creative writing workshops in italy

The Writers Studio

The Original School of Creative Writing and Thinking, est. 1987

The Writers Studio Italia

The Writers Studio Italia nasce dall’incontro tra Philip Schultz, fondatore della prestigiosa scuola di scrittura, e Stas’ Gawronski, giornalista culturale e insegnante di scrittura creativa in Italia, in occasione di un’intervista al premio Pulitzer sul suo libro “La Mia Dislessia” al Festivaletteratura di Mantova 2016. La forte sintonia sulle ragioni profonde della letteratura e dell’educazione all’arte del narrare si sono tradotte in due anni appassionanti di frequentazione del Writers Studio a New York da parte di Stas’ e nell’idea di aprire la filiale della scuola a Roma con il comune amico, poeta e saggista, Nicola Bultrini, anche lui allievo del The Writers Studio.

I corsi del The Writers Studio Italia, in sede e on-line, sono tenuti secondo la metodologia della scuola americana da insegnanti italiani che si sono rigorosamente formati presso la scuola a New York.

Per maggiori informazioni, per cortesia, scrivete a [email protected] , visitateci sulla pagina Facebook del The Writers Studio Italia [coming soon]. Clicca qui per iscrivervi alla newsletter del Writers Studio Italia per le novità sui corsi, i readings, i workshop gratuiti e altre attività.

The Writers Studio New York

The Writers Studio, fondato nel 1987 a New York dal poeta vincitore del premio Pulitzer Philip Schultz, offre corsi e seminari, sia in sede sia on-line, pensati per aiutare scrittori e poeti a scoprire e coltivare la propria voce.

Accogliamo allievi di ogni età, grado di studio ed esperienza di scrittura che abbiano raggiunto i 18 anni, da quelli che soltanto sognano di scrivere poesie e storie, a quelli che si sono già confrontati con l’arte del narrare e sono affamati di istruzioni serie e continuative.

Gli allievi si accostano con il desiderio di scrivere e la volontà di apprendere, noi forniamo la struttura didattica, il know-how tecnico, il feedback professionale e la comunità di insegnanti e scrittori che consente agli allievi di far crescere e valorizzare il proprio talento, sviluppare un personale progetto di scrittura e raggiungere a poco a poco il pieno potenziale espressivo.

Il metodo di insegnamento del The Writers Studio si fonda sull’esperienza, l’esercizio e l’interiorizzazione delle voci narranti di scrittori che hanno già raggiunto una maturità espressiva e hanno pubblicato le loro opere con successo. Agli allievi viene proposto di mettersi concretamente in gioco in un processo di apprendimento che li porta a scoprire il proprio materiale narrativo, sviluppare la propria voce e il proprio unico stile.

Accadono molte cose interessanti quando gli allievi si confrontano con la varietà di approcci narrativi tratti dall’opera di autori affermati. L’intelligenza della narrazione si sviluppa, l’immaginazione si amplia, il senso di ciò che è possibile si espande. In poco tempo, il materiale narrativo che emerge è molto più vasto di quanto si possa immaginare.

Crediamo che una certa sensibilità narrativa sia il fondamento per la scrittura di una storia quanto per la scrittura di una poesia, ma le lezioni approfondiscono altri elementi espressivi essenziali come il “mood” e lo stile della voce narrante, il dialogo e le diverse tecniche poetiche. Paradossalmente, gli allievi sviluppano la loro voce unica e il loro stile originale immergendosi nelle narrazioni o nelle opere poetiche di autori affermati. Questo metodo è molto familiare agli allievi di musica e arti visuali, che sviluppano la loro abilità studiando le opere dei loro maestri. Di solito per gli allievi questo approccio è una rivelazione.

I corsi sono organizzati in quattro livelli distinti. Ogni livello si fonda su esercizi settimanali accuratamente pensati dagli insegnanti, in modo da costituire una sfida sempre più significativa e feconda. Tutti gli studenti nuovi al metodo iniziano il loro percorso formativo con il Workshop.

Gli insegnanti

Nel suo complesso è una comunità affiatata di scrittori e insegnanti; i corsi in sede si svolgono in ambienti informali e le classi presto diventano piccole comunità in cui gli allievi si sostengono e aiutano a vicenda in un clima di fiducia e solidarietà.

Scegliamo attentamente i nostri insegnanti e li formiamo con cura, in modo che gli allievi che procedono nei diversi livelli possano trovare coerenza e continuità di formazione. Gli insegnanti creano esercizi appropriati per ogni livello e offrono il loro punto di vista critico costruttivo e conciso, formando gli allievi a fare lo stesso l’uno con l’altro.

Gli allievi condividono il proprio lavoro e ricevono un feedback dai loro compagni all’interno di un quadro concettuale e di un vocabolario condiviso. Il graduale sviluppo di questa facoltà critica li rende molto più consapevoli e recettivi anche quando si tratta di valutare il proprio lavoro.

The Writers Studio Italia offers ongoing creative writing workshops entirely in Italian in Rome and Online using the tried and true method developed by Pulitzer Prize winning poet Philip Schultz since he founded the school in 1987. The idea for The Writers Studio Italia originated in 2016 at the Festivaletteratura in Mantua, when Stas’ Gawronski, an Italian cultural journalist and creative writing teacher, interviewed Pulitzer Prize winner and founder of The Writers Studio, Philip Schultz. Their shared vision about the experience of literature and teaching creative writing inspired Stas’ to move to New York City to attend The Writers Studio. After two exciting years of learning the method, Philip and Stas’ agreed that writers in Italy would greatly benefit from the Writers Studio approach. Our common friend, poet Nicola Bultrini, also a student of The Writers Studio, came on board to help establish The Writers Studio Italia. For more information, email [email protected] , subscribe to our newsletter and follow our Facebook page .

Available Italia Workshops

The writers studio, online and local communities.

New to The Writers Studio? Start here .

San Francisco

Hudson river towns, craft class, tutorial program, all memoir courses.

Your Voice, Your Style, Your Vision

Creative Writing Retreat in Italy

 17 - 24 may 2025, click here .

AN ALL INCLUSIVE PRICE!          

* 6 morning workshops & critique sessions

* 1:1 with a tutor to discuss any aspect of your manuscript 

* Q&A sessions with celebrity/published authors  - a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get tips and advice to help  you on your writing journey

* Breakfast/Lunch & dinner

Features >           

A luxury Italian villa with pool near to the coast with stunning views of the  Gran Sasso Mountains and  the medieval hilltop town of Citta S'Angelo.  

 Interactive workshops on creative writing, book marketing, book launches and cover design  

A safe, creative and nurturing environment for you!

Come with a completed manuscript or just and idea.. all are welcome  

The Retreat

Writing Submission

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Your Writing Piece

Write Toscana offers a tailor-made alternative to other high-pressure writing courses. Each of our courses admits only four fellow writers, and participants are carefully selected with the idea of creating a group that will form a writing community that lasts well beyond the end of your time in Italy. Over the course of seven days, you will have the encouragement to work on what you wish to and also to take risks and experiment – all while immersed in an inspirational setting.

At the heart of the retreat is the benefit of time and space to centre your writing practice: prompts to enliven your work, discussions and tips on planning and structuring, quiet moments of drafting and refining your work. These take place in both formal and casual group and one-to-one settings around the writing table, in cafes and over spirited meals. The aim is to learn not only from course leader Helen McClory but from yourself, discovering your own goals, and taking feedback and courage from both the environment and people around you.

We also believe that what you get out of your retreat depends on gathering the sensory details from the environment around you. Day trips out foster an experience to remember, taking in the stunning countryside, winding streets of honey-coloured stone buildings, delicious food and unforgettable cultural legacy of Tuscany. In the evenings, you’ll sit out in the quiet warm night air drinking a glass of wine, socialising and talking over bookish things and the events of the day. You can take time out to journal, read, or relax. And once the week is done, you will have much to draw on for future stories.

Head to the application page to submit your mission statement for the week, and a sample of your writing to get the process started. These will be carefully reviewed by Helen McClory to make sure you will have the best experience possible at Write Toscana. We hope to hear from you soon!

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L.A. Writers' Lab with Alan Watt

the 90-day novel, the 90-day screenplay, writing workshops

• workshops overview
• the 90-day novel®
• the 90-day memoir®
• the 90-day screenplay™
• rewrite master class
• the 30-day outline
• women on the verge of a breakthrough
• Tuscany retreat
• envision: creative goal setting
• solo retreats
• consultations
• editing services

Tuscany writing retreat

8 days in tuscany with alan watt may 10 - may 17, 2025 may 19 - may 26, 2025, each retreat is limited to 12 writers.

Join us for the experience of a lifetime. Outside of Florence, sits a working winery and olive farm, recipient of the tourism industry's Certificate of Excellence, and one of the top-rated villas in Tuscany.

welcome to Tuscany

A gentle breeze wafts through your open window. As you complete a satisfying writing session, your senses are awakened by the rich scent of grilled vegetables and Linguine alle Vongole emanating from the kitchen. You pass through the dining room where the table is being set for supper. A fire crackles. Your fellow writers sit lounging and enjoying a glass of Brunello. You join them, with the characters from your story still thrumming inside you. You're in that state of half-listening, half-absorbing, gradually returning to the world outside your imagination. You nibble a slice of pecorino on warm bread from the charcuterie plate and emit a deep sigh.

You're here.

And tonight, after supper, you will read a section from your work-in-progress to a rapt audience of fellow writers who are here to support you and share their encouragement.

Come join us on this once in a lifetime journey to the Tuscany countryside, and lose yourself in the world of your story.

Take a siesta, go for a swim in the pool, or just stroll through the property of olive trees and ancient vineyards. Quiet your mind, and listen to the story that lives fully and completely within you.

Laugh. Cry. Surrender to the truth of your story, and reconnect to the wider perspective that always leads you back to love.

Then fall asleep to the sounds of silence.

a day in the life

Morning 6 - 10 morning writing time 8 - 10 breakfast 10 - 11:30 workshop

Afternoon 12 - 1 lunch 1 - 4 personal writing time 4 - 4:40 group writing 4:40 - 5 snacks (happy hour)

Evening 5 - 6 workshop/discussion 6:15 - 7:30 supper 7:30 nightly salon 8:30 after dinner group stroll

step into your true power

To be an artist means placing trust in something that often resides at the fringes of your awareness. Initially, it manifests as a kind of divine dissatisfaction, and attempts to articulate it often fall short.

As the conduit for your story, your main responsibility is to practice self-kindness. Embracing your true power isn't about forcing outcomes; it's about trusting that your expression is valid, even when it feels unshaped, hovering just beyond full consciousness.

Embracing your true power is an act of faith, and while this notion is empowering, it can also be temporarily unsettling. Embracing your true power is a rebellious act. No one grants us permission to be authentic. It may feel unfamiliar at first, as it is not a destination but a transitional space—a zone you can become more skilled at accessing. It is profoundly vulnerable and, therefore, requires steadfast protection.

Stepping into your true power can feel lonely sometimes. You are occupying space now. You are taking a position.

You may find that some people are uneasy with your transformed self. They might have preferred the version of you who would skip writing to help them move their credenza. Creating art often appears to be about accumulation—whether it's adding words to a page or layers of paint to a canvas. However, it is fundamentally about shedding what isn't true and distilling your expression to its essence.

Embracing your true power invites you to trust that you are uniquely equipped to express something the world has never seen. This requires taking the risk of trusting your ordinary impulses to create something extraordinary.

THE TUSCANY RETREAT INCLUDES:

• Daily writing workshops
• Nightly salons (reading your work)
• Your own private room with ensuite bathroom
• Gourmet meals accompanied by regional wines
• Concierge service
• In-room massage
• Shuttle service to and from the villa (from downtown Florence)
• PLUS a free 90-day workshop or story consult (novel, memoir, or screenplay, to take within 36 months of registering)

why we go on retreat

A story from Alan on how the lab retreats got started.

For years, my students had been asking me when I was going to take them on a retreat. Frankly, I'd been on creative retreats, and while I enjoyed the camaraderie, I was never a big fan of communal bathrooms.

But then I started to imagine the retreat I would love to go on.

I wanted beautiful surroundings, and a small enough group that we could all connect and share our work. I wanted amazing food and wine. I wanted classy private ensuites. (Why does being an artist have to mean roughing it? ) And I wanted it to be as affordable as possible.

I started to think, This could be fun .

The first retreat was in the spring of 2016 at the Ojai retreat center, a magical spot. There were six of us – a very special group of writers. The workshops went deep, and each night we went out and visited one of their top restaurants.

It was unlike any retreat any of them had been on. I consulted Bob at Point de Chêne, a terrific boutique wine store, and he hooked us up with some really great regional wines that we popped open at some of the restaurants.

At the end of the week, we sat toasting each other as the sun set over the mountains (Ojai’s pink moment), when someone said, “Let’s go to Europe next.” And I thought, I rather love this idea.

I returned home and started doing research. My mother is Italian, and her favorite city in the world is Florence. She’d taken us there as children. I had fond memories of the surrounding region of Tuscany, the rolling hills and stunning architecture.

I knew what I was looking for. And so, I trolled all of the sites, and probably looked at a hundred villas before I found it. The rooms were tasteful and lovely, but more than that, they offered the necessary prerequisite: I wanted every writer to have their own private room with their own personal ensuite bathroom.

I began speaking with the owner, Nicola. And to my delight, he was both charming and very accommodating, and has since become a dear friend. He not only runs the villa, but has become our 24-7 concierge, meeting our guests every need, from door-to-door laundry service, to spontaneous drives into town for an afternoon cappuccino.

From the moment you arrive, I want you to feel safe and supported so that you're free to do the work you came here to do. We all spend so much time doing and giving. Tuscany is about taking a pause and allowing yourself to receive.

The Tuscany retreat is a hive of creativity and imagination - a place where you will meet some very special people from across the globe, and you will likely bond and forge relationships that will extend beyond the retreat itself.

I believe that our sole purpose as artists is to build a body of work. I believe that life is short and that we're here to make memories. Come join us in Tuscany and celebrate the wonder of your creative imagination.

why writers love the Tuscany retreat

“Tuscany surpassed anything I could have imagined. I was led to places I would not have gone without this community of writers and Alan at the helm. I surprised myself in the best of ways. I fell back in love with my story!”

Roma Maffia

“Being at one of the most beautiful villas in all of Tuscany was a distant second to Alan’s powerful and insightful teaching. The workshops transformed my understanding of the writing process.”

Leigh Collier

“The retreat was fantastic, better than I imagined. Alan is an amazing teacher — so full of wisdom and kindness, an unfailingly humane guide. For the first time in years, I’m excited about writing again.”

Bob Goettle

“The Tuscany retreat is a life-changing event! Experiencing Alan’s teaching every day allowed me to go deeper and gain a new level of clarity and insight. I highly recommend this retreat.”

Gail Nettels

“This retreat was like a dream. The villa, the food, the skies, the workshops, the writing, every bit of it magical. The awareness and opening up of my story would not be possible without Al’s insight and support. My gratitude for this amazing experience, as well as Al’s beautiful way of teaching, is immeasurable. Enjoy life – It’s Oh, So Good!”

Piper Norwood

“Alan Watt’s Tuscany writing retreat was a dream come true. Upon stepping out of the taxi at the Villa, I immediately felt a warm welcome from Alan and fellow writers, all of whom I had never met. Alan has a deep sense of story and a passion to match. His teaching style is sure to wake the writer up to their own story. No matter where you are with your writing, Alan will illuminate your path.”

Jessica Pappas

“The retreat was incredible for all the expected reasons, the time to write and the food and drink. It was magical for what I wasn’t expecting – the chance to connect with the most amazing people that Al always seems to attract.”

Homa Mojtabai

“Attending the Tuscany Retreat truly was a game-changer for me.  The friendships, camaraderie, and love from gifted writers was absolutely priceless.  One important lesson I took away from the workshop is that I am not the only sensitive, vulnerable writer!  I loved the opportunity to talk to other writers and share strengths, weaknesses, and fears.”

Debra Bartashius

“I LOVED TUSCANY and felt so happy to be part of it. This retreat moved my story and confidence about my story forward in such important ways. For that, most of all, I am eternally grateful.”

Tara Carson

“I arrived in Italy feeling jet lagged and uncertain how to even proceed with my arduous memoir. Yet soon after arriving in Tuscany, my entire outlook changed. In a very safe, encouraging, and creative environment, my writing blossomed and my courage grew. Al’s unique way of approaching story led to a breakthrough that had alluded me for so long. Now I’m back home, writing up a storm, counting down the days until the next retreat.”

Rochelle Squires

“I learned to trust my voice and take more risks with my writing — to go deeper into my characters and tell their stories — with Al’s insightful and gentle teaching and coaching amidst new and beautiful friendships with fellow writers, fueled by Tuscany and its fantastic food, wine, and hospitality from our concierge.”

Charlotte Ito

“So grateful for so much! The serene landscape, the friends, the amazingly light pasta and yummy concoctions. And, the transformational shift happened! My friends here see the change. Thank you from the bottom (if there is one) of my heart!”

“Signing up for Tuscany was a huge leap outside my comfort zone — but I landed in very comfortable surroundings and enjoyed the added comfort of being surrounded by other writers struggling through the same process. I felt stretched and spoiled at the same time. All in all, I’m glad I went. It was definitely worth the risk.”

“We felt safe to share our stories, to give ourselves permission to open up and bare our souls. To laugh, to cry, to be held by the loving support of others. Back in February a small voice inside of me encouraged me to take the risk and go on this Retreat. Was it worth it? It was the best thing that I have done for many years. Al has a healing presence, he offers a safe place where we can be transported off this planet for a while and return a different person with the motivation to work towards and achieve our souls’ desire. I found Love and Freedom.”

Carol Passemard

“Our Captain, Dear Captain, Thank you for nourishing us with wine and wisdom, For guiding the wind into our sails, and uncovering our treasures. My memories would not be a story without you.”

Tony Vitale

“Alan is part midwife, part story-shaman and full on hospitality overseer. All of our needs were generously supported from point of arrival, transportation and welcoming. Where we stayed was impeccable, a well nourished relationship between Alan and the owners/team at the villa made for a professional yet cozy sense of home. The food and wine was beyond my expectations as was the incredible circle of writers. The content Alan shares with us all comes straight from his love and expertise as a writer as well as his open, loving heart. I’ll be back!”

Linda Kay Stevens

“This retreat was among the most magical times of my life, creating changes not only in my memoir, but in my heart and mind that will stay with me forever.”

Donna Smith

early reg. Sept 1 - Nov 30

The retreat includes daily workshops, nightly salons, gourmet meals accompanied by superb regional wines, private bedroom with ensuite, and courtesy shuttle to and from the villa. travel not included..

Single Room $5700 (early reg $5000) Shared Room (1 writer + guest) $8300 (early reg $7600) Shared Room (2 writers)  $9200 (early reg $8200) Payment Schedule: $2500 deposit per attendee Remainder due Feb. 15th, 2025

The total cost (separate room and meals) for non-writer guests is $4,000, but they must be accompanied by a writer guest.

questions about the Tuscany retreat?

Meet your staff.

Alan Watt, Writing Teacher

When I was seven my mother took me to Florence, her favorite city, near where her ancestors lived. I have been drawn to this part of Italy my whole life - the food, the people, the land and the architecture. This is a place to slow down and go deep. This is a place where magic happens.

Alessandro Muratore, Chef

My desire is to tell the story of a territory through an ingredient, a wine, a dish. I aim to convey respect for our land, Tuscany, expressing ourselves with the art of good food and tailor-made services, creating a narrative that enhances conviviality and sharing.

Valeria Notaro, Pastry Chef

I was born in a small town in Calabria. At nineteen I left to study in Florence. I have always loved art in all its forms and I have always had the need to create with dance, painting, photography and now also with cooking. I believe that all this is my place in the world.

Carolina Stavro, Sous Chef

Born into a noble family, I experienced a challenging childhood due to family divisions. After working in fashion for 15 years, I felt compelled to discover my true passions and purpose beyond societal expectations. Two years ago, I left fashion to start a private chef business with my partner Alessandro in the Tuscan countryside. This career change allowed me to reconnect with nature, slow down, and focus on meditation and self-reflection, leading me to find genuine happiness within myself.

Nicola Carafa, Concierge

Podere le Rondini has been in our family for generations. I am an olive farmer and a wine-maker. We opened the villa sixteen years ago as a place for people from around the world to enjoy the countryside and experience the beauty and serenity of this special place.

Ilaria Solibella, Massage Therapist

Through contact, I try to convey to the people who trust in my hands the possibility of listening to each other with love and kindness to support that part that needs to be seen and recognized in order to express itself. I believe in the infinite possibilities and in the essence of things as a return to ourselves, to our profound nature that guides us on the path of life.

Katharine Chezum, Tuscany Coordinator

I'll be your stateside contact to help get things organized and answer any questions you may have.

come to Tuscany

Register with a deposit to join us for Tuscany 2025!

...OR EXPLORE ANOTHER WORKSHOP

Creativity is your birthright. Your sole purpose is to build a body of work.

• rewrite master class™
• solo/couples retreat
• consults with Al

Creative Writing Course

In this creative writing course, with the help of writers, journalists an expert copywriters, you’ll learn to develop your own stylistic and narrative identity, practicing writing in all its diverse aspects. You’ll learn the techniques and methodologies to carry out the narrator’s complex profession – whether it be journalism, fiction, copywriting or non-fiction.

Creativity and writing skills can be learned, stimulated and improved: writing and reading as much as possible are the basis for developing one’s skills to the maximum, but there are techniques and methods, which, with the help of writing professionals, can evolve quickly and successfully.

Discover and develop your poetic side, and narrative skills, learning how to use and modulate writing in all its many areas – from fiction to journalism, and from copywriting to informational.

– Methodologies and practices

– Bibliography for beginners

– Reading and Research methods

– Find and develop an idea

– Creative thinking

– Narrative styles and structure

– Journalism

– Fiction

– Non-fiction

– Editing

– Copywriting and advertising

Duration of the course

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Basic and Advanced

4 hours per day, from Monday to Friday for 20 h /week

from 2 to 6 participants

25/03/2024 – 19/04/2024

24/03/2025 – 18/04/2025

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Learning, study & creative holidays in Italy

Find inspiration, learn new skills and make friends in Italy

Italy is a country with great natural and cultural resources, so it’s a prime destination for learning, study and creative trips of various kinds. Many visitors want to deepen their knowledge of Italy’s own heritage: learning about its cuisine, its language and its art. As well as providing subjects for study, Italy itself makes a great backdrop, or subject, for other kinds of study: for painting lessons, photography classes and writing courses.

Learning a new skill or subject, or developing your existing expertise, makes for a very fulfilling more-than-a-vacation experience. It helps that in such an appealing country you can enjoy the best elements of a holiday – fine landscape, sunshine, good cooking – at the same time as learning.

There are a few residential centres in Italy where you can join courses in a range of subjects. Other learning holidays are organised as tours or packages operating a few times a year. If you don’t want to immerse yourself fully in study, you could either find a course offering plenty of free time, or plan your own travels and book stand-alone lessons independently. Cookery and language classes are among the easiest ‘extras’ you can add to your holiday, if you are in a popular tourist location.

On this page you’ll find an overview of different kinds of study and creative holiday in Italy, and a selection of organisations offering courses, from cookery to photography. I have reviewed a photography holiday I took part in; other than this I have not experienced and cannot vouch for the companies and courses listed. Read the holiday itineraries and teaching levels carefully before you book, to make sure you choose one that is right for you. Some companies allow a non-participating companion to join the holiday at a lower cost.

Find and book hotels in Italy . With location maps and guest reviews.

Photography

Italy is an extremely photogenic country, and most visitors are happy to potter about with their cameras capturing whatever appeals to them. However, if you want to try something more ambitious, to have expert advice at hand, or simply to learn more about your camera and hang out with like-minded enthusiasts, Italy is also a good destination for a photography holiday; it’s packed with good subject to photograph, and the weather is fairly reliable.

> Read more about photography holidays in Italy > My photography trip to the Abruzzo – I travelled with a UK company called Frui.

Painting and art holidays in Italy

Painting courses are a good way of combining learning with enjoying Italy. There’s quite a good choice of landscape painting holidays, many in the famous attractive countryside of Tuscany. Some trips cater for beginners and others are an opportunity for more experienced artists to practise their skills with expert guidance.

> Frui – ‘Painting for the petrified’ in the Abruzzo. > Authentic Adventures – Painting holidays in Tuscany, Umbria, Sicily and Venice. > Studio Paradiso – In a less well-known part of Tuscany > Painting in Italy – Courses in Umbria, run in parallel with cookery classes. > Il Collegio – Art holidays in Puglia, in accommodation featured on ‘Grand Designs’. > Art Toscana – Tuscany-based art courses: Painting, sculpture and mixed media.

Italian language courses

The best way to learn Italian, of course, is to spend time in Italy. In most of Italy’s larger cities, and also in some appealing smaller towns, you will find language schools offering both residential and non-residential courses in the Italian language.

> Italian language courses in Italy

Cookery classes

There are cookery classes throughout Italy; in famously foodie destinations like Bologna and also in attractive tourist hotspots like the Amalfi Coast. It’s worth shopping around and comparing prices and itineraries before you book – and I’d suggest looking up reviews by past guests. If a full-on cookery course seems too much, consider booking a one-off class to add an interesting element to a self-booked holiday – you’ll get a chance to meet locals, learn about local produce and Italian cuisine, make a traditional Italian meal and enjoy eating it.

> Viator – This organisation sells various kinds of holiday experience, and in some locations, their offering includes cooking classes and wine tasting tours – for example, you could have a go at pasta-making in Florence or try a small-group cooking class in Rome which begins with a trip to the food market. Easy, efficient online booking. > Convivio Rome – A cookery school in a village north of Rome offering one-day ‘experiences’ and week-long cooking holidays. > Ciao Laura – US firm organising a network of cookery classes throughout Italy in locations including Venice and the Amalfi Coast > Organic Tuscany – Week-long cooking holidays and one-day cooking lessons at a farmhouse near Certaldo in Tuscany, including special vegetarian cooking courses > Cook Italy – Private market-to-plate cooking lessons in Bologna with a food expert and blogger.

Other creative and learning experiences in Italy

As well as the popular creative and study subjects detailed above, there are also other interesting specialist holidays and classes in Italy to appeal to creative travellers.

Creative writing

> The Watermill in Tuscany – Residential creative writing courses and painting holidays in Tuscany. > Ways with Words – Autumn creative writing workshops. > Write on Course – Summer journalism and creative writing workshops.

Mosaic making

> Orsoni – Mosaic-making in Venice. > Mosaic School – Based in Ravenna , famed for its Byzantine mosaics. > Mosaic Courses – Short courses in the countryside of central Italy.

If you prefer learning about subjects rather than participating, or if, on the contrary, you want to have a go at much more high-octane activities, you can read more suggestions on these pages:

> Art and cultural holidays and tours > Activity holidays

On this site

Photography holiday in the Abruzzo

Italian language

Useful links

Italy Heaven bookstore (Amazon UK)

Find hotels in Italy

Italy car hire

Venice Writing Retreat

Embrace the beauty and inspiration of venice.

Venice, Italy

2025 dates TBA

10 (max) Writers/Aspiring Writers ready to refuel their creative inspiration around like-minded writers & mentors

Writers Retreat: A magical week of inspiration while being embraced by the beauty and grandeur of Venice

3-star accommodation with private bath in Venice

Daily writing workshops with facilitators, daily breakfast, lit up social hours, 5 meals  (4 dinners & lunch at cipriani's on torcello), excursion to torcello & lunch at world-renowned locanda cipriani, registration.

Reserve your place now, just $3800 single occupancy $3400 double occupancy

Let your Creativity Flow in Venice, Italy

Write Away Venice Creative Writing Retreats are designed to help your words and writing flow - and what better place than alongside the world's most majestic sweep of water, the Grand Canal. The sublime grandeur of Venice has captivated the finest writers and artists throughout history and tranquil Spring in La Serenissima is an ideal and inspiring time and setting to get your creative juices flowing.

La Serenissima awaits with her unsurpassed beauty, beguiling history, and captivating charm to bring forth your muse. The Write Away Venice Creative Writing Retreat will take place in a restored Venetian manor in the charming Dorsoduro sestiere, close to all of Venice's attractions yet in a calm, captivating neighborhood away from the hordes. Enchanting walks or passegiattas can be made on the Zattere looking out to the Giudecca, on fondamentas along canals, or through the lively Campos San Barnaba and Margherita. Artists love Venice and Venice loves the arts. This stunning setting is truly a writer's haven for unending inspiration.

Writers will stay in 3-star accommodation with private bath in a restored Venetian Manor. There will be daily workshops and Lit up social hours as well as an all day excursion to the island of Torcello with lunch at the famous Locanda Cipriani. Dinners at delectable trattorias serving specialties unique to the Venetian Lagoon. Afternoons will be free for writing and exploring or for those interested walking tours of Venice's sights.

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What people say about write away retreats, "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

"...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

"...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

"...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

"...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. 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

"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

"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

"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

Curriculum Overview

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Students complete a degree path inspired by Sewanee's literary traditions and one that works with their schedule.

A THREE YEAR PROGRAM

Students at the School of Letters take three summers of residential study at Sewanee, supplemented by an independent study and then a thesis semester. Most students complete the program in three years, though there are options for condensing or extending this timeline if desired. The MFA is awarded upon completion of 30 credit hours and successful submission of a creative thesis. 

WRITING WORKSHOPS AND FORMS COURSES

Each summer, students enroll in a workshop and a forms course, as well as the Craft and Practice colloquium (see below) for a total of seven (7) credits per summer. While most students take classes in the track they chose when applying to Sewanee (fiction, poetry, or nonfiction) they are allowed to take classes in any genre they like. It is common for students to have a primary and secondary genre interest, or to try a little bit of everything. Forms courses are essentially literature seminars, though their focus is on developing creative practice and critical reading skills rather than on scholarly writing or theory-driven analysis. Forms courses change topic and instructor from summer to summer, and so may be repeated for credit. 

CRAFT AND PRACTICE

This is a one (1) credit colloquium focused on professional development, publishing opportunities, craft talks, submit-a-thons, meetings with visiting authors/editors/agents, and anything else that falls under the broad rubric of “the writing life.” The School of Letters offers a robust and varied series of public programs, class visits, panel discussions, and informal gatherings during the six-week summer session. Students are expected to attend these events and produce short-form responses detailing what they have learned and how they intend to apply it in their own writing and publishing practice. Students are automatically registered for this class during their first and second summers. During the third summer, students are invited to all School of Letters events but are not registered for the class and need not submit responses to events they attend.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

During the calendar year between the second and third summers, students are strongly encouraged to take a one-semester independent study for four (4) credit hours. The student proposes an independent study project to the Director, who will pair them with a faculty member to serve as one-on-one mentor. Students have considerable latitude in proposing independent studies. Some use the time to do a deep dive into the work of a particular author, topic, or research question; some take the opportunity to explore a secondary genre interest; some use the time to do preparatory work for their thesis. The student and her mentor work together to develop a reading list, define the scope and nature of the work, and set a schedule. 

Thesis Project

When the student has twenty-four (24) credit hours, they are eligible to begin their thesis work. Most students hit this benchmark at the end of their third summer of study. The thesis is a mandatory, one-semester project worth six (6) credits. Upon approval of the thesis proposal, the student is invited to choose their own advisor. The advisor will provide detailed editorial feedback as well as general guidance, but thesis work is primarily self-directed and more intensive than the independent study. It is expected that the student will enter the thesis process with a substantial body of material already drafted, so that the thesis semester can be primarily focused on revision and, ideally, completion of a full-length creative manuscript such as a novel, a memoir, or a collection of poems, essays, or short stories. Students may choose to embark upon their thesis semester immediately after they finish their third summer, or wait until the following spring. 

YOUR DEGREE PATH

First summer - Workshop, Forms, Craft and Practice - 7 credits

Second summer - Workshop, Forms, Craft and Practice - 14 credits total

Between summers two and three - Independent study - 18 credits total

Third summer - Workshop and Forms course - 24 credits total

After third summer - Thesis - 30 credits total

OTHER DEGREE PATHS

Students who wish to hasten their degree progress may request additional independent studies. Such requests are granted at the Director’s discretion and may be limited based on faculty availability. Students who wish to slow their degree progress–either to extend their time at Sewanee or to accommodate changes in their personal lives–have the option of registering as half-time students over the summer (i.e. only taking one class) or declining to take an independent study. Declining the independent study is not recommended, as may result in paying for extra credits. The thesis is required to graduate. 

Our writing workshops are designed to challenge and develop writing skills and knowledge of literary traditions. Our faculty members are renowned writers eager to encourage emerging literary artists.

Our students have gone on to do some pretty amazing things. Our MFA graduates are now actors, published writers, workshop leaders, and more.

At the end of each summer, our MA and MFA students participate in WRITERS READ, where students share their written work with the Sewanee community.

University of the South