FAQs
Do I have to read anything before I arrive?
1
Your books will be waiting for you upon arrival. There’s no pre-reading or swotting required. Our selection is handpicked and we’ll share it with you ahead of arrival. You may get through the books or not, and that’s the point. Our reading selections cover our favourite fiction finds including bestsellers and Tasmanian writing, memoir, poetry and non-fiction.
How are the retreats structured?
2
4 days, 3 nights. Our retreats are built around balancing time for reading and relaxation with a focus on pleasure and are for women only. There’s no quiz at the end of it all. We’ll take time to dip in and out of our reading selections and some days there is a local excursion. The Midsummer Nights Reading Retreat is all based around the Deloraine area and there are no significant journeys between any of our destinations.
What should I wear?
3
Tasmania gets warmer than you think in summertime with temperatures often over 30 degrees. It’s a dry heat and there is a high-risk UV factor. Definitely bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. While we’re not hiking, Tasmanians wear their Blunnies for a reason. Boots are great for crunching around the forest, and we’ll be in large grounds of beautiful gardens. The weather can be changeable throughout the day so bring jackets and scarves. Nights can often be cool, so a jacket, scarf or cover-up is advised for evening alfresco events. And a pair of thick bed socks never goes astray.
Will I have my own bathroom?
4
Each level of guest accommodation at Calstock Estate comes with a private bathroom, except The Stables apartment which has a shared bathroom between two king bedrooms.
Is wi-fi available in my room?
5
Yes, although we encourage you to take a rest from the digital world during your stay.
Is alcohol included with the cost?
6
Drinks are included in our welcome drinks and our chef experience includes wine. Guests are able to purchase wine from Meander Valley Vineyard and there is also a bottle shop in town five minutes away. Other planned meals at local restaurants and pubs are pay-as-you-go.
Will I have free time?
7
It’s your choice how you’d like to spend your retreat with us. You may want lots of time to read and journal or you can join us on scheduled itinerary events.
Will there be transport to and from the airport?
8
Yes. Your confirmation pack will include all the details for your pre-arranged airport collection. There is one scheduled transfer on arrival and departure days. In the event of delays guests must arrange own transport to Deloraine - buses and taxis to Deloraine are available, which is around 35min away from Launceston Airport. Please note that Uber services are not available in regional Tasmania, however there are intermittent taxi services in Deloraine and plenty at the airport.
What happens if I need to cancel?
9
Unfortunately due to the nature of this retreat we are unable to offer refunds should you need to later cancel. If you wish to find a replacement then your place can go to them but we cannot refund any payments made. We will do our best to advertise and try and fill the place for you but cannot guarantee success in filling your place at late notice.