"All it took was a single TikTok video about a “reading retreat” for me to immediately add this travel trend to my 2025 bucket list. Nothing sounds more perfect to me than cozying up in a woodsy cabin or a coastal cottage with a stack of books I’ve been eager to make a dent in, a blanket wrapped around me, and my favorite beverage in hand. If you can already picture yourself in that peaceful setting, then a reading retreat might be exactly the kind of trip you should take this year. Keep scrolling for all the details on how to plan your own reading-centric vacation.
What Is a Reading Retreat?
A reading retreat is exactly what it sounds like: a vacation designed for book lovers looking for chill vibes, relaxation, and blissfully uninterrupted reading time. Rather than filling your days with sightseeing or activities, you retreat to a cozy, peaceful spot where you can fully immerse yourself in books and the simple joy of slowing down. If you’re craving deep introspection, you might opt for a solo retreat. But if you prefer a more social experience, turn it into a traveling book club and invite friends or fellow book lovers to read, discuss, and unwind together.
Reading retreats are growing in popularity as more people seek mindful, intentional escapes that allow them to disconnect from the noise of everyday life. Whether you’re looking to relax, recharge, or dive deep into your TBR list, a reading retreat offers the perfect opportunity to reset and savor the pleasure of reading in a serene, distraction-free environment.
How to Plan Your Own Reading Retreat
1. Choose your ideal location and accommodations
The first step is to decide on the type of getaway you’re after: a cozy cabin in the woods, a seaside cottage with ocean waves, a rustic mountain lodge, or a charming small-town hideaway. Keep in mind that the views and vibes are more important than choosing a location with lots to see and do—after all, most of your time will likely be spent with your nose in a book anyway.
Once you’ve chosen your setting, find the perfect accommodation. Vacation rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo are great places to start. Prioritize comfort with features like fireplaces, cozy seating, big windows, or scenic porches, and make sure there’s plenty of space to spread out. Since you won’t be spending a ton on sightseeing when you get there, consider splurging a bit on a vacation rental with an incredible view or amenities like a pool.
2. Curate your book line-up
Your reading list can be the perfect starting point for planning your retreat or the finishing touch to match your dream location. Already have your dream spot in mind? Curate a reading list that fits the setting. A secluded cabin surrounded by trees is the ideal spot to curl up with a cozy mystery or an outdoorsy novel. If you’re staying in a charming small town with a rich history, historical fiction is a natural fit. And a breezy coastal retreat is just the place to dive into a romance. Matching your reading theme to your location will add an extra layer of magic to your retreat. And don’t forget about audiobooks—the perfect addition to a scenic walk or to listen to while cooking dinner.
3. Pack the essentials
Make sure you have everything you need for the ultimate reading retreat. Pack plenty of books (or your e-reader and charger) along with cozy comforts like blankets, fuzzy socks, and your favorite loungewear. Bring your go-to snacks and drinks, whether that includes coffee, tea, wine, or chocolate. If you like to annotate while you read, don’t forget pens and highlighters, sticky tabs, or a journal for jotting down notes or reflections between chapters. You could even bring some essential oils or a candle to set the mood and make the space even more inviting.
4. Plan (or rather don’t plan) your days
Keep things low-key and relaxing. Your reading retreat doesn’t need a strict itinerary, just plenty of uninterrupted reading time. If you feel like it, sprinkle in gentle activities like nature walks, exploring local bookstores, or dinners out at nearby restaurants. For a truly immersive experience, consider unplugging from screens completely and fully embracing the peaceful escape.
5. Embrace the experience and reflect
Don’t forget to slow down and savor every moment. This retreat isn’t about rushing through books but about fully immersing yourself in the experience. Be flexible with your time, whether you read all day, alternate with low-key activities, or indulge in cozy naps. Capture the magic by journaling your thoughts, writing down your favorite quotes, or reflecting on the retreat’s impact. Afterward, take time for post-retreat journaling to capture how it made you feel and any insights you gained. This could become your new favorite tradition, whether you make it a seasonal ritual or a once-a-year escape to recharge.
Reading Retreat Destination Ideas
If you’re not sure where to start, here are some of the best U.S. destinations to consider for a relaxing reading retreat:
Mountain & Nature Retreats
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Evergreen, Colorado
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Olympic Peninsula, Washington
- Sedona, Arizona
- Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
Coastal & Beach Escapes
- Amelia Island, Florida
- Bar Harbor, Maine
- Big Sur, California
- Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Nantucket, Massachusetts
- Sonoma County, California
Charming Small Towns & Historic Destinations
- Door County, Wisconsin
- Franklin, Tennessee
- Galena, Illinois
- Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Savannah, Georgia
- Taos, New Mexico
- Wilmington, North Carolina
Leanna Julius, Contributing Writer
Leanna is a long-time reader turned contributing writer for The Everygirl. She specializes in wellness and lifestyle content and strives to help others be their happiest and healthiest by sharing sustainable and simple life-approved tips and tricks.