespoke preferences or needs when you book, but please contact us to let us know up-to 2 weeks before the retreat if you have any changes or additional requests.
What clothing and footwear to pack
We recommend bringing lots of warm, waterproof clothing that dries easily, plus waterproof footwear. Bring warm layers for the day and especially for night, as it can get chilly – multiple pairs of warm socks are a must.
Wellies or walking boots are absolutely essential. We would recommend bringing a pair of slippers and/or thick socks to wear in your Koyt, as we kindly ask that you do not wear outdoor shoes inside.
Additional Ideas for Items to Bring with you
Notebook / Journal.
Pens / Pencils
Drawing, painting or sketching supplies
…..
Phone supply and phone chargers
There is a charging station in The Barns for electronic devices if necessary. Unfortunately, we cannot be held responsible for any personal items left unattended. We would recommend a digital detox and leaving your phone switched off!
Travel and how to find us
Please take a look at our contact page for more information on our location and available transport options
During Your Stay
Parking
There is ample space outside The Barns for you to park your vehicle.
Checking in and out
Check in at reception at The Barns when you arrive where our Cabilla Host team will be there to meet you. There, you will be given a tour around the site and shown to your Koyt. Please check out in the same way.
ARRIVAL TIME: Monday - 3:00-4.00pm
CHECK OUT BY: Thursday - 11:00am
Card-only payments
Cabilla is a cash-free site. You can pay by card or Apple Pay only.
Eating and drinking
Your catering is taken care of on site. Cabilla serve tea and coffee throughout the day and open Daphne’s bar for non-alcoholic mocktails in the evening. There are local farm shops nearby. Plus, there are local shops in Bodmin, just a 20-minute drive away.
Food storage
We have fridges and cupboards for you to store any food. Please bring your own containers to keep food in. We accept no responsibility for Cornish piskies that may move things in the night!
Toiletries
Luxury Bramley products are provided in the bathrooms and Koyts.
Bed linen and towels
Egyptian cotton bed linen and Atlantic blankets are provided in the Koyts. Plus towels for your stay and wild bathing.
Questions?
Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you have or to find out more.
We would love to chat and tell you more about this wonderful retreat!