I had a wonderful experience at the Pyrenean Creative Writing Women’s Retreat. What I appreciated most was the sense of community, along with the balance between independent writing time and craft sessions focused on prompts, discussion, and different elements of the writing process. The schedule was thoughtfully planned but still flexible, with built-in opportunities to step away, recharge, hike, or explore the surrounding Basque region. That flexibility made the retreat feel supportive rather than overly structured. I came to the retreat hoping for guidance around some specific challenges with my novel, and the one-on-one time with Diana was especially valuable. She was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and generous with her time. It was clear that she had taken the time to really understand my project, and during our conversations she was completely present. She listened carefully to my ideas and, drawing on her expertise, helped me identify potential challenges and things to consider as I move forward. Her attentiveness and feedback were outstanding, and that individual time was the point when I really thought, “This is why I came.” Another thing I valued was the recognition that progress does not always mean producing pages. I arrived expecting that I needed to do much more actual manuscript writing, but I realized that I actually needed to spend time working through some structural questions instead. Much of my progress happened through thinking, reviewing, testing ideas, and looking at the project developmentally. The retreat helped reinforce for me that all of those phases are part of the writing process and that they matter just as much as getting words onto the page. I was also fortunate to be part of a wonderful group of writers. Everyone was respectful of one another, our projects, and the different stages we were in. We encouraged each other, had great conversations, and laughed a lot. The peaceful setting was a beautiful backdrop for the experience, and I appreciated opportunities such as Basque Day to explore the surrounding towns and learn a little about the local culture. I left the retreat with a much clearer sense of how to move forward with my project and, just as importantly, a plan for maintaining that momentum once I returned home. I have to say—I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with a “farmhouse,” especially in a completely different country. It was rustic and peaceful and definitely something different from what I’m used to, but it also added to the overall retreat experience. Overall, though, the retreat met and exceeded my expectations, and I came away feeling that my individual needs as a writer had truly been recognized and respected.

I had a wonderful time, great craft sessions with Diana, beautiful countryside accommodations (someone to cook and do laundry aside from me!) and fresh, delicious food -- thank you for a fabulous retreat which afforded me significant strides in my writing project!

The Pyrenean Women's Writing Retreat nourished me, body and soul, as a woman and as a writer. It was seamlessly organized. Diana's teaching and individual coaching sessions, Laura's food, the farmhouse accommodations, outings, and beautiful, unspoiled scenery combined to foster our community of writers. I wrote long and well and came away with a renewed sense of vigor and purpose as a writer. In the course of none days I was able to finish three pieces I was working on and develop a sense of direction for a fourth. The retreat was both relaxing and exciting. I left eager to return. Annette Leavy

I had a wonderful experience with KindWrite Studio's Pyrenean Creative Writing Women's Retreat. Diana Friedman was an encouraging and insightful instructor. She offered genuine advice and care. I came to learn craft and found a community. Learning alongside an amazing group of women felt like the warm embrace I'd been missing in my life. In ten days, I received the encouragement to continue to pursue my writing goals. We stayed in Casa Alkeberea, a rustic Basque farmhouse with a vibrant farm life. Endless green hills rolled past wild forests that begged to be explored. I enjoyed nature walks and gorgeous mountain views everyday. Our chef Laura catered to all our dietary needs. She made fresh meals with loads of vegetable options. Every meal was amazing, leaving us with full bellies and hearty smiles. The retreat schedule balanced teaching, excursions, and dedicated writing time. My favorite outings included Zugarramurdi's witch museum and the Elgorriaga spa circuit! If you are looking for breathtaking landscapes and a supportive writing atmosphere, this is the retreat for you! I left with a full notebook of new ideas and a renewed sense for storytelling.

Being at this retreat inspired me. I can’t say enough good things about Diana Friedman’s skill at teaching the material she had for us. Being there woke me up to my love of learning. I met other gifted, and oh so smart and accomplished women. I began to see things in new ways when it comes to writing in general, and my writing in particular. I listened to others share their thoughts, their stories, and listened to them read their writing. I felt seen, heard, valued. I learned while writing can lonely work, it is also work that needs the eyes and ears of others who are insightful, supportive and kind. I found a treasured community of writers. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to attend The Motherlode Retreat.