Writers' Retreat in Iceland

Writers'  retreats are more common in the US and to a lesser extent in the UK. Here's one that may be of interest. Note that there are now direct flights from Belfast to Reykjavík.

There's a competition to win a free delegate spot at the ICELAND WRITERS RETREAT in April 2015. The winner will receive the full retreat package, including a free hotel stay, tours, most meals, and all workshops for the duration of the event, from 8 to 12 April.

Write a short story or essay, no more than 500 words, using this image of Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center as your inspiration.

The four-person judging panel will select one winning entry. Judges will be looking for creativity, originality, and style.

Deadline 23:59 (GMT) on January 25, 2015. 

Link here
More info on the retreat if  you don't win is here