What Is a Reading Retreat?
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping somewhere beautiful with nothing on your to-do list except reading, you’re already halfway to understanding what a reading retreat is.
A reading retreat (sometimes called a book retreat or readers’ retreat) is exactly what it sounds like: a peaceful getaway designed for people who love books, crave quiet, and want time to actually read them. Cosy accommodation, uninterrupted reading time, good food, and the bliss of not having to explain to anyone why you’d rather spend the afternoon with a novel instead of sightseeing.
At its core, a reading retreat is an act of self-care - a pause from everyday busyness to reconnect with yourself through stories.
Why go on a reading retreat?
Modern life doesn’t exactly make it easy to slow down. Between work, family, and that ever-growing pile of laundry, reading often gets pushed to “someday.” A reading retreat turns someday into now.
It’s a space where:
You can read for hours without guilt or interruption.
Meals are taken care of (so your only decision is what book to pick next).
You meet other book lovers who get the quiet joy of a shared silence — all of you curled up in the same room, each lost in your own story.
Many guests describe the experience as restorative, grounding, and surprisingly social - not because there’s a packed schedule, but because conversations tend to flow naturally over shared meals and late-night chats about favourite characters.
What happens at a reading retreat?
Every book retreat is a little different. Some are completely self-guided and silent, while others include gentle structure: book discussions, shared meals, creative sessions, or even themed activities inspired by what you’re reading.
At Busy with Books, our retreats combine unhurried reading time with a few light-touch group moments — a welcome dinner, optional discussions, and plenty of free space to read, nap, walk, or do absolutely nothing. You’ll also get a curated selection of snacks, coffee and tea, and an Italian-inspired menu (because yes, food deserves as much attention as the reading list).
It’s the kind of experience that reminds you reading isn’t a luxury — it’s a way of coming home to yourself.
Who are reading retreats for?
A readers’ retreat is for anyone who loves books but struggles to find uninterrupted time for them. Many of our guests are carers, busy professionals, or creatives who spend their days giving energy to everyone else.
You don’t need to be in a book club, have a reading goal, or identify as “a serious reader.” You simply need a love of stories and the desire to slow down long enough to enjoy them.
Whether you’re tackling a long-neglected stack of novels, rediscovering the joy of fiction after years of non-stop work, or simply craving a quiet weekend with like-minded souls, a reading retreat might be exactly what you didn’t know you needed.
About Busy with Books reading retreats
At Busy with Books, I believe self-care doesn’t always look like yoga mats or green juice. Sometimes, it’s a cup of tea, a good book, and a few days away from everything that demands your attention.
My retreats are designed for readers who want to rest, reconnect, and read without guilt. Each one takes place in a stunning New Zealand location, with nourishing food (authentically Italian - prepared by me!), peaceful surroundings, and a small group of book-loving humans who understand the magic of quiet company.
You can learn more about upcoming retreats by clicking on “retreats” at the top of the page.
Or take a peek inside one of our last retreats: