October 4 - 11, 2025
Join author and literary agent Sarah Bullen for an immersive writing retreat in the picturesque Dordogne region of France. Explore the craft of storytelling, refine your manuscript, and develop a deeper understanding of structure, character, and the writing process as you visit the historic villages of Eymet, Issigeac, and Beynac et Cazenac, gathering inspiration from their rich history and atmosphere.
Set within a historic estate, this retreat offers daily discussions and writing sessions with Sarah, focusing on key techniques, industry insights, and one-on-one feedback. Mornings begin with quiet writing time, while afternoons provide space to refine your work and explore advanced storytelling methods. Share meals and connect with fellow writers in a welcoming and supportive environment, leaving with new skills, fresh ideas, and a clear direction for your creative journey.
WHO SHOULD JOIN?
Both advanced and novice writers are welcome.
This is a structured writing workshop for writers of all levels who want to tell their story or write their book. We also welcome scriptwriters, academic writers and poets.
It is right for you, if you need an adventure, plus the gift of time and space in a quiet setting. You don’t need to be a writer or to have a grand project in progress. You may be halfway through a novel, or on your second one.
You can be working on a memoir, poetry, workbook, online course, photography-based book, life story or just a creative writing project.
This is for writers who just need dedicated time away from ordinary life to totally immerse in a creative environment to write, write and write. The time is both a deep-dive into your own book, and a task-based programme to get your word count up, or finish your book ready for submission.
The course is a daily combination of technical writing techniques, working through your blocks, finding ways to access your memories and plan your story.
Visit the historic villages of Eymet, Issigeac, and Beynac et Cazenac, gathering inspiration from their rich history and atmosphere. This ancient land with its characteristic landscapes and incredible light will envelope you, as it has countless creatives before you.
Sarah Bullen
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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Writing sessions, individual tuition and a programme with literary agent Sarah Bullen
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7 nights of accommodation at a spectacular private estate in southwestern France
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Exclusive use of the entire 25-acre estate with a private heated pool, studio, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, beautiful gardens, terraces, private woodland, and natural pond
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All meals at the venue carefully prepared by a private chef
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7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners
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Afternoon snacks
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Coffee, tea, and water available throughout the day
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Local award-winning wine served with dinner
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A wine and cheese tasting experience at the venue
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Trip to Issigeac
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Trip to the Beynac-et-Cazenac
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Trip to the Eymet market
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Private transportation and guide for all planned activities
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Round-trip transfers from/to Bergerac train station at prearranged times
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All local tourist taxes and fees
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Experienced retreat UpTrek host available throughout the day, fully-staffed venue
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Access to a private Facebook group with Sarah Bullen and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat
NOT INCLUDED
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Airfare
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Travel insurance
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Materials — a detailed list of materials recommended by Sarah Bullen will be sent to you five months before the retreat
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One lunch during the full-day trip
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Tips for staff
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Other expenses guests might incur on their own
WHAT OUR WRITERS SAY
Ayla TK, Israel
This retreat topped all of my expectations. It gracefully operates between professionalism, deep connection with the land and creativity, and a load of fun. I felt I was given practical tools to write while also given a beautiful space to meet my muse. It was a magical seven days in Tuscany I will carry with me forever. I will tell you what my husband said when I was contemplating the trip. “Just go!” You won’t regret it
Michelle Ruiz, USA
I did the Italy retreat and it changed my life. There were so many incredible moments that inspired my writing and enlightened my soul. I HIGHLY recommend this retreat. Kate and Sarah are amazing and thoughtful in everything they do. I plan to go to another one of their retreats soon!