Kelly Notaras Writing Retreat

Imagine five uninterrupted days devoted entirely to your craft, surrounded by the quiet majesty of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The Kelly Notaras Writing Retreat invites writers of all levels to step away from the noise of daily life and into a contemplative creative sanctuary where sustained attention becomes both practice and permission. Held at the serene Drala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, this intimate retreat brings together a community of writers under the guidance of Kelly Notaras, a mentor dedicated to deepening the creative process through focused, intentional work.

This is not a workshop packed with lectures or techniques—it is a space held for you and your writing. Whether you're working on a novel, essays, poetry, or a long-form project that's been waiting for your attention, this retreat honors the sacred relationship between writer and page. The mountain setting naturally supports the contemplative mindset needed for real creative breakthroughs. You'll find yourself in an environment where writing is not rushed or commodified, but cherished as a genuine spiritual practice.

What to Expect

Over five days, you'll engage in extended, uninterrupted writing sessions within a community of dedicated writers. The retreat balances solitude—time spent alone with your work—with the quiet support of being held in intentional space with others who understand the creative calling. Kelly Notaras facilitates the program, creating a container that honors both the discipline and the mystery of writing. Participants bring their own projects, set their own goals, and practice the art of sustained attention to their craft. The mountain environment, the rhythm of communal meals, and the shared commitment to creative work all become part of your practice. You'll leave with tangible progress on your project and a renewed sense of possibility for your writing life.

Venue & Logistics

The retreat takes place at Drala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado—a contemplative setting designed to support deep work. The five-day program runs Sunday, September 6, 2026 through the following Friday. Participants should bring their writing projects, necessary writing materials, and comfortable clothing suitable for a mountain environment. The center provides accommodations and meals; specific details about accessibility or special needs can be discussed directly with the organizing team.