Sorry, no starving-artist-roughing-it this week. We are spoiling our muses! Our two writing residences, specifically chosen to maximize inspiration (and views), are outstanding luxury resorts. Both are perched atop of the largest inhabited caldera in the world. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Aegean Sea and the slumbering volcanoes peaking through the blue waters, rimmed by incredible cliffs and picturesque white houses.
Diamond Level:
5 star luxury spa resort offering limited critique villa rooms where the main classroom is housed.
Each villa is two or three bedrooms with ensuite baths, a common sitting room, and a private pool. Included breakfast is available in the main restaurant and ordered individually.
Gold Level:
A short five minute walk from the main classroom, the neighboring property is a comfortable resort with double and single occupancy rooms, each with a balcony or terrace, and a resort pool. Buffet breakfast is included.
Writer-attendees will receive: daily classes on the craft and business of publishing; personalized critique groups to workshop their writing; downtime (optional) for creativity and writing; a critique of their first pages and query letter from the writing staff. Following a morning focus on writing, attendees get daily excursion to experience the energy of the island. (All excursions included in attendance price.)
Instructional classes are presented by your Master of Workshops, Chuck Sambuchino, and focus on a variety of topics, such as: how the publishing industry is changing-from AI to hybrid publishers; how to find an agent and write a query letter; social media and book promotion; how to write like the pros by sharpening your craft and self-editing; and more. The 2026 retreat features something for everyone--beginner to published.
No classes or sessions are mandatory. You are welcome to come and learn as you please, but also relax as you please. A full schedule will be provided before your arrival on the island.
Arrive on Santorini
Transfer to resort
Welcome dinner
Breakfast at resort
Morning Workshop
Writing Block/Break
Afternoon Lost Atlantis Expedition
Dinner at seaside taverna
Breakfast at resort
Morning Workshop
Writing Block/Break
Afternoon Deluxe Island Tour
Dinner beneath the church and behind the schoolyard.
Breakfast at resort
Morning Writing Block/Break
If you need a break from writing or time to explore, join your Insiders local for a Fira Walking Exploration with a most traditional gyro where locals 'do lunch' in the whitewashed alleys of the capital city of the island
*Optional Traditional Cooking Class in a hidden village with lunch
Late Afternoon Classroom/Breakout Sessions
Breakfast at resort
Morning Workshop
The remainder of the day is at leisure...hit the black volcanic sand beach, do some shopping, stroll through the quaint alleys of Fira or Oia, taken in a movie at an outdoor cinema, write, read, and simply let your muse out to play!
This is also a great day to make sure you've had your 1:1 with Chuck
Breakfast at resort
Morning Workshop
Set Sail on the Caldera for a view of Santorini from the water!
Climb a volcano
Swim in sulfur spring, snug between two volcanoes
Dinner onboard
Writing Recap and Accountabiltiy
Breakfast at resort
The retreat has official come to a close.
We can't wait to see your work in print!