[A year-round residential retreat - not exclusive to writers] 

The Writers' Retreat in Oliver, British Columbia is beautifully located amid the countryside of 

British Columbia's beautiful Okanagan Valley.

Tucked at the northern most point of the Sonora Desert, and at the southern end of the Okanagan Valley, Oliver encompasses desert land, lakes, mountains, and renowned vineyards and orchards. 

From Kelowna, B.C., the scenic drive provides an enjoyable journey to the Retreat along the shores of Okanagan Lake, a beautiful and relaxing way to begin your literary venture! 

The Retreat features three spacious studios with private patio overlooking the gardens and mountains.

The retreat grounds are in the serene gardens with a stream running through naturally wild areas. 

You are sure to rejuvenate your creative spirit and forget the fusses of daily life. 

Residents may enjoy gathering in the gardens for a BBQ dinner, 

reading, or sharing stories while sipping a delicious local wine. 

Rates and Reservations

All residents receive a critique of their work 

from on-site mentor, Michael Hoover, author.

Kanook Kibbutznick, Mike's first work of fiction is available 

at Amazon.com Publications, May 2007. Mike is currently working on his 2nd novel.

All studios feature a private terrace with 

garden and mountain views.

Writing partners are welcome to stay 

at no additional charge.

Click to enlarge

The retreat offers three studios. Each studio has a desk, chair, and reading lamps, full-size beds and comfortable chairs, a private bathroom, air conditioning, a mini-fridge, microwave, toaster, and coffee machine. For your convenience, there are two major grocery stores in Oliver and plenty of restaurants. 

Wireless Internet is available throughout, so bring your laptop! 

A biking and hiking trail along the banks of the Okanagan River is just a few yards away. 

The Kettle Valley Railway cycling trail runs from Oliver to Osoyoos, and encompasses 17.4 kilometers of hiking and cycling through beautiful orchards and vineyards. Experience the desert, the bird and wildlife sanctuary at Vaseux Lake, and stop at a fruit stand or winery along the way!

The original Oliver Railway Station has been converted into a tourist information center. The bicycling trail runs along the banks of the Okanagan River, which flows into Osoyoos Lake. The trail continues from there into Osoyoos.

From the roadside, are fine views of fruit orchards. An interesting detour is a wine tasting visit to one of the many award-winning vineyards. Don't pass up the chance to stop for cherry cider at numerous fruit stands, or purchase fruit at a U-pick orchard.

Location:  The retreat is located just outside Oliver, the "Wine Capital of Canada"  in the province of British Columbia in the beautiful Okanagan Valley approximately 25 minutes north of the US border, 3 kilometers to Oliver, a 5-hour drive from Seattle, WA and Vancouver, B.C.

Click on MapQuest to find Oliver, B.C. 

How to get to the Retreat: 

Kelowna Airport (YLW) is a 1 1/2-hour drive to the Retreat. 

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a 5-hour drive to the Retreat.

Greyhound Bus Lines operate to Penticton, a half-hour drive to the Retreat. Pick up and drop off by arrangement.

Okanagan Valley Tourism Info:   Explore this Web site if you wish to discover the region and beautiful Okanagan Valley.

Nearby attractions and activities:  When you take a break from your writing, the area offers many diversions.  Of course, wine connoisseurs will want to taste Oliver’s award-winning wines. Follow the town’s “Golden Mile” to 14 wineries for palate-pleasing wines all within a 20-kilometer (12 miles) distance.  

There are many opportunities for cycling, paddling, fruit-picking, swimming, golfing, hiking, and biking. Enjoy the sight of hundreds of bird species along the way.  The Vaseux Lake bird sanctuary is a special treat for birders, and keep a look out for California bighorn sheep grazing in the valley. 

Restriction: Smoking outdoors only.

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