Bali Writing Retreat

6 - 12 June 2027

I'm ready to write!

Bali Writing Retreat

Escape the Everyday. Focus on Your Story.

Step away from the distractions of everyday life and immerse yourself in dedicated writing time, practical workshops and personalised guidance—all in a beautiful location.

5 nights / 6 days 6 - 12 June 2027

Register early and save $250 NZD

Give your story the time, space, and support it deserves.

Edit Co. writing retreats combine beautiful destinations with dedicated writing time, professional guidance and a supportive community of fellow writers.

This is time to write, learn, ask questions, untangle story problems and make real progress with the support of an experienced editor and book coach by your side.

You’ll be part of a small, supportive group of writers who understand what it means to have a story calling for attention.

Your Destination …

Escape to the peaceful coastal village of Lovina in North Bali, where life moves at a gentler pace and the distractions of everyday life begin to fade away.

Far from the crowds of southern Bali, Lovina is known for its black sand beaches, calm waters, lush tropical landscapes and relaxed atmosphere—making it the perfect setting to focus on your writing.

Our boutique accommodation has been carefully selected to provide both comfort and inspiration. Spend your mornings enjoying workshops in beautiful open-air spaces, writing beside the pool in the afternoon, and unwind each evening with spectacular sunsets over the Bali Sea.

When it's time to step away from your manuscript, explore the local surrounds, indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, wander through nearby villages or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings before returning to your story with a fresh perspective.

Lovina offers the ideal balance of creativity, comfort and tranquillity—an inspiring destination where your manuscript can finally have your full attention.

What Writers Are Saying About Past Retreats.

I was so thrilled to meet Helen at a recent writers retreat that she co-hosted with her skills as an Editor. The insight and knowledge and help she brought to the group was invaluable. Her caring, positive personality shone through, genuinely helping us perfect our writing and succeed as authors. Her editing, IT and networking skills we're truly helpful to me and I highly recommend Helen if you're serious about writing.

— Annette Janes, Bali 2026

This was just what the doctor ordered! Totally recommend these writing retreats. Helen Thornton-Gussy you taught me more in one week than all the other workshops and masterclasses I've attended combined.

— Angie Belcher, Bali 2026

Bali Writing Retreat

Led by professional editor and book coach Helen Thornton-Gussy, each session is designed to give you practical tools, fresh insights, and the confidence to strengthen your manuscript.

Drawing on years of experience working with authors across a wide range of genres, Helen combines industry knowledge with hands-on teaching to help you identify what your story needs and how to take it to the next level.

Whether you're writing your first novel or preparing your next book for publication, every session focuses on techniques you can apply immediately to your own work.

Session topics may include:

  • Creating compelling openings that hook readers from the very first page

  • Building memorable characters and authentic dialogue

  • Strengthening plot, pacing and story structure

  • Writing scenes with purpose and emotional impact

  • Showing instead of telling

  • Editing your own work with greater confidence

  • Avoiding common writing pitfalls

  • Understanding your publishing options

  • Preparing your manuscript for submission or self-publication

Every session is interactive and encourages discussion, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, workshop ideas and receive guidance that relates directly to your own manuscript.

Frequently Asked Questions

    • Deposit: NZD $650 non-refundable deposit to secure your place

    • Early Bird: NZD $3,250 per person

    • Standard Price: NZD $3,500 per person (after Early Bird places have sold out)

    • Final Payment: The remaining balance must be paid no later than 90 days before the retreat begins.

  • Your Writing Experience

    • Expert-led writing workshops

    • One-on-one coaching session

    • Daily dedicated writing time

    • Personalised editorial guidance throughout the retreat

    • Retreat workbook and writing resources

    Your Stay

    • Five nights' boutique accommodation

    • Daily breakfast

    • Selected lunches and dinners*

    • Tea, coffee and water

    • Complimentary group transfer to the retreat**

    • Complimentary tour to the West Coast or a Lovina Dolphin Cruise

    • Two complimentary Balinese massages

      * Not included: Saturday dinner, Wednesday (tour day) lunch, and Thursday group dinner in Lovina.

      ** To take advantage of the complimentary group transfer to the retreat, guests must be available for pick-up from Sanur 9:00 a.m. onwards on Saturday, 5 June.

      Guests who are unable to join the scheduled transfer will be responsible for arranging their own transport to the retreat.

    • Learn from a professional editor and book coach with over nine years' experience.

    • Receive personalised feedback on your own manuscript.

    • Small group sizes mean individual attention.

    • Practical workshops you can apply immediately.

    • Relax in beautiful Lovina while making genuine progress on your book.

  • Cancellation by Participant

    If you cancel:

    • More than 90 days before the retreat: all monies paid, excluding the deposit, will be refunded.

    • Within 90 days of the retreat: payments are non-refundable unless your place can be filled.

    • If we are able to fill your place, we may, at our discretion, refund monies paid less any administrative costs.

    • Bookings may be transferred to another person with prior written approval.

    Cancellation by Edit Co.

    • If we are required to cancel the retreat due to circumstances beyond our control, participants will receive a full refund of monies paid to Edit Co.

    • We are not responsible for any additional expenses incurred, including flights, accommodation, visas, insurance, or other travel arrangements.

  • Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is required and is a condition of attending the retreat.

  • Participants are responsible for ensuring they:

    • hold a valid passport;

    • meet Indonesia's current entry requirements;

    • obtain any required visas;

    • comply with all customs and immigration requirements.

    Any costs associated with failing to meet entry requirements are the responsibility of the participant.

  • Not at all. Whether you're writing your first novel, polishing your tenth manuscript, or somewhere in between, you'll be welcome. Workshops are designed to meet you where you are and provide practical guidance you can immediately apply to your writing.

  • Yes. While the retreat includes workshops, coaching, and excursions, there's also plenty of time to write, relax by the pool, enjoy a massage, or simply soak up the peaceful surroundings.

  • We intentionally keep numbers small so everyone receives individual attention and has the opportunity to build meaningful connections with fellow writers.

  • Only if you want to. This is a supportive, judgment-free environment. Sharing is always optional.