Irish Food Writing Retreat in West Cork

An Immersive Food Writing Retreat on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

12 - 15 Nov 2026

Join us for a weekend of community, connection and commensality in the stunning surrounds of West Cork.

This event is a new concept for me and I am excited to share it.

It allows space and time to facilitate knowledge sharing and the exploration of food, and while this retreat will feature practical writing advice and guided workshops, it will also offer unique experiences grounded in cooking, nature, heritage, meditation and artistic expression.

Spaces are limited.

About James

The Venue

Dunowen House in Ardfield, Co. Cork

Built originally in 1771 by Captain George Sandes, Dunowen House has been home to aristocracy, farmers, artists and writers, as well as to the relations of the celebrated Irish hero Michael Collins.

It has a rich musical history, and for over 30 years was home to Noel Redding, bassist with the Jimi Hendrix Experience, with legends of the industry having been entertained here from the 1970’s on.

Current owners Kela & Stephen Hodgins followed their own “escape to the country” dream by leaving Dublin in 2013 and buying the estate. Since then they have lovingly restored the house, old farm buildings and a one acre walled garden, securing them for future generations.

It is surrounded by undisturbed coastal landscapes, coves and beaches, as well as charming local towns and villages. It offers the opportunity for sea swims, saunas and coastal foraging, which will be offered as part of this experience.

The house has 9 luxury rooms on offer, with a selection of sleeping arrangements and sizes. Please see below for rates and availability.

What to expect

A food writing retreat reimagined for those seeking a more authentic and immersive experience.

Below you will find an example guide.

We prefer to keep an element of surprise and trust involved in how the experience will unfold.

Days will be structured around workshops, group activities, writing prompts, reflective time and shared meals.

This event is a collaboration between:

James Gabriel Martin, Photojournalist and Chef.

Aisling Cullen, Writer, Coach, Yoga Teacher and Facilitator.

Kela Hodgins, Host and Owner of Dunowen House.

This retreat will run from lunchtime Thursday 12 Nov until midday Sunday 15 Nov, offering ample time to immerse yourself in the Irish countryside, take part in workshops and have downtime to reflect and explore, or write in reaction to the shared discussions and ideas of the morning.
Days begin with wholesome breakfasts made with the freshest local Irish ingredients, followed by a morning writing workshop. The discussions and topics can be informed by the group as a whole, but can include colour writing, honing your voice, food as sensory experience, building confidence as a writer and tips on getting your work out into the world.
Lunch will be provided by Kela at Dunowen House. The food is very much reflective of Irish hospitality.
James will prepare the evening meals, with an invitation for group interaction and learning. There will also be ample time for individual exploration and integration of the learnings during your free time between meals and workshops.
The schedule offers a blend of creative outlets and inlets from music to food and storytelling, aiming to leave you nourished and inspired.
Please read the descriptions of accomodation available in the section below. We have included imagery of Dunowen House and the bedrooms available. There is a link to contact the venue directly to book in.
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to secure booking. This ensures that we are able to run this small and intimate gathering.
In your booking email please clarify if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Chosen accommodation.
Three breakfasts.
Three lunches.
Treats and afternoon refreshments.
Three dinners/demos, with wine included.
Writing workshops.
Personalised notebook handcrafted in County Cork, and a good pen to write with!
Selected activities.

Lodgings

The Cathedral Room - Sleeps 1 - 2
This stunning room features one King size four poster bed, vaulted ceilings and original 1700’s pitched beams. It has a free-standing stone bathtub, set beneath the exposed stone wall section. This bedroom also includes a separate ensuite & walk-in shower.
€2,950 per person for single occupancy room / €1,850 per person based on two people sharing.
Please note: There is only one bed in this room
The Captains Room - Sleeps 1 - 2
This room is named after Captain George Sandes, who lived here at Dunowen until his death in 1876. It has lovely sunny views into the courtyard with its old bell tower. Renovated in 2023 it now has a stunning king size four poster bed, replica Georgian window shutters, antique furniture and beautiful coastal artwork by local artists. The room has a free-standing bathtub and a Travertine marble ensuite shower-room.
€2,950 per person for single occupancy room / €1,850 per person based on two people sharing.
Please note: There is only one bed in this room
Sandes Room - Sleeps 1 - 3
This room is situated on the south side of the house, looking out across the garden towards the sea at the end of the laneway. It’s bright and spacious, sleeping up three guests in a king bed and a custom-made sofa bed. The real wow factor in this bedroom is the fully tiled glass mosaic bathroom that pops when the lights are on.
Includes ensuite bathroom.
Please note: This room has one bed & one sofa bed.
€2,950 per person for single occupancy room / €1,850 per person based on two people sharing.
Noel’s Room - Sleeps 1 - 3
Named in honour of Noel Redding, whose bedroom this was for the thirty years he lived at Dunowen House. Noel’s Room has five windows that cast light inside all day, a gorgeous garden view and a glimpse of the sea at the bottom of the lane. One king size bed and one single bed.
It also has a fabulous ensuite bathroom.
€2,950 per person for single occupancy room / €1,850 per person based on two people sharing.
The Studio Suite - Sleeps 1 - 2
This suite occupies the entire top floor of one wing of the house, with four large roof windows, gorgeous light and stunning views towards the West. It was once an artist studio used by Noel Redding’s former partner, Carol Appleby. The ensuite bathroom has the original 1700’s beams, which you can admire as you soak in the bathtub.
€2,950 per person for single occupancy room / €1,850 per person based on two people sharing.
Please note: There is only one bed in this room
The Orchard - Sleeps 1 - 3
This is ideal for two to three guests wishing to share a room. It has one king size bed and a cosy annex with a double bed just off the main suite, giving a little extra privacy. The Orchard has a marble tiled ensuite showroom, comfy beds and lots of natural light.
€2,950 per person for single occupancy room / €1,700 per person based on sharing.
The Cottage - Sleeps 3
This characterful old building is located the walled garden and orchard. It dates back to the 1800’s and has been sympathetically restored to a very high standard. It has three cosy bedrooms, two bathrooms, a wood burning stove and an open plan kitchen-living area. The cottage is suitable for up to three guests and would be ideal for friends looking to share together but with their own bedrooms.
€1,200 per person for single occupancy room.