About this Retreat
Simone Spilka is the Founder of The Writing Ritual, a creative writing program and virtual community. A professional writer for brands like Airbnb, 1 Hotels, Sakara, and Audible, and a journalist for publications like Bon Appetit Magazine, Well+Good, The Strategist, and more. She has been leading writing groups for over five years, and hosted events in New York and Paris.
https://www.simonespilka.com/-portfolio
https://www.instagram.com/constantwanderings/
Details of this retreat
Gather for one week in Chios, Greece for a creative retreat and invitation to write your stories into existence. Days will be informed by the cultural spirit and natural beauty of the island—soft weather, quiet beaches, and everything in bloom.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Six days around the craft of writing, with workshops, shared time with a group, and space to work on personal creative projects. Inspired by the rhythm of Chios, our days will move slowly, with daily yoga among the citrus trees, homecooked Greece cuisine, inspiring workshops, time to wander the island—beaches, towns, and monasteries—and absorb the Aegean sea. Two of the evenings, we will go into town for a lively dinner and enjoy the local life.
This retreat is intentionally created with ample free time to work on your art, reset emotionally in breathtaking scenery, and be surrounded and inspired by other artists.
While we will write together every day, creatives of all mediums are encouraged to join and use the space to make art that makes them feel alive. There will also be opportunities for community-lead workshops for participants to teach and share their gifts with the group.
THE LOCATION
Our home, Eona, in the Chios dialect, means right here. It symbolizes a sanctuary where the essence of the present moment is cherished and celebrated, and offers an authentic Greek experience. Eona is a historic mansion built in 1926 in Nenita, Chios and has recently been restored to revive its timeless charm and rich history. The elegant mansion offers spacious accommodations, an art studio, private terrace, secluded garden, and citrus trees. Chios island itself is a hidden gem, full of secrets waiting to be discovered. Its varied landscapes—from arid olive groves in the north to lush pine forests in the middle and mastic trees and palm groves in the south—reflect the island’s remarkable diversity.
For any questions, please feel free to contact Simone at Simonespilka@gmail.com. I am happy to answer any personal inquiries.