Before arriving at the Writers Retreat, some fresh air and nature was in order, so I stopped just outside of Creswick to walk the Gardens & Lake Loop. It was only a 30-minute quickie although it was all this earthling needed in the moment. I noticed another track that said St George’s Lake, and I knew I’d be back to explore that.

After another 20-minute drive, I found myself at the Writers Retreat. It was just on sunset. The outside looked like an ordinary shed, although from my experiences there’s a hidden gem that lives within, and judging from the outside isn’t how I roll in life. I followed my curious heart to the front door and let myself in. The wood fire was roaring and the open-plan space was outrageously inviting! There were beautiful vintage chairs and pendent lights which hung gracefully from the ceiling. What was left of the sunlight danced through the stained glass windows creating coloured shapes on the walls. The retreat has truly been created with heart, I could feel it in every corner. A timber 4 pillar bed frame, fluffy blankets, and large eclectic quilted pillows called me to flop straight down and enjoy. I was excited for bedtime already! It was satisfying all my sensory needs that’s for sure and I knew I had landed in a hidden gem that afternoon! I watched the sun fall into the night lighting up the sky. It was filled with colour and hope. Just like me.

The next day I woke after the sun, stoked the fire and went back to discover St George’s Lake. I took the loop track all the way round and found another one leading to ‘Blue Waters’ lookout. All I can say is stay curious my friends and you’ll be gifted with all the hidden gem magic!

Coffee and cake back at my humble abode and I spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the bookshelf. The velvet chairs nestled into the indoor plants creating a reading nook space, which was sublime. Just like my afternoon. I journaled my heart at the writers desk then washed away my day under the hot shower. I wrapped myself in a fluffy large towel and stood in front of the wood fire which took me back to my childhood. I cosied up into my PJs with a glass of red wine and got lost in the inspirational books and story land... I slept so peacefully that night.

Cuppa tea in bed followed by a morning yoga sesh in front of the fire and some poached eggs started my day. The delicious eggs were provided by the lovely host Ann. My morning was calm and I slowly left the sanctuary feeling wholesome and my heart filled. It was indeed a truly inspiring retreat filled with curiosity and wonder.