Acorn Writing Retreats at
The Oak Tree Inn,
Balmaha, Scotland
A Sanctuary of Inspiration
Within the heart of Balmaha beside the breathtaking Loch Lomond, The Oak Tree Inn provides an idyllic backdrop for your writing retreat in Scotland. Renowned for its charm, character and heart-warming hospitality, this multi-award winning venue offers the perfect space to focus, create and recharge.
As you immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings, you will discover inspiration around every corner. From the rustic writing rooms, where structured sessions take place to the cosy on-site bedrooms, you will be cocooned in comfort throughout your stay.
At Acorn Writing Retreats, we place great importance on the “treat” aspect, ensuring your experience is nothing short of exceptional.
Acorn Writing Retreats
at The Oak Tree Inn
2026
6th - 9th of October
21st - 23rd of October
17th - 20th of November
15th - 18th of December
2027
19th - 21st of January
2nd - 4th of February
8th - 11th of March
4th - 7th October
8th - 10th November
14th - 17th December
Prices for each retreat are listed further down this page.
Where Inspiration
Meets Productivity
At our residential writing retreats at The Oak Tree Inn, the peacefulness of the Scottish countryside blends seamlessly with the structured writing sessions, creating an unparalleled writing experience.
Situated by the West Highland Way, the charming village of Balmaha offers scenic walking paths that are perfect to help clear your mind and spark fresh ideas between writing session. Every element of your retreat is designed to enhance both inspiration and productivity including a thoughtful schedule, nutritious meals and even the possibility of a refreshing dip in Loch Lomond.
Picture an environment dedicated to your professional growth, a haven away from everyday distractions, where your main focus is to achieve your writing goals and allow your thoughts to effortlessly translate into words on the page.
“The Acorn Writing Retreat at The Oak Tree Inn, Loch Lomond, was a fantastic experience that revitalised my writing. Set in a tranquil, picturesque environment, it provided comfortable accommodation and delightful food. The retreat, run by the attentive Rebecca, was well-organised and featured structured, uninterrupted writing sessions with short breaks, enhancing focus and accountability through shared progress updates. The small group setting allowed for personalised feedback and a sense of camaraderie. This retreat was not just beneficial for my writing but also a memorable experience I would love to repeat.”
— Emma G Akdag
The Schedule
Our residential writing retreats typically span three to four days, often commencing on a Tuesday at 1.30pm and concluding on a Friday at 2.30pm. However, please refer to the specific dates below and retreat calendar for exact timings.
Participants are encouraged to fully engage in all writing sessions, allowing you to make significant progress on your projects. During the remaining time, you will have the freedom to explore, network and unwind at your own pace.
For more information, read our blog post on What to Expect at a Writing Retreat at The Oak Tree Inn.
Please note that our schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions, so we may have extra moments to enjoy and explore the great outdoors.
Pricing Information
Upcoming Retreats
at The Oak Tree Inn
6th - 9th Oct ‘26 | Four Days (Tues-Fri)
21st - 23rd Oct ‘26 | Three Days (Wed-Thurs)
17th - 20th Nov ‘26 | Four Days (Tues-Fri)
15th - 18th Dec ‘26 | Four Days (Tues-Fri)
19th - 21st Jan ‘27 | Three Days (Tues-Thurs)
2nd - 4th Feb ‘27 | Three Days (Tues-Thurs)
8th - 11th Mar ‘27 | Four Days (Tues-Fri)
4th - 7th Oct ‘27 | Four Days (Mon-Thurs)
8th - 10th Nov ‘27 | Three Days (Mon-Wed)
14th - 17th Dec ‘27 | Four Days (Tues-Fri)
Three-Day Retreat Rates:
Growth £425 | Standard £555 | Community £675
Four-Day Retreat Rates:
Growth £550 | Standard £695 | Community £850
All rates are per person.
Growth Rate places are limited and subject to availability.
Bespoke Writing Retreats for Private Groups
If you are interested in a retreat on dates other than those listed, please get in touch.
While we can arrange bespoke retreats for private groups, please note that the summer months are particularly busy in Balmaha. We recommend considering dates from September to March for a more tranquil and focused writing experience.
Acorn Writing Retreats operates a three-tiered pricing model, allowing writers to select the rate most appropriate to their circumstances. Every writer receives the same retreat experience and standard of hospitality, regardless of the rate selected.
Retreat fees include accommodation, meals, refreshments, retreat materials, the structured writing programme and facilitation.
The Oak Tree Inn offers a range of accommodation options to suit your preferences, including single occupancy rooms, on-site eco-pods, charming nearby cottages, and the opportunity to upgrade to luxurious pods or superior bedrooms for extra indulgence.
+ £15 per night for upgrade to eco-pod or superior bedroom.
+ £30 per night for upgrade to superior pod/family room.
There is also the option to extend your stay for a relaxed start and/or finish to your retreat experience. (Prices vary depending on the season so best to directly contact The Oak Tree Inn for best deal).
Deposit: A £200 deposit is required to confirm your place. The remaining balance is due 28 days before the retreat begins.
Please read our Terms & Conditions for further details.
Gift Vouchers: Gift vouchers are available for Acorn Writing Retreats at The Oak Tree Inn and are valid for up to 12 months, subject to availability. They make a wonderful gift for a dear writer in your life. Or they are a great option if you would like to secure a future retreat using current funding but are not ready to commit to dates just yet.
