"Best writing retreat I’ve ever done… a GREAT experience!"
"Best writing retreat I've ever done, and I've a done a few. Lisa and Scott are outstanding hosts and organizers.
The daily content was just structured enough that I was inspired to push ahead with my writing. There was plenty of time
to work alone or talk writing, and just the right amount of time in class in the mornings and reading/critique in the
evenings to feel super productive. The location (Il Gelso in Tuscany) was FABULOUS--quiet, spacious, comfortable,
private; the food by Chef Sardo was out of this world, the company and camaraderie stellar. I will go again. It was a GREAT experience! "
Anne-Elizabeth H., Writer & Editor
"...the best investment I've ever made in myself!"
"This Retreat experience was so much more than I even expected. This was the best investment I've ever made in myself."
Abby R., Essayist, Personal Memoir Writer
"incredibly special..."
"How grateful I am for the last week and for all I was able to take away from everything we did.
I appreciate everything you did for us, and especially for me.
This last week was something incredibly special, and I am so lucky to have been a part of it. Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
Elizabeth O., playwright
"Write Away Europe’s writing retreat in France has truly been everything I could ever have dreamed of!
"Write Away Europe’s writing retreat in France has truly been everything I could ever have dreamed of!
I was very nervous to attend, and yet everything about the experience was just so deeply wonderful — I can’t gush enough.
I left the chateau so deeply inspired, motivated and overwhelmed with gratitude. I spent my days in the company of
wonderful writers and editors who went above and beyond with their mentoring. There was the perfect mix of learning and
discussions, mixed with round table discussions and long stretches of time to be able to write or do whatever felt
inspiring for you! I would write by the pool, in the gardens or in the sunroom for hours and hours, and then would
revel in the wholesomeness of running in the fields and swinging in trees with new friends, all topped off with
evenings laughing over incredible food and wine. This experience enriched my life in ways I could never have
anticipated. Above all, I have managed to write a mammoth amount of quality words, and have true belief that
this novel will soon be finished! Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the kindness, the thoughtful
feedback and all of the fun! My heart is so full."
Johanna S, Essayist, Writer
"...a fantastic time...This dynamic allowed ideas to bloom and writing to flow "
"I had a fantastic time at Write Away Europe's retreat in France. Lisa and Scott catered for writers of all levels,
and were positive and encouraging, yet still constructive with their feedback. The daily workshops were interesting and
inspiring. Combined with the setting and excellent food from Ilse and Clive, the whole experience was magical and nourishing,
as you would hope a retreat would be. Lisa and Scott curated a welcoming environment where participants felt comfortable to
share their writing with the whole group. This dynamic allowed ideas to bloom and writing to flow. I can truly say I wouldn't
have started my novel, nor been inspired to continue, had I not joined this retreat. Thank you so much to all involved!"
Hannah O., Fiction
"...tranformative...I miss being on this retreat already..."
"This retreat was transformative. The location, the accommodation, the food (wow, chef!) and the
warmth of our hosts, Lisa, Scott and Abby were beyond expectations. You'll find the days structured enough to
ensure your growth as a writer -- discussions of craft, readings and feedback -- but also flexible and quiet,
giving you time and mental space to move your project forward. I would recommend this experience without hesitation
to any writer at any level of experience who wants to commit to their craft. I miss being on this retreat already
and hope it won't be my last.."
Renee R, Writer, Fiction
"...a week of incredible growth and productivity...the boost I need to fortify my writing skills and confidence..."
"This was a week of incredible growth and productivity among new friends who shared some struggles but celebrated
many successes, as we navigated Scott and Lisa's invaluable writing prompts and ate Mirco's scrumptious Italian meals.
I'm so glad I made the commitment to take a week for myself. I finished my 1st draft, and began my second book in Italy,
which continues to move along at a rapid pace. This was just the boost I needed to fortify my writing skills and build
my confidence as a writer. Thanks for everything! "
Kerri T, Fiction
"...the best experience ever."
"My heart is still in Tuscany... I am glad I took some me time for writing in such a peaceful environment with amazing people.
Thank you for the best experience ever. I miss everyone already."
Masako T., Nonfiction Writer
"...couldn't possibly have loved it more!"
"I couldn’t possibly have loved it more! Thank you again for putting it on and allowing us all to come together
in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever spent time!"
Kimberly P., Novelist
"...more work done in my novel in past week than in past year."
"Missing the villa and great company! I managed to get inspired enough to
get more work done on my novel in the past week than in the entire past year."
Aloy A., Screenwriter and Novelist
"...nothing short of extraordinary..."
"I recently had the privilege of attending the Write Away Europe retreat in France. From the moment I arrived,
I was captivated by the stunning setting and the warm, welcoming atmosphere…. I couldn't have asked for better nourishment to
fuel my creative energies! Speaking of setting, the picturesque location of the retreat was like something out of a storybook.
The organizers and instructors of the retreat were truly exceptional. They were not only passionate about writing but also
dedicated to helping each participant enhance their skills. Through insightful morning workshops and inspiring group discussions,
they guided us towards unlocking our full potential as writers. One of the most rewarding aspects of the retreat was the opportunity
to connect with like-minded individuals. I met a diverse group of talented writers, all with different backgrounds and perspectives.
The camaraderie and creative exchange were truly enriching, as we shared ideas, provided feedback, and supported one another on our
writing journeys. These newfound friendships will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate me long after the retreat. Overall,
my experience at the Write Away Europe retreat was nothing short of extraordinary. I had an absolutely fantastic time, and I can't
emphasize enough the positive impact it had on my writing skills and personal growth.."
Kristina M, Fiction
"...surrounded by people who share your passion for books and writing."
"What an experience: that workshops, the evening conversations and dinners. There's absolutely no substitute for getting
to be surrounded by a group of people who share your passion for books and writing."
Carolyn R., Novelist
"Loved every minute!!!!"
"Loved every minute!!!! Thank you all so much, miss you already!"
Manal N., Short Story Writer, Personal Essayist
"...a wonderful time...special and memorable...
"I had a wonderful time. Lisa and Scott were extraordinary at creating a safe space for discussion and for
all of us to share our writing, regardless of our level of experience as writers. Discussions were always interesting
and lively. The food was delicious and the setting gorgeous. A very special and memorable time. Thank you!"
Jennifer C, Writer, Historical Fiction
"...incredibly amazing... help, guindance, and friendship..."
"I hope you know how incredibly amazing you are! You taught me more than I ever expected in a very short amount of time.
The week was filled with so many new adventures and surprises. All I could see was an impressive array of activities that you managed
to put together seamlessly along with the writing workshops. Your give and take worked wonderfully for everyone in attendance. I
thoroughly enjoyed my time in Prague, the retreat, and mostly meeting all of you. I will remember this time fondly and with great appreciation for the help,
guidance, and friendship from everyone. Thank you so much."
Debbie M., Fiction Writer
"...now more inspired to continue on my novel...create productive spaces and habits."
"I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of you during our wonderful week together and hope to see your faces again whether in person,
on more book covers, TED talks, or national interviews celebrating your works. I took your advice and have used some of the writing prompts
to write about my writing, completing a synopsis, a beat sheet and a back cover blurb to help light the way forward and am now more
inspired to continue on my novel and create productive spaces and habits."
Jillian S., Novelist
"...conversational warmth and good humour... I pondered how reality could exceed my dreams."
"Evenings are filled with the conversational warmth and good humour of like-minded participants who freely share their emotions and
insights into the writing life. It can be unimaginably exhilarating to connect with people from all walks of life that share a common passion.
I’m sitting at my desk again surveying my surroundings in wonder, pondering how I really got here, and yet feeling as though I have discovered
a sense of place. For those wanting to explore their inner writing muse and reflect on your life thus far, a writing retreat in Tuscany may
just be the path you were destined to follow. Surrounded by such beauty and mesmerised from my
continued state of surreal disbelief, I pondered how reality could exceed my dreams."
David S., Travel Writer
"...literally life-changing...found courage and inspiration to write every day..."
"The Paros Retreat experience was literally life-changing for me. I've found the courage and inspiration to write every day and have
written more words in the past week than I had in a year."
Isabelle P., Memoirist
"...fantastic experience from start to finish...highly recommend..."
"I recently attended a Write Away Europe writing retreat on the Greek island of Hydra, which was a
fantastic experience from start to finish. The communication with Lisa was clear and friendly, making booking a breeze.
The retreat was held in a welcoming, family-run hotel with spotless rooms and a buffet breakfast on a shady terrace.
The retreat’s structure fostered creativity and sharing, starting with morning discussions on writing theory and our
individual projects, followed by afternoons free for writing or exploring, and ending with reflective evening sessions.
Lisa and Scott, the facilitators, were the heart of the retreat. They brought out the best in each of us, creating a
supportive and encouraging environment. Dinners at local restaurants were great fun, hearty and satisfying, and I left
inspired by the picturesque setting, the expert mentoring, and the diverse genres of the writers. I highly recommend
Write Away Europe’s retreats for anyone hoping to enjoy and improve their writing skills. "
Shelly D., Writer, Fiction & Non-Fiction
"inspiring... and completely transformative!"
"Extraordinarily inspiring! When I read all the reviews about how transformative this program was I was skeptical but I could not believe
how completely transformative it truly was!"
Kate M., Novelist & Screenwriter
"special... memorable... fabulous"
"Thank you for making all of our time so special & memorable. Every detail was obviously carefully planned, &
you shepherded us through each delightful meal & activity with the kind of grace that let us blissfully forget all the work
that goes into organizing a group (working) holiday. All your tips enriched every day. I had a fabulous time talking &
laughing with you all week."
Heather G., novelist
"ideas gleaned... inspired"
"I'm back in Chicago (and back at the office -- Day 2, ugh).
But I'm working hard on my script with all the ideas gleened from the workshops and our talks and newly inspired to stay on course!"
Kate H., scriptwriter
"inspiration... memories... friendship"
"Thanks for the inspiration, the friendship and all of the wonderful memories, moments which I look forward to reliving through my journal
and photos - and continued friendship with a stellar bunch of people."
Chris K., non-fiction writer
"beautiful souls...sharing"
"Thank you, to each of you beautiful souls, for sharing your lives and stories this week and being so attentive and helpful with mine.
I had no idea that I'd take so much away from the last 9 days."
Liz S., dramatist
"invigorating...filled with joy...bursting with ideas"
"I was nervous on arrival, not quite sure what to expect meeting strangers with whom I would be spending the ensuing week.
Those fears dissolved with the welcome dinner and upon waking the following morning, I felt a sense of hope that had long been absent from my life.
Each day proved more invigorating than the previous and by the end of the week my heart was filled with joy, my journal overflowing with words,
and my mind bursting with ideas. I see a way forward in my writing that was lost to me prior and have made bonds that will last a lifetime."
Isabelle T., memoir writer
"trip of a lifetime"
"I've gotta say this has absolutely been a trip of a lifetime.
My face hurts from smiling so much, my mind is reeling with input and ideas. I feel inspired. Invigorated."
Lisa D., screenwriter
"life-changing"
"Thanks for the energy and inspiration! What a life-changing week, my notebooks are filling!"
Maureen J., travel & non-fiction writer
"re-inspired my writing... creative well"
"I really can't put into words my experience at the Write Away retreat. I went as a traveler/writer should, with an open mind and heart, and what
I have received has not only re-inspired my writing, but has given me a creative well to draw upon.
I believe if that well is to ever run dry I can reflect upon my time at the retreat and again be re-inspired."
Travis K., fiction writer
"It was life changing..."
"It was life changing. Amazing scenery, upscale eclectic eating! Awakened with the better understanding of my
writing style. Which gave me more confidence. Met some unique writers and beautiful souls. Being primarily a nonfiction writer,
this experience, Inspired me to read, listen and write fiction books as well. Left with the tools, confidence and inspiration to
write two books to be launched in 2025 Thank you Scott, Lisa and Abigail Leaders/Facilitators...you gave me some awesome very blessed moments.
GRATEFUL AND THANKFUL "
Tonya Lee C, Memoir
"laughter...deep talks...back on course"
"I already miss you all, our boisterous laughter, our deep talks of life and writing, and the salient and sometimes silly jabber.
During our week together, you all helped me remember how good life can be, and who I was trying to be before I strayed from my path.
I'll be grateful forever, to all of you, for nudging me back on course, in both life and in writing."
Amy M. novelist
"...a fantastic trip… exceeded my expectations!"
"It was a fantastic trip. Definitely exceeded my expectations! The hosts were outstanding and the food was amazing as well.
I enjoyed meeting new writers, engaged in intellectually stimulating conversations about their writing projects and process. I would
definitely do it again!!! "
Roxanne C., Journalist & Writer, Memoir
"teachable moments...creative input...intellectual generosity"
"The teachable moments, the constructive creative input, infectuous laughter and the immense intellectual propensity
and generosity of the facilitators along side the participant writers is a must for any writer."
Mike L., novelist
"blown away... well organized"
"I was blown away by the well organized dining and travel accommodations that took the usual anxiety away from travel.
To all this I say thank you with a big heart and anyone one that embarks on a Write Away Retreat will have it placed as an anchor
in their hearts."
Jesse T.,
"first book deal... productive workshops...inspired"
"The Write Away retreat was given to me as a surprise gift, I just signed my first book deal based on my blog and proposal and I needed to decide
on the plan for my book and ideas to fill the pages. I found both at the retreat. After each productive workshop, I was raring to get planning and writing.
I'm feeling inspired and well-armed with lots of thoughts for moving forward with my book."
Sarah M., non-fiction lifestyle writer
"re-inspired my writing...lifetime memoriers"
"My experience in Greece… has not only re-inspired my writing but it has also re-invented how I think about writing and how I'll
approach it in the future. Days flew by in a heady haze of meeting great new people, stimulating writing workshops and enjoying fantastic
food (and drink) but I know the experience and memories of the trip are something that will stay with me forever!"
Neil F., fiction writer
"...time... attention...inspiring talks..."
"What a wonderful week! The opportunity to be surrounded by so many creative people all sharing the common interest of writing
was fantastic. The give and take and supportive atmosphere of the workshops was terrific but some of the best memories are the inspiring talks
during the evening social gatherings."
Anwar M., fiction writer
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