Writing Workshops &
Cultural Tours in Iceland

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic we have decided not to hold the IWR in October 2020. The Iceland Writers Retreat and Iceland Readers Retreat are scheduled for April 2021; registration will open on October 1.

Join us for a series of workshops and panels led by an esteemed team of international writers.

Between intimate workshops and lectures we’ll offer the chance to tour the spectacular Golden Circle, sit in the cozy cafes of Reykjavik, soak in geothermal hot springs, listen to new Icelandic music, meet contemporary Icelandic writers, and learn about the country’s rich literary tradition.

In 2021, we are also launching the Iceland Readers Retreat, which will run concurrently to the IWR at the same locations. Featuring New Yorker staff writer Adam Gopnik (in 2021), the IRR is an event for avid readers to delve into the oeuvre of an internationally recognized author, as well as the extensive literary traditions and heritage of Iceland. Find out more here.

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"Absolutely superb in every way."

Rozalind Dineen, Features Editor at the Times Literary Supplement (TLS)
"Quite possibly the world's most special creative writing course."

Travel writer Rory Maclean, 2018 faculty
"If you have a chance to attend the Iceland Writers Retreat, leap at it roaring."

Lauren Groff, National Book Award nominee and 2018 faculty
"It was life changing ... an incredible experience"

Kevin Larimer, Editor in Chief, Poets & Writers
"One of the world's best writers' retreats"

The Sydney Morning Herald
"Gets better and better every year."

Laurie, US, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 participant
"For a writer, it doesn't get much better than this"

Huffington Post
"One of the most thoughtfully planned, helpful, and inspirational events ever."

Carol, 2015, 2016, 2017 participant
"The perfect place to discover literary inspiration"

The Daily Beast

Workshops & Panels

Our workshops are led by acclaimed fiction and non-fiction writers from around the world.

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Touring

Participants can choose between three exclusive full-day outings into the Icelandic countryside. All day tours are led by and feature contemporary Icelandic writers. (Note: In 2021 there may be fewer day tours on offer. All participants can attend one all-day tour.)

Tour Options

Time to Write

Dedicated blocks of time throughout the retreat allow participants to focus on their writing. Extend your visit with the “Relax, Read & Write” option that includes two group dinners, an open mike night, and the option of an additional two nights’ accommodation.

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Music, Food, & More

Hit the streets of Reykjavik to see live music, listen to readings by local writers, dine at some of Reykjavik’s best eateries. and mingle with faculty and other participants at our Cocktail Receptions.

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