A Creative Retreat for Writers and Artists in Regional Victoria

Imagine stepping into a storybook: a secluded hideaway where creativity comes alive and the outside world disappears. Welcome to The Storyteller’s Nook—a one-of-a-kind retreat space designed specifically for writers, artists, and deep-thinking creatives.

Tucked away on 1.5 acres of gardens and ancient trees in Panmure, Victoria, and just a short drive from the Great Ocean Road, the Nook is a purpose-built creative retreat. Quiet, self-contained, and dripping in inspiration, it’s a space where ideas flourish and creative blocks gently fall away.

Whether you’re craving a solo writing retreat in Victoria, an immersive artist escape, or just a few uninterrupted days to finish a personal project, this retreat offers everything you need—and nothing that you don’t.

Designed by a Writer, for Creatives

The idea for The Storyteller’s Nook began, as many good stories do, with a problem: in 2021, I needed a place to write. But every “retreat” I found was either too cramped, too expensive, too busy—or designed with someone else in mind.

So I started dreaming: What would a truly writer-friendly space look like?

A large antique writing desk, of course. A library bursting with books across every genre. A velvet couch you could curl up in for hours. A clawfoot bath for soaking after long writing sessions. A kitchen that felt like home—warm, functional, hygge-infused. Beautiful natural light. Privacy. Solitude. And little magical touches hidden in every corner, just for joy.

Soon after, St Brendan’s Church in Panmure came up for sale. Destiny? Maybe. But it felt right. And it gave me the canvas I needed to bring that creative vision to life.

The Nook is filled with details for the imaginative mind: whimsical décor, gallery-style artwork, Alice in Wonderland sculptures in the garden, hidden pop culture gems, even Fantastic Mr Fox peeking out from unexpected corners. Every inch is designed to make you feel held, inspired, and ready to create.

What You’ll Find Inside

The Storyteller’s Nook is a private-use, solo creative retreat with everything you need to escape, unwind, and dive deep into your work:

• A large writer’s desk with fast WiFi and complete privacy
• A luxurious Alice in Wonderland–themed bedroom with linen that’s “just right”
• A deep velvet couch for dreaming, journaling, or napping between scenes
• A crackling fireplace and curated personal library
• A Finnish-style kitchen with quality appliances, perfect for slow meals or midnight snacks
• A clawfoot tub and pamper-worthy bathroom with plush Versace towels
• Artworks and curios from around the world to inspire your eye when words fall short
• A welcome hamper full of local treats and regional delights

Outside, winding paths lead through lush, bird-filled gardens. Daydream under towering trees. Sketch in the sun. Or simply be still, listening to the wind through the leaves.

A Space for Deep Work

This is a place of creative focus—a retreat for writers, editors, illustrators, authors, screenwriters, visual artists, and deep-feeling creatives who need space to think and breathe.

You won’t be interrupted. There’s no schedule. Just the quiet permission to go deep into your own process.

Intentional Stays by Application

The Storyteller’s Nook is offered by application only—not instant book. We value intentionality, privacy, and fit. Thisallows us to personally connect with each guest and ensure the space is truly aligned with your creative needs.

Security and anonymity are essential here.

Whether you’re a first-time writer or an internationally recognised creative, you can trust that your comfort and privacy are our priority.

We’ve quietly hosted authors, screenwriters, directors, illustrators, and visual artists from across the globe—many returning again and again to create their best work in uninterrupted solitude. No press. No pressure. Just the work, and the quiet joy of making it.

Trusted by Creatives Worldwide

Since opening our doors, we’ve been honoured to host renowned authors, filmmakers, visual artists, and creative professionals from across Australia and beyond. The privacy and intentional design of the Nook have made it a trusted refuge for those working on books, screenplays, exhibitions, and other passion-fueled projects.

Whether you’re just beginning or halfway through something big, this is a space that holds you gently and lets the work come forward.

Book Your Creative Stay

If you’ve been searching for a writing retreat in Victoria, a creative escape near the Great Ocean Road, or a secluded artist retreat with soul, you’ve found it.

All stays are by application only. Availability is limited, and we recommend expressing interest early to reserve your preferred dates.

We believe creative spaces should be accessible, not exclusive. While the Nook offers luxury-level comfort and privacy, we’ve kept pricing intentionally affordable for writers, artists, and makers. Think retreat quality, without the inflated boutique price tag.

If you’re working on something meaningful, we’d love to help make space for it.

Fully Equipped Chef’s Kitchen

Finnish style kitchen with luxe tools and utensils to complete your culinary whims.

A Gallery of Ambience

Curated art with gallery lighting.