Hedgebrook

Hedgebrook is a writers' residency on Whidbey Island featuring six individually handcrafted cottages scattered across forested grounds. Each cottage provides a private workspace where residents can focus on their writing while being supported by a dedicated team.

Founded in 1988, the residency emerged from a vision to support women writers with dedicated retreat time. Programs run for periods of two to four weeks, allowing residents focused time away from daily distractions.

The community comes together each evening for shared meals called The Gathering, where residents exchange their stories and perspectives over freshly prepared food. These dinners create an important connection between writers from around the world.

Selected writers receive free accommodation in private cottages plus all meals during their stay at the residency. Residents need to arrange and pay for their own travel to and from the island.

The program accepts applications exclusively from women writers, including transgender women and female-identified individuals aged 18 and older. This focus creates a protective space where writers can develop their creative voice without distraction.

Location: Whidbey Island

Inception: 1988

GPS coordinates: 48.01868,-122.54520

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:45