Wondrous Writers' Retreat
A Creative Retreat for Writers
October 5-11, 2026
in San Miguel de Allende, México
I cannot recommend the Wondrous Writers' Retreat enough.
Image credit Jiuguang Wang
What if you finally gave your writing the time, space, and attention it's been asking for?
Perhaps you've started and stopped more times than you can count. Maybe you've lost confidence in your process. Or perhaps life simply keeps getting in the way. If you've been longing for uninterrupted creative time, inspiring surroundings, and fellow writers who truly understand the joys and challenges of bringing meaningful work into the world... welcome!
You've found your people.
Wondrous Writers' Retreat
October 5 -11, 2026
San Miguel de Allende, México
I can shake off everything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn.
— Anne Frank
About This Retreat
Created for just 10 writers, this intimate retreat is an invitation to step away from the demands of everyday life and immerse yourself in uninterrupted creative time, meaningful conversations, and the restorative magic of San Miguel.
We believe every person has stories only they can tell. The world needs to hear yours, because your experience, your creativity and your perspective matter.
Maybe you've been procrastinating or putting other things first. Whatever the reason, maybe it's time to give yourself the gift of focusing on what matters to YOU for a change.
Unlike retreats that focus solely on craft, our time together is designed to nurture both the writer and the human being behind the words.
This Creative Retreat is for you if...
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you're craving uninterrupted creative time away from emails, chores and daily responsibilities
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you value thoughtful feedback, inspiration and genuine connection, rather than competition
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you believe writing isn't just about producing words—it's about touching others and, in the process, discovering yourself more deeply
Whether you're beginning a novel, memoir, play, screenplay, poetry collection, essays, or another work-in-progress, or returning to a long-neglected manuscript, you'll find the space, support, and inspiration to reconnect with your writing—and yourself.
This week is designed to help you move from hesitation to inspired momentum.
What You'll Return Home With...
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a clear direction and greater enthusiasm for your writing project
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a renewed confidence in your voice and creativity
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a deeper, measurable commitment to your writing process
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practical tools to keep your writing practice sustainable long after you return home
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increased self-confidence while presenting your material in front of an audience
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meaningful new friendships with fellow creative writers
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unforgettable memories of magical San Miguel
Throughout the week, you'll receive thoughtful feedback, gentle encouragement, and personalized coaching from Eli and Joseph in an intimate, transformative setting.
Because participation is limited to just 10 writers, you'll receive the individual attention, encouragement, and support that simply isn't possible in a larger retreat.
Wherever you are on your writing journey, this retreat isn't about simply producing more pages.
It offers sacred space to reconnect with your authentic voice, and become the writer you've been longing to become.
Complete a short questionnaire so we can get to know you.
What's Included
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Dedicated quiet writing time, along with guided writing sessions in a warm, supportive community.
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Morning Tai Chi or meditation to begin each day feeling centered and inspired.
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Creative writing adventures throughout San Miguel including the hot springs, botanical gardens, our fabulous local library and onsite at Casa de La Paz.
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A transformative ritual at La Gruta hot springs to release your inner critic and welcome your creative muse.
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Interactive workshops to strengthen your voice, build confidence, prepare your work for publication, develop presentation skills—and have fun along the way.
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An Open Mic evening at a local café where you'll have the opportunity to share your work with an invited audience.
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A soulful commitment ceremony with your writer self to honor your writing and creative voice.
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Delicious play time learning to make our famous healthy chocolate truffles and homemade oat milk.
- A campfire under the stars—bring your stories, poems, songs, or simply enjoy the magic of the moment.
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Healthy catered meals at Casa de la Paz, hosted community dinners at wonderful local restaurants, plus nourishing snacks and beverages throughout the week.
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Ground transportation for all scheduled retreat excursions.
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Plenty of free time to explore the magic of San Miguel, write, relax, or schedule optional sessions with local practitioners.
Optional Wellness Sessions (additional fees apply.)
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massage
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hypnotherapy
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life coaching
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osteopathic session (a personal favorite of Joseph's!)
Eli Hans & Joseph Bennett
What's Not Included
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Airfare and ground transportation to and from the retreat.
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Travel insurance (highly recommended.)
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Accommodations and meals — except those included in the retreat schedule.
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Transportation outside of scheduled retreat excursions.
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Optional wellness sessions and private appointments.
What you might wish to bring
To get the most from your retreat experience, bring a thirsty journal, curiosity, an open heart, and a willingness to see where your writing leads you.
Also, pack comfortable clothing for warm days and cool evenings - and perhaps a retreat buddy, if you'd enjoy sharing the adventure.
What to leave behind
Your inner critic. Self-doubt. Stress. Worry. The feeling that you should be somewhere else.
We'll take good care of the rest.
As a courtesy to everyone in the group, please avoid wearing strong perfumes or scented lotions, as some participants may be sensitive to fragrances.
Kind Words
Eli and Joseph are two of the most profound people I know. Their depth of wisdom is beyond remarkable. If you have the fortune to attend one of their programs, I can say with 100% confidence that your life will change forever.
Debra Poneman, Founder, Yes to Success
Joseph and Eli are two extraordinary artists and beautiful human beings whose passion, authenticity, and creativity inspire you from the moment you arrive. They create a magical space for reflection, growth, and creative exploration.
I left feeling inspired, renewed, and more connected to my own creative path.
Davina Ferreira, Medellín, Colombia and Los Angeles, CA
I've been in awe since our class ended. I never expected results like this! Thank you so much for helping us see what we can't.
Traci Greene,
Philadelphia, PA
Eli and Joseph are masterful facilitators of group process. With a light touch and great wisdom, they know how to bring out the best in people!
Mitch Ditkoff,
President - Idea Champions, NY
Where and When?
Your retreat home is Casa de la Paz (House of Peace), our sanctuary nestled in the heart of San Miguel de Allende.
It's a place to write, reflect, connect, and simply breathe.
Consistently named one of the world's most beloved destinations, San Miguel enchants visitors with its colorful streets, vibrant arts community, welcoming spirit, and extraordinary beauty.
Retreat Dates:
Monday, October 5 – Sunday, October 11, 2026
One more delightful note... Casa de la Paz is home to three affectionate rescue dogs who love cuddles. If you'd prefer a dog-free space during your stay, we're happy to accommodate that.
Maya, Luna and Bailey
Charming curved stone entrance into
Casa de la Paz... The House of Peace.
Your Retreat Guides
Eli Hans and Joseph Bennett believe every person has a story only they can tell. For over 25 years, they've helped people discover and express their authentic voice through writing, theatre, coaching, retreats, and transformational workshops.
Between them, they've written books, plays, screenplays, poetry, songs, and countless workshops.
Eli is an award-winning playwright and performer whose acclaimed solo show, Out of The Blue, has inspired audiences around the world. Joseph is the author of seven books, including multiple #1 Amazon New Releases spanning historical fiction, poetry, and personal growth.
Partners in both life and work, Eli and Joseph created this retreat to offer writers what they most often need: uninterrupted creative time, heartfelt encouragement, practical guidance, and a nurturing community where both the writing—and the writer—can flourish.
La Gruta Hot Springs, the site of our wondrous cleansing ritual...
Your Retreat Schedule
(Subject to change.)
Monday, October 5 - Arrive and Connect
Welcome! Arrive, settle into your accommodations, and join us for a hosted rooftop welcome dinner overlooking the lights of San Miguel. Meet your fellow writers, receive your retreat materials, and begin a week of creativity, connection, and inspiration.
Tuesday, October 6 - Open & Explore
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Begin the day with optional Tai Chi and a catered breakfast before heading to the breathtaking Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden for a morning of guided writing surrounded by nature. Transportation and admission are included.
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Afternoon Masterclass - From Ideas to Published Author Joseph Bennett shares practical strategies for bringing your writing into the world—from finished manuscript to successful book launch.
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Evening - Return to Casa de la Paz for an inspiring writing circle beneath the stars, complete with creative prompts, optional sharing, and nourishing snacks.
Wednesday, October 7 — From Critic to Confidence
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After optional Tai Chi and breakfast, we'll journey to the healing waters of La Gruta Hot Springs for a powerful ritual designed to quiet your inner critic and awaken your creative voice. The morning concludes with a guided writing session inspired by the experience. Transportation and admission are included.
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Afternoon Workshop - Making an Impact Discover how to share your work with confidence, engage an audience, and transform stage fright into authentic connection—skills that support not only public speaking, but also your success as an author, all while having FUN in the process.
Healthy snacks and beverages provided.
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Evening - free time to explore the magic of San Miguel.
Thursday, October 8 — Discover Your Voice
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Following breakfast and meditation at Casa de la Paz, we'll visit San Miguel's beloved historic library for a guided tour and an unforgettable writing session in one of its beautiful reading rooms. Lunch is included at Café Santa Ana, nestled inside the library.
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Afternoon - Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the colorful streets of San Miguel, relax, or lose yourself in your writing.
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Evening – The Power of Authenticity Experience a special HD screening of Eli's award-winning one-man show, Out of The Blue, followed by a guided writing process designed to invite greater honesty, vulnerability, and authentic expression into your work.
Friday, October 9 - Share Your Story
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Begin the day with Tai Chi, breakfast, and a special masterclass with bestselling author Azizi Tuere: Write Anyway: The Courage to Be Read
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Afternoon - Explore San Miguel's artisan markets and galleries, scheduling an optional wellness session, or enjoying uninterrupted writing time.
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Later, experience our signature Conscious Creation process, designed to help you move beyond limitations and bring your creative vision to life.
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Evening - The day concludes with our Open Mic at Café Rama, where you'll have the opportunity to share your work with an invited audience, celebrate one another's creativity, and enjoy a hosted community dinner.
Saturday, October 10 - Celebrate Your Journey
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Begin with our playful writing exercise Channelling Your Inner Food Critic over breakfast at Rustica, then stroll through San Miguel's vibrant farmers market before finding your own inspiring corner of the city to write.
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Afternoon - Kitchen Magic! Put down our pens and gather in the kitchen for a joyful healthy-chocolate-truffle and organic oat milk workshop—messy, delicious, and surprisingly memorable.
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Evening - Our final gathering begins around the campfire beneath the stars with stories, poems, music, laughter, and a farewell dinner. We'll conclude the evening with The Writer's Vows Ceremony—a playful and soulful celebration where you'll make a personal promise to honor your writing, your creative voice, and yourself as a writer.
Sunday, October 11 — Return Inspired
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After a light breakfast together, we'll say our goodbyes—unless you've chosen to extend your stay and continue exploring San Miguel.
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You'll return home with an open heart, fresh pages, lasting friendships, renewed inspiration, and the quiet confidence to continue the writing journey you've begun here.
The Zen Meditation Garden with pond and stream - a sublime bird and butterfly sanctuary.
Investment
Wondrous Writers' Retreat in San Miguel de Allende
Regular investment: $2997 USD
Early Bird: $2497 USD
Discounted price available through August 1, 2026
Limited to just 10 participants.
Your retreat experience includes inspiring writing sessions and rituals, interactive workshops and masterclasses, an Open Mic with an invited audience, guided excursions to extraordinary locations throughout San Miguel, 10 delicious meals, our healthy chocolate truffle workshop, transportation for scheduled retreat excursions, and—perhaps most importantly—a warm, supportive community of fellow writers.
This retreat isn't about becoming a “better writer.”
It’s about becoming more fully awake to your creative self.
If any part of you is quietly (or perhaps enthusiastically!) saying yes...
we would be honored to welcome you!
Please tell us a little about yourself below.
What happens next?
Complete our brief participant questionnaire, followed by a relaxed Zoom conversation with Eli and Joseph. Because this retreat is intentionally limited to just 10 writers, we'd love the opportunity to get to know you, answer your questions, and ensure it's a wonderful fit for everyone.
PLEASE READ OUR CANCELLATION POLICY: A $500 USD deposit reserves your place, or you're welcome to pay in full. If you need to cancel, we'll make every effort to fill your space. If we're able to do so, you'll receive a full refund minus a $100 administrative fee. If we're unable to fill your place: Cancellations received on or before September 5, 2026 receive a 50% refund. Cancellations received after September 5, 2026 are non-refundable. If we must cancel the retreat due to fewer than six participants, you'll receive a full refund of all retreat payments. We also recommend purchasing flexible airfare and travel insurance for additional peace of mind.
Accommodation Options
Stay with us at Casa de la Paz
If you'd like to fully immerse yourself in the retreat experience, we offer three charming accommodations right here at Casa de la Paz.
The Charming Casita - A detached private casita featuring a king bed, writing desk, ensuite bathroom, and a peaceful outdoor dining area surrounded by lush landscape.
$89 USD/night (plus a one-time $39 cleaning fee)
• Single or double occupancy.
The Charming Casita
The Sweet Suite
The Sweet Suite - Our spacious suite overlooks a beautiful shared terrace near the Zen Garden, with spectacular sunset views. It features a king bed, writing desk, and ensuite bathroom with a sunken tub.
$99 USD/night (plus a one-time $39 cleaning fee)
• Single or double occupancy.
The Artist's Loft - A unique retreat space for solo writers, nestled above the art studio. This creative sanctuary includes a queen bed, writing desk, ensuite bathroom, and a full kitchen.
$79 USD/night (plus a one-time $39 cleaning fee)
• Single occupancy.
The Artist's Loft
Please Note: Casa de la Paz is built on several levels with stairs and handrails throughout. Guests should be comfortable navigating stairs during their stay.
Prefer to Stay Nearby?
If you'd rather stay off-site (or if we are booked) we're happy to suggest several nearby options.
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Alice's Casita – A lovely two-bedroom, 2½-bath home just three blocks away, perfect for sharing with another participant.
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Casa Goyri – A simple, charming, and budget-friendly bed & breakfast about a five-minute walk away.
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Hotel Bonito – Approximately a 13-minute walk from Casa de la Paz, conveniently located near Centro and Juárez Park.
You're also welcome to explore Airbnb for accommodations that best suit your style and budget.
While we don't receive commissions from any of these properties, we're always happy to share our thoughts on neighborhoods or accommodations you're considering.
Curved staircase at main entrance.
Healthy breakfasts for your retreat...
Casa de La Paz... warm, welcoming... wondrous!
FAQ's
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What is the questionnaire and conversation about? It's simply our first opportunity to get to know one another. Because this retreat is intentionally limited to just 10 participants, we begin with a brief questionnaire followed by a relaxed Zoom conversation. It's a chance to answer your questions, learn about your writing goals, and make sure the retreat is a wonderful fit for everyone. The first step is to fill out your survey.
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What level of writers will be attending? Whether you're a curious beginner, an experienced writer, or somewhere in between, you're welcome here. Every writer—and every part of the creative journey—is invited.
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What is the retreat about? This retreat is about creating the time, space, encouragement, and inspiration to reconnect with your authentic voice. Through guided writing experiences, workshops, coaching, and community, you'll discover fresh momentum for your writing and renewed confidence in yourself as a writer.
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Will there be plenty of time to write? Yes. While we've planned inspiring workshops and experiences throughout the week, we've intentionally built in generous periods of quiet writing time so you can make meaningful progress on your project.
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Can I come alone? Absolutely! In fact, many of our participants attend on their own. The retreat is intentionally designed to foster genuine friendships and connection, so you'll quickly feel part of the community.
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Can I bring a friend or a family member? Yes—provided they'll also be participating in the retreat. We intentionally create a close-knit community, and we encourage everyone to be fully present in the experience.
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Which airport do I fly into? Leon (BJX) and Queretaro (QRO) are each about 1.5 hours from San Miguel. México City airport (MEX) is 4 hours away.
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How do I get to the retreat from the airport? We recommend a shared shuttle with BajioGo.com or any shuttle service you choose.
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Where can I stay? We offer three charming onsite accommodations at Casa de la Paz, along with several nearby hotels, Airbnbs, and B&Bs. You'll find details and links in our Accommodations section above.
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What are the dates and times again? We gather Monday evening, October 5, 2026 for our welcome dinner and finish after breakfast on Sunday, October 11. You're welcome to extend your stay before or after the retreat to enjoy all that San Miguel has to offer.
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How much does the retreat cost? The regular investment is $2,997 USD, or $2,497 USD with early bird registration through August 1, 2026.
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How many people will there be? Just 10 participants, plus the two of us. Keeping the group intentionally small allows for meaningful connections, personalized guidance, and plenty of individual attention. Please fill out your questionnaire sooner than later.
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What if I sign up and then have to cancel? Our cancellation policy is outlined above. We also recommend purchasing travel insurance for additional peace of mind.
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Is San Miguel de Allende safe? We've happily called San Miguel home for 17 years and have hosted retreats and guests here for more than a decade. We have always felt safe and warmly welcomed by this remarkable community.
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Anything else I need to know? San Miguel sits at approximately 6,200 feet (1,890 meters) above sea level. If altitude affects you, consider arriving a day or two early to acclimate. Staying well hydrated—and taking it easy with alcohol for the first couple of days—can make all the difference.
Ready to explore whether this retreat is right for you?
GALLERY
Images to whet your appetite!
The upper terrace at Casa de La Paz, where we'll be writing under the stars... and sharing all things wondrous!
