Five Days of Focus
The Norwegian Writing Retreat for Researchers
Write with clarity. Focus with purpose.
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About the retreat
Five days of focus is a writing retreat for researchers and academics who need uninterrupted time, expert guidance, and a calm environment to move their writing projects forward. Over five days, participants work on articles, thesis chapters, books, or proposals within a structured schedule that supports deep focus and sustainable productivity.
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What's included
-Private single room
-Full board (all meals and access to hotel facilities)
-Writing lectures and coaching throughout the week
-Facilitated group feedback sessions
-Guided experiences in the beautiful nature and culture of Osterøy
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Who it's for
-PhD candidates
-Postdoctoral researches
-Early-career academics
-Established researchers in any discipline
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Location
The retreat takes at Fjordslottet Hotel in Fotlandsvåg, Osterøy - just over an hour from Bergen. Quiet surroundings, fjord views, and forest paths make it an ideal environment for deep work and mental clarity.
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About the facilitator
‘Hi, I’m Mathew. During my PhD I not only carried out research, I also developed a writing group structure and a writing process that continues to guide my courses and coaching today. Since then, I have created writing courses that have helped hundreds of researchers across all disciplines.
My approach is personal and practical. I help you identify the core challenges in your writing and find solutions that work for you. Feedback, community, and well-planned breaks are essential parts of the writing process, and these elements are woven into our program.
Thanks to our collaboration with the wonderful Fjordslottet Hotel, you will have the luxury of good food, comfortable surroundings, and the peace needed to both relax and work deeply.
Can you chill and be highly productive? Absolutely. Come and see for yourself.’
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Price
19.900 NOK
Includes:
-Full board at Fjordslottet Hotell
-Single room with river view
-Transport from Arna (Bergen municipailty) to Fjordslottet Hotell and back
-All lectures, writing guidance and group feedback
-All guided experiences during the week (except the riverside sauna, which is optional and has a small additional cost)
Not included:
-Your own travel to and from Arna (Bergen municipality)
Sample Program
Monday:
Transport from Arna
Introductions
Lectures on the writing process and planning
Tuesday:
Lectures on writing and editing
Independent writing sessions
Individual coaching
Easy stroll by the fjord
Wednesday:
Brain warm-up exercises
Writing sessions
Nature experience
Group feedback discussions
Thursday:
Brain warm-up and guided discussions
Writing sessions
Local hike or sauna and swim
Group feedback and additional writing time
Friday:
Wrap-up lecture and discussion
Final writing session
Lunch and transport back to Arna
