Location, Lodging and Dining

Ralston White Villa: A Retreat Sanctuary on Mt. Tamalpais

Nestled on the slopes of Marin County's majestic Mt. Tamalpais, the Ralston White Villa stands as a beacon of inspiration and serenity for those seeking a retreat from the ordinary. This sprawling 14,000-square-foot mansion, set amidst the natural splendor of its surroundings, offers an unparalleled setting for creativity, relaxation, and personal growth.

The villa's heart-shaped lawn serves as the perfect foreground to the breathtaking trails of Mt. Tam. Whether you're stepping outside to immerse yourself in nature, finding solace in a secluded tree hollow, or savoring the tranquility from the upper deck, the Ralston White Villa caters to every moment of introspection and connection.

The villa provides a unique blend of solitude and communal space. It's an ideal haven for writers and thinkers alike, offering numerous hideaways for individual reflection and ample room for group engagements. Here, participants can engage deeply with one another's narratives and embark on a journey of self-discovery, surrounded by the villa's inspiring ambiance.

Accommodations at the Ralston White Villa are thoughtfully designed to ensure the comfort and privacy of each guest. Participants will enjoy their own room, with a selection of rooms featuring either twin or queen-sized beds. The bathrooms are shared. Rooms selection will be on a first come, first serve basis. There’s plenty of choices in this three story mansion. Two of the rooms that accommodate two people have ensuite bathrooms. If you are traveling with a friend or open to meeting a new friend and sharing a large room with an ensuite bathroom, please let my assistant, Susan Barber know of your preference. Her email is samb_40@yahoo.com

This architectural masterpiece not only captures the essence of its natural environment but also serves as a source of constant inspiration and a sanctuary for those looking to write their next chapter.

At the Ralston White Villa, your retreat experience is more than just a getaway; it's an opportunity to live, write, and connect in one of Marin County's most treasured settings.

This all-encompassing retreat offers a kick-off dinner on the opening night, three daily meals, and a farewell breakfast on Sunday. Expect nothing short of gourmet catering—far from your ordinary paper plate fare.

What people have to say about Ann…

"I value every second of every moment I have spent in Ann’s workshops. She has brought inspiration and light into my world as an artist I didn’t know existed. For that I will be forever grateful. Without her I wouldn’t have written my play, it wouldn’t have been produced at two highly regarded theaters in LA, nor would I have had a dreamlike run at an Off-Broadway house in New York, and I wouldn’t be in talks with a “very big” MAJOR publishing house and a notable Literary Agent about any of this - if it hadn’t been for her - her talent, genius and generous guidance."

“Ann Randolph is a magnificent teacher. That’s why I’ve returned to study with her again and again. I’m a seven-time published author and I teach writing all over the world—and Ann is my go-to teacher. Every time I study with her, she jumpstarts my writing, helps me tap into my deepest material, and pushes me right over the edge of my comfort zone—exactly where I want to be because that’s where the creative jewels are found."

“My week in Ann Randolph’s workshop was simply incredible. She is an exquisite teacher. Skilled, compassionate, funny, inspirational. So talented! So creative! Perfection in an instructor. We had the joy of watching her perform her hilarious new show, Inappropriate In All the Right Ways, one evening at Hollyhock. What a gift! She is a wickedly funny comedienne who was able to drop in and bring a depth and humanity to her characters which was deeply moving. My work took on a new depth and I began to feel that I might be able to actually write this play. I can say with a full heart that her workshop changed my life.”

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