2025 Writing Retreat, Oct. 22-28
“Our Work & Our Muses”:
A Writing Retreat with Janelle Hanchett (and hopefully Zeus’s 9 daughters)
October 22-28, 2025
Samos, Greece
“There are, it seems, two muses: The Muse of Inspiration, who gives us inarticulate visions and desires, and the Muse of Realization, who returns again and again to say, ‘It is yet more difficult than you thought.’ It may be that when we no longer know what to do, we have come to our real work and when we no longer know which way to go, we have begun our real journey.”
– Wendell Berry
Before we get started with my novella, a note: I am offering two retreats this year at the same retreat center. The difference between the two is that the one occurring earlier in October is created for writers with a current work in progress; it’s almost totally craft-focused. The retreat described on this page is created for everyone looking to reconnect with or establish a writing practice. It’s for exploration of creativity, for looking into our fears, for returning home with a clearer sense of what sustained creative work brings to our lives, and why it’s an endeavor worth pursuing. Now, welcome to my novella.
In 2015, I held my first writing retreat with eight women. They were all from the first writing workshop I had ever taught, and we had been working together for a year.
In a word, it was magic. And you know how I feel about words like “it was magic.”
Only it was, in fact, magic.
The following year, I held my first retreat with 12 people who weren’t in that writing group, and it was, again, don’t make me say it.
We spent mornings on a sunny deck drinking coffee under the coastal redwoods, then headed off to the yurt with a roaring wood stove to discuss various aspects of the craft of writing. We ate lunch together at a massive, ancient wooden table, enjoying food prepared by my best friend, Sarah, who also happens to be a chef.
In the afternoons, we spread out around the retreat center and wrote or read or napped, sat in the hot tub or took a dip in the pool. In the evenings, we (well, they, since I don’t drink) sipped wine on the deck and after dinner, gathered around the enormous fireplace in the main ranch house to workshop one another’s writing.
We left as friends and better writers. And possibly crying.
These retreats have been transformative, and since we now live in The Netherlands, we figured we’d better take advantage of, well, Europe. So in 2021, we headed to southern France.
We hiked in the Pyrenees (look, I’m sorry the hike was longer than I thought it would be), got attacked by wild goats at lunch, recovered in ancient Roman baths deep in a valley under the soaring mountains. We visited the local market, laid down on the country road in the middle of the night to look at the stars, and ate croissants every morning from a local bakery.
In 2022 we went to a 10th-century castle in rural Catalunya. While there we learned that it was run by an

in fact built in the 900s lol
order of women for 100 years during the 11th century, which is absolutely unheard of. A whole community of women developed and thrived in the valley, until the Pope decided they had grown too powerful and shut them down.
And when two guests (one of whom is my husband) literally heard women’s voices singing — and they were decidedly not women in our group — the proprietor said “Oh, those are the women in the stones. They are happy you are here, a group of women writers.” I got chills again just now.
We walked to a very, very old hostel where the menu consisted of eight choices, handwritten, and every item came from the farmers in that very valley. We walked home at midnight under a night sky you wouldn’t believe.
We took a rack rail train into the Spanish Pyrenees and spent an afternoon at high-mountain lake with cafes and a very friendly Spanish dude renting little boats to paddle around in the sunshine. I can’t make this shit up.

Italy, where we ate every meal
In 2023, we went to Tuscany. I AM NOT ABLE AT THIS MOMENT TO TALK ABOUT ITALY.
(It’s January in The Netherlands and I regret everything.)
And through it all we write, study writing, laugh with and learn from each other.
What I’m saying is this: My retreats are as much about living as they are about writing. They are about experiencing this world in a vivid and authentic way. They’re about just enough adventure (I do about 9 billion hours of research for our activities, but I have never been to where we’re going, so we are up for adventure).
They are not curated perfection.
They are about being awake to this life, the people on this earth, the characters, the stories, the beauty and annoyance and wildness we encounter every day. How else can we write? How can we make art?
Somebody said writers are people who pay attention to things.
Real people, real food, real locations, real friendship.
And, at times, real wtf. We’ll pay attention, and we will remember.
Oh, I almost forgot: In October 2024 we visited a very special, very old farmhouse and retreat center set in one of the most beautiful places on earth: the Pyrenees. On our day trip, we went to Collioure, a stunning artists’ town on the Mediterranean.
We can’t wait to go back: for the mountains, the sea, and the donkeys. It was one of the most idyllic and peaceful retreats we’ve had. The hot tubs overlooking the mountains. Damn.
Announcing 2025:
And this year, friends, we’re doing what I’ve been threatening to do for years: THE MEDITERRANEAN. Specifically, the Aegean Sea.
I had one priority this year: Get us on the water. Okay, that wasn’t my only priority, but it was massive. I want us to hear the waves from every room, be surrounded by the expanse of emerald blue you can’t believe is real.
I found it, and I cannot wait to take you there.
This retreat center is right on the Aegean Sea, and I mean RIGHT on it. The photo above is the private beach reserved for guests of the center, so, us. Just 12 writers and Sarah, Mac and me. OUR BEACH. Hold me.
There are multiple other beaches in walking distance, but in a 3-minute walk you can be on a sun lounger under an umbrella. You can eat your breakfast on the beach. That is what I want this year: I want us to be immersed in the sea. I wanted us to LIVE the sea for a week, watch the sunrises and sunsets. Smell the air. listen to the waves, and feel the warm water on our bodies as often as we want. Last year we went to the mountains. This year we go to the blue.
It is site of so much mythology, so much history – not just the seas of the world in general, but Greece specifically. Setting aside a few Greek philosophers you may have heard of, let me tell you a bit about Samos. Samos is part of the Eastern Aegean Islands, very close to the Turkish coast. It’s small, a total area of about 475 sq km and a coastline of 159 km. And OLD. It was first inhabited during the Neolithic years (3rd millennium BC).
“The first colonists of the island were the Pelasgians who worshipped Hera, the Phoenicians, the Leleges, and the Carians… Samos became a great power during the 6th century BC when it was ruled by the tyrant Polycrates who managed to turn the island into a huge naval power. Under its rule, the arts and sciences flourished and the Eapalinus Tunnel and the magnificent Heraion (Sanctuary of Hera) were built.
The history of Samos has been marked by some famous personalities such as the astronomer Aristarchus, the first to argue that the sun was the center of the universe, the philosopher Epicurus, the fable writer Aesop and the famous mathematicianPythagoras. Samos honored Pythagoras by giving his name in one of the villages (Pythagorio village), a square in Vathi and there is also a cave on the island where Pythagoras is said to have hidden while tyrant Polycrates, his political opponent, was chasing him. During the Battle of Plataea (479 BC), the Samians helped Athens to win and then allied to it and returned to democracy.” (https://www.greeka.com/eastern-aegean/samos/history/)
“The island is traversed by small brooks which are springing from the Ambelos mountain chains. The geography of Samos distinguishes for the lush forests and valleys. Small plains and valleys separate the mountains, covered mostly by olive groves, orange and citrus trees. Bushes, pine forests, plane trees, cypresses, chestnut trees, and more vegetation cover the ground of Samos. Endless vineyards can be seen and in fact, wine is strongly connected to local history. From those are produced the famous and excellent wines of Samos.” (https://www.greeka.com/eastern-aegean/samos/geography/)
An infinity terrace. Meals in the “kiosk” overlooking the water. Workshops every morning in a gorgeous studio with wide-open windows to hear the sound of the water. Hike around the lush mountains around us, or check out some of the numerous caves on the beach. Or, just sit, sit, sit on the beach. Write. Swim. Be. (Now I sound like a wooden Target wall sign).
This retreat will be like nothing we’ve done before, yet, I know, just as all we’ve done before: warm, welcoming, vibrantly creative, irreverent, magic.
I said it again, and I meant it.
Let’s check this place out.

the main center

the studio where we’ll have our workshops, notice the sea through the windows

the infinity terrace

where we’ll eat meals

I mean

the sun deck, do some yoga, hang out

just wanted to look at the private beach again

all of the rooms have a sea view

surrounded by nature

another view of the kiosk and gardens

outdoor kitchen
Please stop what you’re doing and google “Samos, Greece images” so you see what we’re working with here in terms of surroundings.
OKAY.
Join us at October 22-28, 2025.
We will wake up, eat a lovely breakfast (and consume a lot of coffee and tea), then we’ll have 2.5 hours of craft workshops in the studio.
We will eat lunch, then have afternoons free for writing, exploring the area, sleeping, chatting. Staring off into the sea or mountains.
You can hike, take a swim if it’s warm enough, or find a private nook to write in. All suites have their own bathrooms and small kitchens, and there are lots of places for you to be alone to write or read and think.
In the evenings we’ll enjoy dinner prepared by Sarah with locally sourced ingredients. We will reconvene in the evening for discussions and/or workshop writing.
As always, my approach is this: I want us comfortable, content, friendly, mellow, and having A LOT of possibly raucous fun while also writing and seriously considering our relationship to writing.
Forgive the cliche but we work hard and play hard. I remind writers always that they are spending money on this—and so we shall write. I take my commitment to you very seriously and am honored you trust me as a teacher and mentor.
I built my writing career from 40 blog readers while raising four kids. I published a book in 2018 and have a Master’s degree in English. I see writing in realistic terms and work from a place of pragmatism and honesty instead of airy declarations of the muse: I won’t insist you find “your jewel within” (simply because I don’t know what the fuck that means), but I will remind you how Toni Morrison wrote her first book on a yellow legal pad next to a toddler, who then vomited on it, and how she “wrote around the puke.”
I’m a write-around-the-puke kinda writer. But the thing is, in my opinion, that is the jewel, and it’s one I know well. It’s the one that has in fact changed my life.
We think. We discuss. We get deep into the grit of it. And then we pull back and enjoy our surroundings, food, each other, and life.
I want you to leave with a feeling of experiential transformation. As in, the experience itself adding as much to your writing as the workshops.
Here’s a sample daily schedule:
This retreat is for everyone, wherever they are in relation to writing. From those who journal and are interested in developing a writing practice to published authors looking to get work done and reconnect to their own work and creative selves.
We will examine the creative process from many angles, particularly addressing fear and the thought processes that block us from our work — or, perhaps better said, satisfying work. We will study the habits of other writers and I’ll share with you everything I know about “writing around the puke.” We will work hard on figuring out what brings you to the page and will keeps you there; we will help you define yourself as a creative person and writer, so you return home with a clearer sense of purpose and motivation.
While my other retreat is focused primarily on the craft of writing and created for those midway through a distinct work in progress, this retreat will address craft in a more universal way, intended for all levels of writers — those with a currently defined project and those without. (We’ll even work on helping you define a project for yourself!)
For example:
How do I get myself onto the page? My personality? (a discussion of voice)
How do I connect with an audience in a real and authentic way?
Why does my writing seem boring? How can I enliven it?
What are the basic elements of storytelling?
This is not a lecture/school retreat. This is a dynamic, fun, interactive time for you to get writing, explore your motivations, and go home with a clearer sense of yourself as a motherfucking writer. We are very serious and formal, though. So get ready for that. There is no swearing and no laughter. We all wear dinner jackets.
Sleeping Arrangements:
This retreat is open to 12 writers. There are many room and bed options, single to double occupancy, twin to double or queen-sized beds. Below I have listed the room options and prices. After sending the deposit to secure your spot, I’ll email you (or you can email me) regarding room preference. I reserve rooms in order of sign ups, and of course always do my best to accommodate within that framework.
Getting there:
This is something else I am REALLY excited about. Everyone’s going to fly to Athens, which means you will see fucking ATHENS. I went last year and while it’s not my favorite place on the planet (I reserve that for the Aegean Sea), the history there is something everyone should experience if possible. I also visited there in JULY, which is shall we say, not exactly “refreshing,” and we’re going in October, when the weather is perfect. Usually 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit. It was 4000 when I went.
From Athens you will take a reliable, safe island plane to Samos. (These are not tiny death helicopters; don’t worry, I researched). They leave multiple times a day and today (Jan. 13, 2025) were listed at €50 (not included in tuition). Last time I checked it was €100. The flight is one hour.
We will then have transportation from the Samos airport to the retreat center, which is less than an hour. It will be an additional cost of around €150.
This will all be discussed and arranged on planning calls once the retreat is filled. It always works out so smoothly, promise. You will not be left alone. You will meet up with the writers in Athens and get yourselves happily to the island.
We will have a Facebook group and a WhatsApp group closer to the event. We will have planning calls and discuss all the things.
I truly hope you join us.
“Our Work & Our Muses”:
October 22-28, 2025
Samos, Greece
Cost: €2600-€3150 (can be paid in installments; please email me to discuss)
Here’s what that cost includes:
-
- 6-nights accommodations
- All of your meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, prepared by Sarah, a professional chef or the facility’s Greek caterers (breakfasts). Healthy, expansive, and locally sourced.
- 2.5-3 hours of writing craft instruction each morning (Again, if you’ve attended my retreats/workshops before, don’t worry, the content will be NEW.)
- 1 hour of evening time together, either in a writing roundtable (where we receive feedback on work submitted), or have a discussion on writing process
- Optional hikes and/or journeys into nearby villages
- A full day outing (this is always a surprise but you can read about past outings above, and they are chosen in a way that accommodates all guests)
- Afternoons and evenings around free for writing, reading, staring into the distance. We often we end up hanging out, drinking wine (well, I don’t), listening to Mac and Sarah play guitar and sing. Somehow this seems to be everyone’s favorite feature of these retreats. DON’T WORRY I’M NOT OFFENDED.
Here are the rooms available. I cross them off as they fill but leave them here for my own bizarre, boring reasons. (updated February 12, 2025)
Studio Sunflower: Single bed in double-occupancy studio with bathroom and terrace with mountain & partial sea view: €2600 (2 of 2 available)
Studio Flora: Single bed in double-occupancy studio with bathroom, terrace, and sea view: €2700 (1 of 2 available)
Queen bed in a single bedroom, balcony, sea view, bathroom shared with 2 other guests in apartment: €3150 (0 of 1 available)
Single bed in double-occupancy room, balcony, sea view, bathroom shared with other guest in apartment: €2700 (2 of 2 available)
Queen bed in single bedroom, garden view, bathroom shared with 2 other guests in apartment: €3100 (0 of 1 available) – terrace off apartment
Single bed in double-occupancy room, sea view, bathroom shared with other guest in apartment: €2700 – terrace off apartment (2 of 2 available)
Studio Rose: Single bed in double-occupancy studio with bathroom, patio & small balcony, sea view: €2700 (2 of 2 available)
Note: I will do my very best to accommodate your wishes for the room. I give them out in order of sign-ups. If you would like a particular roommate, please make sure that person has also signed up so I can hold both spots. It’s best to give me 2 options you’d be happy with.
I am unfortunately unable to guarantee accommodations for mobility needs; please discuss with me options and needs before sending deposit.
HOW TO JOIN US:
Just send a deposit, but please read the refund policy below! All writers and people who wish they were writing are welcome. Please email me any questions. I’m happy to discuss all aspects of the retreat.
*REFUND POLICY: The €400 deposit is non-refundable. The remaining balance (full retreat amount) will be due July 15, 2025. If you cannot attend the retreat after you’ve paid the remaining balance, I will refund you if I can fill the spot, but I must be notified by July 1, 2025. I’m sorry this is so strict. I had a very questionable man a couple of years ago announce to me one week before the retreat that he wouldn’t be paying. Just flat out invented a story and expected to come anyway, for free. One of the most astonishing things I’ve ever experienced. I also once had three people cancel two weeks before the retreat (just bad luck). I try to keep my tuition rates relatively low, and part of that requires making sure all the spots are filled! Is this the longest refund policy ever, and the most ridiculous? I sure hope so. Anyway, by paying the deposit you agree to this policy. Thank you!