Nestled in the mountains, the retreat center prioritizes peace and presence. Spend a refreshing week working on your memoir and poetry. Enjoy encouraging workshops, good meals and good company.
A writing retreat in scenic new england
We are thrilled to announce our first-ever writing workshops in Vermont! This retreat offers a rare chance to step away from constant notifications and focus on your writing.
Combine an extended writing retreat with a relaxing summer vacation in the picturesque mountains of Vermont. This getaway blends our trademark challenging and supportive workshop experience with plenty of free time for you to write and bask in the refreshing New England summer. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced writer, you will return home energized by the tranquil setting and excited to continue writing.
“Freedom is offered to just write, talk about writing, think about writing and read others’ writing–so refreshing, restorative and encouraging. An atmosphere of friendliness makes the whole thing work. Thank you!”
~ Jerri, Meyersdale, PA
WORKSHOPs
August 9-14, 2026
Grafton, VT
Our retreats revolve around the belief that when writers leave behind the distractions of their busy lives to gather in an encouraging community, they are able to make important breakthroughs in their writing. Each workshop will offer craft discussion, writing prompts, writing time, feedback, motivation and inspiration. By spending the entire week in one workshop, you will venture deeper into your writing, making more progress than you thought possible.
You may choose to spend the week working on your memoir or poetry.
From Memory to Manuscript: A Memoir Workshop
This immersive week-long memoir workshop will help us transform lived experience into resonant, artful narrative. Through guided free-writes, readings from diverse voices and inventive generative exercises, we’ll engage all five senses to awaken both vivid and half-forgotten memories. We’ll practice shaping these memories into scenes, writing dialogue and reflecting as we navigate the delicate writer-reader pact around personal truth. Through supportive feedback in an encouraging community, we’ll learn how to conquer fear, doubt and creative resistance. Leave this workshop with new drafts, sharpened craft and renewed confidence in telling stories only you can tell. Beginning and experienced writers are welcome. Bring a work in progress or come as you are to start something brand new.
Limited to 12 participants — Led by Peter E. Murphy
The Art of Attention: A Poetry Workshop
In a time of distraction and overwhelm, poetry can reengage our thoughtfulness. In this generative workshop, we’ll experiment with different practices of attention—nature walks, meditation, drawing and deep listening—as portals into writing. We’ll read work by poets such as Ross Gay, Aimee Nezhukumatathil and Maggie Smith to explore how poetic elements like line and stanza breaks, images and sound can sustain our attention. Inspiring exercises and prompts will serve as invitations to writing new poems rooted in contemplation and care for the world around us. Beginning and experienced writers are welcome to reconnect with their creative spark in this supportive workshop.
Limited to 12 participants — Led by Nancy Reddy
“I went to two Live Free and Write retreats in Sunapee and I know my writing has improved. Good news: the book I’ve been working on has found a publisher and is due out in April. Thanks!”
~ Heidi, Norwich, VT
One-on-one Tutorials (Optional)
If you are looking for more feedback on your writing, you will have the option to add a one-on-one tutorial, which will offer a constructive critique on a work in progress. These one-on-one sessions will last 40 minutes, and you may request general feedback or seek assistance on a specific question or problem you are having. Led by Peter E. Murphy and Nancy Reddy for both prose (memoir, nonfiction and fiction) and for poetry. Limited quantity of one-on-ones available.
- You and your tutor will select a mutually convenient time during the week.
- No need to send your writing ahead of time; the tutors are experienced at providing constructive and supportive feedback in the time allocated.
- You may choose to bring something you wrote before the retreat or something you write during the week.
- Prepare for your tutorial by bringing two copies of a printed sample of your writing that is representative of a larger problem you are facing. For example, your challenge might have to do with plotting, point of view, tone or writing dialogue. The piece of work (or excerpt) you bring should be no more than 1,000 words so your tutor can offer you constructive advice within the 40-minute time period. In lieu of a writing sample, you may bring questions and concerns about your work or broader questions about writing and publishing.
Schedule
The program starts with dinner on March 9 and concludes March 14 before lunch.
Sunday
| 3:00 p.m. | Check in between 3:00 and 6:15 and settle in |
| 6:45 | Dinner |
| 8:00 | Welcome, orientation and craft discussion |
Monday-thursday
| 8:15 a.m. | Breakfast |
| 9:15 | Workshop (Refreshment break at 11:00) |
| 1:30 p.m. | Lunch |
| 2:30 | Writing and free time |
| 4:45 | Afternoon refreshments |
| 6:30 | Dinner |
| 8:00 | Free time for writing, relaxing and socializing |
friday
| 8:15 a.m. | Breakfast |
| 9:15 | Workshop and closing |
| 11:00 | Refreshments / depart |
“The week in NH has changed who I am: changed how I see myself, changed what I will do next, changed where I am going and who is going with me. I see writing differently too. Writing and listening to what others have written connects us, powerfully, core to core. I’m so glad I was at Live Free and Write. If this were a notebook and not an email I would be drawing little hearts in the margins.”
~ Marjorie, Philadelphia, PA
FACULTY
memoir workshop leader
Peter E. Murphy was born in Wales and grew up in New York where he managed a night club, operated heavy equipment and drove a taxi. He has been awarded six creative writing fellowships from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, which might be a record, as well as multiple residencies at Yaddo, The Atlantic Center for the Arts, The Millay Colony and other artist retreats. He has published a dozen books and chapbooks of nonfiction and poetry including A Tipsy Fairy Tale: A Coming of Age Memoir of Alcohol and Redemption (Toplight Books, 2024). Read “Their Last Argument” in The Sun and have a look at peteremurphy.com.
poetry workshop leader
Nancy Reddy is the author of The Good Mother Myth. Her previous books include the poetry collection Pocket Universe and the anthology The Long Devotion: Poets Writing Motherhood, which she co-edited with Emily Pérez. Her essays have appeared in Slate, Poets & Writers, Romper, The Millions and elsewhere. She teaches at Stockton University and lives in Collingswood with her family. She writes the newsletter Write More, Be Less Careful. Learn more on her website.
Accommodations
Venue
The Grafton Inn
92 Main Street
Grafton, VT 05146
This writing vacation will take place at The Grafton Inn, nestled within a quintessential country village in the lovely and unhurried town of Grafton, Vermont. The Grafton Inn’s team, who are eager to make your stay special, have put together a fantastic website to showcase their beautiful property.
The renovated accommodations at this southern Vermont hotel provide an authentic feel with historic charm, without skimping on modern amenities. Each uniquely decorated room has a cozy, charming feel and private bathroom.
A dream destination for foodies, Grafton, VT is part of the renowned Vermont Cheese Trail. Surrounded by several maple syrup producers, it’s within minutes to a variety of local farms and offers award-winning dining on site. You will be served delicious meals buffet style. If you have dietary restrictions, you’ll be able to note them during the registration process.
Nestled in the mountains, our setting will provide a private, peaceful backdrop for our workshops—perfect for disconnecting from distractions to get away to write. Cell service is more limited and wifi can be intermittent, which we see as a gift—an opportunity for deep focus, creative flow and genuine rest. (There will, of course, be a landline for emergencies!)
During your free time, you may wish to enjoy the tranquil grounds or explore the New England countryside. On-site amenities include:
- Common rooms with fireplaces
- A fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, bicycles and hiking trails
- A delightful fresh-water swimming pond
- Phelps Barn Pub featuring cocktails, mocktails and seasonal bites
- A game room featuring a pool table and ping-pong table
- Grafton Public Library
- The Turner Hill Interpretive Center that tells the story of Alec Turner, who escaped enslavement
You’ll also find on-site shops featuring maple syrup, cheeses, crafts and other local goods. There’s more just down the road, like Plummer’s Sugar House, Grafton Village Cheese Company, antique shops and other hidden gems.
The Grafton Inn is 2 hours from Albany, 2.5 hours from Boston and 4.5 hours from New York and North Jersey. See the Travel section below for directions and other travel information.
safety
By participating in this program, you are agreeing to abide by our Health and Safety Acknowledgement.
Pricing + Registration
Fees are on a sliding scale. If you are only able to pay at the lower end of the scale, we are glad to have you. If you are able to pay at the higher end of the scale, you will help Murphy Writing offer affordable programming for writers.
All-inclusive fee with Room Package – Includes:
- 6-day inspiring writing workshop in genre of your choice
- 6 days/5 nights accommodation with private bathroom
- Meals: 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
- Morning and afternoon snack and beverage breaks
- Access to on-site amenities described above
- After-hours activities, including a game night and readings by participants and faculty
Tuition + Room Package Options
- Sliding Scale Tuition with Double Room Package: $2,155-$2,455
- Per person – A room with one or two beds, for you and another participant. You can specify a roommate or we can match you with one. See FAQs about roommates below.
- Sliding Scale Tuition with Single Room Package: $2,815-$3,115
- A room with one bed, just for you.
- Sliding Scale Tuition with Shared Room Package: $3,285-$3,585
- A room with one or two beds, for you and a non-participating guest. Your guest may join us for meals and all non-workshop activities.
Fees do not include transportation, college credit, one-on-one tutorials, gratuities or personal expenses.
Special Commuter Option – Includes:
- 6-day inspiring writing workshop in genre of your choice
- Meals: 4 lunches
- Morning and afternoon snack and beverage breaks
- After-hours activities, including a game night and readings by participants and faculty
- Sliding Scale Tuition with Commuter Package: $1,395-$1,595
- Optional: Commuting participants can add on dinners for $67 per person per night. Many commuters add on all 5 dinners when registering. We recommend you add Sunday’s Opening Dinner at the very least.
One-on-one Tutorials (Optional)
To get even more out of your Get Away To Write experience, you can add-on the following tutorials.
- Tutorial in Prose with Peter E. Murphy or Nancy Reddy — $135
- Tutorial in Poetry with Peter E. Murphy or Nancy Reddy — $135
Registration Options
If you have trouble registering online, or if you don’t receive an email confirming your online registration within 24 hours, call us at 609-626-3594 or email us at murphywriting@stockton.edu.
The Fine Print
- By registering for this program, you are agreeing to uphold our Code of Conduct.
- By registering for this program, you are agreeing to abide by our Health and Safety Acknowledgement.
- To receive the “Early Bard” Discount ($100), you must register by June 15
- 50% deposit due upon registration
- Any remaining balance will be automatically charged on July 1
- Change Fee ($50) will be charged to make changes to your registration after July 1
- Your registration fees cannot be transferred or refunded to another registrant
Cancellation Policy
For cancellations that are COVID-specific or medical-related:
- If you need to cancel due to testing positive for COVID-19 within 11 days of the program start, we can offer a 100% credit minus a $95 fee towards a future Murphy Writing program through February 1, 2027.
- For those with verifiable medical conditions who cancel by July 20, we can offer a 100% credit minus a $95 fee towards a future Murphy Writing program through February 1, 2027.
For all other cancellations:
- By June 1 — 100% refund minus a $95 processing fee, exclusive of any Purchase Protection you may have purchased
- By July 10 — 50% credit toward one of our upcoming programs, exclusive of any Purchase Protection you may have purchased
- After July 10 — Sorry, no refund or credit will be issued
If using a credit/debit card, you may want to consider “Purchase Protection,” an independent refund service provided by Purchase Protection LLC. You can add this on during the registration process, but make sure you read their terms first.
Scholarships
We are offering a $1000 scholarship to a first-time participant of Get Away to Write – Vermont. A panel of judges will review the submissions and make their selection based on a combination of merit and need. Deadline to apply for a scholarship: April 30, 2026.
“I’ve never done an overnight writing retreat before and was amazed at how much writing happened just being away from home. The atmosphere was perfect: open, honest, sincere and so encouraging. Definitely worth the money, the drive and the time!“
~ Anne, Belmont, MA
TRAVEL
Venue Address
The Grafton Inn
92 Main Street
Grafton, VT 05146
Arrival
Sunday, August 9. You may arrive at The Grafton Inn after 3:00 pm to settle in. Dinner will begin promptly at 6:45 pm.
Driving Directions
Car
The Grafton Inn is best accessed via I-91, with the closest exit being Exit 7 in Springfield, VT — approximately 15 miles and 25 minutes to the inn. You can find their parking lot in the back of their inn. View the routes The Grafton Inn recommends.
Approximate Drive Times
- Montreal – 4.5 Hours
- New York, NY – 4.5 Hours
- Boston, MA – 2.5 Hours
- Burlington, VT – 2.5 Hours
- Manchester, NH – 2-2.5 Hours
- Albany, NY – 1.5-2 Hours
- Hartford, CT – 2 Hours
Train
The Amtrak Vermonter is the most convenient train option for travelers from the Northeast. The Vermonter stops at many stations along the Northeast Corridor, including:
The train arrives at Bellows Falls, VT — approximately 12 miles and a 20-minute drive from the Grafton Inn. We recommend arranging transportation in advance, either through Thomas Transportation or a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft.
Plane
- Lebanon Municipal Airport, Lebanon, NH – 1 Hour from the inn
- Bradley International Airport, Hartford, CT – 1.5 hours from the inn
- Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, Manchester, NH – 1.5 hours from the inn
- Burlington International Airport, Burlington, VT – 2.5 Hours
You will need to arrange ground transportation after landing from the recommended air transporation above. The Grafton Inn is very remote, so transportation options are limited.
Departure
Friday, August 14. Please plan to vacate your room by 9:15am before the final workshop begins. The program will end at 11:00am and you are welcome to depart after that.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
Absolutely! Our experienced workshop leaders plan their sessions to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.
I’ve been to dozens of workshops. What will I get out of this one?
Our faculty challenge experienced writers to push beyond their usual limits. If you have been writing for decades, they will compel you to go deeper, take more risks and experiment with form and content. We know that experienced writers benefit from our programs based on the fact that hundreds of “re-PETERs” have attended three or more of our writing getaways.
How remote is the venue?
The town of Grafton and its surrounding areas have more to offer than you’d expect. That said, the mountains are quite remote! Cell service and wifi can be spotty or weather-dependent. We will be nestled in a slice of tranquility, living free from the many distractions from our lives at home. We encourage you to leave your distractions behind!
I want a Double Room Package. Do my preferred roommate and I need to register simultaneously?
No, but it is important that your roommate registers within 30 days of your registration.
If I register for a Double Room and my preferred roommate cancels, can you match me with someone else?
Yes, we will match you with a different roommate unless you would prefer to pay to upgrade to a single room instead.
“The best few days of writing I’ve had in years.”
~ Christine, Linwood, NJ
Photo Gallery
Take a look at the photos from one of our previous Live Free and Write programs or view our full collection of Writing Getaway photos.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CREDITS
Participants will receive a professional development certificate of participation. Stockton University is recognized by the NJ Department of Education to provide Professional Development credit hours, which many other states are willing to accept. You may check with your employer to see if it will work for you.
Questions?
Email murphywriting@stockton.edu.
Book your slice of tranquility.
