RETREATS
What to Expect
Fern & Fiction retreats are small, peaceful gatherings for readers who love books and quiet spaces. You bring your own book — or find one through our book swap — and spend the weekend reading, resting, and connecting in a beautiful natural setting.
No panels, no pressure – just rest, reading, and room to breathe.
The Weekend at a Glance
Though each retreat will be slightly different based on the location, the number of guests, and the level of engagement everyone wants, here's what a typical schedule might look like:
Friday — Arrival & Unwinding
Settle in. Exhale. Begin.
-
Guests will arrive at the retreat location around 5:00 pm and take your time easing into the space. Unpack, choose a cozy reading spot, and let the weekend begin without rush or expectation.
-
We’ll gather for a relaxed girl dinner--simple, comforting, and communal--before offering an optional welcome circle.
-
This gentle opening evening is a chance to meet one another, share names, and set intentions for a quiet, restorative weekend together. Nothing is required. Rest is already happening.
-
Quiet time begins at 10:00 p.m. for those who are prioritizing rest.
Saturday — Reading Day
Unhurried hours. Shared quiet.
-
Saturday begins with a light breakfast, enjoyed slowly.
-
Afterward, we’ll host a book swap, where you’re welcome to bring a favorite title to share and discover something new to read.
-
The rest of the day is devoted to reading, resting, and being. Find a chair by the window, curl up on the couch, or read outside if the weather invites it.
-
A light lunch and snacks will be available throughout the day, so you never need to leave your book for long.
-
In the evening, we’ll come together for a group dinner, followed by our second group circle--a calm, reflective close to a full day of reading and rest.
-
Quiet time begins at 10:00 p.m. for those who are prioritizing rest.
For those who want a change of pace, there will be an optional gentle walk in nature--no pressure, no distance goals, just fresh air and quiet companionship. There will also be optional add-ons depending on our location, like a massage at a local spa, a wine tasting, or a visit to a local bookstore for some shopping.
Sunday — Closing & Departure
Slow goodbyes.
-
Sunday morning is intentionally soft. We’ll wake up slowly and share a final light breakfast together.
-
Before departing, we’ll gather for our final circle--a moment to reflect, listen, and carry the feeling of the weekend with us as we return home.
-
Departures begin by 10:00 a.m., with no rush and no formal ending--just quiet gratitude and lingering calm.
What Previous Guests Have Said
"This is a chance to disconnect from your day-to-day and focus on spending time with books and building community. A lovely little pause!"
"This experience was so peaceful, intentional, and nourishing for me. Gathering with other women who can gift themselves with this magical experience was so treasured."
"Wow! I really enjoyed having time away to do what I love most--read! The beautiful and relaxing lake house was the perfect setting."
"Being a mom of three, I appreciated time to focus on me, on quiet, and on connecting with other women."
Our First Chapter: The Finger Lakes
Our first retreats take place in New York’s Finger Lakes region — a landscape of lakes, vineyards, and ferns. Future retreats will expand across New York State, from the Hudson Valley to the Adirondacks.
To receive updates as new retreat locations are announced: